Animal Medical Clinic | Fayetteville, AR Animal Doctor

April Is Pet First Aid Awareness Month in Fayetteville

April 8, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month in Northwest Arkansas and a great opportunity for pet owners to brush up on tips from the American Red Cross to keep their animals safe and healthy as we head into spring and summer.

Our veterinarians at Animal Medical Clinic in Fayetteville, Arkansas and the American Red Cross would like to remind pet owners that they should follow these important steps to help keep their pet healthy:

1.Give pets plenty of exercise.
2.Make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water.
3.Make sure they get regular yearly checkups with their veterinarian, and are up to date on vaccines, especially rabies.
4.Get pets spayed or neutered.
5.Keep dogs on leashes outside – another animal may be too much temptation
6.Know how to perform CPR and provide basic first aid until veterinary care is available

See full story on redcross.org

Share this:

Filed Under: Recent Posts, Seasonal Pet Health Problems Tagged With: american red cross, Animal Medical Clinic, fayetteville ar veterinarian, pet emergency fayetteville ar, pet first aid awareness month

Fayetteville Veterinarian: Why do cats sometimes suddenly bite while you are petting them?

March 4, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

Does your cat do this?

It’s a conundrum, for sure. One minute your beloved kitty is over the moon with pleasure as you scratch her favorite spot and the next thing you know you’re left staring at tooth marks on your arm.

You’re not the only one suffering. Many pet owners call this common behavior “Love biting,” but feline behaviorists have given it a more formal name: Petting-induced aggression—and it’s a poorly understood topic

Share this:

Filed Under: cat health, Recent Posts Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, cat behavior, cats, Fayetteville veterinarian, love biting

What to Expect on Your Puppy’s First Visit to Animal Medical Clinic in Fayetteville, AR

February 5, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

Adding a new puppy to the household is an exciting time for both you and your pet. There is a lot to learn and we know that you have many questions. At Animal Medical Clinic we are here to help. We want to answer all your questions and give you an idea of what to expect. Please call us at (479) 521-5220 if we have not addressed all of your concerns.

What to Bring to Your First Puppy Exam

You need to bring two things with your puppy to the first exam. The first is whatever health information the seller or shelter provided to you, such as records of vaccinations and wormings. The second is a fresh stool, which is examined for the presence of parasites.

What to Expect at Your First Puppy Exam

Here’s what you can expect at your puppy’s first appointment with us:

An individualized orientation with one of our veterinarians at Animal Medical Clinic
A full physical examination of your puppy
A thorough and safe vaccination schedule based on your puppy’s medical history and age
A fecal test to check for any intestinal parasites
Guidance on how to feed and potty train your new puppy

Your puppy’s first visit to the veterinarian in Fayetteville, AR is often as much about educating you and answering your questions as it is about examining your puppy. We will provide you with information regarding heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, house training, obedience training, socialization, diet, dental hygiene, and insurance options.

Your Puppy’s Physical Exam

Our veterinarian will do a comprehensive, nose-to-tail physical exam of your pet both during puppy visit(s) and at routine annual health visits to Animal Medical Clinic in Fayetteville, AR. The goal of the physical is to alert the doctor to any possible congenital defects or concerns. During the exam, our doctor will:

Thoroughly inspect your pet’s ears, eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, gums, trunk, legs and paws.
Weigh your puppy and check his temperature — 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is normal — as well as his pulse and breathing rate.
Listen for heart and lung abnormalities and examine other internal organs by palpating, or feeling them.
Check the skin and perianal area for any sign of disease or parasites
Check the puppy’s genitals to ensure two testicles are present in males and there’s no sign of discharge or infection in females.
Open the puppy’s mouth to see that teeth and gums look as they should.

One way to make you and your puppy’s visit to the vet more pleasant is to train him ahead of time. Play with your pet’s paws, ears and mouth on a regular basis. This will accustom your pet to being touched and examined, and it will help him ultimately be more comfortable when examined by our vet.

Vaccinations

Your new puppy needs a series of vaccinations in the first year of life to protect him from many dangerous diseases as his immune system develops. Since it takes some time for your puppy’s immune system to mature, your puppy should receive a series of vaccinations beginning around 8 weeks of age, and finishing around 16 weeks of age. Your pet will also require boosters a year later.

Vaccinations we recommend are:

DA2PP – (Distemper, Adenovirus Types 1&2, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus Vaccine) This is a combination vaccine given 3-4 times at three-week intervals for puppies. (The first of the series is given at 8–10 weeks old.) A booster is given at one year from the last puppy vaccine, at which point the vaccine will only be required every three years.

Distemper – An extremely contagious, airborne viral disease that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system.

Adenovirus – A highly infectious airborne virus affecting the respiratory system. It is one of the causes of tracheobronchitis–also known as kennel cough. The vaccine also protects against the hepatitis virus type 1 and 2.

Parainfluenza – A contagious airborne virus, parainfluenza produces a respiratory tract infection. It is also one of the causes of tracheobronchitis.

Parvovirus – A virus affecting the intestines and white blood cells, which is spread by ingesting contaminated fecal material. This virus is highly infectious.

Rabies Vaccine – required by Arkansas State Law The first rabies vaccine is given between 12-16 weeks old, usually at the same time or soon after the last DA2PP vaccine. A booster is given one year later, and again every three years thereafter to maintain immunity. Rabies: This deadly virus is most commonly transmitted through the saliva of a rabies vector species, such as a bat, raccoon, or skunk. In Fayetteville, it is legally required to keep your pet up to date on its rabies vaccinations. Under new Arkansas law your pet can receive a 3 year Rabies vaccine after the age of one. Ask one of our veterinarians if your pet qualifies.
Bordetella vaccine - In Fayetteville, it is often required that your dog have the bordetella vaccine every 6 months if he/she will be attending a doggie day care, pet groomer or visiting a boarding facility. Otherwise, this can be given annually to maintain your pet’s immunity. It is first administered around 11 weeks of age. Bordetella: This is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the upper respiratory tract, and the main component of tracheobronchitis. The main symptom of tracheobronchitis, also known as “kennel cough,” is a dry hacking cough.

We look forward to a long relationship with you and your pets.

Animal Medical Clinic

3045 N Market Avenue

Fayetteville, AR 72703

(479) 521-5220

Visit our website: animalmedicalclinicfayar.com/

Share this:

Filed Under: Dogs and Cats, Featured Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, bordatella, fayetteville ar, fayetteville ar veterinarians, puppy exam, puppy vaccinations, rabies

Animal Medical Clinic Promotes National Pet Dental Month in Northwest Arkansas

January 17, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

Doggie Breath is no laughing matter. That odor might signify a serious health risk, with the potential to damage not only your pet’s teeth and gums but its internal organs as well.

To address the significance of oral health care for pets, the AVMA and Animal Medical Clinic in Fayetteville, AR are promoting National Pet Dental Health Month in February.

The American Veterinary Dental Society states that “oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem in dogs and cats.” Oral disease effects 78% of dogs and 68% of cats over three years of age. Periodontal disease is an infection between the tooth and gum. Treatment for this disease can include costly x-rays and tooth extraction.

Symptoms of periodontal disease consist of discolored teeth, increased pawing at the mouth, and putrid breath. When left untreated, your pet may suffer more serious conditions. “You may have heard that the eyes are the window to the soul” says Dr. Michael Mohler of Animal Medical Clinic,”well in veterinary medicine, the mouth is the doorway to the whole body. By keeping tartar and plaque off the teeth, the kidneys and heart are protected from disease. Close that ” door” and watch your pet live longer.”

Untreated periodontal disease can create many different health problems according to Dr. Mohler. ”Heart valve disease is frequently found when a pet develops a murmur. I had a case previously that had HORRIBLE dental disease, and a new heart murmur. I was so pleased that a treatment plan of a dental cleaning and 3 weeks of Clavamox antibiotics cleared up the disease and the heart murmur went away! Healthy teeth lead to a healthy heart.”

A few tips to remember when dealing with animal dental hygiene are:

Human toothpaste can irritate your animal’s stomach.
Never use fluoride on a puppy six months or younger.
Chew toys can help remove soft tarter and strengthen teeth.

Animal Medical Clinic along with the AVMA recommends regular dental check-ups and teeth brushing for your pets. For tips on how to brush your animal’s teeth visit http://fayettevillearanimaldoctor.com/?s=Dental

He also says you can save during this local and national promotion. “During dental season (January 15 to March 15) we offer a 20% saving on all veterinary dental procedures. Plus a free bath and pedicure.”

Animal Medical Clinic is located just off of N. College in Fayetteville at 3045 N. Market Avenue. Call ahead for an appointment at (479) 521-5220.

Share this:

Filed Under: Dogs and Cats, Featured Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, fayetteville ar, National Pet Dental Health Month, northwest ar, oral health care for pets

Bad Breath From Your Cat or Dog? It May be Time to See Your Fayetteville, AR Veterinarian

January 14, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

If you have noticed bad breath from your cat or dog, it may be time to see your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian.

When tartar builds up on your pets teeth, the result can be bad breath or Halitosis. Odor producing bacteria are often trapped in this tartar. As your pet eats, small bits of food can become trapped in your pet’s mouth. These particles break down and create a flourishing bacterial environment.

Typically bad breath in your pet is an indication of a dental or gum disease problem. In some pets, like small dogs, poodles or dachshunds for example, there is a greater susceptibility to plaque and tartar buildup. When plaque builds up at the base of your pet’s teeth, the gums can recede and become inflamed. If your pet has chronic bad breath without you noticing any plaque or gingivitis, it could be an indication of other health problems. You should see your veterinarian in Fayetteville, AR to determine if there’s an underlying cause for your pets bad breath. Your veterinarian can perform a complete physical and veterinary dental examination. He may also order lab work to determine your pet’s overall health. Before you go to the veterinarian you should consider what your pet eats, his exercise routine, his oral hygiene and his general behavior. This will enable you to answer any questions your veterinarian may have.

The most common disease in dogs and cats is dental disease. This condition affects 68% of cats and 78% of dogs over three years of age. Early prevention, when your pet is young, will aid in reducing the severity and frequency of dental disease as your pet ages. One important measure that you can take is to have your pets teeth professionally cleaned; this of course can not be done at home. This would include dental radiographs to evaluate the entire tooth, a complete examination of your pet’s teeth and gums, and checking for abscesses and bone loss. The professional will have special tools for removing tartar from your pet’s teeth even below the gum line.

So, what can you do to help your pet?

The preventative care you can take at home is, to brush your pet’s teeth three times a week.

The use of specially formed dry pet food, water additives, and dental chews all may be of some help in the prevention of tartar build up on your pet’s teeth.

Finally, you can take advantage of our great special pricing during National Pet Dental Health Month sponsored by the AVMA. We are offering great savings of 20% off any dental procedure plus a free bath and pedicure For more information or to schedule an appointment call Animal Medical Clinic at (479) 521-5220.

Share this:

Filed Under: Dogs and Cats, Featured Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, brushing your pet's teeth, fayetteville ar veterinary dental

Protect Your Cats in Northwest Arkansas from Bobcat Fever

September 7, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Bobcat fever is a blood born parasite carried by the bobcat population. It is transferred from bobcats to domestic cats by ticks who bite a bobcat and then bite a domestic cat. Bobcat fever is a problem here in Northwest Arkansas. All cats should be protected. The best prevention for this often fatal disease is Frontline Plus.

Share this:

Filed Under: Dogs and Cats, Featured Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, Bobcat fever, Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas

Fayetteville Veterinarian: Preparing Your Dogs for a Safe, Healthy Hunt

September 7, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

When we are sick or injured we recognize that there is something wrong with our body and can ask questions and investigate the problem. Dogs don’t do that, especially gun dogs in the excitement of the hunt. They’ll keep going with sprains, torn ligaments, or until they drop from heat stroke. That is why a preseason check-up of your hunting dogs in Fayetteville is a practical thing to do as you prepare for the season

Just before the hunting season begins, have your hunting dog examined by your Fayetteville veterinarian to make sure he is healthy. Make sure his vaccinations are up to date. You might also ask about whether or not your dog should have the Lyme vaccine. Pick up some flea and tick preventative, which should be used monthly during the hunting season to prevent infestation with fleas and ticks. Feed your dog a high quality performance or active dog food and keep him at an optimum weight. You may also want to have your dog microchipped in case he gets lost.

Overheating is a common problem with hunting dogs during the hunting season. Bring plenty of water or make sure you will have access to sources of fresh water during the hunt. In addition to providing water, offer your dog snacks during the day. Don’t feed him a big meal right before hunting but offer small amounts of food through the day. Stop periodically to allow your dog to rest and drink. This also allows your pet to cool off. Chasing after animals can build up body heat, even if it is cool outside. Don’t let your dog overheat by working him too long. Try to hunt during the cooler part of the day and for short periods.

Protect your dogs from dangers presented by other hunters. Sadly, many dogs get shot each year by hunters who have mistaken them for the game they were after. get your dog a bright-colored vest, sweater or bandana. You may also want to consider adding a bell to his collar.

Make sure you know the area that you are hunting in and what kind of dangers may be present. Watch out for barbed wire, snakes, skunks and wild pigs. Any of these could cause serious injury or discomfort. Try to avoid these if possible. Bring along a first aid kit that can be used to help your pet.

Here are some key essential elements that should be included in your pet first aid kit:

Your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian’s phone number.
Phone number of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and directions on how to get there.
Poison control hotline number. (ASPCA Poison Control 1-800-426-4435)
Pet first aid book
Paperwork (in a waterproof container or bag): proof of rabies vaccination status, copies of other important medical records, your pet’s baseline temperature and weight and a current photo of your pet in case he gets lost.
Self-cling bandage (Stretches and sticks to itself but not to fur—available at pet stores and through pet supply catalogs)
Muzzle or strips of cloth to prevent biting (as long as pet is not vomiting, choking, coughing, or otherwise having difficulty breathing)

Basic Supplies

Sterile gauze pads and Tefla pads, various sizes
Adhesive or bandage tape
Antiseptic wipes, lotion, powder or spray
Clean towel or blanket
Blunt scissors
Cotton balls or swabs
Non-latex disposable gloves
Petroleum jelly (to lubricate thermometer)
Rectal thermometer (your pet’s temperature should not rise above 103°F or fall below 100°F)
Sterile saline contact lens solution (to flush wounds)
Tweezers

Common Pet Medicine Cabinet Items

3% Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting)
Toxiban or activated charcoal preparation (used for poisoning)
Benadryl® or diphenhydramine (used to treat allergic reactions)
Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate (for upset stomach)
Neosporin or topical antibacterial ointment (for surface wounds)
Isopropyl alcohol (used for ear infections, overheating)
Buffered aspirin (for pain DOGS ONLY!)
Oral Dose Syringe (gives accurate liquid doses)
Pill Gun (used to get a pill down less cooperative pets)
Pill Splitter (helps you cut large tablets into equal portions if your pet requires a smaller dose)

Other Useful Items

Pillowcase to confine your cat for treatment
Expired credit card or sample credit card (from direct mail credit card offers) to scrape away insect stingers
Glucose paste or corn syrup (for diabetic dogs or those with low blood sugar)
Nail clippers
Needle-nosed pliers
Penlight or flashlight
Plastic eyedropper or syringe
Splints and tongue depressors
Styptic powder or pencil (sold at veterinary hospitals and pet supply stores and your local pharmacy)

In addition to the items listed above, include any items recommended by your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian specifically for your pet. Check the supplies in your pet first aid kit occasionally. Replace any items that have expired.

For your family’s safety, keep all medical supplies and medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Share this:

Filed Under: Dogs and Cats, Featured Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, dog health care, Fayetteville veterinarian, hunting dogs in Fayetteville

Northwest Arkansas Exotic Pet Care

January 8, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

If you own any exotic pets such as birds, reptiles, ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs and other pocket pets, it is good to know where to go when they become sick or injured. Establishing a good working relationship with a veterinarian can be a challenge for any pet owner, but is a special challenge for the exotic pet owner. The exotic pet owner must find a vet who is willing to see their pet, knows something about their pet, and has the facilities, equipment and materials to treat their pet. Not all vets see exotics, and not all the ones who say they do know what they are doing.

At Animal Medical Clinic in Fayetteville, Arkansas we have been taking care of exotic pets and have been accepting exotic pet referrals from other veterinarians for many years. We have veterinarians and staff who have the experience and the training to take care of your special pet. We receive exotic pet clients from all over Northwest Arkansas.

It is important that you bring your pet in for annual exams. It is very easy to not recognize symptoms of illness in your exotic pet when your pet exhibits them. Often, exotic pets don’t get to the veterinarian in time and sometimes that can result in a very sad ending. We can give your pet a full exam, monitor your animal’s weight, detect slight onset of disease, give you nutritional, behavioral, and husbandry education, and develop a relationship with you and your pet that may one day save its life.

Share this:

Filed Under: Featured, Veterinary Tips Tagged With: Animal Medical Clinic, exotic pet healthcare, exotic pet veterinarians, exotic pet veterinary clinic, fayetteville ar veterinarian, fayetteville arkansas, Northwest Arkansas, Northwest Arkansas Exotic Pet Care, pet health care

Northwest Arkansas Pet’s First Aid Kit

November 28, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

Pet emergencies in Northwest Arkansas are impossible to predict and when they occur you may not have the time to search for the right remedy or the tools that you may need. Time becomes critical and what you do quickly can even be the difference between life and death. Always be prepared for the most common injuries and have the necessary supplies and medicines to use at even a moment’s notice.

First aid kits can be purchased at many pet supply stores or can be ordered online, but you can also create your own.

Here are some key essential elements that should be included in your pet first aid kit:

Your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian’s phone number.
Phone number of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and directions on how to get there.
Poison control hotline number. (ASPCA Poison Control 1-800-426-4435)
Pet first aid book
Paperwork (in a waterproof container or bag): proof of rabies vaccination status, copies of other important medical records, your pet’s baseline temperature and weight and a current photo of your pet in case he gets lost.
Self-cling bandage (Stretches and sticks to itself but not to fur—available at pet stores and through pet supply catalogs)
Muzzle or strips of cloth to prevent biting (as long as pet is not vomiting, choking, coughing, or otherwise having difficulty breathing)