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Pets First Monthly
April 2024
Staying Ahead of Heartworm Disease Protecting Your Pup
Dogs are often described as a “human’s best friend” — their unwavering loyalty, boundless affection, and endearing personalities hold a special place in our hearts. Our bond with our dogs offers comfort and care, supplying us with memories that will last a lifetime. With the arrival of Heartworm Awareness Month, we embark on a journey to safeguard the well- being of our canine companions. Heartworm disease is a silent but potentially fatal threat that looms over our faithful friends and requires proactive measures. This
detectable through testing. Found throughout the United States, heartworm disease typically thrives in temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms may not surface for several years after infection; however, heartworm disease cannot be transmitted directly from dog to dog. What are the signs? You may notice some symptoms of heartworm disease: coughing, shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, behavioral changes, and inflammation, signaling a potential progression toward heart failure.
critical, as it significantly reduces the likelihood of needing such intensive treatment.
What is the prevention plan? Heartworm can be prevented with multiple different products. At Petersen Pet Hospital we have two different chewables including Interceptor Plus and Simparica Trio that the dog can digest. We also carry a product called Revolution that is applied topically once monthly. Another option is an injection called Proheart 12, which can protect the dog for up to a year. For any of the treatment options we highly recommend year round prevention. By spreading awareness, advocating for preventive measures, and staying informed about the risks and treatment options, we can continue to protect our furry friends from the devastating effects of heartworm disease. Recognizing the signs of heartworm disease early on and seeking veterinary care with our skilled professionals can make all the difference! Let us pledge to keep their hearts safe and healthy for this month and every month. Ensuring the heart health of our canines is a responsibility that demands our attention and commitment year-round. We can provide our beloved dogs with long, happy, heartworm-free lives. Here’s to many more years together!
What is the diagnosis? For each of our canine patients, we run an
“This month, we unite to educate, advocate, and protect our furry family members from heartworm disease.”
month, we unite to educate, advocate, and protect our furry family members
annual heartworm test in our office to check for heartworm. If a positive result occurs, we proceed with a confirmation test to validate the diagnosis. Next, we run chest X-rays to assess any existing damage, examine blood cells, and in some cases perform a heart ultrasound to evaluate the condition further.
from heartworm disease. I want to
emphasize the importance of heartworm prevention, understanding the risks, and ensuring the health and happiness of our loyal canines.
What is heartworm disease? Heartworm disease is a severe condition caused by a blood parasite carried by mosquitoes. Typically, these parasites lodge themselves in the heart or pulmonary artery, growing to lengths of up to 16 inches. Shockingly, a single dog can host up to 300 worms simultaneously. The disease is transmitted through mosquito bites, with symptoms often taking over six months to manifest and become
What is the treatment plan? If your pup is diagnosed with heartworm, don’t worry! We take good care of our patients. The treatment plan for heartworm disease often requires hospitalization for injections, which can be uncomfortable for the dog. Close monitoring is essential to ensure their well-being and recovery during this period. Emphasizing prevention is
–Dr. Emily Saunders
www.PetersenPetHospital.com
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Remedies for Our Furry Friends On the Road to Recov
As a feline, every month presents unique adventures and discoveries, but “Move Around Month” holds a special significance in my world. It’s a time when the air is filled with the tantalizing scents of new territories and the promise of exciting escapades. From the cozy confines of my favorite sunlit spot to the undiscovered corners of the great outdoors, Move Around Month inspires me to explore, roam, and revel in the freedom of movement. Join me on this journey of boundless possibilities, where every prowling step and playful pounce brings me closer to the heart of my wild instincts. MOVE AROUND MONTH MEANS PRIORITIZING YOUR CAT’S HEALTH Subway’s Corner: FELINE FINE!
Pet injuries can be distressing experiences for animals and their owners, often requiring close attention and careful management to ensure complete recovery. Whether it’s a scraped paw, a deep cut, or a more severe ailment, understanding how to treat injuries is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of our beloved pets. By staying informed and prepared, we can better protect our furry companions and provide them with the care and support they need in times of distress. If your pet is injured, it is essential to remember that certain skin wounds can be particularly severe, requiring more aggressive treatment. For instance, Bunny, a 6-year-old Siberian husky, suffered a deep tear on one of his paw pads, followed by multiple holes oozing bloody fluid. To address this deep wound, Bunny required pain relief and an anti- inflammatory antibiotic. By utilizing a bandage and specific treatment, Bunny’s paw was able to heal completely. On the other hand, some injuries only require topical therapies. For example, Oliver, a 6-year-old Irish doodle, developed an inflamed skin patch due to excessive licking. By preventing further licking and prescribing a medicated spray, Oliver’s skin condition was resolved, and his fur could regrow. Similarly, Indie, a 5-year-old Goldendoodle, experienced a surface-level tear on her paw. Through antibiotic ointment and light bandaging, Indie’s pad healed without complications.
We cats are often perceived as creatures of leisure, known for our habits of lounging around and sleeping the day away. However, despite our reputation for laziness, it is crucial to recognize that cats, like all animals, require regular exercise to maintain our physical and mental well-being. Without physical activity, we can become prone to obesity, muscle weakness, and behavioral issues; I have got to keep my feline figure looking fine!
Petersen Pet Hospital offers various topical products, including medicated ointments, shampoos, wipes, and sprays, tailored to each pet’s needs.
Participating in activities such as playing catch, pushing a ball or cork around, or swinging a fabric mouse on a string can offer several benefits to me. Rewarding me with positive reinforcements such as treats can also provide mental stimulation and reduce my anxiety and stress levels. It’s tough being me!
Additionally, incorporating puzzle toys, playing hide and seek, and utilizing a laser pointer can further enrich my playtime
Peanut Butter and Carrot Dog Treats
experience by stimulating my mind and body. It is essential to avoid using your hands or fingers during playtime to prevent accidental scratching or biting; I never want to hurt my family! In most cases, I have a special toy that I favor; to maintain my interest, I like it when my owner rotates these toys and limits the availability to specific play sessions, preventing me from getting bored. The health and well-being of us felines are paramount to fostering a long-lasting bond with us. Our family members can safeguard our health and happiness by prioritizing preventive measures, providing appropriate nutrition, ensuring regular exercise, and seeking veterinary care. Every cat is unique, and understanding our needs is critical. With my owner’s commitment and care, I know I will thrive. I cannot wait to bring endless joy and companionship to our home for many years.
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
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UNUSUAL SLEEP PRACTICES IN THE MIDDLE AGES The 2 Acts of Medieval Slumber In the Middle Ages, most people didn’t sleep for eight uninterrupted hours like we do today. Instead, they had a “biphasic” sleep schedule, which means they had two sleep phases, with a brief period of activity in the middle. For first sleep, the household typically slept from 9–11 p.m. They slept on one single straw mattress. Everyone — including children, parents, and visitors — huddled on one bed. Despite the lack of space, they tried to make it as comfortable as possible with complex sleeping arrangements. Touching, kicking, or any other restless activity was considered rude. Meanwhile, girls slept closest to the wall, followed by boys, guests, and parents. While they didn’t have alarm clocks back then, they had an internal clock that woke them up around midnight. Once they woke, they had plenty to do. They refueled the fire, did farmwork, and prayed. Often, people socialized with each other, but the busy schedules of farming families cut down on chatting time. After they went to bed for a second sleep, they’d wake up at dawn. Not everyone kept to the schedule. Young children slept all night unless they woke up to the commotion. Benedictine monks dozed at 7 p.m. and woke at 2 a.m. for prayer, staying awake until an afternoon nap. Still, most people followed the two-part sleep schedule, and medieval medicine even discussed how to do it properly. For example, medical texts recommended that they lie on their right side during the first sleep and switch to the left on the second sleep. It’s really not that weird — research suggests that biphasic sleep is quite natural and influenced more by lifestyle compatibility, which means the eight-hour schedule likely evolved as cultures industrialized. Our emphasis on uninterrupted slumber also coalesces with our invention of modern mattresses, and this may not be a coincidence. Sleeping through the night is much more enjoyable if you lie down on a soft mattress than a bed of prickly straw.
Some wounds may require protection with a bandage or an e-collar to prevent licking during the healing process. While some injuries demand intensive treatments, more surface-level wounds often respond well to topical therapies, ensuring healing for our furry companions. Making sure your pet receives the proper treatment is paramount to their health and well-being. You can help your pet recover from injuries and illnesses by promptly seeking veterinary care and following treatment plans. Petersen Pet Hospital prioritizes your pet’s health above all else. If your pet requires veterinary care, give us a call today!
—Dr. Sarah Young
INGREDIENTS • 1 cup grated carrot • 3/4 cup peanut butter, chunky • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce • 1/2 cup pumpkin purée • 1/4 cup water
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2 eggs
2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
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1 tsp ground cinnamon 4 tbsp whole wheat flour, or as needed
DIRECTIONS 1. Position racks in upper and lower thirds of the oven, then preheat to 350 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, whisk grated carrot, peanut butter, applesauce, pumpkin purée, water, and eggs together until thoroughly combined. Stir in flour and cinnamon with a spoon until incorporated and dough holds together. 3. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to an even 3/8-inch thickness. Cut with 3/4-inch cookie cutters and place on the prepared baking sheets about 1/2 inch apart. 4. Bake for 6 minutes. Switch racks and continue baking until edges are firm and golden brown, another 6–7 minutes. Cool for 3–5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
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www.PetersenPetHospital.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
1031 Kacena Road Hiawatha, IA 52233 www.PetersenPetHospital.com 319-743-0554
Mon–Fri: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (Closed Fridays from 12:30–2:10 p.m. for team meetings) Sat: 8 a.m.–12 p.m. | Sun: Closed
Inside This Issue
Protect Your Dog: Heartworm Awareness Month
PRIMARY
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Celebrating Move Around Month
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Doctor’s Case Study: Injury Treatments
Peanut Butter and Carrot Dog Treats
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A Deep Dive Into Medieval Slumber
SECONDARY
Protective Pup Takes a Bullet for His Owner — And Survives!
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In a heartwarming tale of courage and resilience, a pit bull named Kilo defied the odds after being shot in the head while bravely protecting his owner. The incident unfolded when an intruder invaded Kilo’s home. In a shocking turn of events, Kilo’s instinct to shield his owner led to a life-threatening injury, but “Super Pitty” survived, capturing many hearts, too. One Saturday evening 12 years ago on Staten Island, a gunman posing as a FedEx deliveryman rang the doorbell of Kilo’s home. He didn’t wait long before he pushed his way into the apartment. Kilo’s human, Justin Becker, told CBS, “He barged in. My first reaction after seeing the gun was to push him out, so I pushed him to the door.” Becker’s girlfriend, Nicole Percoco, had been holding Kilo during this encounter and let him go. Kilo jumped into action, fighting back against the invader, unfortunately getting shot in the fight. Luckily, the bullet just missed Kilo’s skull, entering and exiting right under his ears, said Dr. Gregory L. Panarello, the medical director of South Shore Animal Hospital. After a 40-minute surgery to remove bullet fragments, he was patched up and even given a superhero insignia on his bandage. Three days later, Kilo was up and going on every dog’s favorite pastime: walkies. Kilo’s story is a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of canine companions and the strength of their love for us. Even 12 years later, Super Pitty Kilo’s story still spreads love and happiness. Give your pet an extra cuddle tonight so they know just how much you love them! KILO’S AMAZING BRAVERY AND SURVIVAL
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