Holiday Dog-Friendly Treat Recipe

Here is a dog-friendly treat recipe that your canine companion is sure to love.

ingredients
1 cup shredded roasted turkey meat
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 sweet potato--baked, skin discarded and potato coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cranberry sauce

directions
In a medium bowl, combine the turkey and breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands, then mix in the egg and sweet potato. Shape into two 1/2-inch-thick patties.
In a medium skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the patties and cook, turning once, until golden-brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Top with the cranberry sauce and let your canine enjoy!

Cat-Friendly Treat Recipe

½ cup of cooked hamburger

½ teaspoon shrimp paste (see Asian food section of your local grocery store)

¼ cup shelled shrimp, washed in hot water, and minced

½ teaspoon catnip

Directions:

Mix shrimp paste with the catnip and then hand work it into the hamburger.

Add minced shrimp to the hamburger mix and make into little meatballs.

Bake at 425° F for 10 minutes.

Holiday Foods

Many of the foods that we eat during the holidays are dangerous for our pets to eat. Foods like turkey and turkey bones, sugary treats, candy, grapes, onions, and more are things that your pet should avoid. Make sure to keep an eye on them during the holidays and warn your guests not to give them handouts. 

South Davis Veterinary Center OPEN HOUSE

In honor of moving into our new and improved facility, we will be hosting an open house celebration on Saturday, December 8th from 10:00am - 4:00pm and we would love for everyone to join us for hospital tours, food, fun, and raffles!

Cats & Car Engines

Have you heard about the danger of car engines for outdoor cats? Our car engines often stay warm for hours after our cars have been shut off, making the perfect warm place for an outdoor cat to sleep. If a car is started while a cat is lying on the engine, the cat could be injured or killed! Always knock on the hood of your car before you start it…you could save a life!

WE'VE MOVED!

We are excited and proud of our new hospital at 4615 Cowell Boulevard. We are still in the El Macero Shopping Center just a few yards away from our old location. Our new hospital is now directly across from Tuesday Morning in the old Mountain Mike's Pizza building. We still offer outstanding service, but after 9 years at our old location, we have expanded our facility to the benefit of everyone. We have increase the size of our reception area and now have 3 larger exam rooms. We will be hosting an open house celebration on Saturday, December 8th from 10:00am-4:00pm and we would love for everyone to join us for hospital tours, food, fun, and raffles!

Thank you,

The Doctors and Staff of South Davis Veterinary Center
4615 Cowell Boulevard Davis Ca 95618

Are You Allergic To Your Pet?

Breathe easy! 

You can still keep your animal companion!

Although more and more people are discovering the beneficial effects of owning a furry bundle of joy, the fact remains that roughly 15 to 20 percent of the population is allergic to animals. The result? Countless owners in unhappy, unhealthy situations—and their beloved pets are the cause! Allergen is the medical term for the actual substance that causes an allergic reaction. Touching or inhaling allergens leads to reactions in allergic individuals. Symptoms can include red, itchy, watery eyes and nose; sneezing; coughing; scratchy or sore throat; itchy skin, and most serious of all, difficulty breathing.

The most common pet allergens are proteins found in their dander (scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal), saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. Any animal can trigger an allergic response, but cats are the most common culprits. People can also become allergic to the urine, dander and saliva of exotic pets such as ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits and rodents. There is no species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies. Fur length and type will not affect or prevent allergies. Certain pets can be less irritating than others to those who suffer from allergies, but that is strictly on an individual basis and cannot be predicted.

Once the diagnosis of a pet allergy is made, a physician will often recommend eliminating the companion animal from the surroundings. Heartbreaking? Yes. Absolutely necessary? Not always. Keep in mind that most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens, all of which can be found in the home. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may not have to get rid of your pet. (Conversely, should you decide to remove your pet from your home, this may not immediately solve your problems.) You must also be prepared to invest the time and effort needed to decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens and find a physician who will work with you. Our three-part program follows:

Improving the Immediate Environment

1. Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It's a good idea to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.
2. Limit fabrics. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics, steam-clean them regularly. Cotton-covered furniture is the smartest choice, and washable blinds or shades make good window treatments.
3. Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Other kinds of bags will permit allergens to blow back out of the vacuum.
4. Install an air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter. Our modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air that is loaded with allergens, so it’s smart to let in some fresh air daily.
5. Use anti-allergen room sprays. These sprays deactivate allergens, rendering them harmless. Ask your allergist for a product recommendation.
6. Clean the litter box frequently. Use lowdust, perfume-free filler. Clumping litter is a good choice.
7. Dust regularly. Wiping down the walls will also cut down on allergens.
8. Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.

Decontaminating Your Pet

1. Bathe your pet at least once a week. Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won't dry out his skin. Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal’s fur.
2. Wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves.
3. Note any symptoms of dermatitis exhibited by your companion animal. Dermatitis often leads to accelerated skin and fur shedding, which will up your allergen exposure.
4. Brush or comb your pet frequently. It’s best to do this outdoors, if possible. (The ASPCA does not recommend keeping cats outdoors, so make sure your feline is leashed if you take him outside.)

Taking Care of Yourself

1. If possible, have someone other than yourself do the housecleaning, litter box work and pet washing, wiping and brushing. If you must clean the house or change the litter, be sure to wear a dust mask.
2. Wash your hands after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to allergens.
3. Designate a “pet outfit” from among your most easily washed clothes. Wear it when playing or cuddling with your companion, and you’ll leave other clothing uncontaminated.
4. Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms. Medications and immunotherapy (desensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to remain together happily ever after.

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/allergic.aspx

Saturday is Responsible Dog Ownership Day

Saturday is the American Kennel Club’s “Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” reminding dog owners about the importance of proper pet care. We encourage every dog owner to do at least one extra special thing for your pet this weekend, whether that means getting them microchipped, scheduling a physical examination, or adopting a brand new family member from a rescue group! However you celebrate, we ask that you always practice responsible dog ownership!

Plants Poisonous to Cats

Did you know that many plants can be dangerous, even toxic for our cats if consumed? Cats are curious by nature, and often use their noses and mouths to learn about the world around them. This can be extremely hazardous, causing them to accidentally consume things that they should never touch. It’s important to know what these dangerous plants are and to keep them out of our yards and homes. For a detailed list of poisonous plants, please visit the ASPCA list.

September Laboratory Discounts

During the month of September, our laboratory is offering discounts on select blood panels in honor of Senior Care Month. The most commonly used blood panel with urine testing will cost $145.10 instead of the regular $170.20. This type of laboratory panel serves as an excellent evaluation of your pet's health (young and old) and screens for some potentially hidden health issues. There are other blood panels that are being discounted as well but please speak with us to see if one of these panels is right for your pet.

If you pet has been for a physical exam within the last 12 months we encourage you to make an appointment this month (September 1 through September 30) for laboratory work. If your pet has not seen us for a physical exam in the past 12 months, we will require a veterinary examination prior to any laboratory testing. This examination will allow us to select the most appropriate blood panel for your pet and allow us to better interpret the laboratory results. If there have been any changes in your pet's health (weight loss/gain, increased drinking, changes in energy, etc) we prefer that you schedule a physical exam prior to testing. Please call us at 530-757-1113 with any questions. If you want to read more about laboratory testing, please click HERE.

Pets & Camping Safety

A family camping trip wouldn’t be complete without the dog, but make sure that you follow all safety precautions for bringing pets with you to a campground. First, check to make sure that your campground of choice allows dogs. Many do not because of the threat of large wild animals, such as bears. Then, be sure to pack plenty of dog food and water from the same provisions that your family will use—if you’re filtering water, don’t forget to bring a bowl for your dog, as drinking directly from natural sources is extremely dangerous. Once you take these precautions, don’t forget to have some fun!

Over-the-Counter Medications & Pets

Pets are often curious creatures, wanting to check out things around the house. Because of this characteristic, it’s important to always store dangerous substances like medicine far from their reach. Pets have been known to accidentally ingest whole packages of pills and the results are often serious, sometimes fatal. Keep your pet’s safe at home by storing your medicine safely out of their reach.

Did you know...

Did you know…dogs can smell 44 times better than humans! Can you even imagine how amazing a steak must smell to a dog?

Pets & Insects

Flying critters don't want to share the sweet aroma of spring as it blooms in your garden. Watch your pets while they are outside, because they might be getting up close and personal with a bee or other insects which may result in a nasty sting. We want your pets to enjoy their frolic through the flowers.

Salmonella in Dog Food Is Making Humans Sick

 A lot of people share everything with their dogs — a long walk, a bed, even people food. But one thing you might not want to share is a nasty bug called Salmonella.
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 22 people in 13 states and Canada have become sick from Salmonella-tainted dry dog food tied to multiple brands made by Diamond Pet Foods, including "Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul" and "Country Value." Six people have been hospitalized since this pet food recall was first announced in early May.
So what's going on here?
  Most likely, the agency says, people are getting sick from touching infected dog food, touching an infected dog, or handling the dog's waste.
"Salmonella germs are transmitted from animals to humans and humans to humans by the fecal oral route," says CDC's webpage on the outbreak. Yep, that means the infection spreads from the stool and the mouth and in between species. And things take a while to clear up. Those germs can still be found in a pet's stools four to six weeks after infection.
Apparently, toddlers are pretty susceptible to Salmonella from pet food. Researchers published a study in the journal Pediatrics in 2010 that found about half the 79 people sickened by an uncommon salmonella strain a few years back were kids age 2 or younger.
In this latest dog food outbreak, CDC says sick people range in age from those younger than 1 year to octogenarians, and the median age is 46.5 years. Sixty-eight percent of patients are female.
Symptoms of Salmonella poisoning in dogs are not that much different than in people — diarrhea, vomiting, etc. If you suspect a problem, call the vet and check the food bag to see if the product's been recalled.
It's not just dogs, though. Pet turtles have been blamed for making owners sick in past outbreaks.
To prevent spreading foodborne infection to the two-legged types in your house, wash your hands after feeding pets or giving them treats and after cleaning up after pets or handling them, the CDC says. Also, keep kids under 5 away from pet food and use a mild bleach solution to clean areas that may be contaminated.
If keeping track of recent pet food scares is just too complicated, you could always make your own food for Fido.

by April Fulton

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2012/06/15/155097981/salmonella-in-dog-food-is-making-humans-sick

World Pet Memorial Day

Today is World Pet Memorial Day. The benefits of having pets are too numerous to count. They are our companions, our friends, and to some they are even considered family, but the one downfall of being a pet owner is that a vast majority of pets have a much shorter lifespan than their human companions. Today is a day to remember those departed pets and celebrate the time you had with them. What is the happiest memory you have of a departed pet?

Pet Appreciation Week

It's Pet Appreciation Week! Our pets do a lot more for us than provide unconditional love, they help us relieve stress and encourage us to exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control, pets can decrease your blood pressure, lower your cholesterol and increase your opportunities for socialization. Take the time to celebrate your pet and the human-animal relationship you share this week!

Pets In Cars

Working up a good sweat in the hot summer months may be good for you, but it can lead to heat stroke in your pet.  Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, such as Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Boston Terriers and Bulldogs are at a highly increased risk of heat stroke because their facial structure can make panting, the body’s way of cooling off, ineffective. This increased panting can actually interfere with their breathing, which may develop into respiratory distress.

June is Social PETworking Month

June is Social PETworking Month! This is a month designated to help pair families with homeless pets. The campaign allows Facebook, MySpace and Twitter addicts to put their hours online to good use by advertising adoptable pets to their networks to help get them seen and into loving homes. So if you know of any pets in need of good homes, take to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and get the word out this June!

Shop Our Online Store Today!

Buying pet-related products from South Davis Veterinary Center is easy, convenient and secure when you shop our Online Store! What's more, you can rest assured that these products come from a reliable and trusted source. Now you can order prescription refills, food, and other items for your pet directly from us online at any time of night or day. Delivery right to your doorstep! Simply visit our website at www.southdavisvetcenter.com and click on Pet Portal Log In. Once you log in, click the "Shop Online" menu tab. Pet Portals are a FREE secure website where you can manage your pet’s health care online at any time of day or night. Click the link below to get started! 

Heartworm & Pets

Warm weather means the return of mosquitoes and the heartworm disease that they carry. Because a single bite from a mosquito could transmit the deadly heartworm parasite to your pet, it’s important that your pet stay on a heartworm preventative at all times. We can’t prevent the mosquitoes from biting, but we can prevent their harmful effects. We would love to discuss heartworm prevention for your pet!

Giardia & Pets

Pets & Cookouts

The weather is getting warmer and many people are firing up their grills for burgers, hotdogs, steaks and ribs. Dogs love the smell of meat, and some dogs will do anything to get some for themselves. Knowing this, it's important to use extra caution around the grill during cooking. Remember, your dog won't use caution about which part of the meat he eats if he grabs a piece, and swallowed bones could mean injury, or even death. It's just not worth it! Keep Fido inside during the grilling festivities.

Pets & Easter Lilies

Lilies are a popular Easter flower, but did you know that they can actually be toxic to your pet? Like the Christmas poinsettias, lilies can attract the attention of your pet, especially cats, and then have a toxic effect when ingested. Keep those Easter lilies far from your pet's reach this season, or look into artificial options. The art of artificial flowers have gotten so advanced that your guests won't be able to tell the difference...and your pet will be safe.