DOG FIRST AID
ERRY COSPER
arian Joins Our Team!
PROTECT YOUR PUP’S PAWS If you’ve ever been on a long hike, you know how hard it can be on your feet. And you only have two feet, so imagine what it might be like for your canine friends who walk on all fours and often have no protection from sharp rocks, hot asphalt, and other hazards like grass awns or fish hooks! This month, we want to address some common issues we see in the summertime and help you better understand how to protect your pup’s paws or administer first aid if you’re out in the wilderness. Foot lesions are one of the most common injuries we see. Cheatgrass and foxtail awns can get stuck in between your dog’s toes and cause infection and abscesses. If you walk through an area with tall grasses, be sure to check your dog thoroughly afterward. Pay special attention to their paw pads and in between their toes, where awns are likely to get embedded and cause issues. It’s also a good idea to check their ears, nose, and mouth.
So, how did he discover our clinic? Dr. Cosper retired, sold his practice, and moved to Montana, but decided his retirement wasn’t ready for him! “I got bored at the house,” he laughed. He chose to apply at our clinic for one simple reason: “I like the way [Animal Clinic at Kalispell] practices. Dr. Clark’s practice is really good; [it’s] how my practice was when I sold it. His philosophies were my philosophies.” With so much in common, it’s no wonder that we’ve absolutely loved having Dr. Cosper here! Outside of work, you’ll find Dr. Cosper and his family boating, fishing, and even raising cattle over 40 acres of farmland. He’s fun to talk with, so don’t be shy. Come and say hello to him when you stop by!
Dogs also commonly get lacerations on their toe pads or the backs of their feet from hiking in areas with lots of rocks or shale. If your dog isn’t used to hiking on coarse shale or in rocky wilderness areas, they may get blisters on their paws. On hot days, the rocks retain heat that can lead to burns and blisters as well. We know firsthand that many dogs aren’t fans of wearing booties, but if you can get your dog used to them, they can be a great way to avoid these injuries. Otherwise, try applying a dog paw wax like Musher’s Secret. It’s made with natural food-grade ingredients so it poses no hazard to your dog if they lick it. But it will form a protective barrier against the heat and rocks. As the name suggests, it’s what mushers use to keep their sled dogs’ paws in good shape when racing on the snow and ice. If your dog does hurt its paws while you’re out on a trip, protect the wound with a bandage or even a clean tube sock to keep the area clean. Then, come see us for an exam and treatment when you’re back in town.
ip Cat Treats
Directions
1.
Preheat oven to 325 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, wet food, parsley, oil, and water until well combined. 3. Add rice flour and cooked rice, stirring to incorporate. 4. Spread mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. It should be about 1/3-inch thick. 5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool just enough to handle. Slice into bite-size pieces then return to the oven to bake for another 8 minutes. 6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving to your feline friends. 7. Store treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
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