Protect Your Pets with These Water Safety Tips

There's nothing better than cooling off in a pool, lake or the ocean on a hot day, particularly if you wear a fur coat year-round. Unfortunately, our pets aren't aware of the dangers that water can pose. A few precautions can help you ensure that your pet enjoys the water safely this summer.
...Read Full Article

Does Your Dog Suffer From Anxiety?

Anxious dogs tend to act out in ways their people do not like. If you have ever returned home to discover shredded pillows or bite marks on your front door, you are probably familiar with the consequences of anxiety. Understanding why your dog is anxious is the key to helping your dog overcome this common problem.
Read Full Article

Seasonal Allergies Can Make Your Pet Miserable

Winter is quickly becoming a distant memory as the days warm up and plants and trees come into bloom. Unfortunately, the change in seasons can cause unpleasant symptoms for pets that suffer from seasonal allergies. Because dogs and cats do not experience the same allergy symptoms as people, you might not even be aware that your pet has allergies.
Read Full Article

Gastroenteritis in Pets

Gastroenteritis in Pets

Lengthy bouts of vomiting and diarrhea can be a sign that your pet has gastroenteritis, a common condition that occurs when the lining of the stomach and intestines becomes irritated. Since frequent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, a visit to the veterinarian is a good idea if you notice any of the signs of gastroenteritis....Read the full article

Giant Kidney Worms in Dog of Local Military Veteran

On 7/17/2015 “Bob” Brim presented to Redmond-Kirkland Animal Hospital for a two day history of blood in his urine and excessive drinking/urinating.  He was adopted 6 months prior to presentation.  The shelter said “Bob” had been rescued from a neglectful owner.  He had not been outside of Washington since being adopted and the owner did not know where he lived prior to adoption. With diagnostic testing, Dr. Andrea Hoover was able to diagnose “Bob” with Giant Kidney Worms.  She coordinated with the surgery specialists at Seattle Veterinary Specialists for “Bob” to have a Nephrectomy (kidney removal) on 7/20/2015 for removal of the kidney worms.  They found one male worm free in the abdomen and one female worm in the kidney.

“Bob’s” background story from owner Andrew Brim:

Bob is Bob.  He's his own dog.  The VA helped locate him for me, WSU rescued him, and after 12 years of stumbling around after serving 6 years in the Marine Corps with depression major, chronic ptsd, and problems maintaining employment.  Within a week of having Bob, I got my rest.  He has earned the title Bob without quotations.  Bob has never been trained, but knows to wake me up during a night terror.  He has his own night terrors from his past, they sound terrifying, and I wake him and hold him.  We get through the tough times together.  Next month is our first full year together.  I am grateful to have Bob in my life, we've both made good progress, and we will continue to do so.  

If you would like to help local pets like Bob, please make a donation to our Angel Fund.  

CLICK HERE to make a donation.

Information on Giant Kidney Worm: http://www.capcvet.org/capc-recommendations/urinar-tract-nematodes/

Redmond-Kirkland Animal Hospital

7251 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE

Redmond, WA 98052

www.redmondkirklandveterinary.com

info@rkvet.com

425-882-8000 p

425-882-8077 fax

Pet Travel Tips

Are you planning to hit the road with your pets this summer?

Whether you are planning a lengthy family road trip or a quick summer getaway, there are some important things you need to know before making the decision to travel with your pets. Use the following tips to guarantee a safe and stress-free trip for the whole family!

CLICK HERE to read the full article.

Hidden Dangers of Over-the-Counter Medications

Hidden Dangers of Over-the-Counter Medications

There are many medications available over the counter (OTC) at pharmacies and grocery stores that we consider to be safe, their use to be routine. We don’t think twice about picking up medications to help with pain or flu symptoms. What many people don’t consider is that these same medications can be very dangerous and even fatal for our pets....Read Full Article CLICK HERE

When Is a Goopy Eye a Problem?

Many dogs have thick eye discharge. Sometimes it is just in the morning; sometimes it has to do with a dog’s breed. Some breeds of dogs have eyes that sit differently in their skull, causing more discharge. And, sometimes, the goopy eye is a sign of a severe, chronic and painful condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). KCS is commonly called chronic dry eye.

CLICK HERE to read full article.

Orthopedic Care for Dogs

Joint problems plague dogs just as commonly as they do humans. That's why orthopedic care can improve your beloved friend's quality of life.... CLICK HERE to read full article.

A Great Tool for Pet Owners

Modern veterinary medicine has seen many technological advances: digital x-ray, color Doppler ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI. There is, however, another great tool that has helped veterinarians and that most people have at their fingertips - their smart phone! ... Read Full Article

When Your Pet's Food Is Recalled

How to Stay Informed About Recalls

According to government regulatory agencies, there are three types of pet food recalls that can be issued. Recalls can be conducted by a company or brand, by request from the regulatory agencies, or by order from the government agency. When your pet's food has been recalled, you'll want to contact your veterinarian immediately. If it's been due to a contamination issue, you'll want to rule out any resulting health concerns. Occasionally pet foods are recalled because of an error in production so that certain nutrients are present in excess.  You'll want to discover if your pet is suffering from any nutritional toxicities, or if there a health-related risks associated with the recall.

You might be thinking, "Wait, how will I know if my pet's food is recalled?" You can stay on top of recalls by signing up for emails at the American Veterinary Medical Association's website or by following nationally recognized veterinary education associations. Other sources can include pet education websites, pet food manufacturer websites, regulation organizations, and your pet's veterinarian.

How to Choose a New Food

Depending on your pet’s species, he or she has very specific nutritional requirements. Instead of substituting something around your home, be sure to call your veterinarian if you need to make a change. You may have something in your home that is temporarily appropriate, but you should give your pet only food designed for them unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian is familiar with the popular pet food brands on the market. If yours is recalled, he or she will be able to make a suggestion for another excellent, nutritionally complete diet. Remember, it's normal for pet food needs to change as a pet grows and ages,  so it could be time to check in with your veterinarian on this topic.

To avoid recalls altogether, some owners choose to prepare homemade foods for their pet. Pet owners should know this requires a great deal of time commitment and know-how. Before diving into making homemade meals for your pet, consult with your veterinarian to discuss what specific nutritional needs your pet requires and which foods to focus on or avoid.  The recipe you follow to make your pet's food should be developed by a veterinary nutritionist, and the meat should be well cooked or this will be the source of Salmonella, Campylobacter, or E Coli for your pet.

Remember to do your homework. If you choose to change food, be sure to investigate the company's recall history before choosing a new brand.

Tip for Making the Transition to a New Food

If you decide to transition your pet to a new food, many people will do this gradually over four to five days by gradually introducing the new food.  For example, the first day you may offer 25% of the new food and 75% of the old food. The third day would be 50 % of each, and then the next day the majority would be the new food, and so on until only the new food is offered. If you have any questions about changing your pet’s diet, always speak with your veterinarian.

Evaluation and Diagnosis of a Red Eye in Dogs

Can My Dog Go Blind from Red Eye?

Prompt evaluation and diagnosis, along with effective treatment, reduces the risk that a red eye will develop into a blind eye. Your veterinarian offers a full range of testing and diagnostic tools to assess your dog’s condition. Schedule an appointment with your veterinary clinic if you notice that your dog develops a red eye.




Dogs occasionally develop a red eye. The redness may be in the white of the eye, in the clear part of the eye called the cornea, or within the eyeball. There are many causes of a red eye, but all ocular diseases should always be considered an urgent matter, and be checked immediately by one of our staff veterinarians.

Evaluation

A dog owner will typically be asked to describe the pet’s medical history, symptoms, and if there were any pertinent events prior to the development of the red eye, such as injury or illness. Our veterinarians will perform a complete physical exam on any dog that has a red eye to look for any other abnormalities that may give a hint as to their cause. Your veterinarian will then concentrate on the eyes. There are three basic ophthalmic tests: a Schirmer test, tonometry, and fluorescein staining.
A Schirmer test measures tear production. Special paper strips are placed in each eye and it is noted how many millimeters of wetness the tears can form in 60 seconds. Too little tear production is called keratoconjuntivitis sicca (KCS) or "dry eye" is the common name. Tonometry is used to measure the pressure inside the dog’s eyes; increased pressure indicates glaucoma. Fluorescein staining checks for any scratch or interruption of the outside covering of the cornea. A positive stain indicates a corneal ulcer.
There are other tests that may be performed. The veterinarian may swab any pus draining from the dog’s eyes and send it to the laboratory for testing. Lab work, including a chemistry panel, a complete blood count, an electrolyte panel and a urinalysis may be performed to check for underlying diseases. An ultrasound of an eye may be done to check for a detached retina or masses within the eye or between the eye and the bony eye socket.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian diagnoses the cause of a dog’s red eye by assessing symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. The most common causes of a red eye are a corneal ulcer, glaucoma, and conjunctivitis.
Corneal ulcers usually result from trauma such as running into a bush, fighting with other pets, or rubbing their eye. Ulcers are treated with topical antibiotics, and checked with fluorescein stain every few days until healed.
Glaucoma can occur in any dog, is sometimes related to other conditions such as cataracts, but is genetic in some breeds. Cocker Spaniels, terriers, Poodles, Basset Hounds, and Beagles are especially prone to this disease. Glaucoma can be very serious, it often leads to blindness. There are topical medications used to reduce the increased pressure.
Conjunctivitis can have many causes. Dry eye causes a conjunctivitis; this is treated with a topical medication that increases the amount of tears produced. Conjunctivitis can also be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, or other irritants.
There are many other causes of a red eye: uveitis, orbital disease, bleeding disorders, trauma, luxated lens, etc. Our veterinarians can sort through all the possibilities and determine the appropriate treatment.  Our veterinarians serve Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue, Sammamish and the entire Eastside.  Call us today to schedule an appointment 425-882-8000 or 425-868-8008.

8 Deadly Foods For Pets

Keep these items out of your pet's reach.

Welcome Dr. Andrea Hoover to our team!

Dr. Hoover graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University in 2009. She practiced for five years in a feline exclusive clinic before joining Redmond-Kirkland and Redmond-Fall City Animal Hospitals in 2014. Her interests include internal medicine, soft tissue surgery and feline behavior. She and her husband enjoy hiking in the local mountains, photography, and spending time with their daughter. They own an English setter, "Jack," who enjoys getting out on the trails, and two very social Bengal cats, "Ryoushi" and "Sasha." Click Here or call us at 425-882-8000 to schedule an appointment.

February is Responsible Pet Owners Month

Did you know that February is Responsible Pet Owners Month? This is a great time to take a step above and beyond your usual excellent pet care. We recommend a dental examination, a healthier diet, or a training session at All Things PAWSitive—anything that makes your pet a happier and healthier member of your family. What are you going to do to celebrate Responsible Pet Owners Month?

6 Common Cat Health Problems

Cats are good at self-maintenance, but even your fastidious feline can't prevent some of the more common cat diseases and health issues. To help you care for kitty, here's a brief overview of six of the most common cat health problems.

Common Cat Health Problem: Vomiting

Vomiting is a very common cat health problem, with causes ranging from eating something poisonous or inedible (like string), to infection, urinary tract disease, or diabetes.

Symptoms are usually obvious, and include drooling and abdominal heaving. Vomiting can quickly leave your cat dehydrated, so if kitty continues vomiting or acts ill, call your vet right away. And, because it's hard for a pet owner to tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, collect a sample of your cat's vomit and take it with you to the vet.

Common Cat Health Problem: Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)

About 10% of cats brought to the vet have feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), which is actually a group of feline diseases with multiple causes.

Female and male cats can get FLUTD, and it often occurs in cats that are overweight, unfit, or who eat dry food. Stress, a multi-cat household, and sudden changes can all raise a cat's risk of FLUTD, and treatment depends on the type of FLUTD your cat has. FLUTD symptoms include:

• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urine
• Urinating in unusual places
• Crying when urinating
• Licking around the urinary area (often because of pain)
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Lack of appetite
• Vomiting

It's always an emergency if your cat can't urinate. Call your vet immediately if you suspect your cat has a urinary tract problem.

Common Cat Health Problem: Fleas

Fleas are a very common external feline health problem, but one you can treat easily. Signs your cat has fleas include:

• Flea dirt on their skin (they look like tiny black dots)
• Constant scratching
• Frequent licking
• Red or irritated skin
• Hair loss
• Skin infections or hot spots

Fleas can live for more than a year, and your cat risks anemia if the problem becomes serious, so be sure to treat your cat's flea problem and prevent future infestations.

Talk to your vet about which flea control would be best for your cat. Treatments include oral medication, powders, foams, and topical medication.

Common Cat Health Problem: Tapeworms

One of the most common feline health problems inside your cat, tapeworms live in kitty's small intestine, sometimes growing as long as two feet.

Symptoms of a tapeworm infection can be subtle, but may include vomiting and weight loss. The easiest way to tell if your cat has tapeworms is to look at its feces and around its anus. If you see small white worms, or what look like grains of rice or sesame seeds, your cat likely has tapeworms.

Treatment options include injection or oral medication, but because cats almost always get tapeworms as a result of swallowing a flea, be sure to handle any flea problems your cat has before tackling tapeworms.

Common Cat Health Problem: Diarrhea

Many things can cause diarrhea in cats, including hairballs, spoiled food, allergies, infection, liver disease, cancer, and more.

Symptoms of diarrhea are loose, watery, or liquid stool. Depending on its cause, diarrhea can last for a day, a week, or even months.

If your cat has diarrhea, offer kitty plenty of fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration, then remove kitty's food for no more than 12-24 hours. Take your cat to the vet if he or she still has diarrhea after a day, or immediately if you notice vomiting, dark, or bloody stools, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or if you cat is straining to defecate.

Common Cat Health Problem: Eye Problems

Eye problems in cats can be caused by a number of things, including conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma, trauma, viruses, inflammation, and retinal disease.

A few symptoms that may mean your cat has eye problems include watery eyes, tear-stained fur, cloudiness, red or white eyelid linings, gunk in the corners of the eye, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a visible third eyelid.

Unless you know what's causing your cat's eye problems, there isn't much you can do other than wipe away any gunk with a damp cotton ball. After that, call your vet.

SOURCES: American Veterinary Medical Association: "External Parasites," "What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?" 

Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County: "About FLUTD. 

"Veterinary Partner: "Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)." "Vomiting and Diarrhea." 

Suevet.com: "Cat Vomiting." 

ASPCA: “Fleas," “Worms," “Diarrhea," “Top Tips for Keeping Kitty's Eyes Healthy.” 

©2011 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 

Source: WebMD.com
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/6-most-common-cat-health-problems

National Pet Travel Safety Day

Today is National Pet Travel Safety Day. A day to remind you to be aware of your pet’s safety during travel. If you’re traveling by car, you should always have your dog in a seat belt and your cat in a strapped-in carrier. If you have questions about your pet’s safety during travel, don’t hesitate to ask us.

Holiday Dog-Friendly Treat Recipe

Here is a dog-friendly treat recipe that your canine companion is sure to love.

Holiday Dog-Friendly Treat Recipe:
ingredients
1 cup shredded roasted turkey meat
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 sweet potato--baked, skin discarded and potato coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cranberry sauce

directions
In a medium bowl, combine the turkey and breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands, then mix in the egg and sweet potato. Shape into two 1/2-inch-thick patties.
In a medium skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the patties and cook, turning once, until golden-brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Top with the cranberry sauce and let your canine enjoy!

Welcome Dr. King!

We are excited to welcome Dr. King to our team! Dr. King graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. She practiced for 4 and 1/2 years at a small animal clinic in Danville Illinois. In 2010, she moved w

ith her husband to the Redmond area where she practiced for two years at a feline only clinic. She is excited to join Redmond-Kirkland and Redmond-Fall City Animal hospitals and once again practice with dogs. Her special interests include preventative and internal medicine, feline medicine and Ophthalmology. While not at the clinic, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and their 7 year old lab mix Cody or at home with their two crazy cats, Kaci and Rocky. Welcome Dr. King!

Holiday Foods

The holidays are almost here, and it’s important to remember to keep your pet safe from dangerous foods. Many of the foods we eat during the holidays, including chocolate, sugary desserts, rich meats, and more are dangerous for our pets to consume. Be sure to advise your holiday guests to not feed scraps to your pets.