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Pets First Monthly
July 2026
This article may not be the most comfortable read, but it could save your pet’s life someday. Fly Frenzy Inside a Rare but Real Risk Unfortunately, this one’s all about flies and maggots. Specifically, I need to discuss the screwworm , a parasitic fly that looks very similar to the ones you’ll typically find in your home. While regular flies typically aren’t dangerous, screwworms can cause devastating problems and even death for cats, dogs, and livestock. If you’ve never heard of screwworms before, you’re not alone. In fact, the first and only time I heard about them was when I was in vet school nearly 30 years ago. They were eradicated in the U.S. decades ago and primarily exist in Central and South America. However, agricultural research reveals that screwworms are becoming more prevalent in northern Mexico and along the borders of Arizona and Texas. Although I want to stress that there were no reported cases of screwworm-borne illness in pets in the U.S. as of this writing, I still feel it’s important to discuss how screwworms can affect animals and the signs to look out for. There’s no gentle way to say this, but screwworm maggots feed on living flesh (typically via untreated or open wounds) instead of the dead flesh preferred by common flies. Screwworm flies can lay eggs in open wounds, surgical sites, and even small cuts. Once those eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the tissue and begin feeding. Their presence could lead victims to develop a potentially fatal parasitic infection called myiasis . According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), animals (including humans) with myiasis “will develop a lump in their tissue as the larva grows. Larvae under the skin may move but usually remain under the skin and do not travel throughout the body.” Naturally, myiasis is a medical emergency that should be addressed immediately. If we encounter a patient with the condition, we’re required to report the case to the appropriate state veterinary authorities, who then report it on the federal level. Additionally, several flea and tick preventive manufacturers are currently exploring adding information on screwworm prevention to their labels.
This article isn’t meant to be alarmist, but I wanted to make sure readers are aware of the issue. (Besides, our chief barketing officer, Sam, would never forgive me if I didn’t use this newsletter for good). It’s also important to note that a human case of screwworm exposure was reported last year in Maryland after a traveler returned from El Salvador, so being especially vigilant if traveling abroad this summer couldn’t hurt. (For the record, the CDC called the risk to public health at the time “very low.”) While it’s unlikely you’ll ever need to bring in your pet to see us due to a run-in with screwworms, the recent focus on the issue is a reminder of how critical it is always to monitor your pet’s health, keep necessary appointments, and stay up to date on their medications and preventives. And if anything ever seems off with your dog(s) or cat(s), it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have them checked out. Hopefully, my words this month didn’t make you squirm too much as you learned something new. If you have any questions about screwworms or any other potential risks to your animal companions, we’re always here to help. –Dr. Brad Petersen
PetersenPetHospital.com
We’re now in one of the hottest months of the year, and I’ve never wanted to sweat more in my life! Heatstroke Hazards and Hidden Risks Yes, I know my human readers aren’t fans of sweating, but it’s a picnic compared to the panting dogs and cats do when it’s hot outside. I recently overheard Dr. Petersen say that panting isn’t as efficient as sweating, so I feel it’s my duty as chief marketing officer to remind everyone how dangerous summer weather can be for your furry companions this time of year. First, the weather doesn’t need to be sweltering to make us feel bad. Even a warm, slightly humid day can be bad news, especially if we’re in a car. The interior of an automobile can reach life-threatening temperatures in just a few minutes. Cracking the window often isn’t enough to help, so it’s best just to leave us at home whenever possible. Although dogs need exercise, please try to take us out in the early morning or early evening. If we’re left outside, be sure to give us plenty of shade and water. And for Dog’s sake, keep us away from hot pavement, which can damage the tissue on our foot pads! Sam’s Corner
When Percy, a handsome domestic longhair cat, arrived at our clinic, he was critically ill. His abdomen was distended, and he was lethargic, uncomfortable, and not himself. An ultrasound confirmed the presence of significant fluid (ascites) in his abdomen. Further testing (including PCR analysis of the PERCY’S COMEBACK Beating Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
fluid) led to a diagnosis that, until recently, was devastating: feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).
If you see us panting heavily, vomiting, or drooling on a hot day (or if we have diarrhea to boot), bring us to Petersen Pet Hospital right
FIP is a serious disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While many cats are exposed to the benign form of this virus, it can mutate and trigger an aggressive inflammatory response. This leads to two main forms of the disease: “wet” (effusive), which causes fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, and “dry” (non-effusive), which affects organs like the liver, kidneys, eyes, or brain. Historically, FIP was considered almost always fatal, with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis.
Percy’s case, however, highlights how far veterinary medicine has come. Thanks to a rapid diagnosis and
prompt intervention, we were able to start him on a new antiviral medication called Bova-GS441524. This treatment targets the virus directly and has shown remarkable success in managing and, in some cases, curing FIP. Over the following weeks, Percy’s transformation was incredible. His abdominal fluid resolved, his energy returned, and his appetite improved. With careful monitoring and a full course of treatment, we’re happy to report that Percy made a complete recovery! Today, Percy is a thriving, happy 3-year-old cat enjoying life to the fullest. His story is a powerful reminder that early recognition and advances in treatment can result in positive outcomes, even for diseases once thought to be untreatable.
—Dr. Lindsey Leo
Contact us! 319-743-0554
Mon–Fri: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (Closed Fridays from 12:30–2:10 p
THE STRAY THAT CRACKED THE CASE AND VANISHED A HERO WITH NO NAME Many individuals don’t want the fame that often accompanies courage and heroic actions. Some disappear before they can ever get the credit they deserve, but their actions remain in the headlines long after the event has passed. At the beginning of the year, Louisville police responded en masse to reports of a missing 3-year-old boy. They searched far and wide, using drones and helicopters to locate the child, but were unsuccessful. As they continued searching the area, an unfamiliar dog caught the attention of one of the officers. It started barking, which prompted the officer to follow the dog and investigate further. “It would bark at me to tell me to hurry up,” exclaimed Officer Josh Thompson. “It led me all the way to the backyard. At this point, I’m thinking, OK, this kid’s in the backyard.” The dog quickly led law enforcement to a car off the property, then sat near its back bumper. Within moments, the officers saw the boy in the passenger seat and instructed him to unlock the door. He quickly jumped out of the vehicle and bear- hugged his rescuers. When they turned their attention back to the proud pup, it was nowhere to be found. The story broke a month after the event, when police officers released the bodycam footage, but no one has been able to confirm where the dog came from or who it belonged to. Some people claim that the dog was the boy’s guardian angel, while others theorize it belonged to the owner of the vehicle the boy was found inside. Regardless of the dog’s origin, one thing is for certain: It will forever remain a hero in that boy’s eyes.
away. You can also help us in a pinch by cooling us down with a fan, getting us into an air-conditioned room, and offering us some water. Cooling down our foot pads by wrapping them in a wet, cold washcloth can also be helpful. We want to enjoy the summer as much as you do, but we need your help to do so safely. And on those really hot, sticky days, remember that pets can overheat much faster than people.
–Sam Chief Barketing Officer
Homemade Chicken and Rice Bowl for Senior Dogs INGREDIENTS
•
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
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1/2 cup cooked brown or white rice
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1/4 cup mashed, cooked carrots
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1/4 cup cooked peas
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1 tsp fish oil (for omega-3s)
• A pinch of turmeric powder, optional (for anti-inflammatory benefits)
DIRECTIONS
1. In a bowl, mix the ingredients together. 2. Store in the refrigerator or freezer for convenience. Note
This meal works well for dogs with mild digestive sensitivities and can also help support a more balanced diet overall. To lower fat, use skinless chicken breast. Consult your veterinarian for nutritional guidance on your dog’s specific dietary needs before trying any new homemade recipe.
PetersenPetHospital.com
p.m. for team meetings) | Sat: 8 a.m.–12 p.m. | Sun: Closed
THEY THOUGHT IT WAS THE SAME BIRD DNA Said Otherwise
Humans have been around for a long time, and you’d think we would have discovered everything hiding on our planet, but nature keeps throwing us curveballs. In fact, experts estimate that we discover around 16,000 new species of plants, fungi, insects, and animals every year. Most of these discoveries won’t make headlines, nor will they ever impact your life, but every once in a while, we learn something that could change how we view our environment and the world. Earlier this year, Japanese researchers discovered a new species of rare bird. To be clear, scientists didn’t expedition to an uninhabited island or make some startling discovery in the deep reaches of space. They found that the Ijima’s Leaf Warbler is actually two different, distinct species. The new species will now be known as the Tokara Leaf Warbler. To the naked eye, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell the two warblers apart. Even the most experienced birders may not notice a difference in their appearance or song. Around 10 years ago, scientists discovered DNA
differences between warblers on the Izu Islands and those on the Tokara Islands. Even though they lived more than 600 miles apart, they were still classified as the same species until science enabled experts to sequence their DNA, perform full-genome analysis, and compare their songs. Their findings proved that the two birds are different. This discovery marks a major step forward for identification and conservation efforts. With genetic tools, researchers can uncover hidden biodiversity, deepen their understanding of ecosystems, and develop more effective strategies to protect and support the world’s most vulnerable species. Ijima’s Leaf Warbler is already considered a vulnerable species, and researchers are calling for the Tokara variant to receive the same status. The next time you hear or see a bird while taking a walk, give it a closer look. It may be a brand-new discovery, even if something similar already exists in nature.
Referring a loved one or friend is the greatest compliment you can give us. We truly appreciate your trust in us, and your referrals mean the world to our team. To say thank you, we’ve created a special referral program just for you! Here’s how it works:
• Refer a new client to our pet hospital by giving them a referral card. • Once they come in for their first appointment and bring in the card, you’ll receive a Petersen Pet Hospital gift certificate. • The more you refer, the more you earn!
REFERRAL REWARDS: •
1st referral: $5 gift certificate 2nd referral: $10 gift certificate
• •
3rd referral: $15 gift certificate
•
And it keeps growing — there’s no limit!
Gift certificates can be used for any service or purchase in the clinic.
PROGRAM DETAILS: • You must be a current client in good standing. • Referred clients must complete their first appointment. • Gift certificates are sent after the first visit is completed.
Your loyalty and support mean everything to us, and we’re so grateful to be part of your pet’s care. Thank you for continuing to share your friends and family with us! ⭐ LOVE YOUR EXPERIENCE? LEAVE US A REVIEW! Your feedback helps us grow and continue providing the best care possible for your pets. If you’ve had a great visit with us, we would truly appreciate you taking a moment to leave us a Google review. Not only does it help our team, it also helps other pet owners in our community find a veterinary clinic they can trust. Here’s how to leave a review: • Search for Petersen Pet Hospital on Google.
CLIENT REFERRAL PROGRAM
• Click “Write a Review.” • Share your experience. Thank you for your support — it truly makes a difference! 💙
Contact us! 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
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