Frequently Asked Questions

Examples of indoor houseplants/flower arrangements: varieties of lilies, pointsettias, certain varieties of ferns and philodendrons.

Examples of some found in outdoor gardens: rhododendron, azalea, oleander, foxglove, kalanchoe, green parts of tomato plants.

Please see the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plants for a more extensive listing.

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/

– Chocolate (baker’s, semi-sweet, milk and dark chocolate)

– Coffee (grounds, beans, chocolate covered espresso beans)

– Moldy or spoiled food

– Onions, onion powder, garlic

– Yeast dough

– Grapes and raisins

– Macademia nuts

– Chewing gum containing xylitol

Pets are much more sensitive to over the counter non steroidal anti-inflammatories (ex. aspirin, ibuprofen/Advil, acetaminophen/Tylenol) than humans, and we do not recommend giving them to pets. Giving these medications could potentially cause stomach and intestinal ulceration and bleeding, reduce the ability for blood to clot, and reduce blood supply to the kidneys possibly leading to kidney failure. Cats are more sensitive to these drugs than dogs so it takes a smaller dose to be harmful.

Please consult with your veterinarian as there are veterinary approved pain medications that are safer for your pet.

Your dog or cat could have picked up fleas from another pet, a wild animal, or a contaminated object.  The best defense, of course, is an offense.  Treat your pet monthly with a flea medication to avoid picking up the pests in the first place.  We highly recommend Nexgard because it is a safe product, and we implore clients to use caution with other OTC products such as Harts liquid repellant.  Please feel free to contact the clinic if you have questions about a specific flea product.  Nexgard also does a terrific job of managing a current flea infestation.  Be sure to thoroughly wash your pet’s bedding.  If you believe large parts of your home may have been compromised by the infestation, consult an exterminator.

Inappropriate eliminations can be a very frustrating issue for cat owners.  First, be sure to consult with your vet.  It could be a side effect of a UTI, which could be resolved with antibiotics.  If the urinations appear to be related to a behavioral problem, your vet can also discuss other options.

While rotund dogs and cats are no less adorable than their more slender brothers and sisters, they do face some very real health risks.  Diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer are linked with obesity.  Be sure to discuss these issues with your vet, and for tips on implementing a weight-loss plan for your cat or dog.

Cats, particularly those who live totally indoors, may find car rides exceedingly stressful.  While you might be tempted to hold your cat in the car in an effort to comfort him or her, you should always utilize a carrier. Carriers ensure the safety of both the owner and the pet.

Tartar build-up can lead to more serious illnesses like gum disease, not to mention bad breath or the loss of teeth. Brushing your pet’s teeth now could also save you the cost of a dental down the road.

Dog obedience classes are a terrific way to build a trusting relationship between you and your pet.  Obedience clubs or kennel clubs offer classes at a variety of skill levels, and county 4-H organizations provide kids with the chance to learn along with their four-legged friends.

Dog behavior specialists can often help you identify root causes of canine aggression, and establishing a relationship with your dog through obedience classes might also help.