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News & Views Archive

January: Fit For Life

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Are you and your pet committed to a healthier, happier New Year?

How will you and your pet become more ‘Fit for Life’?

Join all of us at IVS as we ‘get fit’ in 2012! Share a picture and a story about you and your pets’ New Years Fitness resolutions and receive a free bag of Hills Diet food for weight reduction.

Offer good in January 2012 ONLY!
‘one bag per pet’

Please e-mail stories and pictures to:
petphotos@irvinevetservices.com

At IVS we are committed to helping our patients improve by offering complimentary Fit for Life evaluations for pets visiting us for regular office exams during the month of January. A Fit for Life consultation includes a body condition score evaluation, and a custom diet and exercise plan. In addition, clients receive handouts on exercise recommendations and feeding guidelines. We invite you to call us and schedule a well care exam during the month of January!

The Overweight Pet
A recent survey indicates over 50 percent of America's pet population is overweight or obese. If you or your veterinarian feel that your pet would benefit from a reduction in body weight, this discussion should help you to understand how to help overweight dogs lose weight. Weight loss for obese cats, however, is more complicated and should not be done without a veterinarian's supervision. Very simply put, if your pet is overweight it is taking in (eating) more calories than it needs. Set all excuses aside ... excessive weight in an otherwise healthy pet is a direct result of consuming unnecessary amounts of food. If your pet is overweight it should be examined for heart, thyroid or other metabolic disorders. A detailed history should be taken with emphasis on frequency of exercise, amount and type of food being provided and other parameters relative to calorie requirements. To begin let us set the record straight on some common misconceptions regarding obesity. Healthy dogs and cats do not necessarily need to eat every day; the pet food industry has painted the picture for us of the "eager eater." The impression is that a happy, healthy pet will eat every meal with gusto. Please do not try to entice your pet to eat if it isn’t interested. If you provide a good quality food and a liberal amount of water, your pet will eat when it wants and do better than having to eat when you want. Another common myth maintains that spaying or neutering causes obesity; this is absolutely false. Any pet, neutered or not, will gain weight if it is over fed relative to its energy requirements. The surgical procedure may slightly slow the pet’s metabolism, as will normal aging, and it will then burn calories off more slowly; therefore, it may require less food. Keep in mind the surgery doesn’t cause the weight gain, eating too much does and you have control over that. Let us explore four typical settings we veterinarians encounter when presented with a dog that is overweight. See if any of these sound familiar! The quotes are the usual responses pet owners give us when we politely suggest that "perhaps your pet would benefit by losing some weight"... Type I: THE NIBBLER: "But doctor, she hardly eats a thing." This dog probably has food out for him/her all day and nibbles a little at a time. When dinner time comes and the pet picks at the leftovers, it will take the choicest morsels, leave the rest, and still appear not to have eaten very much. However over a 24-hour period "THE NIBBLER'S" total calorie intake is excessive and it gains weight. Hardly eats a thing, eh? Type II: THE BEGGAR: "But doctor, this rascal won’t keep quiet unless she gets her treats. And she won’t go to sleep at night until she gets her little dish of ice cream." What has happened here is that the pet has discovered that the more noise and fussing it produces the more likely it is to be rewarded for this behavior. The owner finally "gives in" to keep the pet quiet and the pet sees the food as a reward. In effect the owner is training "The Beggar" by rewarding his/her behavior. It turns into a fun game but the dog’s health may suffer if obesity is the result. Type III: THE GOOD DOG: "But doctor, s/he’s such a good dog we don’t want her to go hungry." This dog became overweight because the owner’s signal of affection for their pet has focused on feeding. (Usually each family member secretly offers treats to the pet … and doesn't know the other family members are doing exactly the same thing!) It is an understandable trait but unfortunately for the dog it can be a case of too much of a good thing. The owners' method of showing affection should be directed more toward physical activity than feeding. Think "FETCH" not "FOOD"! Type IV: THE GOURMET DOG: "But doctor, s/he just refuses to eat dog food." In this case the dog has trained the owners to feed him/her such things as chicken, liver, ice cream, cookies, etc. Although most table scraps are just fine to feed (remember, stay away from bones of any kind!), this dog has been given a choice of what to eat and has chosen certain people food. If a child is given a choice s/he would probably choose cake and candy over vegetables, and their health would suffer. The Gourmet Dog usually overeats because s/he isn’t getting a proper balance of nutrition, plus everything tastes so good there is a reward factor in eating. The solution is … you choose, not your pet.

Pet Weight Translator
Did you realize a 12 pound Yorkie is the same as an average female weighing 218 pounds and a 14 pound cat is equivalent to a 237 pound man? Did you consider that a 90 pound female Labrador retriever is equal to a 186 pound 5’ 4” female or 217 pound 5’ 9” male or a fluffy feline that weighs 15 pounds (DSH) is equal to a 218 pound 5’ 4” female or 254 pound 5’ 9” male?

Note: For comparative purposes only. Your pet’s actual body condition should be determined by your veterinarian. Not intended to be used as a substitute for BCS or medical evaluation

Body Condition Score (BCS)
1 = Underweight, 2 = Thin but Normal, 3 = Normal, 4 = Overweight, 5 = Obese

Obese Cat – 19 lbs, Ideal weight 10 lbs.
Analogous to a 5’4” female adult weighing 276 lbs. (131 lbs. over maximum normal weight of 145 lbs.) or 5’9” male weighing 321 lbs. (152 lbs. over maximum normal weight of 169 lbs.)

Obese Dog – 48 lbs., Ideal weight 20-22 lbs.
Analogous to a 5’4” female adult weighing 317 lbs. (172 lbs. over maximum normal weight of 145 lbs.) or 5’9” male weighing 368 lbs. (199 lbs. over maximum normal weight of 169 lbs.)

Weight, Calories and Your Pet

Daily Caloric Needs
10-lb. Cat ……………………………   200 calories*
10-lb Dog ……………………………   275 calories*
20-lb Dog ……………………………   400 calories*
50-lb Dog ……………………………   900 calories*

Your pet is at a healthy weight if...
✓   Ribs are easily felt
✓   Stomach doesn’t sag
✓   Waist is easily noted when viewed from above

Your pet is overweight if...
✓   Ribs are difficult to feel under the fat
✓   Stomach sags – you can grab a handful of fat!
✓   Back is broad and flat
✓   Waist is barely visible or absent

*Please note that the calorie counts provided are guidelines for average lightly active adult spayed or neutered dogs or cats (1 to 7 years old receiving less than 30 minutes aerobic activity per day.) The caloric needs of a particular pet may differ depending on such factors as lifestyle, genetics, activity level and medical conditions. Your pet will likely be fed fewer calories if you are attempting to reduce weight and improve fitness.

Calories in Common Pet Treats

Available For Adoption!! Smitty Needs a Home!

Hi, my name is Smitty and I'm a 4 year old male white Persian. I have been neutered, declawed and I'm current on all my vaccines. I am very playful and affectionate and I'm used to being around people, dogs, and other cats. I would be happier to be the only pet you would need to love in my forever home.

PLEASE CALL OR COME BY IVS-UNIVERSITY PARK TO MEET SMITTY AND LEARN MORE ABOUT HIM

December: A Month of Giving

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Focus: Giving

Consider Pet Adoption This Holiday Season
With the holidays on the horizon, you may be thinking of introducing a new furry friend to your family. Maybe you plan to surprise your spouse with the puppy you know he always wanted. Perhaps you feel your aging loved one is lonely and in need of companionship. Or, maybe your family has wanted a cat for a long time and Christmas is the perfect time to wrap that cuddly kitten in a bow to hide beneath the tree. Whatever your reasons are for wanting that new sweet pet, heed our advice, and have a plan.

We are huge proponents of pet adoption. There are many pets up for adoption at our local shelter that would love to find a forever home. For a nominal fee, you can adopt a cat or dog, ranging in age from baby to adult, and all shapes and sizes. The animals have been spayed or neutered and have had their basic shots.

For more information, visit the Irvine Animal Care Center at www.irvineshelter.org

Pets Available for Adoption at IVS

Please contact IVS – University Park at 949-786-0990 for information on Jagger or Foxy.


IVS GOES GREEN For Third Chance Pets IVS donates $1.00 to the IACC for each pet boarded in December In the month of December, Irvine Veterinary Services will donate $1.00 to the Irvine Animal Care Center in support of their Third Chance program for every pet boarded. The Third Chance program transfers animals from overcrowded Southern California shelters where they may have limited chances for adoption, and brings them to the Shelter for a chance at finding their forever home. Since these animals come from outside of Irvine, their care is funded entirely through donations. HELP IVS RAISE FUNDS AND RECEIVE A FREE “GO GREEN” BAG!

2011 “Home for the Holidays”
Animals for Adoption, Vendors, Rescue Groups, Silent Auction, Food, Ask the Vet, Ask the Trainer, Tile Painting, & MORE!

DATE: December 3, 2011
TIME: 10:00am - 3:00pm
WHERE: The Irvine Animal Care Center
6443 Oak Canyon Road
(Sand Canyon & Oak Canyon Road)
Irvine, CA 92618
949-724-7740

Please join us at our booth on Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 for the 2011 “Home for the Holidays” event, as we partner with the shelter in placing these adorable pets awaiting adoption.

Irvine Animal Care Center is recognized nationwide as one of the most progressive municipal shelters in the country. The Center is home to approximately 300 animals awaiting a loving family and home for the Holiday. Won’t you please open your heart and your home this holiday season by adopting a loving companion?

Irvine Animal Care Center
Hours of Operation
Weekdays 12:00pm - 7:00pm
Weekends 10:00am - 5:00pm
Closed Tuesdays & Holidays
www.irvineshelter.org

Adoption Criteria:

The adopter must be at least 18 years old.
Everyone who lives in the household needs to meet the animal prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are renting your home, a copy of your rental agreement must be provided prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are interested in adopting a dog & you currently have a dog at home, we require a dog introduction to take place on the shelter’s premises. Our experienced dog staff will assist with the introduction.
Completion of adoption application and counseling session.

Holidays Hazards and Your Pets

Keeping your furry family members safe during the holidays can be a difficult task. There are the ornaments, plants, presents, lights -- oh, and who could forget the Christmas tree (if you decide to put one up this year). Let's take a look at some simple steps that will allow your pets to join in the holiday fun this year, while avoiding any trips to the animal emergency room.

Christmas Tree Tips:

1. Place your Christmas tree in a corner, blocked off from your pet's wanting eyes. If this doesn't keep your dog or cat from attempting to jump onto the tree, you can place aluminum foil, a plastic drink bottle filled with knick knacks, or anything else that creates noise on the tree's bottom limbs to warn you of an impending tree disaster.

2. Tinsel can add a nice sparkling touch to the tree, but make sure you hang it up out of your pet's reach. Ingesting the tinsel can potentially block their intestines, which is generally only remedied through surgical means.

3. Do not put lights on the tree's lower branches. Not only can your pet get tangled up in the lights, they are a burning hazard. Additionally, your dog or cat may inadvertently get shocked by biting through the wire.

4. Ornaments need to be kept out of reach, too. In addition to being a choking and intestinal blockage hazard, shards from broken ornaments may injure paws, mouths, or other parts of your pet's body.

5. For those buying a live Christmas trees this year, keep the area free and clear of pine needles. While they may not seem dangerous, the needles can puncture your pet's intestines if ingested.

Other Great Holiday Item Tips:

1. Did you know holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs or cats? If you normally use these plants to decorate your home, they should be kept in an area your pet cannot reach.

2. Edible tree decorations -- whether they be ornaments, or cranberry or popcorn strings -- are like time bombs waiting to happen. These goodies are just too enticing and your pet will surely tug at them, knocking down your wonderfully decorated spruce.

3. Burning candles should be placed on high shelves or mantels, out of your pet's way -- there's no telling where a wagging tail may end up. Homes with fireplaces should use screens to avoid accidental burns.

4. To prevent any accidental electrocutions, any exposed indoor or outdoor wires should be taped to the wall or the sides of the house.

IVS is on FACEBOOK – We Would Love to Be Connected With You

“Like’ us on FACEBOOK and learn about the following:

Pet related community events
Dogs and Cats available for adoption
Updates at IVS
Adorable cat & dog videos
Education videos
Education articles
Heartwarming stories
And much more

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

Available For Adoption!! Jagger Needs a Home!
My name is Jagger. I’m 1 1/2-year old domestic longhair male cat, neutered and up to date on all vaccines. I came to IVS after living on the streets and at the beginning I was very temperamental. Over the months I have learned that getting love and attention is really not a bad thing. I’m slowly opening up and when I do, watch out, I have a lot of love to give. I currently live with other cats and dogs, and get along well with them. Please come visit me!

A Month of Giving

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Focus: Giving

Kids Who Care Foundation Pet Fashion Show
On Sunday, October 23, 2011, Dr. Yamasaki and Dr. Ashbran volunteered to judge a pet fashion show benefiting the Kids Who Care Foundation. Before the judging began, the Irvine Police K9 unit put on a fantastic demonstration, highlighting the skills and grace of their dogs. The fashion show/contest was divided into three categories. The first was most talented, where a Rottweiler who could literally jump through hoops won. The second was pretties dog, who a very cute rescue mix dog stole everyone's heart.

The last category was best costume, where a turtle dressed up as a dragon won, but the Standard Poodle dressed up in a homemade horse costume came in a close second.

All the funds raised will benefit the Kids Who Care Foundation to cheer up critically ill children and the Irvine Animal Care Center.

IVS Donates $1.00 for each Bath & Groom in November!
In the month of November, Irvine Veterinary Services will donate $1.00 to the Irvine Animal Care Center in support of their Third Chance program for every bath and/or groom performed.

The Third Chance program transfers animals from overcrowded Southern California shelters where they may have limited chances for adoption, and brings them to the Shelter for a chance at finding their forever home. Since these animals come from outside of Irvine, their care is funded entirely through donations.

Help IVS Raise Funds for the Third Chance Program and Receive a Free Bandana!

2011 “Home for the Holidays”
Animals for Adoption, Vendors, Rescue Groups, Silent Auction, Food, Ask the Vet, Ask the Trainer, Tile Painting, & MORE!

DATE: December 3, 2011
TIME: 10:00am - 3:00pm
WHERE: The Irvine Animal Care Center
6443 Oak Canyon Road
(Sand Canyon & Oak Canyon Road)
Irvine, CA 92618
949-724-7740

The adopter must be at least 18 years old.
Everyone who lives in the household needs to meet the animal prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are renting your home, a copy of your rental agreement must be provided prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are interested in adopting a dog & you currently have a dog at home, we require a dog introduction to take place on the shelter’s premises. Our experienced dog staff will assist with the introduction.
Completion of adoption application and counseling session.

Helping Animals in Need

Do you wish there were some way to help animals in need?
Charitable giving is something we all aspire to, but too many aspiring givers feel limited by time and money. Current economic conditions have greatly impacted charitable giving, but according to the Yankelovich MONITOR, "aspiring givers [want] to be seen as someone who lives their passions."

AAHA has a passion – to provide veterinary treatment to pets in need, through the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. The tough economy affects everyone. Families that were once in a good financial position are struggling, and their pets suffer if forced to go without veterinary treatment or given minimal treatment in the hope that it will be enough. The AAHA Helping Pets Fund is trying to do something about this.

We know you are passionate about animals. If you are looking to support a cause vital to companion animals, the AAHA Helping Pets Fund could be it. You can make a difference in the lives of families and their cherished pets.

But, did you know that it is the modest donor that enables charitable causes to thrive? Large numbers of small gifts are the lifeblood of charitable giving. Furthermore, educating others about the need and ways they can help is just as valuable as a monetary gift.

If you aspire to give, we hope you will give to the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. We hope you will also promote the Fund as a cause worthy of support. It can be as simple as reminding your friends and colleagues that donations to the Fund provide care to animals in need, or as involved as hosting an event to raise money in support of the Fund.

If you’d like to help, please contact AAHA at 866/443-5738. They will be happy to discuss giving options with you.

And remember, you don’t have to be wealthy to give, just willing.

How You Can Help the Irvine Animal Care Center
It takes everyone's help to keep Irvine's homeless animals happy and healthy! Your donation of money or supplies to the IACC will help provide the best possible care to the thousands of animals who come to the Shelter.

The Shelter is always in great need of new or gently used supplies. Here is their current wish list:

Food

Dog & Puppy Food (dry or canned)
Cat & Kitten (dry or canned)
Peanut Butter (not chunky)
Soft Dog Treats (like Natural Balance Treat Rolls or Solid Gold)
Hard Dog Treats (biscuits, milk bones, etc.)
KMR Kitten Replacement (powder form only)
ESIBLAC Puppy Replacement (powder form only)

Toys

Cats (ping pong balls, jingle balls, scratchers, cat nip, cat toys, etc.)
Dogs (chew toys, plush dog toys, squeaky toys, KONGs, etc.)
Hard plastic children pools

Kennel Supplies

Collars, Leashes, Harnesses, Gentle Leaders & Clickers
Cat Litter
Heating Pads
Cat & Dog Beds
Towels & Blankets
Fleece Bedding Materials
Cat & Dog Carriers
Snuggle Puppies & Kittens

Supplies That You May Have at Home

Blankets, Towels, etc. for Pets to Sleep on (something that can be washed in a washer & dryer)
Newspapers, Ink Pens, Post its, Sharpie Pens

For more information on how you can help the shelter, please visit their website at www.irvineshelter.org

September is Senior Care Services Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Celebrating our Senior Pets, aged 7 and Up

Celebrating our Senior Pets, aged 7 and above, in September at IVS.
All Senior Care Services available at a 20% discount.

Senior Care Services include:

Full Physical Exam/Vaccinations
Senior Blood Panel and Urinalysis
Ultrasound of the Urinary Bladder
Dental Exam and Consultation on Periodontal Cleaning
Diet Consultation

Further diagnostic tests may be recommended pending the veterinarian's exam findings; also at a 20% discount.

Senior Pet Facts

30% have a Hidden Disease
62% of Dogs age 10 Years & Older have Symptoms of Cognitive Dysfunction
80% have Dental Disease

Senior Pet Care

Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, pets are living longer than ever before. However with this increased lifespan comes an increase in the types of ailments that can afflict senior pets. As pets reach the golden years, there are a variety of conditions and diseases that they can face, including weight and mobility changes; osteoarthritis; kidney, heart, and liver disease; tumors and cancers; hormone disorders such as diabetes and thyroid imbalance; and many others. Just as the health care needs of humans change as we age, the same applies to pets. It’s critical for pet owners to work closely with their veterinarian to devise a health plan that is best for their senior pet.

When Does “Senior” Start?
So when is a pet considered a senior? Generally, smaller breeds of dogs live longer than larger breeds, and cats live longer than dogs. Beyond that, the life span will vary with each individual, and your veterinarian will be able to help you determine what stage of life your furry friend is in. Keep in mind that some small dog breeds may be considered senior at 10-13 years, while giant breeds are classified as seniors at ages as young as five. Your veterinarian is your best source for more information to determine when your pet reaches the golden years.

The Effects of Age

Sensory Changes With the senior years comes a general “slowing down” in pets. As their major senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell) dull, you may find that your pet has a slower response to general external stimuli. This loss of sensory perception often is a slow, progressive process, and it may even escape your notice. The best remedy for gradual sensory reduction is to keep your pet active—playing and training are excellent ways to keep their senses sharp. Pets may also be affected mentally as they age. Just as aging humans begin to forget things and are more susceptible to mental conditions, your aging animals may also begin to confront age-related cognitive and behavior changes. Most of these changes are rather subtle and can be addressed in a proactive manner. Regular senior health exams can help catch and treat these problems before they control your pet’s life. You are an important ally in keeping your senior pet healthy! If your pet is experiencing any changes in behavior, we urge you to bring him or her in for a check-up. Together, we can make sure you and your faithful companion enjoy many more years together.

Riff is a mix breed dog; can you guess what mix of breeds he is?

Mixed Breed Analysis
Have you ever looked into your dog's eyes and wondered, "What kind of dog are you?" Now you can find out-scientifically. Using the wonders of DNA analysis, we take a blood sample from your dog and in return you will receive a book with photos and explanations of just exactly what breeds are part of your dog's heritage. Why is this important? The combination of breeds affect a dog's behavior and can go to better diagnosis of possible conditions to which certain breeds are prone. Obvious and not-so-obvious physical traits plus behaviors like digging, herding and barking all come from the various breeds in a dog’s family tree. Once an owner understands a dog’s natural tendencies, it makes it possible to create a tailored training, exercise and nutrition program to fit his one-of-a-kind needs.

The DNA test detects Chihuahua, Japanese Chin & Toy Fox Terrier in Riff.

Lasers Help Veterinarians Treat Patients with Chronic Pain
IVS is offering a new way to treat chronic pain, acute injuries and many other veterinary conditions, using a Class IV therapy laser.

High-energy near-infrared lasers can penetrate deeply into the body to diminish pain and stimulate healing.

Many pets suffer from chronic pain due to arthritis caused by hip dysplasia, spondylosis, traumatic injury, etc. A class of drugs, non-steroid anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), has provided significant relief, but long-term use of these drugs can have some undesirable side effects.

In addition, some animals are NSAID-intolerant. Cats are particularly sensitive to some of these medications, so there are fewer pain-management options available for the feline patient. Laser treatment provides a safe solution for them, according to the hospital.

The laser is a high-power, dual-wavelength therapy laser that can provide relief from chronic pain. It penetrates to considerable depth and has multi-step protocols for specific veterinary conditions in household pets and horses. It has also shown very good results when used on surgical incisions and wounds— traumatized tissue swells less and heals more quickly when treated with the device.

Treatments last about three to six minutes per site and are completely comfortable for the patient.

Available For Adoption!! Rocky Needs a Home!
My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me!

August is Boarding, Bathing & Grooming Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

IVS Introduces Laser Therapy for Your Pet

Advanced Pain Relief Now Available.
	Call us today about this new, non surgical drug free treatment option. When it comes to pain management for your pet, Laser Therapy creates optimal healing conditions and increased healing circulation to help get them back on their paws faster.

Improves and Promotes Healing
Faster Recovery Time

Increases Joint Flexibility
Relieves Joint Pain and Reduces Spasm

Is Your Garden – Pet Safe?
Knowing this information could save your pet's life!!!

Cocoa bean mulch: Cocoa bean mulch is toxic to dogs when ingested, causing many of the same problems as chocolate. Clinical signs can include: vomiting, weakness, shaking, tremors, seizures, and death. If you believe that your dog may have ingested this mulch, you need to seek veterinary help for your pet immediately. Prevention is the key!!! Use a different type of mulch if you have a pet that is likely to ingest it!

Compost: In today's environment, we all want to "go green". However, compost has high concentrations of nitrogen which can lead to neurologic signs, such as severe depression, seizures, and death when ingested.

Plant insecticides and weed killers: Many insecticides and weed killers are toxic to dogs and cats. Have a candid discussion with your lawn and garden caretakers regarding the safety of your pets after application of any products. When in doubt, keep your pets away from these products. Clinical signs can range from weakness, salivation, uncontrolled urination, drooling, seizures, labored breathing, muscle tremors, and death. Bring any packages or information about the product used should any clinical signs be observed or exposure occur.

Foxglove, lilies, castor beans and cyclamen are but a few of the garden plants that can cause illness or even death of your dog or cat. Please visit this excellent website - for a list of plants, trees, and bulbs that are potentially toxic when ingested by your dog and the clinical signs that can be seen.

Summer Safety: Dogs, Kids and Water
A favorite summer pastime for many of us is relaxing by a pool or a lake while unwinding from the day or — better yet — even spending the whole day poolside blissfully relaxed. If your dog is in tow, however, it is essential to stay alert.

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs enjoy swimming or can swim particularly well. If it seems like your dog does not want to swim, it is important not to force him. If your dog falls in and appears to be struggling, offer a net or an object to help rescue him. Jumping in after him is seldom a good idea. In fact, a safety vest such as the canine flotation device, is designed to keep your pet afloat in the water. These vests are adjustable and designed to fit around your pet’s chest. Having a ramp installed in the pool or around the dock may also help your pet exit the water without struggling.

If your furry family member is an avid swimmer who enjoys a refreshing dip, it is important for you and your children to swim at a safe distance to avoid getting scratched or pulled under while swimming. Children who swim alongside one’s dog should always wear a life jacket.

Watch for water-related problems such as ear infections, a dull, dry coat and signs of dehydration. Dehydration can occur quickly — an easy way to check that your dog is not dehydrated is to lift your dog’s lips and look for bright pink and moist gums.

Outdoor exposure to water can change your dog’s vaccination needs. Know your dog’s travel history, disease exposure, age, breed and health status to tailor a vaccination protocol. Pets can contract several contagious water-borne illnesses and intestinal parasites such as Giardia from exposure to outdoor untreated water. For example, leptospirosis, a highly contagious water-borne illness, is preventable through annual inoculations.

Leptospirosis is especially dangerous because of its zoonotic (spreadable from animal to human) potential to people. Animals and people can experience a high fever, liver and kidney diseases, and vomiting and diarrhea.

Also, excessive ingestion of heavily chlorinated pool water, saltwater or stagnant lake water can result in vomiting and diarrhea. You might consider bringing plenty of fresh filtered or bottled water to the pool or lake to avoid intentional ingestion of these and other potentially harmful agents.

Shedding
Shedding is a natural loss of hair in dogs that allows the new coat to come in. All dogs shed; some more than others. There is no such thing as a non-shedding dog, unless you have a completely hairless dog, such as the American Hairless Terrier; however shedding varies greatly from breed to breed.

The majority of breeds that are considered "very light shedders" are usually the breeds that need to be clipped, stripped and/or scissored. Because their hair falls out at a much slower rate, if they are not properly groomed, they are prone to matting.

Some breeds have a seasonal shedding season in the spring, as their winter coats are lost. But if your dog is an indoor dog, it may not be outside enough for the dog's body to register the change of season, so he may shed all year round. Today dogs are bred mostly as companions and some breeds are not meant to live outdoors, so do not start leaving your dog outside all day long in hopes to stop the shedding. Longhaired dogs may appear to shed more, but it is really just the length of their hair that gives that illusion.

What can you do to reduce shedding?
Some dogs shed a lot. What can you do to help get the hair loss under control? Grooming is the key. Keeping in mind that the hair is going to fall out either way and it is best to remove it yourself and throw it in the trash, then to let the hair fall out naturally all over your house. The more hair YOU remove, the less you will see it all over your house. Brushing your dog once a day will greatly reduce the unwanted hair all over your clothes, carpet and furniture, especially during shedding season.

There are products that can help you remove all the dead hair in a few grooming sessions, leaving less hair to fall out inside your house. During the shedding season, if you do not remove the shedding winter coat, you will most likely see it falling all out all over your house for about a period of a month or so.

There are physical problems that can cause large, abnormal amounts of shedding such as ringworm, skin infections, stress, mange and cancer. It is not normal for your dogs coat to thin as the dog gets older. If your dog's hair loss is abnormal you will see bald spots. If you see bald spots or you think your dog is shedding abnormally, take your dog to the vet.

Dogs that live indoors will shed constantly throughout the year, particularly during summer months. Cats and other pets like rabbits and guinea pigs are also shedders. These animals can also suffer from hair balls if you don't groom them regularly.

Irvine Animal Care Centers Third Chance Program

The Third Chance program transfers animals from overcrowded Southern California shelters where they may have limited chances for adoption, and brings them to the Shelter for a chance at finding their forever home. Since these animals come from outside of Irvine, their care is funded entirely through donations. Why the name Third Chance? Their first home was their first chance, the shelter they were brought to was their second chance, and the IACC is their Third Chance. Over the years the program has expanded to include rescuing animals from hoarders and disaster situations. Since inception 10 years ago, the IACC has accepted more than 5,000 animals into the Third Chance for Pets program.

The Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC) transferred 24 dogs on July 20, 2011 from another shelter through the Third Chance for Pets program where their time was running out due to shelter renovations. The Third Chance for Pets program, funded solely by donations, rescues animals from overcrowded shelters and has cost the IACC $93,518.97 for the past 12 months.

Please consider adopting one of these dogs so we they can save other animals like them. If you are unable to adopt, please donate so IACC can help rescue more animals.

WATCH VIDEO

June is Flea Control Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Summertime – and the Living Is Easy
Unless you are a dog or cat plagued by pesky summer insect pests!

Though insect bites may be "irritating" to your pet, causing itching and swelling, those signs may just be the "tip of the iceberg". The consequences of a single insect bite can lead to life-threatening problems for your pet.

Itching, scratching, licking, and pawing at the face are signs that your dog or cat may show to flea infestation. A single bite from a single flea can cause intense itching and irritation in a pet that is allergic to flea saliva. The best place to look for the presence of fleas on your pet is on their back, just at the base of their tail. You may not see the fleas, but if you see what looks like black pepper in their hair or their skin, fleas are there! Flea allergies can also cause redness and pustules or papules in the skin.

If your pet is itching and scratching or licking at their paws or pawing at their face, it is important to treat their specific underlying problem and to give them relief! Unless advised to do so by your veterinarian, you should not go to the store and simply buy general flea treatment products and apply them to your pet. An examination of your dog or cat by your veterinarian will allow treatment specific to your pet's needs and health status. It may become necessary for you to treat your house for fleas at the same time, since these pesky insects can live in your carpeting for a long period of time multiplying!

Prevention: Your veterinarian will prescribe safe topical or oral flea preventatives for your dog or cat. Ask them what type and brand they recommend.

Bee Stings & Insect Bites
Bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, spiders and fire ants are common problems for pets. They attack the face and paws of pets as they investigate and play with them. Most reactions manifest as localized allergic reactions with itching and facial swelling (primarily the muzzle, eyes and ears). However, life threatening systemic reactions can lead to difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock.

If you believe that your pet has been stung or bitten by an insect or if you see facial or limb swelling in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Prevention: It is difficult to prevent insect stings or bites when dogs are free-roaming in the yard. It is important to survey your yard and to treat any ant mounds and remove wasp or hornet nests. When possible, keep your pet from "nosing around" in your flower beds.

Predators

Warm weather and bright sunshine lures everyone outdoors. Hours go by quickly when our dogs are lying in the sunshine and romping through the grass. But warm weather and a hearty appetite also bring out animal predators. Coyotes are common in the Orange County area - even in suburban neighborhoods. Mountain lions have also been reported by the news media to be seen throughout.

Predators can cause life-threatening damage and even take the lives of our pets within seconds. Here are some important reminders:

Keep your pet within a fenced yard. This helps to keep predators out as well as pets contained.
NEVER leave your pet unattended on a leash or line in the yard - even for a moment. Remember, hawks and other predators only need 1-2 seconds to strike.
Smaller dogs and cats are easy prey and should be monitored at all times when outdoors, even when in fenced areas. This is especially important when living close to wooded or other areas reported to have animal predators.
Be sure that your pet's rabies vaccination status is current.
Should your pet have an encounter with an animal predator, seek veterinary medical assistance immediately!!!
If your pet's rabies vaccination status is not current, make sure that you wear gloves and protective eyewear, to protect yourself from exposure to the saliva of the wild animal, when handling your injured pet.

June Is Adopt A Cat Month

Nothing is better than a pet cat and this is adopt a cat month. Humane Societies are brimming over with cats and kittens, and 70% of them will be euthanized.

June is the biggest month for cat adoptions because that's when most cats are relinquished to shelters. Many unspayed cats arrive at shelters pregnant or arrive with kittens. These animals are begging to be loved. And think of what they do for us in return. Stroking cats helps slow the heart rate and bring down blood pressure. They stimulate and amuse us. It would be fitting if our medical care plans placed at least one cat in every family.

If you are adopting a cat, consider adopting two if you're away from home working most of the day Among the most likely cats to enjoy each other's company are a mother and a kitten. This is because the social relationships of cats are matriarchal, which means the mother and her offspring are the social unit.

Cats typically cost less to maintain than dogs cost, and they do not require walking or and potty trips outside.

Still, it does take money and commitment to have a cat. Cat food may cost less because they eat less than a dog, but cats need high protein foods, often more expensive pound per pound than dog food. Cats also need attention and grooming, especially if they are long-haired. Cats need regular veterinary attention for their teeth, thyroid glands, and overall wellbeing. Cats need litter boxes and litter, catnip and toys. But all this is outweighed by the joy they bring: no pet is more nimble, amusing, and humbling than a cat.

Adopt a cat and you'll see why they are now the most popular pet in America.

Does Your Pet Have Itchy Skin and Itchy Ears?
Join us for a special evening of client education.

When: Tuesday June 21, 2011
Where: IVS Northpark Lobby
Time: 7:00pm
Topic: Understanding and coping with allergies in your pets
Speakers: Dr. Kristin Yamasaki

Please sign up at the Northpark front desk or call us @ 714-573-1890.
Space is limited

ATTENTION FELINE FANS
FREE ONE-MONTH DOSE OF REVOLUTION
Schedule an exam with one of our Veterinarians in May or June and receive one-monthly dose of Revolution for your cat.

Available For Adoption!!
My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me!

May is Heartworm Prevention Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

ATTENTION FELINE FANS FREE ONE-MONTH DOSE OF REVOLUTION Schedule an exam with one of our Veterinarians in May or June and receive one-monthly dose of Revolution for your cat
Protecting your Pets from Parasites
Revolution is a safe and simple monthly topical medication used to protect your pet from heartworms, fleas, and ear mites. It also protects dogs from ticks and sarcoptic mange and cats from roundworms and hookworms. Revolution is a prescription-only, FDA-approved medication available only through a veterinarian – and is NOT a pesticide registered by the EPA. Although topically applied, Revolution is a systemically acting, broad-spectrum parasiticide that has a well defined safety profile combined with excellent efficacy to help protect your dog and cat against a wide variety of parasites.		Trifexis is a monthly chewable tablet for dogs that kills fleas, prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls adult hookworm, roundworm and whipworm infections. Trifexis combines two trusted active ingredients to provide protection for your dog against these three kinds of dangerous parasites. And Trifexis is beef-flavored, so you can offer it as a treat. And, because Trifexis is given orally, you don't have to isolate your dog from other pets or children.

What you Should Know about Heartworms and your Dog
Left untreated, heartworm disease can kill a dog. Learn what to do to protect your pet.

Pets Most Often Affected
All dogs, from puppies to seniors

What You Should Know
This common parasite got its name because the adult worm lives in the right side of a dog’s heart. Adult worms look much like cooked spaghetti – long, white and slender. In the United States, documented heartworm disease in dogs dates back to 1857.

Mosquitoes transmit heartworm disease. Because mosquitoes thrive in warm, moist climates, heartworm infection rates are highest within 150 miles of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and along the Mississippi River and its tributaries.

Dogs with adult heartworm are the source of heartworm for other dogs. Mosquitoes that feed on an infected animal ingest the larvae and transmit them when the mosquitoes bite another animal.

In areas where there are many dogs, there is a better chance of an infected mosquito finding a susceptible host. The damage that heartworm can cause depends on the number of worms present and the dog's activity level. If not properly treated, infection can cause damage to the dog’s pulmonary circulation, heart, liver and kidneys. And while signs of heartworm disease can have an acute – or sudden – onset, chronic (long-term) infection is more common.

In the early stages of the disease, many heartworm-infected dogs show no visible symptoms. But as adult worms mature, dogs may begin experiencing inflammation and narrowing of the lungs’ arteries. This can raise the dog’s blood pressure and eventually cause failure on the right side of the heart.

In mild to moderate cases, dogs will have an ongoing cough, decreased interest in exercising, and breathing difficulties. In moderate to severe cases, dogs may cough up blood. In severe cases, congestive heart failure can occur.

Heartworm disease can be deadly, but it can also be treated successfully. See your veterinarian about preventing heartworm in your dog.

Signs

Often no signs in early stages
Nonproductive cough
Rapid breathing
Exercise intolerance
Coughing up blood
Weight loss
Fluid accumulation in abdomen

Feline Heartworm Disease

What is Heartworm? Heartworm infection takes place when a mosquito carrying microscopic-size heartworm larvae bites a cat. The larvae enter through the bite wound where they develop in the tissues. The immature worms then enter a blood vessel and are carried to the arteries in the lung where they cause an inflammatory reaction. Most worms die at this state, causing even more inflammation. The worms that progress to the adult stage may live undetected for a couple of years. But, when the adult worms die, the inflammation can be severe enough to cause death. The respiratory signs associated with these reactions are called Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD).

Is Heartworm Serious? One study conducted in the Texas Gulf Coast region in the 1990s reveled heartworm antibodies were present in 26 percent of the cats examined, indicating the cats were infected at some point in their lives. Adult worms were present in 10 percent. The rate of heartworm infection was significantly higher than that of feline leukemia virus infection at 5 percent, and feline immunodeficiency virus infection at 6 percent.

1. Dogs vs. Cats
I thought heartworm was mainly a dog’s disease.
Heartworm disease is not just a canine disease. Heartworms affect cats differently than dogs, but the disease they cause is equally serious.

2. Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats
But my cat stays indoors, so she is safe, right?
It only takes one mosquito to infect a cat, and because mosquitoes can get indoors, both indoor and outdoor cats are a t risk and should receive heartworm preventive medication. In a North Carolina study, 28 percent of the cats diagnosed with heartworm were inside-only cats.

3. It’s a Heart Disease
How does it affect my cat?
The name “heartworm disease” is a misnomer, as it mostly affects the lungs and not just the heart. Signs are often mistaken for feline asthma, allergic bronchitis or other respiratory diseases.

4. Adult Heartworms vs. Larvae
What if the heartworm larvae never develop into adult worms?
Cats do not need an adult heartworm to exhibit clinical signs; in fact, larvae are a main cause of the problems. Studies show 50 percent of cats infected with heartworm larvae have significant disease of the small arteries supplying blood to the lungs.

5. Diagnosis
Is it easy to test whether my cat has heartworm disease?
Diagnosis is difficult as negative antigen and antibody test do not rule out heartworm diseases. Positive test, however, are significant.

Looking for their Forever Homes
	Available For Adoption!! My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me!

April is Parasite Awareness Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

“Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest

Thank you to everyone that participated in IVS’s “Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest. We were thrilled with the entries we received from our dedicated clients and their precious, adorable pets. The winner of this year’s Miles of Smiles is KULA. KULA will be awarded a basket full of C.E.T. dental products, toys, a bag of Hills Prescription T/D dog food and many other goodies.

See our “Miles of Smiles”

Extended Hours at Northpark!!!!!
In an effort to better serve our clients, IVS-Northpark has extended hours to:
Monday - Friday 7:00am to 8:00pm	Saturday and Sunday 7:00am to 6:00pm
Both University Park and Northpark locations will now be open until 8:00pm, Monday - Friday.

You, Your Dog & Parasites

Dogs are not just pets. They are treated like members of the family. And like any member of your family, it’s important to keep your companion animal healthy and free of parasites. Monitoring for any changes in behavior, appetite, or water consumption and regular visits to your veterinarian are important to the care and well-being of your dog. Your veterinarian can accurately diagnose and safely treat parasites and other health problems that not only affect your dog, but also the safety of you and your family.

It is fairly common for a dog to become infected with an internal or external parasite at some point in its lifetime. Parasites can affect your dog in a variety of ways, ranging from simple irritation to causing life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Some parasites can infect and transmit diseases to people.

By following your veterinarian’s recommendations and having your pet tested for parasites annually, you can protect your dog and your family from potentially harmful parasites all year long.

You, Your Cat & Parasites

Cat owners know the joy that these loving creatures bring to our lives. Because cats are independent by nature, they can be easier to care for when it comes to sharing our homes with them. Therefore, it’s important to both you and your cat to keep it healthy and free of parasites.

Monitoring your cat for any changes in its behavior, appetite, and water consumption and regular visits to your veterinarian are necessary to maintaining the well-being of your cat. Your veterinarian is there to diagnose, treat, and prevent parasites, such as fleas and worms, that not only affect your cat, but the health of you and your family.

It is relatively common for a cat to become infected with an internal or external parasite at some point in its lifetime. Parasites can affect your cat in a variety of ways, ranging from a simple irritation to causing life-threatening illnesses if left untreated. All parasites, particularly internal parasites (worms), can carry and transmit diseases to people.

By following your veterinarian’s recommendations and having your pet tested for parasites annually, you can protect your cat and your family from these potentially harmful parasites all year long. Click on the parasite names above for information on the symptoms they cause, where they are located, how they affect your cat, the health risks to humans, and prevention tips.

Parasite Control Recommendations for Cats
The use of year-round heartworm and broad-spectrum parasite medications, as well as appropriate flea and/or tick products, is the foundation of an effective parasite control program for your cat.

In addition, the following steps can be part of a proactive program to help keep your cat healthy and parasite-free:

Have your cat examined annually by your veterinarian and include a complete history.
Provide pets cooked or prepared food (not raw meat) and fresh, potable water.
Conduct fecal examinations 2 to 4 times during the first year of life and 1 to 2 times each year for adults, depending on the pet’s health and lifestyle factors. Recommended first fecal at 6-7 weeks of age.
Administer anthelmintic treatment to puppies and kittens starting at three weeks of age repeating every three weeks, with monthly preventative to start by 16 weeks/4months.
Also deworm nursing mothers (queens) along with their kittens.

Helpful Tips to Protect You and Your Family

Wash your hands well after contact with any pet.
Do not allow children to put dirt in their mouths.
Pick up dog and cat waste from your yard daily, especially in areas where children and animals play.
Cover home sand boxes to protect them from fecal contamination.
Have your pet tested regularly (at least once a year) for parasites by a veterinarian and administer year-round preventive medications to control zoonotic parasites.

Pregnancy and Immune Deficiency Precautions

Wash your hands well after any exposure to soil (gardening), sandboxes and raw meat.
Eat only well-cooked meat.
Wash fresh fruits and vegetables to eliminate contamination.
Have a spouse, partner or friend change the litter box. If changing the litter is unavoidable, change it daily. Be certain to wash hands well after changing the litter.
Supervise infants sitting on the ground or on the floor. Do not allow them to eat dirt or food that has fallen.
Pick up dog and cat feces from the yard daily.
Cover sandboxes and play areas to prevent wildlife and strays from contaminating these areas.
Take your pet to the veterinarians regularly and have your pet tested for parasite at least yearly.
Deworm your cat or dog per your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Administer year round products to help control Toxocara infections and other products directed by your veterinarian to control other parasites.

Common Cat Parasites
Spot the signs of infection to protect your cat

The world is filled with parasites. Unfortunately, most are ready and willing to infest your cat. Many intestinal worms and external parasites can cause serious medical conditions and deadly diseases. But do you know what to look for when determining what type of parasite has infected your cat? Here are some examples:

Ear Mites Mites can invade your cat’s ears, spread to other areas of your cat’s body, and infect other pets in your home. Infected animals will scratch around their ears and/or shake their heads. In severe cases, the ear canals will bleed. If left untreated permanent hearing loss can occur. To kill mites in the ear, use an ear miticide. Your veterinarian should examine the ear to make sure the eardrum is intact. A pyrethrin-based flea and tick topical will also kill mites that have spread over your cat’s body.

Toxoplasma gondii This parasite causes toxoplasmosis. T. gondii is spread via cat feces, uncooked meat and raw goat milk. In humans, toxoplasmosis can cause abortion and congenital defects in unborn children, so pregnant women are advised to avoid litter box cleaning. T. gondii can also cause a serious, sometimes fatal, disease in children and adults. Signs of feline toxoplasmosis are nonspecific including: fever, loss of appetite, depression, and pneumonia. To help protect your cat, do not feed him raw meat or bones, allow him to scavenge in the garbage, or hunt wild mice and birds. Also, clean litter boxes daily and regularly wash them with boiling water.

Heartworms Transmitted via mosquitoes, heartworms spend their adult life in the heart and large blood vessels connecting the heart and lungs. Signs of heartworm disease include rapid breathing, coughing, decreased appetite, weight loss, and listlessness. Your veterinarian may test for an active infection before prescribing treatment. The best prevention program includes a heartworm preventive and reduced mosquito exposure.

Hookworms These common intestinal parasites cause serious disease including severe diarrhea and anemia. Infection occurs via ingestion of the larvae from contaminated soil, water or feces; larval penetration of the skin; or larval infection of the fetus. Symptoms include pale gums, weakness, stunted growth, emaciation, and dull and dry coats. To prevent infections, clean litter boxes daily, prevent contact with infected animals, and de-worm annually. Hookworms can also infect humans.

Roundworms The most common digestive tract parasite, adult roundworms live in the small intestine and absorb nutrients, interfere with digestion, and can damage the intestinal lining. Mild infestations often have no symptoms. But severe cases are often accompanied by thin, dull hair coats, a pot-belly appearance, anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Daily litter box cleaning and annual de-worming help prevent infection. Roundworms can also infect humans.

Tapeworms These flat, segmented worms live in the small intestine and can grow up to 20 inches long. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, nervousness, vomiting, and convulsions. Active segments around the anus may cause your cat to lick or "scoot" across the floor. Prevention relies on effective flea and lice control on both your cat and in her environment.

Feline Scabies (Notoedric Mange) Female mites burrow into a cat’s skin to lay eggs, which hatch, grow into adults, mate, and start the process over. Symptoms include hair loss; itching of the ears, face, eyelids, and neck; and thickened, wrinkled, crust-covered skin. To prevent, eliminate contact with stray or infected cats and only use boarders and grooming facilities with strict sanitation standards.

Coccidia These one-celled parasites thrive in the intestinal tract. Most cats and kittens develop a natural immunity as they age. However, this immunity permits adult cats to carry coccidia and spread this contagious parasite in their feces. Immunosuppressed kittens and cats suffering with coccidia often have mild to severe diarrhea. In some cases, vomiting, loss of appetite, dehydration, and worse may occur. Prevent the spread of coccidia with strict sanitation and daily litter box cleaning.

IVS Foster Dogs, Looking for their Forever Homes
	Available For Adoption!! Hi, my name is Mack. I’m a 3-year old purebred Chihuahua, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. The staff at IVS say I’m very sweet and will “stand and wave” to get your attention. I have very few teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. Please come and visit me, I’m sure you’ll fall in love.

	Available For Adoption!! My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me!

March is Dental Awareness Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

“Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest
In celebration of Dental Health Awareness Month, IVS will be hosting a photo contest, "Miles of Smiles”. The winner of this contest will receive a gift basket full of C.E.T. dental products, toys, a bag of Hills Prescription T/D cat or dog food and many other goodies. To enter your pet's photo, please email the photo to petphotos@irvinevetservices.com. Please make sure to add your pet’s name either to the file name or in the email. Don’t delay; all entries must be received by March 29th, 2011. The winner will be announced in April’s newsletter

Everything about Puppy Teeth

Puppies are initially born without teeth. They do not receive their first puppy teeth until they reach the age of between six and eight weeks old. They grow a total of 28 teeth, which are known as baby teeth or deciduous teeth. The first teeth that fall out are the incisor teeth, followed by the premolars and the canines. Puppies do not have molar teeth, only premolars. Their upper and lower canine teeth are at the back of their mouths and are larger. Their upper and lower incisor teeth are located in the middle.

Losing Puppy Teeth
Your dog will be losing puppy teeth between the age of 3 to 7 months. Like humans, the adult teeth push the puppy teeth out.

Puppy Age	Teeth that Fall Out and Grow
3 Months	Puppy Incisors begin to fall out
4 Months	Adult Canines and Molars start to come in
6 to 7 Months	Adult Molars come In
7 to 8 Months	Full Adult Teeth

Teething
For puppies, the teething process continues for several months, off and on. For a puppy, this can be an uncomfortable and painful period. When puppies are teething, they increase their biting and chewing and test out different objects and texture to relieve the discomfort.

By the time a puppy is eight months old, it should have a full set of a total of 42 teeth, but some breeds have more or fewer. The larger the dog, generally speaking, the faster the teeth will appear. Doberman Pinchers are an example of dogs that have fewer teeth. Spaniels and Greyhounds tend to have more teeth. At the age of between three months and four months, a puppy should be checked out by a veterinarian to make sure that there are no bite problems. If bad bite is occurring as a result of puppy teeth, pulling the baby teeth prematurely may be necessary.

Puppy Teething Pain
These approaches can be used individually or together to help with puppy teething pain.

Numb Puppy gums with ice: Either put ice in the puppy water bowl or give the puppy a bowl of ice that is crushed.
Freeze a washcloth: Put a wet twisted washcloth or other cloth into the freezer. Give the frozen twisted washcloth to the puppy to teeth on. Try freezing more than one, so you have another ready to go.
Massage the puppy gums: Move your hand under the chin. Massage the upper and lower gums with a circular motion for up to 10 minutes

Welcome Dr. Kim to Irvine Veterinary Services - Northpark

Dr. Connie Kim is a native of Southern California. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley and her Veterinary degree from the University of California, Davis in 2004. Dr. Kim initially practiced in the Bay Area at a dog and cat hospital, and then in an exclusively feline practice. In 2009, she completed a rotating internship at Animal Surgical and Emergency Center, where she focused on emergency, critical care, surgery and internal medicine. Dr. Kim's interests include: canine and feline medicine, dentistry, soft tissue surgery and emergency medicine. She has a special interest in feline medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys travel, reading, yoga, hiking, and skiing. She also enjoys spending time with her pets "Maggie", a terrier mix, and two tabby cats "Cairo" and "Lulu".

Cat Dental Care

In nature, wild cats provide their own dental care by chewing on different textures when they catch and eat their prey. But domestic cats are mainly fed processed diets, which although very palatable, nutritious and healthy in other ways, are less beneficial when it comes to dental health. As a result, dental problems with cats are becoming more common. It is therefore important to check your cat's teeth and mouth on a regular basis. The problem is, of course, that this is generally more easily said than done. Prying the cat's mouth open is not painful for the cat, (unless there is a damaged tooth, or gum infection), but most cats bitterly resent you taking such liberties.

If you want to take your life into your hands and try a home examination, first put one hand at the back of the cat's head, stroking gently, and with your fingers lift the upper lip to reveal the front teeth. You may want to start with just one side first. This will allow you to examine the outside of the teeth and the gums. If the cat is cooperating you can try prying the mouth open by gently pushing the lower jaw down.

Even if the cat will not allow you to inspect her mouth properly, try looking inside when she yawns. This quick inspection will give you an idea about the coloring of the teeth and gums.

Healthy teeth and gums - white teeth and pink gums. No odor on cat's breath.

Signs of problems
If the cat has toothache and gum disease there may be easy clues, for example, if the cat is hungry and tries eating but after a short while jumps back and walks away. Other signs are:

infection within the mouth in which a rotten tooth, gum disease, or ulcers are visible
bad smelling breath which can be caused by infection or kidney problems (Uremia)
yellow teeth resulting from the accumulation of tartar and calculus (hardened deposit of mineral salts formed around the teeth)
missing or wobbly tooth
damaged or broken tooth
a visible cavity in a tooth
pale gums which can be caused by anemia
bluish gums - normally a sign of insufficient oxygen in the blood
foreign bodies embedded in between teeth or at the back the mouth

IVS Foster Dogs, Looking for their Forever Homes
	Available For Adoption!! Hi, my name is Mack. I’m a 3-year old purebred Chihuahua, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. The staff at IVS say I’m very sweet and will “stand and wave” to get your attention. I have very few teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. Please come and visit me, I’m sure you’ll fall in love. Please call IVS for more details or to schedule a meet and greet, 949-786-0990.

	Available For Adoption!! My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me! Please call IVS for more details or to schedule a meet and greet, 949-786-0990.

February Marks the Annual Pet Dental Health Month

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Keep Those Pearlies White

The American Animal Hospital Association recommends annual oral exams and dental cleanings under general anesthesia for all adult dogs and cats. According to AAHA’s Dental Care Guidelines, cats and small dogs should be started at one year of age and large-breed dogs at two years.

Make an appointment if you notice signs of dental disease, such as:
Bad breath Yellowing of teeth/tartar build up Bleeding or swollen gums Frequent eye infections or unexplained discharge Chronic sneezing or abnormal nasal discharge	Broken teeth Drooling (cats) Reluctance to eat or dropping food Pawing at face and mouth

20% OFF All Dental Procedures. February 1st through February 28th, 2011 Includes:
Pre-anesthesia blood screen Isoflurane anesthesia Extractions	Scaling, polishing Fluoride treatment Antibiotics, preventative care products

Dental Care For Your Pet

Your pet needs dental care – regular, professional care from your veterinarian, as well as care at home from you. The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends that pet owners follow three basic steps:

STEP 1: Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam. Don’t wait for his annual checkup if you suspect a problem.

STEP 2: Begin a dental care regimen at home. Your veterinarian can suggest steps that may include brushing your pet's teeth. One of the most convenient and effective ways to combat oral disease is feeding specially formulated foods proven effective in combating plaque and tartar buildup. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council, an organization initiated by the American Veterinary Dental Society to guide consumers, appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in dogs and cats. For further information on the VOHC or their product standards, visit www.vohc.org.

STEP 3: Schedule regular veterinary checkups. These are essential in helping your veterinarian monitor the progress of your pet's dental health routine. Your veterinary health care team can help you schedule the appropriate visits.

Identifying Problems

How to tell if my dog or cat has gum disease?

If your pet will allow it, open its mouth and look inside. Look for the warning signs of gum disease - bad breath, red and swollen gums, a yellow-brown crust of tartar around the gumline, and pain or bleeding when you touch the gums or mouth. Seek veterinary care if you notice any of these problems.

You can see in this photo that this pet has plaque and tartar build- up on its teeth. A professional examination administered by the family veterinarian should be done now to determine whether a cleaning is required.

IVS Donates $7,500 to Irvine Animal Care Center

Veterinarians Recommend Anesthesia for Dental Cleanings

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, by age three more than half of dogs and cats suffer from dental problems. By the time they turn four, at least 85% show signs of periodontal disease (gum disease), a condition caused by plaque.

Dental disease is painful for your pet and can cause a multitude of problems, including heart and liver infections. Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth at home goes a long way toward preventing disease and tooth loss, but it is not enough.

Like people, pets need professional dental exams and cleanings in order to avoid tooth decay. However, dogs and cats are significantly less willing to sit still for 45 minutes of scraping and polishing. Although your veterinarian can perform a basic oral exam while your pet is awake, an anesthetic is required for thorough examinations and dental cleanings.

Dental cleanings that are done without an anesthetic will make your pet’s teeth prettier, but not healthier. Without anesthesia, it isn’t possible to clean the inside surfaces of the teeth or under the gums where periodontal disease develops.

“Removal of dental tartar on the visible surfaces of the teeth has little effect on a pet’s health, and provides a false sense of accomplishment,” says the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) in a position statement opposing anesthesia-free cleanings.

Veterinarians need to use sharp instruments, similar to those used for humans, to remove tartar, and a pet can easily be injured by these tools if it moves at the wrong time.

Is Anesthesia Safe for My Pet? Although there is always some risk when using an anesthetic, it is much safer than in the past and even for aging pets the risks are minimal. Your veterinarian will want to run preanesthetic blood tests, and will tailor the anesthesia plan based on those results and other factors such as your pet’s age, weight, and overall health.

IVS Foster Dogs, Looking for their Forever Homes
	Available For Adoption!! Hi, my name is Mack. I’m a 3-year old purebred Chihuahua, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. The staff at IVS say I’m very sweet and will “stand and wave” to get your attention. I have very few teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. Please come and visit me, I’m sure you’ll fall in love. Please call IVS for more details or to schedule a meet and greet, 949-786-0990.

	Available For Adoption!! My name is Rocky. I’m an 8-year old purebred Papillion, male, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. I’m very sweet and love to be held. I have no teeth left, so I will have to eat soft food. I have won the hearts of many at IVS; therefore I’m sure to win yours. Please come visit me! Please call IVS for more details or to schedule a meet and greet, 949-786-0990.

January: Fit for Life

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Slim Your Pet and Shape Yourself for the New Year... Ask about our "Fit for Life" Evaluation

Is your pooch pudgy? Is your feline fat? When you try to feel ribs, do you feel folds of fat instead?

2011 is here, and losing weight is one of the most common resolutions Americans make — and break — each year. But resolving to get in shape with your pet can help you lose weight and extend the life span of your pet.

Studies have shown that the extra pounds can have serious health implications, putting pets at risk for osteoarthritis and respiratory problems, as well as diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, ruptured cruciate ligament and neoplasia, which results in tumors. Moreover, the lives of obese pets are considerably shorter.

Fortunately, health problems related to being overweight or obese are preventable. Because the key to weight loss is to burn more calories than are consumed, controlling your dogs’ and cats’ diets and making sure that they exercise can help them lead longer, healthier lives.

Your veterinarian should be the final judge of your pet’s weight status. Make an appointment with him or her to determine if your pet is truly just overweight and not suffering from signs of heart, kidney or glandular disorders. At your visit, after a complete physical exam and blood work, your pet’s dietary needs can be established. Remember, you can give your pet a longer and happier life by providing the proper diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.

At IVS we are committed to helping our patients improve by offering complimentary Fit for Life evaluations for pets visiting us for regular office exams during the month of January. A Fit for Life consultation includes a body condition score evaluation, and a custom diet and exercise plan. In addition, clients receive handouts on exercise recommendations and feeding guidelines. We invite you to call us and schedule a well care exam during the month of January.

Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to excess weight gain, including Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Dalmatians, Dachshunds, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and mixed breeds. Older dogs of any breed also run a higher risk of being overweight or obese.

	WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF AN OVERWEIGHT CAT? Is it difficult to feel her ribs or spline? Is it difficult to see your cat's waist? Is her abdomen sagging? Does her face look more round with larger cheeks? DOES YOUR CAT... Often appear tired and lazy? Hesitate when jumping onto furniture? Have difficulty grooming properly? Have matted hair on the back or tail area? Resist playing games?
	WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF AN OVERWEIGHT DOG? Is it difficult to feel his ribs or spline? Is it difficult to see your dog's waist? Is his abdomen sagging? Does his face look more round with larger cheeks? DOES YOUR DOG... Often appear tired and lazy? Lag behind on walks? Pant constantly? Need help getting in the car? Resist playing games? Bark without getting up?

UNDERSTANDING THE RIGHT WAY TO HANDLE FOOD AROUND YOUR PET CAN TAKE A BIG BITE OUT OF UNHEALTHY HABITS.

Avoid feeding table scraps and snacks
Stick to the recommended daily feeding guide - it can be useful to weigh out the amount at the beginning of the day, to avoid accidental overfeeding
Divide the daily allowance into several meals for the most efficient weight loss
Keep your pet in another room when preparing or eating your own meals
If you have several pets, feed them separately
Don't leave any food lying around
Make sure you have enough of the recommended food for holidays and, if you're going away, give clear feeding instructions to the person looking after your pet
Introduce the new food gradually over a 7-day period by mixing your pet's former food with increasing proportions of the new food, until only the new food is being fed

“Pet Portal” Coming Soon to IVS
A Pet Portal will give you online access to your pet's health information, free of charge!

You can use the Pet Portal to:

Request appointments
Request medication or diet refills
Update your account information
Check your pet's vaccination/medical service status
Learn more about our recommendations
Send yourself medication reminders by e-mail
Manage your pet's health and communicate with us

All in the comfort of your home, and at a time that's convenient to you!

How can I get a Pet Portal?

Visit either IVS – University Park or IVS – Northpark and give the receptionist your e-mail address.
Call us on the phone and give us your e-mail address.

Once you provide us with your e-mail address, you'll receive your password by e-mail when we go live with the Pet Portals.

For those individuals that have already provided IVS with their email address, a welcome email will be sent out in January.

IVS Recommends Pets Best Insurance
ILLNESS, ACCIDENT AND INJURY PET INSURANCE PLANS

COMPLETE PET HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR YOUR DOG OR CAT

All plans reimburse 80% of your vet bill for treatment related to illness, accident and injury, after deductible.

Emergency visits
Hospitalization
Specialist care
Surgeries
Outpatient care
Prescription medications

Cancer Treatments
MRI, CAT and X-ray
Acupuncture (limited)
Medication injections
Lab tests
Chiropractic (limited)

Plus: You choose any veterinarian, specialist or emergency center anywhere in the world. No upper age limits for pets, and they never use restrictive benefit schedules on their illness, accident and injury plans.

For more information, visit their website at www.petsbest.com

Home for the Holidays December 5, 2010
Home for the Holidays was held at the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC) on Sunday, December 5, 2010 and thanks to hundreds of volunteers, this event was again a huge success. The event included a silent auction, bake sale, raffle, ask the vet and ask the trainer booths and low cost microchips.

Over 90 event sponsors, including rescue groups and vendors were present and approximately 400 homeless dogs, cats and rabbits were available for adoption. We are pleased to announce that IACC placed 206 homeless pets with new families that day!

IVS would like to thank everyone who attended and we look forward to seeing you again next year.

January's Superstar - Coraline
Hello my name is Coraline and I’m a 3 year old spayed female domestic shorthair. While I have had a bit of a rough life, I am a content kitty now- I just need a permanent home. I came to the shelter pregnant and it was discovered that I had broken legs as well. It did not stop me from taking care of my kittens, so once they were okay, I went into foster care. In foster care I learned how to be a kitty and as I recuperated from surgery on both legs, I also started to explore. Once my legs were healthy, I could navigate the stairs, sit on a couch and be a normal cat. Right now I live in Meow Manor with 13 other cats. I like to watch the others play and am not quite ready to join in yet, but ever day I feel a little more confident. I love to be brushed, am very affectionate, and am looking for a good home!

Please visit the Irvine Animal Shelter for more information on Coraline and other animals available for adoption.

www.irvineshelter.org

December: Happy Holidays from IVS!

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Seasonal Gift Giving: Hanukah, Las Posadas, and Christmas

There are many hazards during the December holidays such as trees, lights, ornaments, animated displays, trains, electrical cords, decorations, cookies, candy, wrapping paper and ribbon. We don’t want the joys of the holiday season dampened by a pet disaster that could have been prevented.

Barriers-
It is advisable if your dog is not well trained or who has not yet experienced these events to use a fence around your Hanukah bush and/or Christmas tree. An alternative solution is to use a baby gate or an exercise pen to block the entrance to these hazardous rooms.

Plants-
Holiday plants such as Poinsettia, Mistletoe, Amaryllis, and Chrysanthemum can be poisonous. Keep them out of reach and familiarize yourself with first-aid procedures if your pet does ingest a plant.

The Floor-
Presents under the tree are tempting to curious puppies and older dogs when you’re not home to monitor their behavior. For instance: remember that special gift you anticipated opening Christmas morning…the one Aunt Martha mailed from Iowa? “Fido”, your trusted canine friend rips it open and inspects the contents, which his keen sense of smell detects. Maybe it was her famous chocolate chip cookies or fruitcake. Whatever it was – is now a shredded mess and you’re spending three hours at the vet’s office or an emergency clinic. A holiday event you won’t likely forget.

Emergencies-
Prominently post your veterinarian’s telephone number as well as the California Poison Control Center 1.800.764.7661

Runaways-
If you do lose your pet, display signs in the surrounding neighborhood. Place lost & found ads in your newspaper and at the supermarket. Also, check with the local city and county shelter.

Help Line-
Call the Animal Assistance League’s “Helpline” at 714-978-7387. The League has volunteers to help you locate a lost pet.

Congratulations to Our Halloween Contest Winners!
Here are some of our contestants...

Have You Ever Considered Being a Volunteer? Interested in volunteering to help animals? Here is a list of a few groups that could use your help. For additional information, please visit their website.

	Animal Assistance League: This Midway City group provides care for homeless animals until permanent homes can be found. Volunteers walk dogs, socialize cats, transport animals to veterinary appointments, help with fundraising and more. Foster homes for older dogs are greatly needed. Web site: www.aaloc.com
	Animal Network of Orange County: This group fosters and places homeless animals. Volunteers provide loving homes for animals, transport them to vets and help at adoption events. Web site: www.animalnetwork.org
	Friends of Santa Ana Zoo: The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park has a docent program whose volunteers work with animals and teach schoolchildren and families about conservation, endangered species, ecology and recycling. Web site: www.santaanazoo.org
	Humane Animal Rescue Team: This Fillmore-based group focuses on rescuing senior and disabled dogs, which are placed in foster homes until permanent homes can be found. Volunteers are needed to provide foster homes, check homes of potential adopters, help raise funds and more. Web site: www.hart4dogs.org
	Irvine Animal Care Center: This animal shelter takes in animals of all types found in Irvine. Volunteers work with cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals. Its PALS group works with selected special-needs dogs. Web site: www.irvineshelter.org
	National Cat Protection Society: Natcat is a private, nonprofit group that cares for owner relinquished cats and kittens while waiting to adopt them into loving homes. Volunteers are needed to provide lots of TLC to felines by grooming and socializing them, fostering underage kittens, helping with laundry, and more. An on-call handyman is greatly needed for small repairs and projects around the shelter. Web site: www.natcat.org
	New Beginnings for Animals: This south Orange County group provides care for homeless animals until permanent homes can be found. Volunteers help with dog and cat adoptions. Web site: www.greatpets.org
	Orange County SPCA: This group does pet-assisted therapy and has an annual Walk for the Animals. Web site: www.orangecountyspca.org
	Pet Partners of Orange County: PPOC is a volunteer organization made up of people and their pets that, through special training, are certified to visit hospitals, convalescent homes, children’s centers, schools and other facilities that incorporate the use of animals in the care and/or treatment of their clients. Visits are scheduled for a wide variety of times and days throughout the county, so volunteers can commit to the frequency, schedule and locations that are most convenient for them. Interested people without pets are also welcome to participate. PPOC is an affiliate of the Delta Society, an international, nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve human health through service and therapy animals. Information about Delta’s Pet Partners Program: www.deltasociety.org. Information about PPOC: (949) 707-5468 or ppoc@nicestones.com
	Pet Project Foundation: This volunteer organization unites Friends of the San Clemente Animals and Animal Rescue Foundation into one group that supports the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter. Volunteers help care for shelter animals, work in the shelter office, provide foster homes and assist in fund raising. Web site: www.petprojectfoundation.org
	J. F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center: Located in San Juan Capistrano. The J. F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center is dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the highest-quality therapeutic riding programs and is committed to making ongoing, meaningful contributions to the field of therapeutic riding. Several volunteer opportunities are available. Web site: www.sheacenter.org
	Friends of Orange County’s Homeless Pets (FOCHP): Friends of Orange County's Homeless Pets (FOCHP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to making unwanted pets in Orange County more adoptable and providing them the opportunity to find lifelong families. You can volunteer to take dogs for walks, help with special events, foster or adopt homeless pets and much, much more! Check out the FOCHP! Web site: www.fochp.org

Reminder: Home for the Holidays
December 5, 2010
Animals for Adoption, Vendors, Rescue Groups, Silent Auction, Food, Ask the Vet, Ask the Trainer, Tile Painting, & MORE!

DATE:	December 5, 2010
TIME:	10:00am – 3:00pm
WHERE:	The Irvine Animal Care Center 6443 Oak Canyon Road (Sand Canyon & Oak Canyon Road) Irvine, CA 92618 949-724-7740

Call today to book an appointment!

November: A Month of Giving

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Helping Pets and People

As members of our local community, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the profession of Veterinary Medicine, at IVS we feel a great responsibility to be actively engaged in helping pets and people. We believe it is important to ‘give back’ to our profession and our community in a number of ways.

We regularly make annual as well as monthly contributions to the Irvine Animal Shelter, the Cornell Feline Health Center in Ithaca, New York, and the ‘AAHA Helping Pets Fund’. These contributions are made as memorial gifts in remembrance of our own and our clients’ pets. As a health care team, we provide community organizations with guidelines for proper pet health care and often accept invitations to speak for community groups.

Children Learning about Veterinarian Medicine
Do you work at a local school or know someone that does? An IVS Veterinarian would be honored to be a guest speaker to discuss Veterinarian Medicine with the children of tomorrow. Please contact us to schedule a time or to discuss further.
“When I grow up I want to be a Veterinarian and help animals.”

Meet Gatsby Rose
Gatsby Rose, a loved 2 ½ year old Catahoula Leopard Dog. Gatsby was a rescue dog and now she just dresses up as a rescuer.

Have a Heart
Donate a bed to a homeless pet.
Join Irvine Veterinary Services (IVS) in raising funds to purchase special beds for homeless pets at the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC). The IACC is purchasing new beds for shelter cats so they will be more comfortable while awaiting adoption.

Kuranda Beds USA has a Donate-a-Bed program that allows shelter supporters to give one of the greatest gifts to a pet awaiting adoption – the comfort of a warm bed!

Please visit the IACC website at www.irvineshelter.org and click on the Donate/How You Can Help tab for more information and to donate a bed to a homeless cat.

A $1.00 donation for each office visit will be made by IVS to the Shelter towards the purchase of new beds during the months of November and December. Your dog and cat will receive a special play toy as a
“Thank you from all of us at IVS!”

2010 “Home for the Holidays”
Animals for Adoption, Vendors, Rescue Groups, Silent Auction, Food, Ask the Vet, Ask the Trainer, Tile Painting, & MORE!

DATE:	December 5, 2010
TIME:	10:00am – 3:00pm
WHERE:	The Irvine Animal Care Center 6443 Oak Canyon Road (Sand Canyon & Oak Canyon Road) Irvine, CA 92618 949-724-7740

Please join us at our booth on Sunday, December 5th, 2010 for the 2010 “Home for the Holidays” event, as we partner with the shelter in placing these adorable pets awaiting adoption.

Irvine Animal Care Center is recognized nationwide as one of the most progressive municipal shelters in the country. The Center is home to approximately 300 animals awaiting a loving family and home for the Holiday. Won’t you please open your heart and your home this holiday season by adopting a loving companion?

Irvine Animal Care Center
Hours of Operation
Weekdays 12:00pm - 7:00pm
Weekends 10:00am - 5:00pm
Closed Tuesdays & Holidays
www.irvineshelter.org

Adoption Criteria:

The adopter must be at least 18 years old.
Everyone who lives in the household needs to meet the animal prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are renting your home, a copy of your rental agreement must be provided prior to the completion of the adoption.
If you are interested in adopting a dog & you currently have a dog at home, we require a dog introduction to take place on the shelter’s premises. Our experienced dog staff will assist with the introduction.
Completion of adoption application and counseling session.

Helping Animals in Need
Do you wish there were some way to help animals in need?
Charitable giving is something we all aspire to, but too many aspiring givers feel limited by time and money. Current economic conditions have greatly impacted charitable giving, but according to the Yankelovich MONITOR, "aspiring givers [want] to be seen as someone who lives their passions."

AAHA has a passion – to provide veterinary treatment to pets in need, through the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. The tough economy affects everyone. Families that were once in a good financial position are struggling, and their pets suffer if forced to go without veterinary treatment or given minimal treatment in the hope that it will be enough. The AAHA Helping Pets Fund is trying to do something about this.

We know you are passionate about animals. If you are looking to support a cause vital to companion animals, the AAHA Helping Pets Fund could be it. You can make a difference in the lives of families and their cherished pets.

But, did you know that it is the modest donor that enables charitable causes to thrive? Large numbers of small gifts are the lifeblood of charitable giving. Furthermore, educating others about the need and ways they can help is just as valuable as a monetary gift.

If you aspire to give, we hope you will give to the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. We hope you will also promote the Fund as a cause worthy of support. It can be as simple as reminding your friends and colleagues that donations to the Fund provide care to animals in need, or as involved as hosting an event to raise money in support of the Fund.

If you’d like to help, please contact AAHA at 866/443-5738. They will be happy to discuss giving options with you.

And remember, you don’t have to be wealthy to give, just willing.

Your Support Can Make a Difference
The Feline Health Center is a veterinary medical specialty center devoted to improving the health and well-being of cats everywhere by:

Finding ways of preventing and curing diseases of cats by conducting and sponsoring breakthrough feline health studies
Educating veterinarians and cat owners about feline health by providing timely medical information and by promoting public understanding and awareness of feline issues
Aiding veterinarians when new or unknown feline diseases occur.

The Majority of the Center’s work is made possible through contributions from friends.

CONTRIBUTIONS - Contributions provide financial resources necessary to fulfill the Center's mission and to prevent and cure feline diseases.

For more information on Cornell or to donate, please visit their website at:
http://www.vet.cornell.edu/FHC/

October: Dental Health

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

October is Dental Health Month at IVS

Dental care is an important factor of your pet’s overall health. Studies show that nearly 85% of dogs and cats over 3 years of age will have evidence of gingivitis.

As in people, plaque buildup on dog and cat teeth leads to red, irritated gums, a condition called gingivitis. Plaque begins as a film of food particles and bacteria that can harden over time into a dark, rock-like scale. Bacteria invade the gap between the gum and the tooth, causing inflammation. Over time, bacteria can destroy the bone that holds the tooth in place, leading to tooth loss or the need for extraction. On occasion, bacteria can even invade the bloodstream, leading to serious infections in other organs such as the heart.

Unfortunately, quite a bit of damage due to dental disease can occur before you notice anything. Pets with early gum disease generally don’t show any signs at all, except for a little bad breath. As the problem progresses, the gums can become very red and sore, and your pet may not want to chew hard food. You might see smears of blood on your pet’s chew toys. Pets often rub their mouths with their paws or against other surfaces. The bad breath gets progressively worse, and pets with severe dental disease can have very foul mouth odors.

Just like us, our pets need regular dental checkups to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Lifting the lips along the sides of the mouth can reveal dark-colored plaque or a line of reddish inflammation where the teeth meet the gums. Teeth must be cleaned regularly to remove the buildup, and on a more thorough examination of the teeth, gums, and entire mouth, teeth may be identified that need additional treatment or possibly extraction.

“My two 1 year old cats (Mr. Boots & Fannie) eat the Prescription Diet T/D. They love it! When I open their food bin in the mornings, they come running for breakfast. And their teeth look fabulous!

My 9 year old Pekingese (Ali) needs another dental cleaning. She does not chew her food, so I cannot give her the T/D. She tries to swallow the large kibbles whole. And she is a very bad patient and will not let me brush her teeth!”

- Heather Finney, IVS Assistant Practice Manager

Building Your Puppy's Confidence

Developing confidence within your new puppy should start the minute they arrive home. Introducing your puppy to new experiences and situations in a controlled manner as early as possible is the best way to avoid potential fears and phobias later in life. The following section covers those things you should do regularly during your puppy's first few months at home.

Children: Puppies should be accustomed to children and babies even if you don't have any in your family. Under supervision, allow children to meet your puppy and handle it gently.

Arrange to meet a friend with a baby and allow your puppy to see and smell it.

Grooming: Grooming your puppy every day for a few minutes will accustom them to being thoroughly handled. Do this even if they do not appear to need it. Handle the puppy's nails regularly and slightly trim them when necessary.

Visitors: Allow your puppy to meet all of your visitors. Make meeting visitors as pleasurable as possible. Ask your visitors to make some fuss and feed tip bits as they do.

Vet Examination: Examine your puppy every day is the best preparation for the vet visits it will have during its life. Check its teeth, ears, eyes, paws and under its tale. Ask others to do this as well as yourself.

Delivery Men: Aggression towards delivery men and postmen is a common problem for many owners. Let your puppy have positive experiences with these people as early as possible. Carry them out to meet the postman and ask him to feed him tip bits. Repeat this regularly during puppyhood.

Cats: It's a good idea to introduce your puppy to cats, even if you don't have one. You don't want a dog that is always barking at cats or getting into scraps with them. This most be done in a well controlled manner as most puppies are far to boisterous for most cats liking. It is best to hold your puppy during these introductions.

Other Dogs: Where possible, introducing a puppy to other dogs at home should be done on neutral territory or in the garden.

Cars: Travel sickness can be a major problem for owners and often prevents their dog enjoying family outings. Introducing young puppies to the car is probably one of the most important aspects of puppy confidence building.

Other Environments: Take your puppy to other peoples home or other places where they will experience different things. Take them to the post office or the newsagent, and places where they will see and hear traffic.

Lead Training: Prepare your puppy for lead training by firstly introducing the collar for a day or so, then practice short lead sessions in the garden.

Being left alone: Puppies that are not accustomed to being left alone are much more likely to suffer separation anxiety later in life. This can manifest itself in destructiveness, howling/barking and loss of toilet control.

Don't try to achieve this all at once, try and give your puppy a new experience every day, but don't over do it. Watch out for tell-tale signs that they are becoming anxious. These include the tail between their legs, hiding behind you or heavy panting.

When this happens you are probably progressing them to quickly. Remove the puppy from the situation and look to build up more slowly in smaller steps.

Halloween Pet Safety

Most children and adults look forward to Halloween fun, costumes and trick-or-treating. But this particular holiday can prove to be a stressful and potentially hazardous time for your beloved pets. Here are some tips to keep your animals safe and sound during this Halloween season.

NOISES and STRANGERS:
Trick or treaters can cause loud and excessive noise and frighten your pet, so try to keep your pets inside in a quiet room where they are insulated from the Halloween ruckus.

Pets, especially dogs, that are easily excitable or threatened by strangers should be kept from the front door so they cannot bite anyone or run into the street. With many people visiting the home in strange attire, even normally calm pets might overreact.

Keep pets on a shorter-than-normal leash if you plan on walking outside on Halloween. Again, scary and weird looking trick-or-treaters could provoke aggression in even the nicest pet.

KISS OF DEATH:
Candy, especially chocolate, is toxic for animals and can cause vomiting, restlessness, heart disturbances, and even death. Ask kids not to share candy with pets.

CANDLES:
Be careful with lit pumpkins and candles because pets can knock them over and start a fire. Therefore ensure that all burning objects are out of pet’s reach. Remember that cats can jump high, and birds can fly, so try to confine a pet if it demonstrates an “unhealthy” interest in flames (e.g. it puts its paws in lit pumpkins or tries to play with candles).

PETS IN DISGUISE:
Avoid costumes held in place by rubber bands, which can be uncomfortable and, more important, rubber bands mistakenly left on a pet can quickly burrow into the animal’s skin and cause injury. Additionally, rubber bands in the wrong place can choke a bird.

If a pet wears a costume, make sure it is not constricting, causing your pet to trip, or blocking its vision. Do not force a pet to wear a costume if it demonstrates discomfort. All of the above can cause undue stress and possibly cause aggression in even the nicest dog, goldfish, or iguana.

EVIL IN THE NIGHT:
Don’t leave pets outside on Halloween. Many animals disappear as pranksters and those with darker intentions tease, abduct, torture, or even kill pets.

Be especially watchful of black cats, who which are frequent targets of cruel activities on Halloween. Try to keep black cats inside for the week of Halloween. Many animal shelters make black cats unavailable for adoption the week before Halloween because of black cat abuse.

Halloween Pet Costume Contest
Send us a photo of your furry friends in his or her costume for a chance to win a Pet Friendly Gift Basket.

Submit photos to: petphotos@irvinevetservices.com

The Dental Experience - a Technicians Point of View

By Chris Tanaka, IVS Head Technician

Your pet will be under our care and supervision for a good part of the day. Your pet will spend its day in our treatment department resting comfortably in a cage with a warm blanket.

Your pet will wear a neck band with his first and last name as well as have a ‘pink’ cage card to signify that your pet is a dental patient. This insures proper identification of the pet as well as insuring continued fasting before anesthesia. The cage card also has your pet’s stats which we confirm prior to beginning any procedure.

Once your pet’s medical file has been updated with the requested procedure, it is reviewed by the veterinarian who creates a treatment plan for the technician to follow. The veterinarian will perform a physical exam on your pet prior to your pet’s procedure. Pre-anesthetic blood work will be run and reviewed on our in-house laboratory machines to confirm that your pet is a good anesthetic candidate.

Once the doctor has confirmed that your pet is in good health and able to handle anesthesia, an anesthetic protocol is completed by the doctor for your technicians to follow. This protocol identifies the pre-medications, pain medications, anesthesia, antibiotics, post op medications that will be used before, during and after your pet’s dental.

Thirty minutes prior to your pet’s dental, pre-medications are given, insuring a smooth induction process. Once your pet is feeling the effects of the pre-meds, an IV catheter will be placed. A small area of the fore-limb or hind leg is then shaved and surgically prepped, alternating between chlorhexidine and alcohol scrubs. An IV catheter is then placed and secured.

Once the doctor gives the green light, induction begins. Two technicians are assigned to this procedure. Your pet is placed on a warm water recirculation pad and induction begins. This is usually started with an injectable agent. The pet is then intubated with a cuffed tracheal tube and connected to an inhalation anesthetic machine containing isoflurane. The cuff is inflated and the eyes are lubricated to prevent dryness.

The technician assigned to monitor anesthesia starts the IV pump which is now connected to your pet. IV fluids are administered to all pets undergoing this procedure, helping maintain good organ function and blood pressure. Any pre procedure medications are given, such as IV antibiotics or other specific drugs.

Monitors are connected to your pet, measuring parameters such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, ECG and blood pressure. These are all indicators of a proper plane of anesthesia. This technician is responsible for alerting the doctor to any concerns. This technician is also responsible for completing the anesthetic record, logging the many mentioned parameters at 5 minute intervals.

The dental technician, who is properly dressed, gloved, surgically masked and wearing eye protection, is in charge of performing the dental procedure. This starts with a series of full mouth x-rays. These radiographs are reviewed by your veterinarian, alerting them to any problems under the gum-line.

Extractions and closures are performed as needed. Ultrasonic scaling is performed, curetting under the gum-line and probing for hidden pockets is also completed. The teeth are then polished with a dental grade prophy paste, rinsed and finished with a fluoride treatment. Anesthetic is turned off leaving medical grade oxygen for your pet to breath, helping in recovery. Monitors are disconnected and fluids turned off.

Once this entire procedure is completed, your pet is transferred to a recovery cage with a fresh blanket, fluids reconnected, post-op medications given and tracheal cuff deflated. Your pet will be extubated(tracheal tube removed) when exhibiting good jaw tone and reflexes. A blanket is placed over your pet to help maintain warmth. A doctor will call reporting on your pet’s status.

Your pet spends their recovery time being monitored in the treatment area. When the appropriate amount of IV fluids has been given, your pets IV catheter will be removed and a bandage placed.

When you arrive to pick up your pet a technician will go over any post-op care, medications or answer any questions you may have.

What to Expect When Scheduling and Bringing your Pet in for a Dental Cleaning

Dental cleanings can be scheduled on any day. If you have a preference on which doctor will be supervising the cleaning, please let us know so we can schedule the cleaning on a day when that doctor will be present.
If we have not already provided you an estimate, we can prepare an estimate when you call.
You will receive a confirmation call the day prior to your pet’s dental cleaning appointment to remind you not to feed after 10 pm, you can offer a small bowl of water overnight, do not feed the morning of the cleaning and pick up the water bowl.
Drop off between 7-8 am the morning of the dental cleaning. Please allow time to review and sign the estimate and admittance sheet and leave a phone number where you can be reached during the day.
At drop off, we will ask you if we have authorization to proceed with extractions if deemed necessary by the doctor.
A pre-anesthetic blood panel will be performed the morning of the dental cleaning, if a blood panel has not already been performed. This checks for signs of infection, liver & kidney function and aids the doctor in assessing the risk of using anesthesia on your pet.
While your pet is under anesthesia and waking up, we will be administering intravenous fluids. This helps to keep your pet hydrated, flushes the anesthesia out of their system and an intravenous catheter is in place in case of emergency.
After the dental cleaning, the doctor will call you with an update and review any home care instructions with you.
Generally, your pet can go home between 4-7pm. A release appointment may be scheduled with the doctor or technician so they can review any home care instructions, including medications and showing you how to get started brushing your pet’s teeth at home.
As a follow up, we will call you the next day for an update. If you have any questions or concerns, call us at any time.

Call Today to Book an Appointment!

September: Senior Wellness

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Celebrating our Senior Pets, aged 7 and Up Celebrating our Senior Pets, aged 7 and above, in September at IVS. All Senior Care Services available at a 20% discount.
Full Physical Exam/Vaccinations Senior Blood Panel and Urinalysis Ultrasound of the Urinary Bladder Dental Exam and Consultation on Periodontal Cleaning Diet Consultation Further diagnostic tests may be recommended pending the veterinarian's exam findings: also at a 20% discount.

What is Your Pet’s ‘Relative’ Age?

We do not like to admit it, but most of our pets are senior citizens at seven years of age. Normal blood work results give both of us peace of mind that your pet is doing well.

Blood work is the most important diagnostic test that we can perform on our older pets. Because of the rapid aging changes in your pet’s life, we highly recommend blood work on an annual basis. We compare current and previous blood results in order to evaluate the process of a disease and its response to therapy.

Scheduling regular veterinary examinations is one of the most important steps pet owners can take to keep their pets in tip-top shape. When dogs and cats enter the senior years, these health examinations are more important than ever.

Senior care, which starts with the regular veterinary exam, is needed to catch and/or delay the onset or progress of disease and for the early detection of problems such as organ failure. Keep in mind that every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to 5–7 human years.

To help ensure your pet lives comfortably during the senior life stage, it’s critical to work with your veterinarian to tailor a senior wellness plan that is best for your dog or cat. Be sure to monitor behavior and physical conditions and report anything unusual to your veterinarian.

With detailed information obtained through a physical examination and diagnostics, you and your veterinarian can formulate a plan for keeping your senior pet as healthy as possible.

Older Cats and Grooming

As cats age, they do not keep up with their grooming. Some get “stiff” and have trouble reaching some areas. To help your older feline, try the following steps:

Brush your cat more often.
Try using a fine toothed comb over a brush to remove dead, dull hairs that need to be shed.
Bath your cat with a cot conditioner to help make combing easier.
Consult with you veterinarian about coat care products.

Meet Winnie, one of IVS-Northpark’s Senior Dogs

“Winnie is a Yorkie and is 16 1/2 years old. She takes 5 medicines, twice a day, has survived a near death overdose of my daughter's ADD medicine 10 years ago, has had some close calls lately, but always bounces back and still acts like she is a puppy. She can tip toe in the back yard when no one is looking even though she has never been able to master how to fetch a ball. She still loves to get into the trash and get into trouble and likes to bark too much. She loves to go for walks and socialize with other dogs even though they may not want to have much to do with her. She is so sweet and never likes me to get too far out of her sight. She likes to come to Irvine Vet and always perks up when she comes there as if nothing is ever wrong with her.”

Submitted by Melody Henderson

Meet Tasha, IVS-University Park’s Most Senior Cat

“Tasha Gennardi, is a 19 year old American Curl - tortoise shell indoor cat. Her fur is beautiful, soft and silky. Heritage, one of her sisters, of the same litter, won 4th place in the International Cat Show in France. We acquired Tasha and her sister, Misha (calico) at 3 months. Misha went to “Rainbow Bridge” at age 17. Tasha loves to lie on the ottoman by the fireplace, her favorite spot. At night she sleeps on my pillow above my head. For afternoon naps, she loves to sleep on my husband, Sal’s stomach, but only on a blanket. Tasha will jump and sit on the back of the couch until Sal puts a blanket on his stomach. Then she will settle down. Tasha is a joy to our lives and has blessed us with many years of mischief, laughter and love.”

Submitted by Ellie Gennardi

Seniors helping Seniors Program

In order to help both the senior people and homeless senior pets of our community, the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC) has implemented a new program that will allow individuals age 62 and older to adopt a senior pet at no charge. Many of IACC’s senior pets came from a nice home environment and were relinquished because their owners could no longer care for them.

The stress of Shelter life is often quite difficult for senior animals and so the quicker they can find a good new home, the better. Since these animals are often already housebroke and way beyond the puppy years of chewing, jumping the fence and digging up the flower bed, they make great companions for senior citizens. Look for the green “senior” stamp on the kennel card, at IACC, to identify their adoptable seniors.

Below are a few Senior animals looking for new forever homes.

For more information visit the IACC website:
www.irvineshelter.org

Comparative Ages of Dogs and Humans

Dog’s Age	0-20 lbs.	21-50 lbs.	51-90 lbs.	>90 lbs.
5 Years	36	37	40	42
6 Years	40	42	45	49
7 Years	44	47	50	56
10 Years	56	60	66	78
12 Years	64	69	77	93
15 Years	76	83	93	115
19 Years	96	105	120

Comparative Ages of Cats and Humans

Cat’s Age	Human Years
1	15
2	24
5	36
7	45
12	64
15	76
18	88
21	100

July is Boarding, Bath and Grooming Month at IVS!

our groomer,...

“How do I know when my pet is matted?”

Michelle: That’s a great question. The best way to check your pet for matts is to “listen” to the coat. With a wire slicker brush, begin brushing the thickest area of hair. If you hear a “crunching” sound, chances are you have found matts. To double check, thoroughly comb the coat with a medium coarse comb, making sure to get all the way down to the skin. You should be able to comb through the coat with relative ease.

A simple 5-minute a day routine brushing will keep your pet matt free.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

IVS Offers Boarding, Bathing & Grooming Services

Boarding
At Irvine Veterinary Services, we take very seriously the trust you demonstrate by leaving your pet in our care. And while there is “no place like home,” it is our sincere purpose to provide a safe, comfortable, and caring environment for your pet while in our care. Clients should feel confident that our boarding procedures are of the highest quality and that your pet is attended to by trained, experienced, kennel staff and qualified Veterinarians seven days a week.

There are many reasons our four legged guests love staying at IVS! Some enjoy the pampering; others relish being adventurous. Many pets simply enjoy relaxing and being showered with attention from our experienced and loving staff. At IVS we offer exceptional care for our special guests! We believe in treating each pet as one of our own. We will always have each pet’s safety and comfort as our primary concern. At IVS we pledge to promote a healthy and loving environment to ensure your satisfaction and the happiness of your pet.

Your pet’s boarding vacation includes:

Personalized ‘TLC’
Complimentary health check exam
Toys and treats
Extra bedding
Morning and afternoon walks
Premium pet food
Climate control
Soothing music

Window views for our feline guests
Extra walks, playtime, brushing available
Bedding, cleanliness and sanitation checked regularly
Veterinary/Technician staff readily available
Routine assessment of our guests to ensure they remain healthy and happy during their stay.

We understand the special bond you have with your pet, so place your pet in good hands while you are away. Book your reservation today at either one of our two convenient locations!

University Park: 949-786-0990 | Northpark: 714-573-1890

Bathing and Grooming
Irvine Veterinary Services (IVS) offers full service pet health care that includes the bathing and grooming of dogs and cats.

In addition to specialized care of skin and coat, each pet is gently examined for often hard to find growths, skin problems, ear infections, or eye irritations. Trained pet health care professionals will complete a special “comment” form detailing grooming suggestions and any comments about pet behavior during the bath. Should bathers note possible health care problems, a Veterinarian will examine the pet and contact or advise owners if appropriate.

Bathing includes:

A thorough brush/comb out
De-matting (detangling) as necessary
Ears are cleaned
Anal glands are expressed
A thorough shampoo/bath
Towel/hand dried and brushed out
Nails trimmed

Fourth of July Fireworks

Independence Day celebrations are great fun for people, but the load noises and bright lights can be traumatic for dogs.

Many dogs react with fear when they hear the loud, unfamiliar sounds of fireworks. Our canine companions may even panic and exhibit undesirable behavior - scratching at the door, digging at the carpet, hiding under furniture, soiling the house, running away from home or even injuring themselves.

Your first instinct may be to comfort your frightened pet with hugs and gentle, reassuring words. Showing concern or pity will only reinforce his fear. Engage him in a familiar activity, such as a game of fetch or tug-of-war. And of course, reward his confidence with treats. Your dog will be focused on the task at hand, and eventually he will tune out the noise.

Here are some other safety tips:

Always keep proper identification securely fasted to your dog’s collar in case he gets out.
Don’t leave your dogs outside. A dog’s sense of hearing is acute – on average four times more sensitive then humans.
Provide a safe "escape" place. Many times pets will seek out a small den-like place (such as a crate), if they are fearful or stressed. If you do not already have a crate, bed or similar place that your pet can call his "own," it is recommended to create that safe place and familiarize your pet with it before needed, as a means of reducing stress during fireworks.
Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes.
Turn on a TV or radio at normal volume to distract your dog from loud noises and help him to relax.
If possible, stay with your pet during the majority of the fireworks. A dog often reacts more intensely to loud sounds and flashes of lights when you are not with him.
Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog while you are away from home.

IVS Contributes to the Super Pet Adoption Event at the Irvine Animal Care Center!

The 4th Annual “Super Pet Adoption Event” was held at the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC) on Sunday, June 6, 2010 and was staffed with hundreds of volunteers working to make this event a huge success.

We are pleased to announce that IACC raised more money for the animals at IACC than in previous events and most importantly, over 330 animals found their forever home due to the event!

ANIMALS ADOPTED

269 dogs
59 cats
2 rabbits
2 Guinea Pigs
2 Parrots

SUMMERTIME, Care and Safety Tips

When the lazy days of barbecues and swimming pools roll around, you can make them even better by sharing them with your favorite pet. By following a few summer pet safety tips, you can keep your animal friends healthy and enjoy the months of sun and fun.

Never leave your pet in the car. Though it may seem cool outside, the sun can raise the temperature inside your car to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes, even with the windows rolled down. If you need to run some errands, leave the furry ones at home.

Water, water everywhere. Whether you’re indoors or out, both you and your pet need access to lots of fresh water during the summer, so check her water bowl several times a day to be sure it’s full. If you and your furry friend venture forth for the afternoon, bring plenty of water for both of you.

Pets need sunscreen too. Though all that fur helps protect her, your pet can get sunburned, particularly if she has light skin and hair. Sunburn in animals can cause problems similar to those it can cause in people, including pain, peeling, and skin cancer. So keep your pet out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and when you do go out, rub a bit of sunblock on unprotected areas like the tips of her ears, the skin around her lips, and the tip of her nose.

Say no to tangles. Keeping your pet well groomed will help her hair do what it was designed to do: protect her from the sun and insulate her from the heat. If she has extremely thick hair or a lot of mats and tangles, her fur may trap too much heat, so you may want to clip her.

Watch out for antifreeze. Hot weather may tempt your pet to drink from puddles in the street, which can contain antifreeze and other chemicals. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that animals like, but it’s extremely toxic. When you’re walking your pet, make sure she doesn’t sneak a drink from the street.

Make sure your pet doesn’t overexert herself. Though exercise is an important part of keeping your dog or cat at a healthy weight, which helps her body stay cool, overdoing it can cause her to overheat. Keep the walks to a gentle pace and make sure she has plenty of water. If she’s panting a lot or seems exhausted, it’s time to stop.

Take it easy on pets that can’t deal with the heat. Elderly, very young, and ill animals have a hard time regulating their body temperature, so make sure they stay cool and out of the sun on steamy summer days. Dogs with snub noses, such as Pekingese, pugs, and bulldogs, have a hard time staying cool because they can’t pant efficiently, so they also need to stay out of the heat. Overweight dogs are also more prone to overheating, because their extra layers of fat act as insulation, which traps heat in their bodies and restricts their breathing capabilities.

Bring them inside. Animals shouldn’t be left outside unsupervised on long, hot days, even in the shade. Shade can move throughout the afternoon, and pets can become ill quickly if they overheat, so keep them inside as much as possible. If you must leave your pet in the backyard, keep a close eye on her and bring her in when you can.

Keep an eye out for heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet has heatstroke you must act quickly and calmly. Have someone call a veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, lower the animal’s body temperature by applying towels soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body. Often the pet will respond after only a few minutes of cooling, only to falter again with his temperature soaring back up or falling to well below what is normal. With this in mind, remember that it is imperative to get the animal to a veterinarian immediately.

Even with emergency treatment, heatstroke can be fatal. The best cure is prevention, and Fido and Fluffy are relying on you to keep them out of harm’s way. Summer does not have to be fraught with peril--with ample precaution; both you and your furry friends can enjoy those long, hot dog-days of summer.

Meet Kerouac

I’m a charming, neutered male Chihuahua mix. I was found on the side of the road and brought in to Irvine Veterinary Services by a Good Samaritan. I had been hit by car and had a broken leg. Thanks to IVS, I am all healed up and now ready for my forever home. I walk nicely on a leash, love to play fetch and I’m great with other dogs.

Please contact Irvine Veterinary Services – University Park if you can help me find my forever home.

Meet Jagger

I’m a 1 year old neutered domestic short hair cat looking for my forever home. Please come visit me in the cat suites at IVS - UP. I have all my vaccines, I’m litter box trained and now I just need someone to love me. Meow...

June is "I Love My Cat" Month at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Curtin...

“How often should my cat visit her Veterinarian?”

Dr. Curtin: American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) official recommendations: For cats of all ages, even young and indoor cats, a veterinary wellness office visit is recommended annually at minimum. Because changes in health status may occur in short periods of time, cats may display little or no signs of disease. Early detection allows for earlier intervention based upon your cat’s age and health. Optimal exam intervals will vary due to age and medical history.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Optimizing the Health of Our Kitties

Our country’s experts in feline health care, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), together with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), have published Feline Life Stage Guidelines, official recommendations for the optimal health care of cats throughout all life stages. Guidelines for adult cats include:

For cats of all ages: A veterinary wellness office visit is recommended annually. The visit should include a physical examination with fecal analysis. Subjects for discussion should address: behavior, intakes and eliminations, nutrition and weight management, oral health, parasite control, and vaccinations. More frequent exams may be advised for some patients due to age or medical considerations.
For cats aged seven or more years: Needed information about organ function is gained from a blood count, chemistry screen, and urinalysis.
For cats eleven and above: Thyroid and blood pressure checks are recommended particularly for the geriatric patient.

Please check the Client Education section of our website for more on our recommendations for the life stages of your pets.

June is “I LOVE MY CAT” month at IVS. We’d like to encourage the best in care for your cat by offering 25% off a feline exam, which includes a urinalysis and blood work.

Routine Laboratory Tests Expose Hidden Ailments

Veterinarians recommend running blood tests and urinalysis at each wellness exam to establish your pet’s baseline of values for various things like protein, enzymes, electrolytes, and early kidney disease and to track changes in those values. This information helps your veterinarian detect developing ailments in their very early stages, often before your pet shows visual signs.

June is “National Adopt a Cat” Month

Did you know approximately 4 million cats end up in shelters every year? One of them is sure to be a perfect match for you. Each year, thousands of kittens are born during spring and summer and many end up in animal shelters, waiting for loving homes.

If you are a cat lover seeking to open your heart to one of our feline friends for the first time or are looking to adopt once more, this is a great chance to provide a cat with a loving home.

Adopt a cat from your local shelter. Bring joy to your life, and the life of a cat!

[ Photo ] June is National Adopt a Cat Month


	Finding Your Perfect Feline Before facing cage after cage of homeless cats, consider your needs and expectations. If yours is a full time working household, you may want to pass up kittens and adolescents in favor of a more low-key adult whose energy needs will be easier to meet. If you are a novice cat owner, stay away from excessively shy, aggressive or demanding cats, they may provide too great a challenge for your first experience. Your best bet is the friendly, outgoing cat, who nudges an outstretched finger offered through the cage bars and who nuzzles and purrs when you hold them. A cat who is social and relaxed at a shelter usually has the assurance to meet the stresses that life throws their way. Remember to consider the whole cat, not just one element.


	Spring brings Flowers and Fleas It’s that time of year again. Spring has sprung so it’s only natural for you and your pet to enjoy spending time outdoors again. Of course, this means an increased chance of exposure to fleas. Fleas are among the most common health problem of dogs and cats. In the long run, it is much easier and more cost-effective to prevent fleas on your pets than to have to treat a major infestation of fleas in your house. Regular use of flea products will take care of the occasional flea your pets may encounter in the yard and should prevent you from having to spend large sums of money on foggers and exterminators. Since flea bites may be unnoticeable in your dog, some outward symptoms include hair loss, red lesions, and itching. You may need to find the adult fleas in the animal such as using a flea comb to detect fleas and flea bites (usually found on the head of your dog). If you notice symptoms in your pet and/or have discovered a flea infestation, call your veterinarian immediately. Once inside your home, there is no place a flea cannot get to. Adult fleas spend most of their time on your pet but the remainder of the time they are roaming your house and laying eggs – thousands of them. Since fleas can thrive for several months in your house and yard (flea eggs can stay alive in carpets, cushions, and curtains for years!), it’s critical to keep your house clean.

Fun Facts about Fleas

Fleas can bite up to 400 times a day!
Fleas can jump…
- A distance that measures 150 times their own size.
- 30,000 times in a row without stopping.
- In opposite direction (left and right) with every jump.
A female flea consumes 15 times her own body weight in blood every day.
A female flea can lay 2,000 eggs.
Just one flea can multiply to 1,000 fleas on your pet and in your home in 21 days.
Flea fossils date all the way back to the Lower Cretaceous period… about 100 million year ago!
On average, a flea lives 2 – 3 months.
Adult fleas spend most of their lives feasting on your pet.

All of these facts mean on thing: fleas are tough to deal with.


	Flea Combs Flea combs make the perfect addition in helping to keep your pets flea free. Flea combs can be used as an important part of an overall flea and tick prevention program. Flea combs have fine teeth that remove adult fleas and eggs from fur. Most dogs and cats seem to enjoy this treatment. Here is how you can make use of a flea comb to help reduce the flea population on your dog or cat: First, find a quiet place and make your dog or cat feel comfortable. Prepare a bowl of soapy water and put it next to you. Using the flea comb, start combing through the fur coat of your dog or cat. Pay particular attention to the face and neck and the area just in front of the tail. These are areas that fleas are frequently found. The flea comb will remove both the adult fleas as well as eggs that are present on the fur. Dip the flea comb into the bowl of soapy water. Fleas will be killed by the soapy water. Repeat the combing session several times a day if possible to remove as many fleas from your pet as possible. Dogs and cats love and enjoy being groomed and this is an excellent opportunity for you to bond with your pet. There are many flea combs available in the market and price can range from a few dollars to thirty or forty dollars.


	What is Flea Dirt? Flea dirt is actually flea poop. Great, huh? It looks like pepper - tiny and black - but upon close observation it will be a rusty-brown color from the dried-up blood it contains. Here's a good way to check for sure: put a drop or two of water on the dirt, let it soak in, and then smear it on a white paper towel. If the smear is red, you've got fleas. Examining your dog for flea dirt is one way to help distinguish between fleas and another skin allergy.


	Does your pet have itchy skin and itchy ears? Join us for a special evening of client education. When: Tuesday Evening June 22, 2010 Where: IVS Northpark Lobby Time: 7:30pm – 8:30pm Topic: Understanding and coping with allergies in your pets Speakers: Dr. Lynne Sanchez and Dr. Kristin Yamasaki Please sign up at the Northpark front desk or call us @ 714-573-1890. Space is limited.

May is Heartworm Prevention Month!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Sanchez...

“What is feline heartworm disease and how does it differ from canine heartworm disease?”

Dr. Sanchez: Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection which is spread by mosquitoes. Both dogs and cats can become infected with the heartworm parasite, called Dirofilaria immitis, however, cats are more resistant to this infection than dogs.

When a cat does become infected with heartworm, the tendency of the cat’s immune system is to self-eliminate the larval stage before they become adult heartworms causing a severe inflammatory response in the lungs. It is for this reason that cats tend to have a very small number of adult worms when they are infected. Unfortunately, the damage caused by this self-elimination can be as bad as, or worse than the damage caused by the adult heartworms. The signs associated with heartworm infection in cats can include coughing, rapid breathing, vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, and sudden death. Quite often the signs mimic feline asthma.

Diagnosing heartworm disease in cats can be challenging. The blood tests used to detect heartworm disease in dogs are not as reliable for diagnosing in cats. Currently if heartworm disease is suspected in a cat, we recommend both a heartworm antigen test and a heartworm antibody test. Often, further diagnostics such as radiography and echocardiography are needed for more definitive diagnosis.

There is no safe adulticide therapy (treatment to kill adult heartworms) for treating heartworm disease in cats as there is in dogs. Fortunately, as in dogs, preventative medications (oral and topical) are available and are effective in cats. Prevention is therefore the best and most logical way to deal with heartworm disease in cats.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Heartworms, is it worth the gamble?
Heartworms are large worms that live in the hearts of dogs and cats. They are also found in other species; including ferrets, foxes, wolves, sea lions, and horses. Heartworms are the most life threatening canine parasite, causing heart failure and eventually death. Heartworms cannot be spread animal-to-animal; heartworms need a mosquito to complete their life cycle. Pets get heartworm disease from mosquitoes that are infected with parasites. One bite can introduce parasites into your pet’s body. Once inside the body, the parasites nest and reproduce, lodging in your pet’s lungs and/or the right sides of his/her heart.
Prevention Heartworm prevention is safe, easy and inexpensive. A simple blood test is required before starting your pet on effective, easy-to-use preventative medication. There are a variety of options for preventing heartworm infection in both dogs and cats, which are extremely effective. When administered properly on a timely schedule, heartworm infection can be completely prevented. Don’t gamble with your pet’s life. Schedule a time to consult with your veterinarian on recommended options. Cats and heartworms: “Indoors” doesn't mean out of the woods All cats need protection from the dangers of heartworms – whether they are strictly indoor cats or allowed outside Heartworm infection is not simply a disease that affects dogs Exposure of cats to heartworm infection occurs across the United States (except in Alaska), with nearly 12% of cats exposed nationwide Heartworms are transmitted by mosquito bites – mosquitoes can enter your home; you might not detect a mosquito bite on your cat There is no one test that is 100% accurate in detecting heartworms in your cat – a series of tests is the safest way to make a diagnosis Heartworms can live in cats for up to two years Yes! Almost one third of heartworm-infected cats are housed completely indoors. Mosquitoes can still enter the house through open doors and windows.
Signs of Feline Heartworm: Coughing Difficulty breathing Fainting Lethargy Rapid heart rate Vomiting Anorexia Diarrhea Blindness Convulsions Collapse

How do you collect a stool sample?
Take a stool sample with you each time you visit the veterinarian with your pet. Stool samples must be clean so it is preferable that you don't just scoop feces off the ground. Flip a new plastic bag inside out and place it on your hand. Use it as a glove to pinch off a small sample of feces, being careful not to get soil or plant material with the sample. This technique may be difficult if your pet is having diarrhea. In this case you can use a clean tongue depressor or cotton swab to scoop up a small sample. Seal the plastic bag or place the fecal sample into a clean glass or plastic container that will be thrown away after use. Refrigerate the sample until you can take it to your veterinarian. The samples should arrive to your veterinarian as fresh as possible, so plan accordingly.

Save the Day – 4th Annual OC Super Adoption Event, June 6th
Please join us at our booth Sunday, June 6th, 2010 for the 4th Annual Orange County Super Adoption event, as we partner with the shelter in placing these adorable pets awaiting adoption.

For more information, visit their website at: www.irvineshelter.org

Did you adopt a pet? Tell us about it! Your story can motivate or encourage others to adopt a pet!
Irvine Veterinary Services would like to post stories from families or individuals who have adopted their pet from an animal shelter or rescue or who have rescued their pet themselves.

Do you have a funny story about your adopted pet?
Maybe you have a story of encouragement that you want to share with others?
What has your adopted pet done, or contributed to your life, that you never expected?
Are you a shelter volunteer with a great story to tell?

By submitting your pet adoption story, you agree to permit Irvine Veterinary Services to post these stories on the IVS site and other IVS materials. IVS does not use full names in our posted stories. Send stories to: petphotos@irvinevetservices.com

April is Parasite Awareness Month

our veterinarian,
Dr. Yamasaki...

“Please tell me the importance of keeping my pet free from parasites.”

Dr. Yamasaki: It is important to test and treat your dogs and cats for gastrointestinal parasites because they can cause diarrhea, bloody stool, weight loss, and sometimes anemia. There are also some intestinal parasites that are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to people. A fecal test performed yearly can help to determine if your pet has any parasites.

In addition to being painful and consuming blood from dogs and cats, ticks can spread diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and tularemia, which can affect people if the ticks detach from the dog and attach themselves to a person. I recommend having your pets on a monthly flea and tick preventative such as Advantage Multi.

Heartworms are small worms that can infect a dog's heart and major blood vessels. They can damage the heart and circulatory system and may be potentially fatal. You can check to see if your dog has heartworms with a simple blood test and then prevent heartworm disease with administration of a monthly heartworm preventative.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

April is Parasite Awareness Month

Perhaps your pet will never have intestinal parasites. But unpleasant as it may seem, pet owners should be aware of worms and other parasites that can affect their animals’ health.

Cats and dogs are the favorite nesting grounds of four principal groups of worms and a few species of microscopic protozoa. The four worms are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Among the protozoa are coccidian, toxoplasma, giardia, and ameba.

Proper identification is vital. Unfortunately, in the case of parasites, identification isn’t always easy because adult worms release their eggs sporadically. Knowing exactly what the problem is, is the first step in finding a solution.

What are “roundworms” and how are they spread?
Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite in dogs and cats in the world. Animals with roundworms pass the infection to other animals when the worm eggs develop into larvae and are present in the animals’ feces. Your pet can pick up the infection by eating infected soil, licking contaminated fur or paws, or by drinking contaminated water. Roundworms live in your pet’s small intestine, causing vomiting and resemble strands of spaghetti in your pet’s stools.

What are “hookworms” and how are they spread?
Hookworms are the second most common intestinal parasite found in dogs, but they are less commonly found in cats. Your pet can become infected when larvae penetrates the animal’s skin or the lining of the mouth. Hookworms attach themselves to your pet’s intestinal lining, causing bloody or dark diarrhea.

What are “whipworms” and how are they spread?
Whipworms get their name from their whip-like shape. Animals with whipworms pass the infection along to other animals when the worm eggs develop into larvae and are passed in their feces. Your pet can pick up the infection by eating infected soil or licking their contaminated fur or paws. Whipworms can be found in the large intestine, which can also cause diarrhea.

What are “tapeworms” and how are they spread?
Tapeworms get their name because they are thin and flat, like strips of tape. Dogs and cats become infected with tapeworms when they eat infected fleas or lice. They can also get certain types of tapeworms by eating infected rodents. If your pet is constantly licking his anal area, your best bet is to visually inspect the area and his stool for bits of tapeworm, which look like rice.

To protect your pet and your family from potentially harmful parasites, have your pet tested for parasites annually. Call today for an appointment.

What are Zoonotics?
Zoonotics are animal diseases that can be transmitted to humans. The following parasites pose risks to pets and people: roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm, toxoplasmosis, giardia, and mange infections. Talk to your veterinarian today to learn how to protect your pet and family from these diseases.

Tips to prevent the spread of parasites between pets and people are:

Annual physical examinations for your pets
Annual fecal examinations for adult pets; more frequent fecal examinations forpuppies
Over-the-counter de-wormers may not work. Veterinarians should do de-worming
Avoid interaction between pets and wildlife
Do not leave pet food outside, it may attract wildlife
Pick up after pets; obey “no pet” signs for beaches and playgrounds
Cover your child’s sandbox when not in use, and avoid public playground sandboxes
Do not let children touch pet litter boxes
When changing litter, wear gloves and wash your hand thoroughly afterwards
Pregnant women should wear gloves and masks when gardening and avoid litter boxes
Use disposable liners, and change litter daily
Remove pet droppings from your yard daily
Do not feed pets undercooked or raw meat
Control fleas, lice, flies and other insects in your pet’s environment
When traveling, bring water for your pet, and do not let him/her drink from puddles or standing water

Introducing ProMeris® – Protecting your cat from fleas and your dog from fleas and ticks
If you see fleas on your cat or fleas and/or ticks on your dog, it’s time for action. Remember, fleas and ticks can be harmful to your family as well.

...For Cats
ProMeris® for cats is a topical, spot-on product for the effective control of existing flea infestations and prevention of re-infestations in cats and kittens 8 weeks and older. It’s the only product available from a veterinarian that contains a proven, active ingredient called metaflumizone, and research shows fleas are readily susceptible.

...For Dogs
ProMeris® for dogs is a topical, waterproof spot-on product for the control of existing flea and tick infestations, as well as the prevention of re-infestation, in dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older. A single dose effectively stops and controls flea and tick infestations, prevents flea re-infestations for up to six weeks, and tick re-infestations for up to four weeks. Monthly application is generally recommended for optimal control of fleas and ticks.

We at IVS are committed to providing you and your pet with the best possible flea treatment, so stop by today to pick up ProMeris for your dog and/or cat.

For more information visit, http://www.promeris.com

“Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest
Thank you to everyone that participated in IVS’s first “Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest. We were thrilled with the entries we received from our dedicated clients and their precious, adorable pets. After counting the votes, submitted by the IVS staff, we have a tie for first place, Niko and Cosy. Not far behind, Kona wins second place. Please join us in congratulating their award winning smiles. Niko and Cosy will be awarded a basket full of C.E.T. dental products, toys, a bag of Hills Prescription T/D dog food and many other goodies. Kona will be awarded a special gift basket filled with goodies.

Please take a moment to watch the “Miles of Smiles” slide show to view all the smiling participants. We hope you enjoy it!

Stay tuned, as we will be hosting another contest very soon!

MARCH is Pet Dental Health Awareness Month

our veterinarian,
Dr. Oakley...

“I have an 8 month old puppy and when I go to the pet store there are so many bones and toys to choose from; what do you recommend?”

Dr. Oakley: When looking at all the toys and bones in the pet store it can be overwhelming. I prefer interactive food toys. They get your pet to think, provides some entertainment for them and they have to work for their food. Examples: Busybody toys or Kongs.

Here are some websites where you can purchase interactive toys: www.cleanrun.com; www.sitstay.com and www.doggonegod.com

With chew toys and rawhides, I recommend bullysticks, rope toys for fetch and tug and American made rawhides. You pet should be supervised at all times when playing with these items to prevent chocking or eating none edible parts. Avoid toys that are too hard because they can break their teeth.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

Great advances have been made in veterinary dentistry and a wide spectrum of dental therapeutic options are now available. Remember your pet’s health is just as important to his or her overall health as your dental health is to you. Please call us today to schedule a dental care evaluation or cleaning for your pet.

MARCH is Pet Dental Health Awareness Month

Awareness is the greatest weapon you have in preventing serious dental issues with your pet. You know your pet best so any abnormal behavior, especially with eating and drinking should be reported to your veterinarian immediately.

“Miles of Smiles” Photo Contest In celebration of Dental Health Awareness Month, IVS will be hosting a photo contest, "Miles of Smiles”. The winner of this contest will receive a gift basket full of C.E.T. dental products, toys, a bag of Hills Prescription T/D cat or dog food and many other goodies. To enter your pet's photo, please email the photo to petphotos@irvinevetservices.com. Please make sure to add your pet’s name either to the file name or in the email. Don’t delay; all entries must be received by March 29th, 2010. The winner will be announced in April’s newsletter.

At-Home Dental Care
A healthy dog is a happy dog. Keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthily is a powerful way you can improve their overall health. At-home dental care is easy to do if you remember these four simple words.

BRUSH – Just like humans, dogs need regular brushing to keep those teeth white and gums healthy. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for pets. Brush daily or as often as possible.
RINSE – Between brushings, a dental rinse or spray helps fight oral bacteria, plaque and doggy breath! Plaque starts to form again just seconds after brushing, but a rinse slows it down.
CHEW – Chewing is an instinctive activity that dogs enjoy. It also helps clear away plaque and keep gums healthy. Be sure to choose treats and chews made especially for dog dental care.
PLAY – Playing tug-o-ware with a rope toy or offering your dog a sturdy, hard rubber toy isn’t just fun – it also scrapes plaque way and stimulates gums. Look for toys designed to promote dental health.

Always remember to also schedule regular veterinary checkups. These are essential in helping your veterinarian monitor the progress of your pet's dental health routine. If you suspect a problem, don’t wait for his or her annual checkup. Call today for an appointment.

Could my Cat have a FORL? What is FORL?
According to information presented at the American Veterinary Dental Forum, if your cat is over five years old, there is a 72% chance he or she has a painful feline odontoclastic resorptive lesion (FORL). These dental resorptions once called cat cavities or neck lesions can occur in any tooth. FORLs are usually found on the outside of the tooth where the gum meets the dental surface. The lower jaw premolars are mostly affected.

Unlike cavities in humans, which are the result of bacterial enzymes and acids digesting the teeth, the cause of FORLs are unknown. Specifically, cells known as odontoclasts are found in the defects causing the tooth structure to dissolve. What triggers this reaction has not been determined for certain but a reaction to plaque on the teeth seems to be the major factor.

In addition to discomfort and perhaps severe pain, the signs of FORL include red and swollen gums, bad breath (halitosis), weight loss, declining appetite (especially for hard food), dehydration and loss of interest in grooming.

Call today for an appointment if you cat shows any of these signs.

The Simple ABC’s of Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth
A.  Pick a relaxed time with your pet and gradually allow him to get used to having his mouth touched.

B.  Place some toothpaste on your finger or finger brush and let him become familiar with the taste. Remember to only use toothpaste specifically made for dogs and/or cats.

C.  Try using a finger brush for the first tooth brushing. Once he gets used to it, try using a specially designed pet toothbrush, and gently brush all teeth and gums like you do your own.

Dental Products Available at IVS are:

C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Chews for Dogs and Cats
C.E.T. Enzymatic Tooth Brushing Kits for Dogs and Cats
C.E.T. Toothpaste
C.E.T. Finger Brush Kits
C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Spray
C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Rinse
Greenies
Hills Prescription Diet T/D

For more information on C.E.T. products, visit their website at www.cetdental.com

IVS’s ‘Fit for Life’ Weight Management Program
Congratulations to 14 of our clients and their pets for signing up for IVS’s Fit for Life program in January!

You might think that a couple of extra pounds on your pup isn’t a big deal, but you’d be wrong. An extra five pounds on a dog that should weigh 17 pounds is similar to an extra 50 pounds on a person who should weigh 170 pounds. Obesity is associated with heart and respiratory problems, diabetes, skeletal stress, and gastrointestinal disorders in pets.

Often our pets get a little pudgy because we love them so much. We love them, so we share our food with them. We love them, so we feed them whenever they look hungry. We love them, so we give them snacks or treats throughout the day. These nice but dangerous feeding habits can lead to extra pounds on your pet.

Weight problems can also go hand-in-hand with inactive lifestyles. Animals carrying a heavy load have an increased likelihood of tearing ligaments and wearing down joints. When their joints become damaged and painful, animals don’t want to exercise, which then adds to their weight problems. This is especially a problem with older dogs.

If you think your dog and/or cat may be overweight, call us and schedule a well care exam.

February is Dental Month at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Cole...

“My pet is getting older and I have always been fearful of anesthetic. How risky is it to put my pet under anesthesia for dentistry?”

Dr. Cole: There is always a risk with anesthetic. You have to balance the benefits with the procedure. Here at IVS, every precaution is taken from pre-surgical blood profiles to intravenous fluids, to using the most sophisticated monitoring equipment. In addition, our nursing and veterinary staff is trained in the latest techniques to assure anesthetic safety.

February is Dental Month at IVS!

Schedule a dental cleaning for your pet during the month of February and receive a 20% discount.

Dental care of dogs and cats is one of the most common overlooked areas of pet health care. In fact, a recent AAHA study showed that approximately two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care that is recommended as essential by veterinarians. What’s more, the American Veterinary Dental Society reports that 80 percent of dogs and 70 percents of cats show signs of oral disease by age three.

There are many pets who live shortened, miserable lives because of unnoticed or unmanaged dental disease. Many pet owners think it is normal for the teeth to “fall out” of an eight-year-old pet. The human companion animal bond is greatly diminished by severe dental disease that causes bad breath and irritability in the pet who used to be allowed to “give kisses”. Pets say “hello” by licking and nuzzling and if their breath smells bad they will not be allowed this normal part of their social behavior. The unfortunate thing is that by the time the breath smells bad or the teeth are noticed to have diseases, it is often too late to save the normal dental structure of the mouth.

Halitosis, also called Bad Breath
Fido’s dog breath or Tabby’s tuna breath aren’t something to be ignored, they could be indicative of any oral problem and the sooner you have it treated, the sooner you and your pet can smile proudly.

Most often, bad breath is caused by dental or periodontal disease. Some dogs do not adequately chew their food; thus they don’t clean their teeth naturally by the chewing process. Also, some dogs and cats are just prone to dental plaque, tarter and disease. These pets may need more frequent dental cleanings and treatments.

Internal disease such as kidney disease can also cause bad breath. A trip to your veterinarian is recommended in order to pinpoint the cause of your dog’s and/or cat’s bad breath and to ensure he is in good health.

To prevent most cases of bad breath, brush your cat’s or dog’s teeth – ideally every day – using tooth gel specific for felines or canines.

What is periodontal disease? “Periodontal” means around the tooth, and indicates the space below the gums and the bony sockets where the roots attach. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth that takes hold in progressive stages. Cause Periodontal disease is the most common cause of dental problems. It starts as bacterial growth on the surface of the tooth and the tissues around the teeth. The bacteria produce toxins that injure this tissue. As periodontal disease progresses, bacteria enter deeper into the soft tissue and destruction of the connective tissue begins. This will appear as a reddened and somewhat swollen gum at the base of the teeth. As the tissue loss continues, the pocket deepens. Calculus, a hard calcium deposit, forms under the gum tissue. The bone holding the tooth in place recedes as the inflammatory process progresses. Serious problems occur at this time, resulting in destruction of the supporting structures around the tooth, making the tooth loose and painful. The gingival infection results in a discharge of debris, organisms, and toxins into the blood stream, possibly creating infections in the joints, liver, heart and kidneys. These infections may result in fatal disease processes. Treatment The specific treatment for periodontal disease depends on how advanced the disease is. Should your pet’s teeth already be damaged, good professional care, followed by good home care, will result in reduced likelihood of more severe problems. Your pet’s teeth should be professionally cleaned at least once yearly and more often if there is already severe periodontal disease present. Should calculus, pain, odor, or redness around the gums appear, the teeth should be examined by a veterinarian. Advanced cases of periodontal disease often require extraction of severely diseased teeth. There are some new implant products that can be used to try to “salvage” borderline teeth. Living and Management Follow-up treatment for periodontal disease consists mostly of good dental care and weekly, quarterly, or half-yearly checks. Prognosis in dogs and cats will depend on how advanced the disease is, but the best way to minimize the adverse affects caused by the disease is to get an early diagnosis, adequate treatment and proper therapy.
Warning signs Here are a few of the warning signs to look out for: signs of oral pain, especially when eating bad breath not eating properly pawing at their jaw or mouth depression yellow and/or brown colored build up on teeth inflamed, reddened, puffy or bleeding gums a pain or bleeding when you touch the gums or mouth
Prevention The best prevention is to maintain good oral hygiene and to regularly brush and clean your dog's/cat’s mouth and gums.

Stages of Periodontal Disease
Dog		Cat

	Normal, healthy teeth and gums. No sign of plaque or tartar.

	STAGE 1 – Mild Gingivitis: Margin of attached gum is swollen and red. Some plaque covers the teeth.

	STAGE 2 – Early Periodontitis: Entire gum area is red and swollen.

	STAGE 3 – Moderate Periodontitis: The gums are ‘cherry’ red and bleed easily. There is infection and substantial tartar build up. The mouth is sore and bad breath is evident.

	STAGE 4 – ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS: Chronic bacterial infection is destroying the gums, teeth and bone. Bacteria may be spreading throughout the body via the bloodstream.

Dental Diets
There are a number of diets that claim to be helpful in reducing the amount of dental disease. Statistically, feeding a dry food is associated with less dental disease than when pets are fed on a wet food. So it is important to make sure that any claimed benefit is not simply based on a comparison with wet food. It is important to ask for your vet’s advice in choosing one that they trust and that will have the correct nutrient balance for your dog. Hill’s have spent many years producing a diet which is especially formulated to keep your dog’s/cat’s teeth clean and help control the oral bacteria found in plaque. This helps remove the plaque biofilm – the root cause of most dental disease. Prescription Diet t/d has been tested to the vigorous VOHC standards – so it can justifiably claim to assist in preventing dental disease.

“Have a Heart” – IVS Donates $2,049 to the Irvine Animal Care Center
During the months of December and November, IVS pledged a $1.00 donation for each office visit in order to raise money for the purchase of special beds for shelter dogs awaiting adoption. IVS would like to thank all our clients for their generosity and your commitment to pets in helping IVS support the Irvine Animal Care Center. For more information on the Irvine Animal Care Center, please visit their website at www.irvineshelter.org.

January is Fit for Life at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Keng...

“How much exercise should my dog get?”

Dr. Keng: All dogs, regardless of size, need to be walked for at least 20 minutes a day. Putting your dog out in the yard when you get home is not real exercise. Without proper exercise, physical health problems such as obesity arises which leads to heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, as well as potential mental health problems such as destructiveness, overly hyperactive, and excessive barking. Always consider the breed too. Labradors, golden retrievers, and terriers have a lot of energy, so they may require more exercise than just walking.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

January is Fit for Life at IVS!

January is a perfect time to commit to “getting in shape” for the New Year!

Obesity is one of the most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats in the United States. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has estimated that there are 41.2 million pet dogs in the United States. Other sources estimate, 40 percent of those dogs, approximately 17 million, are overweight or obese. Obesity contributes to a dog's risk of diabetes, respiratory disease, and heart disease. It aggravates common orthopedic concerns such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Obesity can stress joints, ligaments, and tendons. Geriatric dogs often have a hard enough time getting up without the added problem of lifting excess pounds.

At IVS we are committed to helping our patients improve by offering complimentary Fit for Life evaluations for pets visiting us for regular office exams during the month of January. A Fit for Life consultation includes a body condition score evaluation, a custom diet and exercise plan, and a rebate coupon from Hills Pet Nutrition*. In addition, clients receive handouts on exercise recommendations and feeding guidelines. We invite you to call us and schedule a well care exam during January.

*while supplies last

Keeping Your Pet Healthy with Exercise
Exercise is a great way to keep your pet healthy. Many dogs and cats simply aren’t getting enough exercise to compensate for how much they eat. Regular playtime also gives you an opportunity to bond with your pet.

Where can I take my dog to exercise? Here is a list of local dog parks and beaches that you can take your dog for both socializing and off-leash exercise. If your dog doesn't like other dogs, the dog park and/or dog beach are definitely not the place for him.
Off-Leash Dog Parks Costa Mesa Bark Park Fullerton Pooch Park Garden Grove Dog Park HB Best Friend Dog Park Irvine Central Bark Ladera Ranch Wagsdale Park Laguna Beach, Laguna Canyon Dog Park Laguna Niguel Pooch Park Laguna Woods A Place for Paws Park Orange Dog Park Rancho Santa Margarita Canada Vista Dog Park San Clemente Dog Park Seal Beach Dog Park
Dog Friendly Beaches Laguna Beach - Leashed dogs are welcome from September 17th through May 31st. During summer hours (June 1st - September 16th) leashed dogs are allowed before 8am and after 6pm Huntington Beach - Orange County's only dog permitted off leash beach. 21st Street to Seapoint in North Huntington Beach - www.dogbeach.org

Cats need exercise?
Yes, cats need exercise too. Fitness for your cat is just as important as fitness for your dog. Over 25% of cats seen by Veterinarians are obese; too many calories and not enough exercise is to blame.

In order to increase a cat’s activity buy special cat toys that are attached to strings. Drag the toy around the house or up and down the stairs and let them chase after it. If you have a multi-story home, try placing your cat’s food bowl on a different floor from the one they sleep on, to encourage as much stair-climbing as possible. Another great activity is to play hide and seek. This game will get both of you up and moving.

“Home for the Holidays” Event
“Home for the Holidays” was held at the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC) on Sunday, December 6, 2009 and thanks to hundreds of volunteers, this event was a huge success. The event included a silent auction, bake sale, raffle, “ask the vet” and “ask the trainer” booths and low cost microchips.

Over 90 event sponsors, including rescue groups and vendors were present and approximately 500 homeless dogs, cats and rabbits were available for adoption. We are pleased to announce that IACC placed 241 homeless pets with new families that day!

IVS would like to thank everyone who attended and we look forward to seeing you again next year.

IVS Recommends Pets Best Insurance and CareCredit At IVS we understand that pet care expenses are funded from personal disposable income. We all care about our pets and want to assure their health and well being. Unfortunately, many of us are feeling the pain of the economic downturn. Many of us are worried about personal dept, job security and the future of our economy. Most families can afford the basics for assuring their pet is well cared for. However, if a pet becomes ill requiring surgery or hospitalization, often the cost of quality care can range from $1,000 and $5,000 for complex diagnostics, treatment and surgery. IVS recommends that our clients think ahead and plan for these potential expenses by either enrolling in a pet insurance program or applying for a Care Credit card.
Pets Best Insurance Accidents happen, so does getting sick. Pet insurance is designed to help cover the cost of treatment for unexpected illnesses, accidents and injuries. Why Choose Pets Best Insurance? Straight 80% Reimbursement after Deductible Choose any Vet, Anywhere Simple, Fast Claims Process No Annual Limits or Age Restrictions For more information, visit their website at www.petsbestinsurance.com
CareCredit CareCredit is a personal line of credit for healthcare treatments and procedures for your entire family, including your pets. Unlike your Visa or MasterCard, CareCredit is exclusive for healthcare services. It works like a credit card but it has two advantages. It can only be used for healthcare services and you can get No Interest* financing every time you use it. *see website for details www.carecredit.com Please ask a receptionist for more information or visit their websites at: www.petsbestinsurance.com www.carecredit.com

December is Home for the Holidays Month at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Miyashiro...

“What are some common toxic items ingested by dogs and/or cats?”

Dr. Miyashiro: Many substances that are meant for human consumption can be extremely harmful to dogs and cats. Medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen, Aspirin), and any prescription human medication should never be given to a dog or cat and should be stored safely out of reach. Insect and rodent control products can be extremely dangerous, so access to these products should be avoided. Also, many foods are toxic to animals, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, and onions. If your pet ingests a potentially harmful substance call your veterinarian immediately. Treatment and prognosis depends on the how much time has elapsed between ingestion and treatment, the amount ingested, and the type of toxin.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

2009 “Home for the Holidays”
Animals for Adoption, Vendors, Rescue Groups, Silent Auction, Food, Ask the Vet, Ask the Trainer, Tile Painting, & MORE!

DATE:	December 6, 2009
TIME:	10:00am – 3:00pm
WHERE:	The Irvine Animal Care Center 6443 Oak Canyon Road (Sand Canyon & Oak Canyon Road) Irvine, CA 92618 949-724-7740

Please join us at our booth on Sunday, December 6th, 2009 for the 2009 “Home for the Holidays” event, as we partner with the shelter in placing these adorable pets awaiting adoption.
	Irvine Animal Care Center is recognized nationwide as one of the most progressive municipal shelters in the country. The Center is home to approximately 300 animals awaiting a loving family and home for the Holiday. Won’t you please open your heart and your home this holiday season by adopting a loving companion? Irvine Animal Care Center Hours of operation Weekdays 12:00 - 7:00pm Weekends 10:00am - 5:00pm Closed Tuesdays & Holidays www.irvineshelter.org
Adoption Criteria: The adopter must be at least 18 years old. Everyone who lives in the household needs to meet the animal prior to the completion of the adoption. If you are renting your home, a copy of your rental agreement must be provided prior to the completion of the adoption. If you are interested in adopting a dog & you currently have a dog at home, we require a dog introduction to take place on the shelter’s premises. Our experienced dog staff will assist with the introduction. Completion of adoption application and counseling session.

Join Irvine Veterinary Services (IVS) in raising funds to purchase special beds for homeless pets at the Irvine Animal Care Center (IACC). The IACC is purchasing new beds for shelter dogs so they will be more comfortable while awaiting adoption. The Shelter requires a very specific bed to fit inside the shelter dog kennels. Kuranda Beds USA has a Donate-a-Bed program that allows shelter supporters to give one of the greatest gifts to a pet awaiting adoption – the comfort of a warm bed!

Please visit the IACC website at www.irvineshelter.org and click on the Donate/How You Can Help* tab for more information and to donate a bed to a homeless dog.

*The cost of a bed is usually $106.50, but if you donate a bed to the Shelter, it will cost ONLY $69.47.

A $1.00 donation for each office visit will be made by IVS to the Shelter towards the purchase of a new bed during the month of November and December. Your dog and cat will receive a special play toy as a simple “Thank you from all of us at IVS!”

Surprising Dangers for Pets during the Holiday Season Though it's so tempting, don't give your pet large quantities of cooked turkey and ham during the holidays. Human food is too rich; overfeeding of human food can cause additional health problems.
	BONES ARE DANGEROUS! Please, please don't feed your pets bones, especially poultry bones. Poultry bones splinter easily - each year thousands of pets are treated for consumption of splintered bones, causing pain and sometimes death. Don't feed pets the cooled drippings either. Human seasonings aren't good for pets, plus the fact that the rich stock and drippings can easily upset pets' digestive systems.
	Caution: Those adorable holiday costumes for your animals may be cute at get-togethers or in family photos, but animal guardians should be wary of costumes which have rubber bands to keep them securely in place on the animal. If rubber bands are accidently left on the animal after the fun of dressing up is over, the animal could chew off and swallow them, causing choking and/or intestinal injuries. And, too, the bands can become embedded into the animal's flesh.
	Be cautious when bringing plants into the home, as plants are a common holiday hazard for pets. Many holiday plants can be acutely toxic to pets, such as poinsettias, holly, lilies and mistletoe. Avoid using breakable glass ornaments and holiday decorations. Pet owners should also avoid tinsel and garland, as this can cause intestinal obstructions and other gastrointestinal issues. Also secure Christmas trees from mischievous pets by affixing guide wires to the tree. Secure the guide wires to hooks that can be temporarily placed on the wall; this will prevent the Christmas tree from getting knocked over by a pet! Also avoid using edible holiday decorations - they may just end up as your pet's next snack!
	Very important: do not put aspirin in the water (some folks do this thinking it will keep the tree or plant more vigorous). If a pet ingests the aspirin-laced water, his health or even life can be at risk. If you suspect that your pet has eaten something toxic, call your veterinarian and/or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour emergency hotline at 1-888-4-ANI-HELP.

Happy Holidays from IVS!

November is Help a Pet Month at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Leong...

“My 10 year old cat has trouble jumping up on the counter to reach her food and water bowl and I have to lift her on the bed at night now. What can I do to help her?”

Dr. Leong: There are many reasons why an older cat may not be able to jump up on things like she used to. Some of the common issues we see in older cats are obesity, arthritis, and/or spine problems. A physical exam and diagnostic tests can help determine what is affecting your cat so that an appropriate treatment plan can be made. Twice a year visits are important for senior pets because problems can be caught early and preventative measures taken to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy, and comfortable life.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

November is Help a Pet Month at IVS!

Arthritis: A Common Problem

Cats are living longer these days, thanks largely to advances in feline nutrition and veterinary medicine in general. That’s good news. The bad news, however, is that these longer life spans give cats a greater chance of developing arthritis, a painful, debilitating and potentially crippling joint disease that is predominantly age-related. In a study conducted a few years ago, researchers carefully analyzed X-rays of the spines and limbs of 100 middle-aged or elderly cats (10 years of age or older). The X-rays revealed that 90 percent of cats over age 12 showed clearly discernible radiographic signs of arthritis.

The signs of arthritis in cats are subtle and can be difficult to recognize. Often, cat owners simply think their senior cat is "slowing down" because of age. In fact, these cats may very well be less active because of the joint pain they are experiencing.

What is Feline Arthritis and How does it Affect Cats?

Arthritis is degenerative disease of the joints. Frequently seen in middle aged to older cats, arthritis can cause a great deal of pain. However, often cats do not show overt signs of pain. While it is possible to see an arthritic cat limping, this is not the typical presentation of arthritis in cats. In this, cats differ from their canine counterparts. Cats often attempt to mask the signs of arthritis.

Symptoms associated with arthritis in cats may be:

lower level of activity
sleeping more often
interacting less often with human family members and other pets
reluctance to jump onto surfaces at heights which were once readily accessible
urinating and/or defecating outside of the litter box, particularly if the litter box has high sides which the arthritic cat has difficulty climbing over
reluctance to cover feces or urine in the litter box
lack of appetite
muscle wasting which may result in legs which appear thinner and smaller than previously

What is the Treatment for Feline Arthritis?

Treatment for feline osteopathic usually entails weight loss for obese cats, gentle exercise, environmental modifications and pain control. Helping the cat to avoid painful situations by moving food dishes and litter boxes to easily accessible locations and devising ways to avoid the need for leaping to high places can be of great help. Many arthritic cats will also appreciate warm areas in which to rest.

Did you know...

The oldest breed of dog is the Saluki, date of origin 3000 BC.
The world's smallest dog is the Chihuahua, which means "tiny dog in the sky."
Domestic cats purr at about 26 cycles per second, the same frequency as an idling diesel engine.
There are 701 types of pure breed dogs.
A domestic cat hears frequencies up to about 65 kHz, humans up to 20 kHz.
A dog was the first in space and a sheep, a duck and a rooster the first to fly in a hot air balloon.
The coyote is a member of the dog family and its scientific name, "canis latrans" means barking dog.
There are about 54 million dogs in the US, and Paris is said to have more dogs than people.
A dog’s sense of smell is 1,000 times stronger than humans. A cat’s sense of smell is about 14 times stronger than that of humans.
Every year, $1.5 billion is spent on pet food. This is four times the amount spent on baby food.
Cats step with both left legs, then both right legs when they walk or run. The only other animals to do this are the giraffe, camel and the maned wolf.
Cats cannot see directly below their heads that is why they do not see the food when you put it under their nose. Keep this in mind when you're feeding your kitty.

Do you wish there were some way to help animals in need?

Charitable giving is something we all aspire to, but too many aspiring givers feel limited by time and money. Current economic conditions have greatly impacted charitable giving, but according to the Yankelovich MONITOR, "aspiring givers [want] to be seen as someone who lives their passions."

AAHA has a passion – to provide veterinary treatment to pets in need, through the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. The tough economy affects everyone. Families that were once in a good financial position are struggling, and their pets suffer if forced to go without veterinary treatment or given minimal treatment in the hope that it will be enough. The AAHA Helping Pets Fund is trying to do something about this.

We at AAHA know you are passionate about animals. If you are looking to support a cause vital to companion animals, the AAHA Helping Pets Fund could be it. You can make a difference in the lives of families and their cherished pets.

But, did you know that it is the modest donor that enables charitable causes to thrive? Large numbers of small gifts are the lifeblood of charitable giving. Furthermore, educating others about the need and ways they can help is just as valuable as a monetary gift.

If you aspire to give, we hope you will give to the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. We hope you will also promote the Fund as a cause worthy of support. It can be as simple as reminding your friends and colleagues that donations to the Fund provide care to animals in need, or as involved as hosting an event to raise money in support of the Fund.

And remember, you don’t have to be wealthy to give, just willing.

For more information on the AAHA Helping Pets Fund, please visit their website at
www.aahahelpingpets.org

October is Dental Month at IVS!

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

October is Dental Month at IVS!
Schedule a dental cleaning for your pet during the month of October and receive a 20% discount!

Would you permit years to go by between visits to your dentist? Probably not. Your pet’s dental health is just as important to his or her overall health as your dental health is to your general health.

In a recent AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) study, it was revealed that approximately two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care that is recommended by veterinarians. The American Veterinary Dental Society reports that 60% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease or periodontal disease by age three.

What is periodontal disease?

“Periodontal” means around the tooth, and indicates the space below the gums and the bony sockets where the roots attach. It’s a disease that destroys the attachment of the teeth.

One of the most overlooked aspects in preventative maintenance is dental care. It is very important to the health of your pet. Dogs and cats do have problems with their teeth. Many of these problems are very slow in onset. Reluctance to eat, odor from the mouth, loss of energy, and reluctance to play are a few of the signs that may point to dental disease.

Cause

Periodontal disease is the most common cause of dental problems. It starts as bacterial growth on the surface of the tooth and the tissues around the teeth. The bacteria produce toxins that injure this tissue. As periodontal disease progresses, bacteria enter deeper into the soft tissue and destruction of the connective tissue begins. This will appear as a reddened and somewhat swollen gum at the base of the teeth. As the tissue loss continues, the pocket deepens. Calculus, a hard calcium deposit, forms under the gum tissue. The bone holding the tooth in place recedes as the inflammatory process progresses. Serious problems occur at this time, resulting in destruction of the supporting structures around the tooth, making the tooth loose and painful. The gingival infection results in a discharge of debris, organisms, and toxins into the blood stream, possibly creating infections in the joints, liver, heart and kidneys. These infections may result in fatal disease processes.

Treatment

Should your pet’s teeth already be damaged, good professional care, followed by good home care, will result in reduced likelihood of more severe problems. Your pet’s teeth should be professionally cleaned at least once yearly and more often if there is already severe periodontal disease present. Should calculus, pain, odor, or redness around the gums appear, the teeth should be examined by a veterinarian. Advanced cases of periodontal disease often require extraction of severely diseased teeth. There are some new implant products that can be used to try to “salvage” borderline teeth.

Home Care

Prevention of dental problems and care of the teeth begins at home by training your pet to accept teeth brushing. Establish a routine of brushing your pet’s teeth with gauze around your finger. Use a circular motion with the stroke emphasized away from the gum tissue. At first don’t use cleaning agents. You can use beef or chicken broth with dogs or tuna water with cats to get them accustomed to the routine. Once your pet has accepted the procedure, start using a fingerbrush or very soft pet toothbrush instead of the gauze. Also, at this time begin using C.E.T. pet toothpaste because it has enzymatic ingredients that kill bacteria. Other products that help keep the teeth clean are C.E.T. Rawhide Chews and Hill’s T/D diet.

Very extensive dental care is only beneficial if you follow up with good home care!

At any time that your pet is resistant, stop and wait until the next day. If your pet is still resistant, contact our office and our technicians will be happy to assist you.

VIDEO: How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Cat
Dog

Helpful Hints:

Be patient. Take time with the process or else the pet may become resistant.
Praise your pet. It’s a new experience and praising your pet will make him or her more receptive.
Reward your pet with treats at the end of each session. Remember, always make it fun!
Stop immediately if your pet shows any signs of aggression. Call the hospital for advice.
Human toothpaste is for humans and NOT for pets. It is common for human toothpaste to cause stomach problems and even vomiting.
Brushing the teeth at home will decrease the frequency of professional dental care.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Dog		Cat

	Normal, healthy teeth and gums. No sign of plaque or tartar.

	STAGE 1 – Mild Gingivitis: Margin of attached gum is swollen and red. Some plaque covers the teeth.

	STAGE 2 – Early Periodontitis: Entire gum area is red and swollen.

	STAGE 3 – Moderate Periodontitis: The gums are ‘cherry’ red and bleed easily. There is infection and substantial tartar build up. The mouth is sore and bad breath is evident.

	STAGE 3 – ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS: Chronic baterial infection is destroying the gums, teeth and bone. Bacteria may be spreading throughout the body via the bloodstream.

Introducing Dental Digital Radiography at IVS
It has been shown that even with careful visual examination and probing, you will find additional significant information when you take dental x-rays. Please call us today to schedule a dental care evaluation or cleaning for your pet.

It has been shown that even with careful visual examination and probing, you will find additional significant information when you take dental x-rays. For more information on the importance of regular dental care for your pet, please visit www.healthypet.com and search for dental care. Please call us today to schedule a dental care evaluation or cleaning for your pet.

Please call us today for your Complimentary Appointment on How to Brush your Pet’s teeth.

September is Senior Wellness Month at IVS!

our veterinarian,
Dr. Curtin...

“Between visits to IVS, what should I watch for at home that might tip me off that my senior pet is developing a health problem?”

Dr. Curtin: In a word, changes. By the time they are seniors, most pets have developed very consistent characteristics, so constant in fact that even minor changes -- especially in water intake and body weight -- may signal the first signs of illness. Because adult dogs and cats tend to be such creatures of habit, an attentive owner will readily notice when something is different. Thus my advice always is to trust your intuition. If you sense there’s something amiss about your senior pet, you are probably correct, so don’t ignore it. Give us a call, and together we’ll check it out.

“When I go to the doctor, I always get my blood pressure checked. Do you check the blood pressure of dogs and cats?”

Dr. Curtin: Yes we do, more often now than in the past, and especially for seniors. Because measuring the blood pressure in dogs and cats is more difficult than in people, and requires more sophisticated and expensive instruments, it was not available in many vet clinics in years gone by. But we now know that monitoring blood pressure (BP) can provide vital information about the health status of pets, and at IVS we measure BP frequently. We have equipment that can continuously monitor the BP of hospitalized and anesthesia cases, and we often find it appropriate to check the BP of our senior patients.

Have a question for our veterinary staff?
Send your question to us at askus@irvinevetservices.com.
Look for answers in our next newsletter!

September is Senior Wellness Month at IVS!
Schedule a Senior Physical Exam appointment at either of our convenient Irvine locations and receive a complimentary Emergency Pet Care Kit*
(*while supply lasts).

What Is Your Pet’s ‘Relative’ Age?
We do not like to admit it, but most of our pets are senior citizens at seven years of age. Normal blood work results give both of us peace of mind that your pet is doing well. Blood work is the most important diagnostic test that we can perform on our older pets. Because of the rapid aging changes in your pet’s life, we highly recommend blood work on an annual basis. We compare current and previous blood results in order to evaluate the process of a disease and its response to therapy.

Scheduling regular veterinary examinations is one of the most important steps pet owners can take to keep their pets in tip-top shape. When dogs and cats enter the senior years, these health examinations are more important than ever. Senior care, which starts with the regular veterinary exam, is needed to catch and/or delay the onset or progress of disease and for the early detection of problems such as organ failure. Keep in mind that every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to 5–7 human years.

To help ensure your pet lives comfortably during the senior life stage, it’s critical to work with your veterinarian to tailor a senior wellness plan that is best for your dog or cat. Be sure to monitor behavior and physical conditions and report anything unusual to your veterinarian.

With detailed information obtained through a physical examination and diagnostics, you and your veterinarian can formulate a plan for keeping your senior pet as healthy as possible. Schedule a physical examination appointment for your senior pet at either of our convenient Irvine locations.

For further information on Special Needs for the Senior Cat,
visit the website

If Disaster Strikes, What Steps Would You Take If Your Pet Goes Missing?

It can be a difficult and traumatic experience for all concerned. Microchipping your pet could be the first information available to a veterinarian, rescue center or animal shelter and it is imperative your pet’s microchip information is kept up to date.

BEFORE ANY DISASTER...

Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
Have a current photograph of your pet.
Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

DURING THE DISASTER

Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have: Proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up.
Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.
Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.

AFTER THE DISASTER

Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost.
If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.
After a disaster, animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.

PET DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

Proper identification including immunization records
Ample supply of food and water
A carrier or cage
Medications
Muzzle, collar and leash

How Often Should You Bathe Your Pet?

our veterinarian,
Dr. Sanchez...

“Can I use people shampoo on my pet? And does bathing my pet have health benefits?”

Dr. Sanchez: In general, human shampoos should not be used on dogs and cats. These shampoos are formulated to deal with a more acidic pH than dog and cat shampoos, and can be drying and irritating.

Bathing your pet can have tremendous health benefits. Not only does bathing help keep them clean and comfortable, but can also be used in treatment or control of specific skin conditions, such as infection, allergic dermatitis, and sebor