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MARCH 19TH-25TH IS NATIONAL POISON
PREVENTION WEEK!!
March 19th-25th marks National Poison Prevention Week and the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and the NAPCC (National Animal Poison Control Center) has an objective to educate pet owners about the importance of poison safety.
The Center is the first and only 24hr poison control hotline for animals in North America. The number for consultation services is 1-888-4ANI-HELP.
PET POISON PREVENTION TIPS....
* Be aware of the potentially toxic plants you have in your home and yard. These include azalea, oleander, castor bean, sago palm, Easter Lily (cats only) or yew.
* Store all cleaners, pesticides, automotive products, and medications in a secured area.
* Never give your animals medication unless you are directed to do so by your veterinarian.
* Keep all prescription and over the counter drugs out of your pet's reach.
* Never leave chocolate unattended.
* Many common household items can be lethal to animals...such as mothballs, potpourri oils, coffee grounds, homemade play dough, fabric softener sheets, dishwashing detergent, batteries, cigarettes, alcoholic drinks, hand and foot warmers and coins.
* Read all of the information on the label before using any product on your pet or in your home. Always follow the directions and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure!
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HOW DOES YOUR VETERINARIAN MAKE A DIAGNOSIS?
The approach to any health problem is based on training, experience and even probability. Some health problems are common...and others are rare. Some problems occur more commonly in young animals, while others are more frequently seen in older pets. Certain disease can be diagnosed in pets that have been in one part of the country but they rarely occur in other locations. These concepts, in addition to the following, all play a role in how your veterinarian determines what is ailing your pet when they are ill. The patient's history, physical exam, and results of diagnostic tests each have their importance in giving us information to make a diagnosis.
HISTORY & EXAMINATION
After getting a thorough history of your pet's problem and examining your pet, we go through a mental or written process of listing all the abnormalities from that history and physical examination. We then decide which organ(s) and/or disease(s) may be causing the problem(s) and narrow down the lists based on your pet's age, breed, sex, travel history, and abnormal exam findings.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTING
Tests are often recommended to determine which organ(s) and/or disease(s) may be responsible for your pet's problem(s). Tests are often recommended in stages, beginning with screening tests, such as bloodwork and/or x-rays. Based on the results of the screening tests, more sophisticated tests, which often cost more, may be recommended.
Although we cannot predict what will be found on any specific given test, usually they can provide more specific information to help us reach a definitive diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for your pet.
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Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day
from the Doctors & Staff at Heart Arrow!
'May your blessing outnumber the shamrocks that grow...
and may trouble avoid you wherever you go!'
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Always in our hearts, Powder ~~~~
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