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March 2023 www.surfacecreekveterinarycenter.com 970-856-4474
SCVC Pawprint
Most people treat their pets like members of their families. But too often, they also unwittingly put them in danger with everyday objects around their households. March 19 kicks off National Animal Poison Prevention Week, and I want to discuss some items you never want your pet to get into. Out of Reach PREVENTING PET POISONING
A much less lethal but widespread form of poisoning we see is THC poisoning. Marijuana products are legal in Colorado, but people who use them must keep them away from children and animals — just like I do with my whiskey! Dogs metabolize THC much differently than humans, and the drug has a significantly more potent effect on them, causing an unusually low heart rate. Fortunately, we’ve never had a patient die from THC poisoning — but it is possible with a sufficiently large dose. We treat most dogs with steroids and fluids and wait for them to sleep it off. But the stumbling, vomiting, incontinence, lethargy, and tremors many dogs experience are terrifying for them and their humans. If you’re going to keep THC products in your home, please ensure they’re well out of the reach of your pets.
Mouse and rat poison are the top causes of poisoning in dogs at our clinic by a wide margin. While many products use bait stations that are
supposedly pet-proof, larger dogs in particular, can chew through the plastic in seconds. The poison has a smell and flavor attractive to rodents, motivating dogs to eat it. Meanwhile, cats are at risk if they catch and eat a baited mouse. A pet death from rat poison is not only unnecessary and tragic — it’s excruciating. Most rodent poisons work by causing the animal to bleed to death, either internally or externally. One widely used brand, Tomcat, causes seizures until the patient dies. We never want our patients or their families to suffer through this scenario. Fortunately, we can save most patients that ingest poison. If we can treat them in the first hour, we induce vomiting to get the poison out of their system. We treat others with
Cats are generally much pickier than dogs about what they eat, so they rarely get into rat poison or THC. But they do often nibble on household plants that can be poisonous. Lilies are a big culprit, and they can
cause kidney and liver failure. Before bringing any plant into your home, ensure your cat can safely eat it — because there’s a good chance they will.
Essential oils also pose a danger. While tiny amounts in the air through a diffuser can be safe, larger quantities or
longer exposure can be poisonous to cats. Keep essential oils locked away safely, and never apply them to your cat. One time, we had a cat in a coma for two days after their owner applied peppermint oil to them. Just like you would babyproof your home for a new human addition, ensure you take precautions for the animals in your home. It’s only a little work, but it can save you and your furry friends a lot of heartache. –Dr. Jeff
extraordinary amounts of Vitamin K over three weeks to regulate their system. Time is of the essence in these cases, so please immediately rush your pet to veterinary care if they eat something poisonous. But prevention is far better than treatment. While many people don’t like dealing with glue or old-fashioned snap traps, they’re infinitely safer for your pets. Live mouse traps are also available on the market. They may be unpleasant, but they’re much better than losing a beloved family member.
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A New Tech in Town The Best Companion MEET KARIN!
SOAK UP THE SUNSHINE VITAMIN
With spring on the horizon, we all will be able to get outdoors a little more and soak up some sun — and extra vitamin D! Bring on the picnics, pool days, hiking, sports activities, and leisurely walks through the park! Health Benefits of Vitamin D
As a kennel technician at Surface Creek Vet, Karin considers hers “a minor but important role.” She joined the clinic in September 2022, shortly
after moving to the area from California. This is her first time working in a veterinary office, but that’s not to say she doesn’t have experience with animals.
Let's take a look at the many benefits this vitamin provides for our bodies.
It boosts your immune system. Vitamin D helps your body fight off sickness. In fact, it’s been proven that deficiencies in vitamin D are connected to an increased possibility of developing infections and autoimmune diseases such as the flu, heart disease, and diabetes. It counters osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, a loss in bone mass, is common as we get older. However, vitamin D is one of the key players in helping to slow down bone loss and prevent or treat osteoporosis so we can maintain a healthy skeletal system. It reduces the risks of depression. Studies have shown that those who are deficient in vitamin D become more prone to mood disorders and depression. To ensure that you support your mental health, step outside and get some happy, feel- good rays! It’s possibly linked to weight loss. While it’s not fully proven that vitamin D helps with weight loss, many studies have found links between vitamin D supplements and shedding a few pounds. In one study, one group of people taking vitamin D and calcium supplements lost more weight than another group taking placebos. It prevents and helps multiple sclerosis. Not only is vitamin D proven to lower a person’s chances of getting this horrible disease, but for those who already have it, it can also reduce symptoms or slow down the disease’s progression. This spring, be sure to get outdoors and soak up some vitamin D; however, don’t forget to protect your skin, too! To avoid overexposure, only about 10–15 minutes a day of unprotected sun is recommended.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve loved creatures all the way down to insects,” Karin says. “I’m fascinated with
biology.” She previously worked on a veterinary research project for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. “I did the grunt work for the wildlife veterinarian out in the field, and I realized this was something I’m interested in.” A few months into her work here, Karin now says she loves “everything — from the diagnostic work to even the smallest labors of cleaning up after a procedure. "It’s so interesting to see more in-depth into this field and how much effort goes into even the most basic workup on animals.” She also reports loving the team at the clinic. “Everyone here is supremely talented,” Karin says. “The pace of work required and the fact that everyone keeps on top of things makes me so impressed with my coworkers. That’s from top to bottom — reception, the kennel techs, the veterinary techs, and the doctors.” Karin moved to Colorado shortly before starting work at Surface Creek Vet. She lives with her parents and the family’s three dogs. They have 3-year-old Toby, who Karin calls “a Heinz 57 situation — he’s a mix of a little bit of everything”; a border collie named Molly, age 9; and a 7-year-old rescued blue heeler the family “very creatively” named Blue. “I do lots of stuff in town with my mom,” Karin says, “and my dad and I do every activity we can get our hands on. “I’ve always loved the area,” Karin says of her new home. “I had childhood friends who went to school in Denver, and anytime I visited them, I was so impressed by all the natural places. I’m so excited to live here because it’s such a beautiful state.”
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MAKING BISCUITS
Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding As adults, cats continue to knead when they feel like they did with their mothers — happy and safe. It’s often a reflexive behavior, much like purring. Experts believe they find the action soothing, which is why some cats do it when they’re experiencing stress. Treading also seems to be an effective way to receive attention from humans and show their affection in return. Kneading is an instinctual behavior that traces back to cats’ earliest days. Kittens knead their mothers’ stomachs to help express milk and ensure they receive enough nutrients. It’s a matter of survival, but cats also find it extremely comforting. Why Cats Knead Call it kneading, treading, paddling, making biscuits, or baking bread — but everyone who has ever lived with a cat has witnessed it. Kneading occurs when a cat rhythmically presses on something soft with their paws, usually while purring. Cats certainly seem to enjoy the process and sometimes appear to enter an almost hypnotic state while doing it. But why?
But kneading probably serves several other purposes. Cats have scent glands on the bottom of their paws that help them mark their territory. It is one of the reasons cats scratch items they think “belong” to them. Treading may be a less destructive way to achieve the same purpose and explains why cats tend to knead favorite items and human laps.
Cats also seem to enjoy “making their beds” before sleeping. Big cats in the wild often knead the ground to flatten and prepare it before resting. Even if the difference is only in their minds, cats seem to think that kneading something makes it more comfortable. A combination of these reasons could explain why pregnant cats generally start making biscuits where they intend to give birth. Kneading helps them create a safe and comfortable environment for their kittens, release scents for their babies to learn, and calm themselves down before a big event.
Of course, even the most adorable pet behavior can turn annoying under the right circumstances. So, cats’ kneading is one of several reasons to keep their nails properly trimmed. Their habit will be much sweeter when it doesn’t cause you pain. If you can’t take the kneading any longer, it’s also fine to redirect your cat with treats or toys. We all have our limits — but remember, your cat means it as a compliment.
St. Patrick’s Day Frozen Dog Treats Inspired by BeaglesAndBargains.com
Shane & Sarah Roberts Gary Johnson Clare Curtis Heather Graham Coy McTernan Davis & Becky Walton Larry Eversman
Leafy greens are packed with essential nutrients for dogs, and your pooch will love these green pupsicles for St. Patrick’s Day and all year long.
INGREDIENTS
• • •
1 cup chopped celery
• • •
2 cups baby spinach
1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
1 cup water
Ice (optional)
3 pears, peeled and chopped
DIRECTIONS
1. In a blender, add spinach and water and blend until smooth. 2. Add all remaining fruit and vegetables. Blend for about 1 minute until smooth. 3. Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or ice cube tray. 4. Freeze for 3 hours or overnight until firm. Pro Tip – You can also freeze half of the mixture and the rest can be enjoyed as smoothies right away. If you are making a smoothie, add a bit of ice to the blender before serving and blend just enough to break the ice apart. This will cool down the mixture that you can pour right into your pup’s bowl!
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inside this issue
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Keeping Dangerous Products Away From Pets
Soak Up Some Vitamin D
Meet Kennel Tech Karin!
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Behind an Adorable Feline Habit
St. Patrick’s Day Frozen Dog Treats
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Meet Van Gogh, the Painting Dog
New Appointment Cancellation Policy When you cancel with less than 24-hour notice, we now require a prepaid $50 deposit to reschedule. If you keep your rescheduled appointment, we will apply the deposit to your veterinary bill. If you miss your rescheduled appointment, the fee is nonrefundable.
ONE-EARED RESCUE DOG BECOMES MASTER PAINTER Van Gogh Reincarnated?
the human artist Vincent Van Gogh, who didn’t become famous until after he died in 1890. This star rose thanks to Jo Van Gogh, the wife of his brother Theo, who advocated for his work after both Theo and Vincent passed away. You could say that Gartner was dog Van Gogh’s Jo because, like the original painter’s, the pup’s art staged a comeback! After his first “art show” drew just two guests, Gartner started auctioning off his paintings online. His abstract work like “Peacock Swirl” and a rendition of human Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” quickly raised more than $3,000 for Happily Furever After Rescue. As his reputation soared on social media, Van Gogh also found his forever home with shelter volunteer Jessica Starowitz. He now spends his days painting and lounging on the couch. You can follow his exploits on Instagram under the handle @officialvgdog.
When a one-eared shelter dog in Connecticut struggled to find a new family last year, one of his caretakers had a wild idea: Why not teach him to paint? With help from TikTok and peanut butter, the aptly named Van Gogh became a social media star. “I’d seen TikTok videos of other dogs creating paintings, so why not Van Gogh?” Jaclyn Gartner, the founder of Happily Furever After Rescue, told The Washington Post. “He certainly had the name and the ear for it.” To leverage what she calls Van Gogh’s “fast and creative tongue,” Gartner covered small canvases in dollops of paint, wrapped them in plastic wrap, and slathered them in peanut butter. Then, she presented the treats to the boxer-pit bull mix. He quickly licked the canvases clean, creating his “art” along the way. According to the Post, Van Gogh’s first few paintings flopped — just like the work of
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