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September 2006 
 the Visiting Vet Newsletter
 7th Issue


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Dear Seely,

Welcome to September! This months newsletter will include articles about Separation Anxiety and Raw Diets, fun facts and of course the monthly trivia question. Remember we love input on the newsletter so any recommendations or suggestions of article topics are very welcome! I hope you are enjoying our newsletters and I thank you for your time.

 Help Your Dog Beat The Empty House Blues
 Solving Separation Anxiety Issues

seely webb Separation anxiety is a condition in which a dog displays excessive anxiety when the family leaves the home. Anxiety may start within 15 to 40 minutes after the owner is gone. Signs of separation anxiety include barking, house soiling, scratching doors and window sills, as well as destroying furniture or other household items. Some dogs also lick their skin raw or pull out fur.

Dogs are very routine oriented. Anxiety is often triggered when an owner changes job hours, or the kids go back to school.

Some physical and behavior problems have similar signs to separation anxiety. An exam by a veterinarian with possible referral to a behavior specialist should proceed any treatment.

Treatment for separation anxiety starts with conditioning the dog to spend some time alone while you are home. This is especially important for new puppies. It is quite a shock to a puppy brought home on the weekend to find itself left alone during the work week.

Begin with the dog in a crate or dog proof room for short then increasing lengths of time. Release the dog when it is quiet and calm.

Make sure your dog gets exercised. Exercise reduces stress and anxiety. Consider getting a pet sitter to come over during the day if you are gone for long hours.

Provide your dog with an interactive toy filled with treats or food. This toy will give your dog something to do while he is alone. Only give the interactive toy when you are leaving home.

In cases of extreme separation anxiety your veterinarian may recommend medication in addition to behavioral training.

Separation anxiety can be prevented by planning as well as patience and consistency from all members of the household. Treatment success of separation anxiety is fair to good.

 


 Considering a Raw Food Diet?
 You may want to reconsider!

steak There is a current belief among some pet owners that feeding raw meat commercial or home made diets to dogs and cats is more nutritious and natural than traditional dry or canned options. Before considering such a diet for your pet please consider the following hazards:
  • Raw meats such as ground hamburger contain bacteria like Salmonella and E. Coli. These pathogens can cause serious illness and even death to people as well as pets. Especially at risk are young children, the elderly, and the immune compromised. Freezing raw meat does not kill the bacteria.
  • According to researchers at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, most home made and commercial raw diets are deficient in essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Nutrient excess or deficiency can lead to serious health issues in pets.
  • Daily consumption of raw meats with bones can cause intestinal obstruction and dental injuries.
The Visiting Vet recommends feeding your pet a premium commercial dry or canned pet food if you are able to do so. Many good diets are available. Dr Rotigel's dog Popcorn is fed Innova dog food. Purchase products made with human-grade ingredients For example: Look for ingredients like beef instead of beef byproducts or whole ground brown rice instead of just rice. Also remember that cats are carnivores and do need to have meat in their diet. Many health problems in pets can be related to diet so please feel free to consult The Visiting Vet before making any changes.

 


 Promotions
 Trivia

***September trivia question: What is the name of the dog on the Cracker Jack box? The first client who calls (731-pets) with the correct answer will get $5 credited to their account! Answer to August trivia question: (Where did the phrase "Raining Cats and Dogs" originate from?) In 17th century England, during heavy rain storms, many animals were unfortunately swept away in the flooding and their bodies would be left in the streets giving the appearance that it had literally "rained cats and dogs". Congratulations to Wendy A. who called in with the correct answer and had $5 credited to her account!


 Did you know?

  • Most cats have no eyelashes
  • A cat can jump 7 times as high as its tail
  • Two dogs survived the sinking of the Tiatanic, escaping on early life boats.
  • "Seizure Alert" dogs can alert their owners up to an hour before the onset of an epileptic seziure.

Thank you for your time and I wish you a fantastic month! We constantly strive to provide the best care for your family pets and exceptional service to our clients. I offer appointments while parked at Discount Pet Store on Gull Road and also offer house calls as available. If I can be of service to you, please give us a call at 269-731-7387 to schedule an appointment today. Also, remember if you refer a friend or family member, both of you will be entered in our 2006 referral drawing program for many great prizes. Our next drawing will be held the end of December (please see our website for more info about our prize drawings). Thank You and Good Luck!!!

Sincerely,


Dr. Seely Rotigel
the Visiting Vet

phone: 269-731-7387

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