Pets as Presents?

It's hard to resist the joy of giving your favorite loved one the pet they've always wanted for Christmas. However, the result of many of these well intentioned gifts is animals that are unwanted, uncared for and oftentimes sent to shelters. 

An animal of any kind (even one as small as a fish or a hamster) is not a light, last minute purchase. Bringing a new life into the house should be well thought out and discussed with the entire family. 

Holiday pets often get ignored in the holiday rush. Christmas morning is filled with so many presents, lots of food, family and relatives coming over...then there's New Years in a few days. You think it's stressful on you? Thank about what a pet who's never been in your house before would be thinking. A new pet needs lots of quiet and calm. A new puppy or kitten needs to watched constantly and settle into a routine so they can become a happy member of the family. This is impossible to accomplish on Christmas. The new pet will just end up confused and scared. 

You should never pick an actual pet for another person, even a child. Bring the child along to pick out the animal and let it be a family event. All animals (even hamsters and fish) have distinct personalities and letting your entire family help with the choice makes the animal more special to them. Besides, don't you want to see how the puppy interacts with your entire family? That great puppy you pick out for your son might not like kids. Your son might decide the puppy you like plays too rough. Your kids may decide they'd rather have a cat! 

New Puppies

Almost every child asks Santa for one, however a dog is MAJOR purchase and a new puppy needs lots of attention and care. With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas/New Year holiday, the puppy probably won't get the attention it needs. That's not even taking into account all the ribbon, trees, rich Christmas foods, chocolate and other dangers the puppy could unintentionally get in while your family is busy with their other gifts. 

Alternate ideas: Give the kids a stuffed puppy and tell them the new puppy is coming. Wrap a puppy bowl, collar, crate and other puppy supplies with a "certificate" to get a puppy at a later date. All of this stuff should be set up and ready for the puppy when it comes home anyway. This way, you and your family can set it up while you tell them about the responsibility of a new dog. Another great idea is a few books on puppy care (especially if you have an older child).

New Kittens

Kittens don't take quite as much attention as puppies but they can still get into a lot of trouble at Christmas. Kittens are notorious for swallowing tinsel and ribbon and getting lots of stomach problems. Small kittens scare easily and the safest retreat will probably be up the tree which can be dangerous. 

Alternate ideas: Cat care kits, litter boxes, cat toys, books on kitten care. The litter box and a bed for kitty should be in place before he gets to his new house. You and the kids can decide where to put it.

Holiday Pet Safety

Holly, Jolly and Oh-So-Safe! Of course you want to include your furry companions in the festivities, pet parents, but as you celebrate this holiday season, try to keep your pet's eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. And be sure to steer them clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations:
O Christmas Tree Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.
Tinsel-less Town
Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching "toy" that's easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It's best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
No Feasting for the Furries
By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising fur kid will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.
Toy Joy
Looking to stuff your pet's stockings? Choose gifts that are safe.

• Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.
  
• Long, stringy things are a feline's dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that's too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.

Forget the Mistletoe & Holly
Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
Leave the Leftovers
Fatty, spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won't lead to costly medical bills.
That Holiday Glow
Don't leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!
Wired Up
Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws' reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet's mouth.
House Rules
If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you're busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.
Put the Meds Away
Make sure all of your medications are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.
Careful with Cocktails
If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.
A Room of Their Own
Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.
New Year's Noise
As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat's intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears.

Dog Waits for Santa

Holiday Pet Gifts

Are you looking for a gift for your canine friend that is sure to get the tails wagging and paws pouncing this holiday season? For the safety conscious pet, you could always get them a new travel carrier or car seat harness. Or for the sophisticated pet, try some baked doggie goods from your local doggie bakery. If purchasing special goodies from bakeries isn’t your thing, make your own doggie treats! For the owner on a budget or for the pet who has everything, the gift of time is the top gift for any pet this year.

 

Table Foods and Pets

Did you know that some common “people foods” can be extremely dangerous to your pet’s health? Foods such as onions, macadamia nuts, avocado, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and parts of the turkey, just to name a few, should never be fed to your animal companions. While you are enjoying your holiday meal this season, be sure to keep plenty of pet-friendly treats on hand so your four legged family member will be less likely to beg for scraps.

 

Pet Food Drive

Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital is proud to be hosting a Food Drive for the local Humane Society this month! We are accepting pet food donations at our facility and would appreciate any help that is given. Small bags of pet food and small cans are accepted and appreciated. Bring in pet food today and let's help other pets in need this holiday season!

 

National Mutt Day!

Today is National Mutt Day! National Mutt Day is all about embracing, saving and celebrating mixed breed dogs. There are millions of loving and healthy mixed breed dogs sitting in shelters, which are desperately searching for a new home. Consider a mixed breed pet for your next furry family member! 

 

Thansgiving Pet Safety Tips

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know?
-Cancer accounts for nearly 50% of all disease-related pet deaths each year
-One in four dogs die of cancer.
-Approximately 1 in 4 dogs develops a tumor of some kind during his lifetime.
-Just like in humans, cancer can occur in any part of your dog’s body.

Are you aware that November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month? Run your hands over your pet and feel for any unusual lumps or bumps. If you feel something new or unusual, let's take a look at it. Dogs and cats can get benign lumps such as lipomas and sebaceous cysts, but they can also get much more serious tumors, like mast cell tumors, melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and many others. Many of these can be diagnosed with a simple in-office procedure involving a needle aspirate and then a microscopic exam of the cells obtained. A fine needle aspirate is generally less painful than a vaccination, so don't hesitate to get that lump checked out. The importance of annual check-ups regardless of the age of your pet is critical in the prevention of cancer. 

Here are the top 10 early warning signs of pet cancer listed out by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

1. Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
2. Sores that do not heal
3. Weight loss
4. Loss of appetite
5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6. Offensive odor
7. Difficulty eating or swallowing
8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9. Persistent lameness or stiffness
10. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

Better to be safe than sorry, and much better to catch something sooner rather than later!

National Senior Pet Month

November is Senior Pet Month. Do you have an older cat or dog sharing your home? If so, you know the joys of pets who might have less spunk but more soul. Here are five reasons to love a senior pet.
1. Distinguished look
You know how as we age, we are said to look distinguished? The same is true for our pets. I think senior cats project an air of peaceful dignity. And who can resist the precious gray muzzle of an older dog?
2. Laid-back lifestyle
For kittens and puppies, most any time is play time. Older pets, however, don’t need to release all that youthful energy. They are quieter and often content to just watch what’s going on in the living room or outside the window. Cuddling next to you takes precedence over most anything else.
3. Fewer demands
Older pets still need love and attention, but they don’t require babysitting like a frisky puppy or curious kitten. Some older pets have special medical needs, but after all they’ve given us through the years, it’s an honor to take care of them in return.
4. Wisdom of the ages
When I look into the eyes of a senior dog, I see a world of experience and wisdom. Older pets know what to expect, and are generally reliable and even. They require little training since they already know the rules.
5. They might be just like you!
As we get older, our needs and routines change. We might prefer quiet evenings at home rather than going out on the weekends. We still like to exercise, walk, or even run—but sometimes we go at a different pace. We might even nap in our chair occasionally. If you have a senior dog, you might find that he’s just like you!

National Pet Wellness Month

October is National Pet Wellness Month! This month focuses on educating pet owners about wellness examinations, disease prevention, and pet health insurance. When was your pet's last wellness exam? Call us at 818-248-3963 to schedule your pet's wellness examination today!

 

Teamwork has never been more adorable.

Wackiest Pet Names of 2011

Ozzy Pawsbourne and Almost-A-Dog top this year's list of quirkiest monikers.
Fido, Spot or Fluffy? For some peculiar pet owners, these names are just too traditional. Although "Bella" and "Max" currently lead the pack as the nation's most popular pet names, thousands of other four-legged friends have much more distinctive names.


So drumroll, please... the 10 Most Unusual Dog and Cat Names for 2011:
Dogs

1. Almost-A-Dog
2. Franco Furter
3. Stinkie Mcstinkerson
4. Sir Seamus McPoop
5. Audrey Shepburn
6. Dewey Decimell
7. Knuckles Capone
8. Beagle Lugosi
9. Shooter Mclovin
10. Uzi Duzi-Du

Cats

1. Ozzy Pawsbourne
2. Mr. Meowgi
3. Murderface
4. Fuglee
5. Scruffernutter
6. Corporal Cuddles
7. Cat Masterson
8. Spam
9. Tape W. Orm
10. Louisiana Purchase

Happy Healthy Cat Month

The CATalyst Council has declared September as Happy Cat Month. This month is dedicated to finding ways to keep our feline friends happy, healthy and purring all year long. Click the link below for the top 10 ways to keep your feline friend happy.

National Dog Day

Today is National Dog Day! Today is the day to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year, and acknowledge family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort. Tell us your favorite story about the canine companion in your life.

 

Don’t run the risk of losing with your pet with no chance of reuniting. Even if your pet never wanders away, remember that in old age, pets have a tendency to lose their scent and can wander too far to retrace their steps. At Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital, we recommend a microchip for every cat and dog.

 

Today is National Assistance Dog Day!

Today is National Assistance Dog Day! Assistance Dogs transform the lives of their human partners with physical and mental disabilities by serving as their companion, helper, best friend and close member of their family. We would like recognize and honor the hardworking assistance dogs and honor the puppy raisers and trainers of assistance dogs as well as recognize the heroic deeds performed by assistance dogs in our community.

 

Boarding Pets of the Month

Stella and her sidekick Chester are the Boarding Pets of the Month for July! Stella is a 4 year old terrier mix and Chester is a 1½ year old terrier mix. They were the talk of the kennels when they boarded recently because they were always ready to jump in your arms and give us love and kisses! They are a great pair and we can’t wait to have them stay again!

Pets in Cars

 It’s fun to take your pet in the car when you’re running errands, but in the summer heat, the car can become a potential death trap. Inside temperatures can quickly climb to more than 120 degrees on even a mild sunny day. Never leave your pet unattended inside the car during the summer months. Be sure to bring your pet plenty of water to keep them cool as the season heats up! 

Unlikely Friends

Connecting with Cats Coloring & Fun Book

Click the link below for a 'Connecting with Cats Coloring & Fun Book'! This is a fun and educational activity to do with your family to celebrate our feline friends! Print out the pages, be creative and have fun! 

CLICK HERE FOR THE CONNECTING WITH CATS COLORING AND FUN BOOK! 

Pets and Loud Noises

We would like to share this tip about how to handle your pets during a storm or fireworks. Fear of thunder and other loud noises may drive pets to seek shelter. Their attempts to seek immediate shelter may damage property and cause injury to themselves. Pets that react to loud noises can be trained not to panic. We can review this process and recommend solutions that may help your pet weather through the storm!

 

Boarding Pet of the Month!

We are celebrating seniors with our Boarding Pet of the Month! Birdie is an amazing 19 year old kitty who doesn’t usually board. But she and her brother Boomer decided to stay with us for a few days. Birdie is also deaf and blind but that doesn’t slow her down at all! Birdie it has been a pleasure having you stay in our kitty condos for this vacation.

 

Lost Dog Returned Home After 5 Years

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June is National Microchipping Month!

National Microchipping Month is a campaign that encourages and promotes responsible pet ownership through microchipping as the preferred method of permanent pet identification. Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital recommends getting your pet microchipped with the Home Again Microchip! Make your appointment to get your pet microchipped so they will always make it back home again!

 

Greysave to Receive $300 Donation! Thanks to Jessica Speas!

The California Pet Lover’s License Plate created the “1 in 100” promotion to encourage pre-orders, offering a $300 donation to the animal-related non-profit chosen by each of the winners selected in the drawing. Guess what? Jessica Speas from our practice WON! She has decided that she would like the $300 donation to go to GreySave!

Click here to learn more about Greysave!

 

Attention California drivers!

Order your new spay/neuter license plate today and be part of the movement to end pet homelessness. There are great promotions that have just launched to support the California Pet Lover's License Plate, also known as the CA Spay & Neuter License Plate. Proceeds from the plate provide funding for free or low-cost spay & neuter surgeries across California, and also help to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering. Every new plate buyer is automatically entered into a drawing. For every 100 new orders received after March 1st, 2011 one person will be selected to have a $300 donation made in their name to the shelter or animal non-profit of their choice. You can make a difference!

 

Trifexis Gift Basket

Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital is so excited to have a new canine oral flea and heartworm medication! Trifexis is a monthly chewable tablet for dogs that kills fleas, prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls adult hookworm, roundworm and whipworm infections. Purchase 6 doses of Trifexis and you will be entered to win this summer fun gift basket, PLUS an additional 6 month supply of Trifexis! The raffle winner will be drawn on June 30th. Purchase today and enter to win!

 

Proper Way to Remove a Tick

When temperatures soar, remember to watch your pet closely for signs of heatstroke or dehydration. Because dogs and cats don’t perspire heavily, their body temperatures rise much quicker than people’s body temperatures. We recommend scheduling exercise in the cooler mornings and evenings…and stopping for rest if your pet is lagging behind, even slightly. Plenty of shade and fresh water is a must, and keep your pet inside for those particularly hot afternoons. Just a tip so you and your pet can enjoy this great season together! 

Boarding Pet of the Month

Bernie is our boarding pet of the month! He boards with us often and always has a great friendly wagging tail. He is actually 12 years old but has the spark of a puppy. Go Bernie!

 

Spring is here! It's time to go outdoors with your pet and check out all flowers and plants.  Make sure to keep an eye on your pet in case a bee decides he doesn't want your pet to get up close and personal.  There are all sorts of flying critters out in the garden, so make sure your pet is protected from allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Protect your pet so you both can enjoy the spring season together! 

Happy Mother's Day!

We would like to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. You are appreciated and we are sure if your pets could, they would say the same thing! Have a great Mother's Day everyone!

This week is Be Kind to Animals Week!

Join the event that’s been celebrated every year since 1915 -- American Humane Association’s Be Kind to Animals Week. In this annual tradition, we commemorate the role animals play in our lives, promote ways to continue to treat them humanely, and encourage others, especially children, to do the same. While Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated only once a year, we should strive to always be kind to animals every day. What is the kindest thing you've done for your pet today?

 

Fleas

As the temperature begins to raise so does something else…the flea population! Ideally, flea control should begin as flea prevention…before flea season starts. As a loving pet owner, you’d do anything to prevent your cat or dog from suffering, after all, they’re part of the family. Yet every year when flea season begins, it’s like an old broken record. Fleas bite, and the scratching and chewing starts again. It’s a painful and irritating routine for you and your pet. But that’s not all. The adult fleas on your pet can actually cause serious medical problems…like flea allergy dermatitis or tapeworms, and in some extreme cases, anemia. We can help! Ask us about how to keep your pet flea free, at your next visit! 

Pets & Cookouts

Cookouts and family get-togethers are great springtime activities.  However, the food we often enjoy at these events can make pets sick and even cause Pancreatitis, which is a very serious disease. Any food that is not made for your pet…is not good for them.  We want to remind you to bring plenty of food and treats for your pets so they can join in the fun without risking a stomachache or other illness later.

Veterinarians Caution Pet Owners: Dangers at Easter Time

Hundreds of cats poisoned by Easter lilies each year

The veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline, a national 24/7 animal poison control center, receive hundreds of calls this time of year from pet owners and veterinarians concerning cats that have ingested Easter lilies.
“Unbeknownst to many pet owners, Easter lilies are highly toxic to cats,” said Ahna Brutlag, DVM, assistant director at Pet Poison Helpline. “All parts of the Easter lily plant are poisonous – the petals, the leaves, the stem and even the pollen. Cats that ingest as few as one or two leaves, or even a small amount of pollen while grooming their fur, can suffer severe kidney failure.”
In most situations, symptoms of poisoning will develop within six to 12 hours of exposure. Early signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy and dehydration. Symptoms worsen as kidney failure develops. Some cats will experience disorientation, staggering and seizures.
“There is no effective antidote to counteract lily poisoning, so the sooner you can get your cat to the veterinarian, the better his chances of survival will be,” said Brutlag. “If you see your cat licking or eating any part of an Easter lily, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately. If left untreated, his chances of survival are low.”
Treatment includes inducing vomiting, administering drugs like activated charcoal (to bind the poison in the stomach and intestines), intravenous fluid therapy to flush out the kidneys, and monitoring of kidney function through blood testing. The prognosis and the cost – both financially and physically – to the pet owner and cat, are best when treated immediately.
There are several other types of lilies that are toxic to cats as well. They are of the Lilium and Hemerocallis species and commonly referred to as Tiger lilies, Day lilies and Asiatic lilies. Popular in many gardens and yards, they can also result in severe acute kidney failure. These lilies are commonly found in florist bouquets, so it is imperative to check for poisonous flowers before bringing bouquets into the household. Other types of lilies – such as the Peace, Peruvian and Calla lilies – are usually not a problem for cats and may cause only minor drooling.
Thankfully, lily poisoning does not occur in dogs or people. However, if a large amount is ingested, it can result in mild gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Other Dangers to Pets at Easter Time

Pet Poison Helpline also receives calls concerning pets that have ingested Easter grass and chocolate.
Usually green or yellow in color, Easter grass is the fake grass that often accompanies Easter baskets. When your cat or dog ingests something “stringy” like Easter grass, it can become anchored around the base of the tongue or stomach, rendering it unable to pass through the intestines. It can result in a linear foreign body and cause severe damage to the intestinal tract, often requiring expensive abdominal surgery.
Lastly, during the week of Easter calls to Pet Poison Helpline concerning dogs that have been poisoned by chocolate increase by nearly 200 percent. While the occasional chocolate chip in one cookie may not be an issue, certain types of chocolate are very toxic to dogs. In general, the darker and more bitter the chocolate, the greater the danger. Baker’s chocolate and dark chocolate pose the biggest problem. The chemical toxicity is due to methylxanthines (a relative of caffeine) and results in vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, an abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and possibly death. Other sources include chewable chocolate flavored multi-vitamins, baked goods, or chocolate-covered espresso beans. If you suspect that your dog ate chocolate, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately.
Spring is in the air and Easter is a wonderful holiday. Remember that your pets will be curious about new items you bring into your household like Easter lilies, Easter grass and chocolate. Keep them a safe distance away from your pets’ reach and enjoy the holiday and the season.

About Pet Poison Helpline
Pet Poison Helpline™, a division of SafetyCall International®, is an animal poison control service based out of Minneapolis available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff can provide treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $35 per incident includes unlimited follow-up consultations. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

Pet Boarders of the Month

Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital is proud to honor Nipper and Coal as our Pet Boarders of the Month for April. Nipper and Coal are one year old brothers who are extremely affectionate with each other and us. They made us all smile and gave us lots of brotherly love while they boarded! We hope to see them again soon in our boarding cat condos!

As winter leads into spring, there are other safety concerns that you should be aware of regarding your pets. One of the main concerns involves lawn and garden products. Fertilizers can be very harmful and even deadly to pets so be sure to keep these products out of reach. Follow the directions on the fertilizer bag to the T! 

Easter Pet Tips

As you enjoy the outdoors and related activities this year, don’t forget to frequently check your pets for fleas and ticks.  These parasites will attach themselves to any available, warm-blooded host and engorge themselves.  They can carry a variety of serious diseases, some even life-threatening.  Ask any one of our staff members for recommendations on how to protect your pets from fleas and ticks at your next visit.

April is the American Red Cross's National Pet First Aid Awareness Month! Do you know proper pet first aid techniques? We are offering a Pet First Aid Seminar on Tuesday April 19th at 7:00pm at Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital. Come and let us show you some pet first aid techniques this April 19th!

Spring is upon us and that means Spring break is quickly approaching. If you are taking a vacation and can’t bring your pet along…then leave them with us! We proudly offer boarding services. Spring Break rolls around fast, so make sure to schedule your appointment ahead of time!

Did you know that heartworm, fleas, ticks and other parasites could be prevented?  These pesky critters can wreck havoc on your pet's body.... and…make their lives miserable.  We recommend simple screenings and year round prevention for Heartworm Disease, which can often be fatal, to alleviate your pet from suffering.

Pet of the Month

Crescenta Canada is proud to honor Sally as our Pet of the Month! Sally is a 1½ year old beagle. She is a sweet girl who loves to play. We are sad to see Sally move away with her family to another state. We know that Sally will make lots of new friends on her adventure. Happy tails to you Sally!

VetSource Home Delivery Service

Did you know that you can order a range of quality pet health products right from our website? Ordering is simple and delivered right to your door!  

Click here to learn more about our home delivery service, VetSource.

Thinking of adding a new addition to your family circle? There are a lot of things you need to know before you bring home a new puppy or kitten, such as, what am I going to feed my new friend, where will it sleep, and how do I keep him or her healthy? We encourage you to ask questions and offer puppy and kitten packages to help the newest member of your family begin a long and healthy life.

Winner of our Fun February Pet Photo Contest!

“Hamlet the swimming Boston terrier” won our photo contest in February! We will be sending them a prize!!! Thank you to all those that participated!

Is your pet starting to get a little grey around the muzzle? As your pet ages, it is important to maintain optimum health for their quality of life. Senior pets need more extensive risk assessment visitations. Teeth should be brushed daily, exercise routines are important and remember obesity is the number one health problem in older dogs. With routine blood and urine analysis and more frequent risk assessment exams, your pet will live a long and healthy life.

Does it seem like your dog is out of breath after a walk up the stairs? Or is your cat taking up a lot more space on the top of the couch than he used to? Overweight pets may seem like they are happy, but an extra five pounds can be harmful to their health. They can suffer from heart, lung and joint problems. We recommend a sensible diet along with regular exercise and a trip to our hospital to determine if and how much weight your pet needs to lose.

Don’t forget that February is Dental Care Month and that dental care is one of the most neglected of pet health needs. Our pets need care for their teeth just as we do. Bad breath, drooling and pain while eating are some of the signs of periodontal disease. Regular dental check-ups and proper home care are important for good pet dental health.

Do your pets sleep in your bed?

Pet Oral Health

Could you imagine how your mouth would feel if you never brushed your teeth?

Dental care for pets is the most neglected of all pet health care. Periodontal disease is the most common disease among cats and dogs. You can help your dog by brushing their teeth daily. Don’t let bad breath stand in the way of you and your pet, give them fresh breath and pearly whites.

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

What You Need To Know About Your Pet's Teeth

Valentine's Day Tip

Everyone loves chocolate and our four-legged friends are no exception. Chocolate in all forms is dangerous to cats and dogs as are the plastic or foil wrappers when they are ingested. We recommend that you keep plenty of pet treats on hand so that your pets can join the fun. Also be sure to keep your pets away from any flowers you receive. They may also be dangerous to your pet if ingested.

Three New Loveable Breeds Join AKC Family

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) expanded its litter of registered breeds on January 1, to welcome the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, the Norwegian Lundehund and the Xoloitzcuintli --growing AKC’s family to 170 breeds.
"The AKC is delighted to introduce these three distinct breeds to the public," said AKC Spokesperson Gina DiNardo. "Each loveable breed has a unique and diverse history and is a wonderful addition to the AKC."

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog was bred to move cows from pasture to pasture in the Swiss Alps. The breed is medium-sized and prized for its agreeable nature, trainability, and devotion. Entles are an active, high energy and physical breed with above average exercise requirements, so they are best suited for active families and not the casual dog owner. Additional facts on this breed can be found on the National Entlebucher Mountain Dog Association’s website at: www.nemda.org

The Norwegian Lundehund is known for having six toes on each foot and the ability to tip its head backward until it touches its backbone. These unique characteristics enabled the Norwegian Lundehund to climb steep, rocky cliffs and navigate crevices where the Puffins, a bird they were bred to hunt, nested. Lundehunds make loyal and playful companions, but can be wary of strangers if not socialized. Additional facts on this breed can be found on the Norwegian Lundehund Association of America’s at: www.nlaainc.com

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-etz-queent-lee) is one of the world’s rarest breeds and is still considered a "healer" in remote Mexican and Central American Villages today. The breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard; and two varieties: hairless and coated, which makes the Xolo ideal for those looking for a dog with more variety. They serve as an excellent companion for families due to their attentive and calm nature and require moderate exercise and grooming. Additional facts on this breed can be found on the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America’s website at: www.xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org

In addition, the AKC also welcomed the following breeds into the Miscellaneous Class: Bergamasco, Boerboels, Portuguese Podengo Pequenos, Sloughis, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Pumi, Dogo Argentino and Wirehaired Vizsla.

For breeds to become AKC-registered, they must first be recorded with an accepted registry. The AKC Foundation Stock Service® (FSS®) is the AKC's recording service for purebred breeds that are not yet eligible for AKC registration. After a breed is entered into FSS the recognition process begins with a written request to compete in the Miscellaneous Class from a National Breed Club. While there is no established timetable for adding new breeds, dogs typically compete in the Miscellaneous Class for one to three years. More information on the process can be found at the AKC’s Web site.

Fun February Pet Picture Contest

Take part in our Fun February Pet Picture Contest! “LIKE” our page on Facebook and encourage your friends to do the same. Post a fun picture of your pet on the Crescenta Cañada Pet Hospital Facebook Wall, and you will be automatically entered to win a $50 PetSmart Gift Card. Winners will be chosen at the end of the mo...nth and announced in the first week of March. Upload your fun pet pictures, such as the one below, and win big this February!

CLICK HERE TO "LIKE" US ON FACEBOOK AND UPLOAD YOUR PIC! 

 

BOARDING PET OF THE MONTH

Buddy is our Boarding Pet of the Month. Buddy is a 9 year old male kitty. Buddy loves meal time! Once he hears the opening of the can he wants to be best friends. He is our special little valentine this February!

Senior Pets

Older pets tend to have a tougher time if the weather changes. If you’ve noticed your senior pet struggling to go up and down stairs, or having trouble rising up after a nap, they may be having an arthritic flare-up. We can prescribe them anti-inflammatory medications to help them feel younger again.

Hey Bloggers!

This is Dr. Speas. 

We  are starting a blog for everyone to ask pet health questions and to have a forum for good pet care.  I hope the interchange of ideas will be interesting and insightful.  We will keep it light and I won't speak Latin!  This is new to me so we will see how it goes!  Any comments will be greatly appreciated.

First off, we are having a "What you need to know about your pet's teeth" seminar at the pet hospital on Tues, Feb 15th at 7pm.  Please RSVP at 818-248-3963 as seating is limited.  We will discuss how to check your pet's teeth and gums for signs of disease.  We will cover  what techniques are best to clean the teeth.  How to evaluate  gingivitis and peridontal disease (sorry, that's latin for gums and around the tooth) and the best home preventative measures that pet owners can use.  See you there!

That's all for now!

Hero Saves Poisoned Dog

Boarding Pet of the Month

Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital is proud to honor Spencer Vonderheide as our Boarding Pet of the Month! Spencer is an eleven year old Shih Tzu. He visits us frequently and his favorite thing to do is greet all the other pets. Party on Spencer!

Featured Pet of the Month

Crescenta Canada Pet Hospital is proud to honor Major as our Featured Pet of the Month! Major is a 2 year old retriever. He is a first time boarder at Crescenta Cañada Pet Hospital’s Pet Paws Inn and Spa. Major is a fun, floppy lovable dog! Major’s favorite thing to do while staying at our inn was to carry his toy around.

Tip for Dogs with Dry Skin

Here’s a tip for dogs with dry skin...bathe them less often, and make sure to brush their coat in an effort to rid the skin of dander. When you do bathe your pet, make sure to use a shampoo and rinse made for their special needs. Do not use a shampoo or conditioner made for people. If you would like some help picking out a dog safe shampoo and conditioner, please bring it to our attention at your next visit.

How to Make a Pet Bed from Recycled Sweaters

Dog and cat beds can be very expensive at your local pet boutique, and they tend to look either too generic or too froufrou for my taste. My chihuahua, Gertie, needed a new one, and I was looking for something simple and handmade that wouldn't break the bank. So I looked around at the raw materials I had available, and my endless stash of thrifted wool sweaters called out to me. Perfect!
I pulled a pile of leftover sweater scraps from other projects in a color assortment I liked and went to town with my scissors. Here's how:

Here's the pile of sweater remnants I'm going to reincarnate as a dog bed...

• Cut your pieces into strips. Mine ranged from 1 inch to 2 inches depending on the thickness of the sweater (1 inch for thicker ones, 2 inches for thinner). You may want to make a test swatch before you cut up all of your strips to check the gauge and thickness of your fabric. Cutting thinner strips yields more square footage, but you'll want the bed to be nice and thick so it's comfortable. See what works best for you.

...and here they are after cutting into strips and rolling into balls.

• Begin crocheting the circle. With a jumbo hook, chain 2, then make 5 single crochets into the second chain from the hook.

Begin the circle by chaining 2 and working 5 sc into the 2nd chain from the hook.

• Do not join but continue around, increasing every stitch for the second round, every other stitch in the third round, every third stitch in the fourth round, and so on. Work in this manner until your circle is the size you want the bed to be. (Note: When working with sweaters, I join by simply overlapping two strips for a few inches, twisting them together, and continuing on with the new one. The joining method I used in the T-shirt rug project doesn't work so well for sweater knits.)

Join two strips by overlapping a few inches and twisting them together.

Making Progress!

• Make the sides. Now you can stop increasing, and work the next round even (one stitch in every stitch), working in the front loop only to create a sharper edge at the turn.

Working in the front loop only for the first round of the sides helps create a sharp turn where the bottom meets the sides.

• Work several more rounds, until you have achieved your desired height (after the first round of the sides, revert to working in both loops). When the bed is tall enough, work a few slip stitches to blend into the edge, and finish off. Weave in your tails.
  
  Optional: Make a pillow. Use some more sweater scraps to stitch up a pillow for the bed, and stuff with poly-fill or still more sweater bits. You could also crochet another flat circle piece to cushion the bottom of the bed. Your choice!
  
  Now find a sunny spot for the bed and invite your best friend to try it out. And hey, you deserve a nap, too!

http://www.craftstylish.com/item/41168/how-to-make-a-pet-bed-from-recycled-sweaters