Happy New Year

Happy New Year from everyone at the Animal Clinic at THorndale! Read more...

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from everyone at the Animal Clinic at Thorndale!


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Holiday Hazards

The holiday season is once again upon us and though we often associate this time of year with the joy of friends and family it can also be a very dangerous time of year for our four legged friends. In the hopes that your holiday plans this year will run as smoothly as possible here is a list of household hazards that can be commonly found this time of year.

Electrical Cords: Holiday lights mean more electrical cords for kittens and puppies to chew. Be sure you have cords secured and out of the way.

Holiday Plants: Holly and mistletoe are extremely poisonous when eaten. The lovely poinsettia may not be truly poisonous but its milky white sap and leaves can certainly cause severe gastric distress. With so many hybrid varieties available each year, the best approach is to keep the plants out of your pet's reach.

The Christmas Tree: Make sure your tree is well secured. If you have a tree-climbing cat or large dog with a happy tail, anchor the top of the tree to the wall, using strong cord or rope so it doesn’t come crashing down on anybody. Also, preservatives often used in the water in a tree stand can cause gastric upsets, so be sure it is inaccessible or not used. Lastly be sure to clean up any pine needles that may fall around the tree as they could puncture internal organs if ingested.

Ornaments: Sharp or breakable ornaments, dreidels, and even aluminum foil should be kept out of reach. String objects, especially tinsel and ribbons, are to be safeguarded at all costs as well. Ribbon in particular can be dangerous due to its thin width and potentially sharp edges.

Toys and Other Gifts: Make sure your pet doesn’t try to chew on toys with small or pointed parts. Also be sure to keep track of any batteries that they may need to operate. Batteries are toxic and may cause an obstruction if ingested.

Stress and Company: All the commotion caused by guests coming and going can be very stressful to your pet and all those open doors may provide an easy avenue for escape. Be sure to have collars on your pets that clearly identify who they are and where they live. Having a nice, quiet place set aside for them to go and relax is another great idea in case the festivities get too stressful.

We hope these tips will help your holiday plans go as smoothly as possible. From everyone here at the Animal Clinic at Thorndale have a safe and happy holiday.
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Santa Pics Reminder

Just a reminder that Santa will be stopping by the Animal Clinic at Thorndale this coming Sunday the 13th of December to see all his furry friends. Be sure stop by and help us raise some much needed money for the Chenoa Manor Animal Rescue in Avondale. More details after the jump.

Pictures with Santa 2009
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Benefit Fundraiser for Chenoa Manor in Avondale
(See the article from the Philadelphia Inquirer to learn more about the rescue)

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When:
Sunday 12/13/09
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Where:
The Animal Clinic at Thorndale
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Time:
Noon – 4:00PM


Last years benefit was a huge success. Let's see if we can do even better this year!

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Speedlinks: December 2, 2009

From heroic insects to helpful holiday tips to making your elderly pet's life a little easier this weeks speedlinks are sure to spark conversation around the fireplace.

Heroic ants save the lives of their friends.

A few safety tips to keep your pets happy and healthy for the holidays.

It's tough being an old dog but here are a few ways you can help make life a little easier.
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Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving from everyone here at the Animal Clinic at Thorndale.



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Pictures With Santa 09

Pictures with Santa 2009
♦
Benefit Fundraiser for Chenoa Manor in Avondale
(See the article from the Philadelphia Inquirer to learn more about the rescue)

♦

♦
When:
Sunday 12/13/09
♦
Where:
The Animal Clinic at Thorndale
♦
Time:
Noon – 4:00PM


Last years benefit was a huge success. Let's see if we can do even better this year!

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Website Updates

Sorry about the lack of updates. I've been working on making some changes to the website. Once I get those finished I will be able to concentrate on writing some more posts for the blog.



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Speedlinks: October 13, 2009

Your portal to the most interesting, absurd, and unbelievable animal stories in the news today.

1.) Having a pet is not only fun but may also be good for your health.

2.) Monkey See, Monkey Do. New gene therapy techniques allow color blind monkeys to see in color.

3.) The world's largest living dog? "Clifford" unavailable for comment.

4.) A third of all dinosaurs to be removed from history books and natural history museums.

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Household Hazards: The Bathroom

Bathrooms contain many hidden and not so hidden hazards to our pets. Medications, soap and other sundries, and open toilet bowl lids can all lead to problems. If accidentally ingested these items can cause serious health problems for your pets. The best way to avoid this is to put medication in tightly sealed containers and to not leave them out within reach of your pets. In general all medications should never be given to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian.


Soaps, toothpaste, and sun blocks should also be kept away from your pets. If ingested they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. Toilet bowl lids should also be kept closed to prevent your pet from consuming treated toilet bowl water as this could irritate their digestive tract as well.

Lastly, make sure your have a trash can with a secure lid on it. While we may not think much of throwing away old razors, strands of dental floss, or other products we use on a daily basis our pets may find them to be entertaining toys. Needless to say if they happen to swallow any of these items they could inadvertently harm themselves and cost you a lot of money.


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Animal Welfare Week

It's Animal Welfare Week until 10/10 so be sure to be extra nice to all your furry, feathered, and scaley friends. Read more...

Halloween Pet Costumes

It’s quickly approaching that time of year again when the leaves change color and children roam the streets dressed as their favorite alter ego. But increasingly each year pets are getting in on the Halloween action as well. If you are considering or are already planning on dressing up the family pet this year then here is a brief list of pointers to keep in mind.

DON’T use costumes that have a lot of small items or accessories attached to them. Ribbons, bows, bells, and other such items can be chewed off and could be a potential health risk to your pet if swallowed.

DO choose an appropriately sized outfit. Make sure any costume you choose allows your pet to move around freely and isn’t too tight around the neck.

DO keep an eye on your pet at all times. It may not be readily apparent but when we dress our pets they have a higher chance of getting stuck in places they may normally go. Under furniture, beneath bushes, and behind cabinets are all places they may feel safe but can also potentially get trapped if their costume catches on anything.

DON’T torment your pets. No matter how cute it may look to have Fluffy dressed as a cheerleader if she really hates having to wear the outfit than don’t force her to wear it all night long.

DO have a good time. Above all have a good time and have a Happy Halloween!

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Strapped for ideas? Try one of these websites to purchase a costume or find some inspiration.

BuyCostumes.com

CostumeCraze.com

HalloweenExpress.com




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TODAY IS WORLD RABIES DAY!

Rabies is a viral infection of the nervous system transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Worldwide about 50,000 people die from rabies each year, mostly in developing countries where programs for vaccinating dogs against rabies don't exist. But the good news is that problems can be prevented if the exposed person receives treatment before symptoms of the infection develop.

Look after the jump to see how PA ranks out of the rest of the United States with rabies exposure.


Total Cases of Rabies Positive Animals in 2008: 431

Total Domestic Animals: 60
-Total Number of Dogs: 3
-Total Number of Cats: 3

Total Wild Animals: 371
-Total Number of Raccoons: 228
-Total Number of Bats: 43
-Total Number of Skunks: 71


Pennsylvania is the 5th highest ranked state in the United States for proven cases of rabies in domestic and wild animals. Make sure your pet's vaccinations are current! Even if they are indoor only there is always the chance they will sneak out or get loose and come in contact with an infected animal.

More information about rabies can be found on the World Health Organization website.
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Speedlinks: September 17, 2009

Your portal to the most interesting, absurd, and unbelievable animal stories in the news today.

Cats found to be plotting takeover of mankind.
-Stage 1: Infiltrate human socity.
-Stage 2: Make the humans do our bidding.

Indoor dog parks big hit in areas with inclement weather.

World's most expensive dog sold to a woman in China. How much would you pay for one?

Ever wonder what the world looks like from an animal's perspective? Now you can see for yourself with Animal Cam!
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Choosing The Right Pet For You: The Chinchilla

Find out more about the requirements and special needs for this amazing and unique pet after the jump.
Background:
Looking like a cross between a squirrel and gerbil, chinchillas are unique and entertaining pets. Related to guinea pigs, chinchillas are native to the Andes Mountains in South America and are recognized worldwide for the soft, luxurious fur. They are nocturnal (meaning they are generally most active at night) and have an average life span of 10 years.

Where Can I Find One:
Most chinchillas can be purchased from pet stores or through breeders; though they can also often be found at exotic pet shows. Be sure to pick out a healthy looking animal that is bright and alert, moves quickly when startled, and is neither too fat nor too thin. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to feel a thin layer of fat over the ribs with only slight pressure. Also avoid any animal that has diarrhea or moistness around the anal area, as this may indicate a gastrointestinal problem. Luckily, most pet stores and breeders offer a 48hr health guarantee for your new pet so it is important to take them to a veterinarian familiar with chinchillas to have their overall health checked within this time period.

Cage Setup:
Your chinchilla should be kept in a cage that allows plenty of room for exercise. They are active animals that will benefit from a cage large enough to allow easy movement. Multi-tiered wire mesh ferret cages are popular with many chinchilla owners for this very reason. If you do use a wire mesh cage be sure to cover part of the floor with either plexiglass or a piece of wood to relieve some of the pressure on their feet from the wire cage. Newspaper can be used as a cheap substrate in the bottom of the cage to catch any droppings and urine. It is recommended to clean the cage at least weekly with soap and water but be sure to rinse the cage thoroughly before putting your pet back in.

Your chinchilla will also benefit from a having a soft blanket or towel to sleep in. Just make sure your chinchilla isn't chewing on it or eating it as this may lead to a blockage that could be potentially fatal. Small chew toys or pieces of wood are much better options for your chinchilla to give his teeth a workout on. These objects will help wear down their teeth and keep your pet healthy. Lastly, make sure there is a small bowl or container setup for their dust bath. More on this interesting behavior will be covered at the end of the article.

Diet:
A chinchilla diet consists mainly of grass hay offered freely 24 hrs a day. On occasion alfalfa, fresh fruits and vegetables, or some grains can be offered as a small treat but be sure to only offer these sparingly. If you wish to offer rabbit/chinchilla pellets as a diet supplement you may do so but don’t offer any more than a few tablespoons. Water should be available 24 hrs a day in either a dish or water bottle. Make sure to check the water bottle daily as food can get stuck in it and prevent it from working.

Special Considerations For Owning a Pet Chinchilla:
Fur Slip:
If stressed or handled too roughly chinchillas have the ability to release or “slip” patches of fur off. Normally no permanent damage occurs from this and the fur will generally re-grow, although it may take several months.

Antibiotic Sensitivity:
Like other rodents, chinchillas are very susceptible to antibiotic toxicity. Some antibiotics, like penicillin and erythromycin, can even be fatal. For this reason, owners should NEVER give their pet chinchilla and medications without first checking with their veterinarian.

Dust Bathing:
Chinchillas have a unique grooming habit called dust bathing. Every day, they should be provided with a bath containing 9 parts of silver sand to 1 part of Fuller’s earth; these ingredients are available at most pet stores. Enough dust should be provided for the chinchilla to roll around in. Be sure to remove the dust bath after each use and to make sure it remains free of any urine or feces.

Heat Stroke:
Chinchillas, like many rodents, are very susceptible to heat stroke. They have a thick coat that is great for surviving cool mountain temperatures but not for the summer heat in an uncooled room. Environmental temperatures should be kept below 80 oF (27 oC); and high humidity should be avoided as well.


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Household Hazards: The Kitchen

Over the course of the next few months we will be posting articles describing potential hazards to your pets that can be found throughout your home. We start this series with an article about the hazards that can be found in a room we use every day to prepare our own meals...the kitchen.



The kitchen may seem like a fairly safe place for our pets to most of us. After all if it’s OK for me to eat why shouldn’t it be OK for Fido as well? In truth we must remember that cats and dogs are very different from people and that many foods that we eat on a daily basis can actually be harmful to our pets. It is important that we pay attention when our pets are in the kitchen with us to make sure that they don’t accidentally get any potentially harmful foods.

Foods to watch out for:
-alcohol
-avocado
-chewing gum, candy, and breath fresheners containing xylitol
-chocolate
-coffee grounds
-fatty foods
-garlic
-grapes/raisins
-macadamia nuts
-onions
-salt
-tea
-yeast dough

Being food conscious doesn’t just stop at the dinner table either. We must make sure that our pets can’t get into the trash and eat our food scraps as well. Often times the food they find in here can be moldy or have bacteria growing on it and these can also make our pets sick.

Cleaning supplies are another potential hazard to our pets that can often be found in the kitchen. While many household cleaners are safe to use around dogs and cats it is important to read the labels before we use them. For example, if the label states “keep pets and children away until dry,” follow these directions to prevent possible health risks. Another example would be using bleach. While bleach can often be used safely with no ill effects if it is used in high enough concentrations the vapors can irritate the eyes, throat, and skin and if swallowed may cause stomach upset, drooling, vomiting or diarrhea, or severe burns.

In general to prevent any accidents it is best to store all cleaning supplies in a secure cabinet out of reach of pets and in their original packaging or a clearly labeled and tightly sealed container.



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And The Results Are In!

The dog wash this past Sunday was a huge success. All said and told just under $900 was raised during this one day event. A huge thanks to everyone who came out to donate their time and money. We all had a blast and it was for a great cause.

Pictures from this event will be available soon on the Phillie Ta-Tas official blog. Read more...

Why Should I Buy My Pet’s Medication From My Veterinarian?

You, much like many other people, may ask yourself why should you get your pet’s medication from your veterinarian when it would be so much easier to get them elsewhere. What may not be initially clear is how purchasing medication from a reputable source, like your veterinarian, not only offers you the peace of mind you get knowing that your pet is getting the best possible care but that it is also better for your pet’s overall health.

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The following is a list compiled by the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association of the top reasons to get your pet’s medication from your veterinarian.

1.) Your veterinarian knows your pet and your family (both 2-legged and 4-legged). He or she is familiar with your pet’s specific health needs and the environment where you live.

2.) Medications are usually dosed on a weight basis. It is important that your veterinarian determines your pet’s weight and calculates the correct dosage to achieve the desired effect from the medication. Your pet’s current health condition may also alter the final dosage.

3.) There are several medications that should not be administered until your veterinarian determines that it is safe for your pet to be given them. For example, heartworm preventatives should not be administered to dogs with a heartworm infection because it can potentially lead to a fatal reaction. Therefore, it is important to consult with your pet’s veterinarian to determine what heartworm prevention program and timetable best suits your individual pet’s needs.

4.) Dog and cat owners should keep in mind that cats are not small dogs, nor are dogs large cats. Many medications that are administered to dogs are not safe for cats (they can be fatal), and the reverse is also true.

5.) Many medications need to be reconstituted or diluted specifically for your pet. Some medications must be kept in a controlled environment or refrigerated. The medications that are shipped to your veterinarian are properly packaged and delivered under controlled temperatures so you don’t have to worry about receiving “spoiled” medicines that were exposed to temperature extremes, sunlight, moisture, etc.

6.) Each animal is a different and unique individual. Some breeds and species have special needs or sensitivities that your veterinarian is aware of and he or she can select the product best suited for your pet.

7.) Some medications require follow-up monitoring for adverse reactions or dosage adjustments. If an adverse reaction does occur, it is important to have established a veterinary-client-patient relationship to ensure that your pet receives appropriate medical attention on an emergency basis. An adjustment to the dosage may need to be made after lab tests and/or examinations are performed.

Your pet’s health and well-being, as well as your satisfaction as an informed, valued pet owner, is your veterinarian’s primary goal.

Keep in mind also that medicine prescribed and purchased at your veterinarian’s office comes with the comfort of knowing that you and your pet are individuals and have distinct needs that can best be served by your veterinarian.


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Speedlinks: August 25, 2009

Your portal to the most interesting, absurd, and unbelievable animal stories in the news today.


-A 48-year-old female elephant named Motala walks on her newly attached prosthetic leg. Hopes to return to professional sports sometime next year.

-Bluefin tuna around Europe seen crossing their fins in hopes of being removed from many Europeans dinner menu.

-People imitating monkeys linked to how people interact in social groups. Anybody who has ever attended a college party says, "well d'uh."

-New species of worm drops a bomb on undersea scientists. Scientists too stunned to comment.

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Dog Wash Benefit for Breast Cancer

The Animal Clinic at Thorndale will be hosting a benefit dog wash on Sunday August 30th. The event is being held to raise funds for a group of women who work at the clinic and will be participating in Philly's 3-Day Breast Cancer walk in October. More information about the participants as well as further fundraisers they will be holding can be found here.

Date: Sunday August 30, 2009
Time: 10:00AM - 3:00PM
Where: The Animal Clinic at Thorndale parking lot.

Further information on the Philly 3-Day can be found here. Read more...

The Animal Clinic at Thorndale Starts Blogging

Welcome to the brand new Animal Clinic at Thorndale blog! We hope this will provide a forum for you learn and share stories about all your wonderful companions whether they are furry, feathered, or scaled. Here is a list of features we plan on showcasing in our blog.

1.) Ask The Veterinarian: This is your chance to ask one of our three resident veterinarians those burning questions you have regarding your pets and their well-being. Each month one question will be chosen and a post will be published here on our blog.

2.) Product Recalls And Other Important Press Releases: We will also be updating the blog with posts to provide you with the latest, most reliable information dealing with any product recalls as well as any information that is important to your pet’s health.

3.) Interesting News Stories: Find links to interesting pet and animal stories from around the globe.

4.) Pet Spotlight: Whether it’s to share a fond memory, funny story, or just to tell the world just how great they are this is your chance to share with us just how much you love your pet. All we ask is that you send a picture along to put a face to the story.

5.) And many more so be sure to check back often!


Our hope is that you will find our blog a valuable source of information and a friendly place to stop by and say hello.

Sincerely,
The Dr.’s and Staff at The Animal Clinic at Thorndale Read more...