PETS AND ELDERLY

PETS AND ELDERLY

Doctors and vets alike have been involved in many studies about the effect that pets have on a person’s health.  Through research it has been determined that having a pet is one of the best investments that you can make in your health and happiness.  Over the past years, scientific research has shown that animals can benefit both our bodies and minds.  Those studied showed lower blood pressures, reduced heart rates, lowered anxiety levels, and also allowed owners to have the ability to show unconditional love and affection.  

These benefits have not been confined to just younger families.  Pets have shown significant impact in the health of our elderly population.  Elderly pet owners tend to live longer, healthier, and happier lives.  These owners show better overall mental and physical strength as those the same age that don’t have pets.  They generally seem to be more active, and seem to cope better with stress and changes in their life.

While some may think that a pet is a large amount of work for the elderly, ensuring proper pet selection is key.  This so called “work” also provides the elderly with recommended exercise even in small amounts and helps them maintain their agility, and a sense of responsibility as they age.

Pets also allow for physical contact, which many elderly experience loss of as children grow up, or after the loss of a spouse.  They allow them to have companionship and someone to be close to when they are alone and visitor free.  Having a pet helps alleviate separation anxiety for seniors.

The benefits of pets considerably outweigh the care that they need.  Over the years vets and doctors continue to find additional benefits through research.  Pets definitely take on a family role in many of our lives. If you think a friend or family member could benefit from a pet the veterinarians at Boca Village can help you find an animal that suits their needs.

LOSS OF PET PART TWO

LOSS OF PET PART TWO

As an owner as well, you must understand that pets cannot just “be replaced”.  While you may feel empty and want to replace your pet right away it is a good idea to take the time to grieve, celebrate your pet’s life, and then prepare to make new memories with a new pet.  You never want to search for pet to replace your lost one, as no two pets will be the same.

Do not rush through the grieving process, because you feel as though you should, and it’s just a pet.  The same as with human loss the grieving process can take time, and will come in stages.  Pets that have been in our lives for years will take longer to get over.  

Seek out friends who are pet owners that have experienced the loss of a pet. They will be your support as they understand your feelings more than someone who has never had that bond.  You can share memories together and assist in the grieving process.

You may find that when you are ready to bring a new pet in your life, it might be beneficial to seek a new breed.  The new pet will never replace the old one, and this may help keep your from comparing and allow you to enjoy your new pets personality.  Let the bonding process begin, and soon you will be on your way to another new friendship. The vets at Boca Village can help you find a new pet to begin bonding with.

LOSS OF PET PART ONE

LOSS OF PET PART ONE

Losing a pet can be just as devastating as the loss of a family member.  In our society pets are part of our families and we have become attached and show just as much love and care to them as we do our family members.  When you lose a pet either expectedly from old age, or unexpectedly from illness you will still need to take time to grieve and deal with the loss.  You will want to find ways to celebrate your pet’s life, and not dwell on the loss.

For people who do not own pets, they may not understand your need to grieve, or the loss.  For them it may be easier to act as if the pet just didn’t exist, or it’s no big deal.  You need to be prepared to deal with this, and realize they are not intentionally trying to hurt you with this, they just do not understand the bond of pet and owner. The vets at Boca Veterinary are very compassionate and can help you through these tough times.

Candy Can Kill Your Pet, So You Better Watch Out! Part 2

Candy Can Kill Your Pet, So You Better Watch Out! Part 2

  One of the most deadly foods our pets can consume is chocolate, which contains both caffeine and theobromine. Caffeine and theobromine are nervous system stimulants. Theobromine is also a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic that can cause your pet’s heartbeat to accelerate or beat irregularly, which can lead to death, especially with exercise. If your pet ingests chocolate, within a few hours they will become hyperactive, pass large amounts of urine and become dehydrated. Other signs of chocolate toxicity are shaking, nervousness, and overreacting to touch, noises, lights and sounds. The fat that is in chocolate can also lead to vomit or diarrhea in your pet, although white chocolate has a lower risk than dark chocolate for causing harm. 
However, chocolate isn’t the only thing that can cause your pet harm. All sugary foods such as candy can lead to obesity, diabetes and dental problems that can, in the long-term, shorten your pets lifespan or require costly procedures. Also, make sure that your children don’t leave their candy or chocolate wrappers lying around after sorting or trading their candy, as your pet can choke on the small wrappers.
Make sure that your trash can and bags of garbage are out of reach and inaccessible to your pet, as many things that we throw away can lead to illness, serious harm or even death for our beloved animals. If your pet eats chocolate contact your Boca Raton Veterinarians! 

Candy Can Kill Your Pet, So You Better Watch Out!

Candy Can Kill Your Pet, So You Better Watch Out! 

Parents usually spend years warning their children not to eat to too much candy or they’ll make themselves sick, but many often forget about the danger candy and chocolate present to their family pets.  A child who overindulges on candy will suffer a stomachache and nausea at the worst, but your dog or cat can die from the sugary treats if they get them in their stomachs.
Our job as pet owners is to keep out pets happy, healthy and safe from harm. Even though we may want to reward our fluffy friends with the human food we get to enjoy, it almost always can lead to illness or death to our beloved pet.
If your pet eats any candy bring them to Boca Raton Veterinarian immediately!

Overcoming Pet Obesity

Overcoming Pet Obesity


Leading your pet down a happy and healthy road isn’t hard. Pets should be provided with a good nutritional diet with rich proteins, with an everyday supplement of amino acids, vitamins and minerals for regaining their stamina. The weight loss should begin to appear gradually. Doing mild exercises such as having your pet run and jump is enough to keep them fit. 
So remember, the next time you see that stray tennis ball or your choosing dog food at the supermarket, a healthy pet is a happy pet! Visit the vets at Boca Village to find the best type of food for your pet!

Obesity in Dogs

Obesity in Dogs


Dogs; a man’s best friend. Little do people know that dogs learn from their owners just like children learn from their parents. If a dog has a couch potatoes owner, what do you think he/she is going to learn from that? The incident that a dog is obese is more likely to be found when the owner is obese as well. Dog breeds that are more likely to become obese include small terriers, cocker spaniels, dachshunds, beagles etc. but overall, every dog runs the risk of becoming obese if the owner doesn’t take the precautions to keep their dog fit. 
Obesity in dogs is mainly caused by the feeding of table scraps. Don’t trust those puppy dog eyes when you’re sitting down enjoying your meal! Spayed female dogs likewise with castrated male dogs are more likely to become obese due to the imbalance of hormones. Underactive thyroid hormones could cause an overweight dog, and of course, when a dog doesn’t get its daily exercise! 
So, if your animal is getting obese come talk to our vets at Boca Village about treating the condition.

Obesity in Cats


Obesity in Cats


Cats; whether outdoor or indoor cats, still have a chance of becoming obese. Nearly 25% of cats are known to be clinically obese. And that myth about those 9 lives a cat has will be shortly proven wrong if their condition doesn’t decrease. 
So what’s the main cause for this? Studies show that it may be due to the aging process or the breed. Genetics which can cause an increase in fat cells could be related to the breed or an ancestor of that cat. Because of the discrimination factor between purebred and mixed breeds, mixed breeds suffer more regularly from obesity than pure breeds. Neutering cats is another cause, resulting in an imbalance in their hormonal level, leading them down the path of obesity. And of course, over eating is a biggest and easiest factor to be sucked into. If your cat is obese come visit our vets at Boca Village.

Pet Obesity Part:1

Pet Obesity

What does it mean to be obese? The definition meaning of being obese is when a body has an over accumulation of excess body fat. Sounds… more or less, unhealthy, correct? Do you think that humans are the only beings suffering from this unhealthy result? Obesity in pets nowadays is becoming more common, causing real problems for them. The results of their obesity could lead to devastating health states such as high blood pressure, skin problems, increased risk of diabetes, mellitus and heat intolerance, all in all, resulting in a higher risk of death and a shorter life span. So, if your animal is getting obese come talk to our vets at Boca Village about treating the condition.

Toy Dogs: Pug

Pug


The Pug comes from East Asia and is known as the biggest family dog there is. With it’s smooshed in face and adorable wrinkles, you can’t help but fall in love with one of them! These loving dogs are very docile and don’t bark a lot. If you’re looking for a puppy for your little tyke, this is the dog! They are very good with children and other animals. Above all, they are extremely intelligent and are very social. The Boca Raton Veterinarians are looking forward to meeting your new addition!

Toy Dogs Part 4

Pekingese:

The Pekingese was originally bred for the Emperors of China. These little dogs have a boisterous personality but they are not very tolerant of children or other animals. They are very good watch dogs and will keep you informed whenever a stranger is approaching the house by barking. These dogs are difficult to train and do as they please. While this is true, they are very loyal and protective of  their owners. Their beautiful long coats will need regular grooming.

Toy Dogs - Part 3

Maltese

The Maltese is the king of queens in the toy dog world; this companion dog  was originally bred for royalty or the very wealthy. They are natural born troublemakers, but are very loyal to their owners. As expected, not all toy dogs are cuddly and warm. The Maltese doesn't have the patience to put up with children, strangers, or other animals. They possess average intelligence and train-ability  but also have a sense of stubbornness to them as well. They’re beautiful coats require frequent grooming and a bath every now and then wouldn't hurt much. Talk about being set up for royalty! The vets and groomers at Boca Village Animal Hospital are looking forward to meeting your Maltese and treating him or her like royalty every time you come in for a visit or appointment.

Maltese in full show coat

Toy Dogs Part 2

Bichon Frise

The name may seem unfamiliar, but this happy go-lucky-puppy is as friendly as can be! As a small dog that was originally bred as a companion dog, the Bichon Frise possesses a boisterous personality, and is very tolerant of children, other animals and strangers. This breed is highly intelligent and very trainable, making fetch all the more fun! These dogs have a short and curly white coat that does require frequent grooming, and will require a bit of washing from time to time. There’s no time like a good bubble bath! We offer professional dog grooming services at Boca Village Animal Hospital.











Chihuahua










Chihuahua Puppy




 The Chihuahua may be the best known of the toy dog breeds. Don’t let their size fool you, this dog carries a punch. They aren’t very tolerant of children, other animals or strangers, but if they’re next to their caretaker, you’ll realize that this dog is a very loving and protective puppy, so this dog would fit best under a one to two person household. They posses average intelligence and trainability, and because of their amount of energy, need to be let out and walked regularly throughout the day. Their coat is of short to medium length and won’t require much grooming. The Chihuahua hails from Mexico originally and is the smallest of the toy dog breeds.



Long Hair Chihuahua

Thinking of a Toy Dog?

• Toy Dogs - Part 1

  Before you get a dog, the Boca Raton veterinarians at Boca Village Animal Hospital encourage you to do your research - a pet is a long term commitment. Be sure to bring your new pet in for a health and wellness check up before you make the final decision.
  
  

  Have you ever wanted a dog, but not the kind that would take up more than half of the bed when you’re sleeping? Or when you’re on a walk and you’re the one controlling which direction you go instead of the other way around? Many people believe that the biggest dogs, like Labradors and German Shepards, are the more loyal dogs. Well, I’m here to tell you otherwise. A dog is a man’s best friend, regardless of shape and size. So, if a lap dog is what you’re looking for, have you ever considered a toy dog?
  
  
  
  
  
  What do you think about when you hear the term “toy dog”? I can tell you one thing, they are not the kind that you wind up and have to insert batteries to make them bark. No, no, they move all on their own and bark whenever they please. Toy dogs, unlike the child’s term, are actually very small dogs, such as Chihuahua’s and the Maltese. They are called “toy” dogs because of their miniature size in comparison with other dogs.
  “Toy” dogs are becoming more and more popular as the days go on. These little dogs are the result of generations of selective breeding, and are generally very good companions. Their miniature size and playful nature just better proves this.
  Most of the toy dog breeds hail originally from Asia where the process of selectively breeding dogs to make them smaller is believed to have begun, but there are plenty of toy breeds from other areas of the world as well. I am going to take you down a list of the top 5 toy dogs to have as a best friend.
  
  
  

  
  

A Letter From the Post Office

A patient brought this to us  at Boca Village Animal Hospital and it was too good not to share:

Unfortunately we don't know who to credit with this wonderful story. 

A Letter from the Post Office... this is absolutely the bes!
We don't know who replied, but there is a beautiful soul working in the deal letter office.

Our 14-year-old dog Abbey died last month.   The day after she passed away my 4-year-old daughter Meredith was crying and Meredith & Abbey talking about how much she missed Abbey.   She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her.   I told her that I thought we could so, and she dictated these words: Dear God, Will you please take care of my dog?   She died yesterday and is with you in heaven.   I miss her very much.   I 'm happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick. I hope you will play with her.   She likes to swim and play with balls.   I am sending a picture of her so when you see her you will know that she is my dog.   I really miss her. Love, Meredith We put the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey & Meredith , addressed it to God/Heaven.   We put our return address on it.   Meredith pasted several stamps on the front of the envelope because she said it would take lots of stamps to get the letter all the way to heaven. That afternoon she dropped it into the letter box at the post office.   A few days later, she asked if God had gotten the letter yet.   I told her that I thought He had. Yesterday, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch addressed, 'To Meredith' in an unfamiliar hand.   Meredith opened it.   Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, 'When a Pet Dies.'   Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God in its opened envelope.   On the opposite page was the picture of Abbey & Meredith and this note: Dear Meredith, Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help and I recognized her right away. Abbey isn't sick anymore.   Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart.   Abbey loved being your dog.   Since we don't need our bodies in heaven, I don't have any pockets to keep your picture in so I'm sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by. Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and sending it to me.   What a wonderful mother you have.   I picked her especially for you.   I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much.   By the way, I'm easy to find.   I am wherever there is love. Love, God

Learn a Dog Trick

Teach Your Dog an Old Trick: On Trust and Paid For

At Boca Village Animal Hospital we know that the bond between humans and their dogs is very strong. Part of that is due to the time you spend together. Teaching your dog tricks not only helps this build bond but it fulfills some dogs need to make you happy!
One of the oldest dog tricks is when you put a treat on your dog's nose and they won't eat it until you give the word. This trick requires a lot of patience. 

Have your dog sit.  Hold the dog's head steady with your hand. Place a treat on their nose. While the head is steady, the treat will be balanced.

Repeat “on trust, on trust” while holding the dog's head steady with one hand. This is teaching the dog patience not to want to grab the treat. Just be gentle and hold up a finger and keep saying, “On trust, on trust,” to the dog.

Releasing the dog’s head, say “paid for “ to the dog. Give a chuck under the dog's chin and encourage the dog to throw the treat up in the air. The dog catches it. Of course the dog will eat the treat when you first start practicing. The dog may take awhile to catch on, so have plenty of treats on hand.

Repeating this continually with the dog will be a fun exercise. The dog will think it’s a game. Eventually you dog will not need your hand holding him steady. Then, try to balance the treat on their nose. The dog cannot move until the "paid for" command is given.

Add to the trick by  talking to the dog using the “on trust” command in the conversation.

Put more focus on the word trust. An example would be, “Izzy, I have a yummy treat, “on trust”. Izzy is a smart dog and won't eat treats on trust but waits until is has been paid for.” Of course placing emphasis on the command paid for.

You can teach your dog to eat the treat on a certain number, using three for instance. Just place the treat on their nose. Hold the dog’s head and count putting emphasis on three, then chuck the dog’s chin. This takes a lot of practice and patience. Try counting out of order and still strongly saying three. Never make the dog wait too long as their patience can wear out; as will yours! They want to eat the treat.

You are the master, be patient. The dog should never be punished for not learning a trick. Just keep practicing and rewarding. Having fun and quality time with your dog is the most important thing while trying to learn dog tricks. Enjoy your dog!
If your dog is trained to do tricks and obey commands it make it so much simpler to take him to your local Boca Raton vet and or other places away from home.

Dogs, Cats and Dreaded Fleas in Boca Raton

Ahhh... the beautiful South Florida.. sunshine.. comfort. beaches.. and .....

FLEAS!!!!

WE HATE THEM!

Something about South Florida just brings out the fleas, all year long, but especially Summer time.


Fleas are a curse on dogs and cats and their owners. These nasty beastly insects inhabit your pets's body, feeding on their blood, and laying eggs in a seemingly never ending cycle.

When the flea bites your pet, it triggers an allergic reaction to the saliva that is excreted by the flea.  The ugly sores that you see are really allergic reactions.   These sores can cause extreme itching and pain for your dog or cat.  It can even cause loss of fur.  These ailments for your pet are complicated by the secondary scratching to relieve the irritation.  We have seen pets develop inflammation and infections, and in some cased they become quite sick.  Not all pets are actually allergic to flea bites.  Even if your pet is lucky enough to be immune though, you can't just sit back.  These nasty bugs  will also infest your home in a heart beat, where they can move on to other pets, and even the humans living in the home..yes.. many of us are also allergic to the flea bite.

OH NO!  DO WE HAVE FLEAS?

OK.. your dog has gone on a scratching marathon, your cat is digging and scratching into her fur, and you are suspecting, maybe we have a flea problem.

Fleas are about an eighth in length and are brownish.   They prefer dark, and will hide beneath the fur, on the tummy, or under a collar.   Their fecal matter, which some people and pets are also allergic to, looks like multiple black specks.. like pepper, on your pets coat, and close in to the skin.   If you find fleas, or their fecal material, do not fool around.  It's time to take care of business before you have a full blown infestation on your hands.

Visit Boca Raton Animal Hospital to set an appointment to discuss your flea eradication needs.

Boca Vet First Post

First Post

I've heard that the traditional first post of anything should be "Hello World".  Well, Hello Boca Raton!

Boca Village Animal Hospital is my veterinary Clinic in Boca Raton.  It has been a long time coming, but it is finally time for us to step into the New Year, with a new way to communicate with our clients... welcome to our Blog.

We are new to the whole idea of blogging, yes there are still some folks out there that struggle with Facebook, and Twitter, even LinkedIn..and we are among those folks, so bear with us as we learn.

Our first post is a simple Hello.  To those of you that are our clients, thank you so much for an amazing 13 years serving your pet needs in Boca Raton.

We are so pleased that you have taken advantage of our services.   We are not just an Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, we are a full service facility, taking care of your pets.

We provide:

• Pet Hospital Services
• Pet Clinic Services
• Pet Grooming
• Pet Bathing
• Pet Day Care
• Pet Boarding

What sets us apart (and we will finish out our first blog with this thought) is that all of us here at Boca Village Animal Hospital care deeply about your pets, and you, their owners.  You will be hard pressed to find a more competent team than the team we have put together over more than a decade, and each of us, no matter how large or small a role we play in the life of your pet, care deeply about the safety, health and comfort of your pet.

We look forward to sharing useful information on our blog in terms of health care for your pets, and thank you for the time you have spent visiting and patronizing our Animal Hospital.