CVET Newsletter for Jan 2008
As most pet owners know, winter can be a challenging time for pets.
For example, cold, damp weather aggravates arthritis in dogs and cats, particular in senior and overweight pets.
If your pet is having trouble getting up or laying down, climbing the stairs, or has started to snap or cry when picked up, you should visit your veterinarian for advice.
Many new arthritis treatments are available including over-the-counter supplements such as Ecovet PR containing green lipped mussel extract and shark cartilage. Ecovet is a potent source of natural glycosamines which have been proven to have high natural anti inflammatory and joint protective properties. Some pets require prescription medications such as Rimadyl, Previcox and Metacam, which belong to the NSAID group of medications, reducing pain and inflammation in arthritic joints.
Remember, NEVER give your pet human prescription medication or over-the-counter medications without consulting your veterinarian first!
If you pet is housed outside or spends a lot of time outside, make sure that you provide adequate shelter to ensure your pet is protected from the wind, moisture, and cold. Take extra care to ensure that your pet is comfortable and can get into and out of their housing easily.
A warm water resistant winter coat is a great idea for dogs who spend time outdoors in the cold weather.
One thing that can be overlooked in winter is ensuring that your pets need to have sufficient fresh water - make sure the water is not frozen during this time of year and pets that live outdoors may need additional food (calories) to sustain body temperature as well. You may want to check with your veterinarian to decide if your pet needs additional nutritional intake
As always, exercise is important at this time of year! If there is snow on the ground, take care to check your pet's paws for ice balls or injuries and you should consider rinsing your pets’ feet off if your pet has walked where de-icers have been used. If your pet is having difficulty exercising due to depth of snow, slick icy surfaces, or appears to be winded, adjust your exercise times and monitor for any signs of discomfort
A Note on Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) - Cats and dogs are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, and will often sample some if left out in a container or spilled on the garage floor however Antifreeze is highly toxic - it is rapidly absorbed (initial signs appear approximately one hour post-ingestion), and there is a high mortality rate. Only a very small amount needs to be ingested to cause signs of intoxication.
Success of treatment is dependent upon a quick response. If you suspect that your animal has come into contact with antifreeze, immediately contact your veterinarian or pet emergency center.
A safe alternative to Ethylene Glycol antifreeze is available, it is called propylene glycol, and while it does cost a little more than 'regular' antifreeze, it is worth the piece of mind
How to place a prescription order?
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Complete your order as specified on our site.
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Once your order is successfully processed, you will receive an order
number.
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Write your order number onto your prescription.
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You will need to fax in your prescription to us on our fax number at
1-800-532-2981.
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Your prescription will be reviewed by our pharmacy and shipped out
in 2-4 working days
Don't forget - free shipping with any order over $38.00 order today!
Canada Vet
P.O. Box 47035, 15-555 West 12th Ave.
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 4L6
Questions or Comments? Contact us!
Email: info@canadavet.com
Toll-Free: 1 (877) 822-6838
Toll-Free Fax number: 1 (800) 532-2981
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