Happy Halloween

Halloween Pet Tips


Here are some important things to keep in mind during the Halloween holiday:

Don't share Halloween candy with your pets. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, and other candy could damage their teeth and overall health. Make sure when the kids come back from trick-or-treating, they put their stash out of paws' reach.


Keep your pets a safe distance from trick-or-treaters. Having a steady stream of strangers on their turf might make pets anxious and unpredictable.


As you open and close the door to dish out candy, keep an eye on your dog or cat - pets can easily slip away and end up lost.


If you put a costume on your pet, make sure that nothing about the costume could interfere with his breathing or ability to see. Also, make sure that no parts of the costume could tangle or choke him. And keep on eye on him the whole time - never leave an outfitted pet alone.


If you take your dog trick-or-treating with you, make sure that he is on a leash and has the proper ID tags on his collar. You don't want to have to go looking for him, but if he does get lost, tags with your name and phone number make it much more likely that you'll get him back.


If you have a black cat, or even a dark gray one, keep close tabs on him during the days and weeks leading up to Halloween. If possible, keep him indoors to prevent him from being the victim of any pranks.

Happy Halloween!!

WOW!!
Look at all these great cookies that Brandy made us!
Happy Halloween!!

New Mama at Kingsbrook Animal Hospital!

On Monday October 26th, Ann Strathern’s Golden Retreiver Coqui had a c-section at Kingsbrook Animal Hospital and delivered a 1lb sweet baby boy! Mom and baby are doing well. Congratulations Coqui and Ann!

Bo's Guardian Angel

Bo is an adult mixed breed dog that was found running loose near Keyser, West Virginia after being struck by a car. A good samaritan captured him and brought him into Kingsbrook Animal Hospital for a medical evaluation. After administering sedation and pain medication, Dr Cook did a thorough exam and ordered radiographs (x-rays) of Bo's hips and lower extremities.

In the first radiograph above, the arrow indicates the area of trauma. The femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) had been fractured and displaced. The second radiograph was taken after surgery to remove the damaged femoral head (femoral head osteotomy). The muscles will support the joint until a "false" socket of callous forms. With lots of love and physical therapy, Bo will be on his feet again in no time. Special thanks to the guardian angel that saved his life.

2nd Annual Candy Drive for our Troops!

Between October 31st and November 7th, drop off your left-over halloween candy at our office and we will have it sent to our troops who are stationed overseas.

Last year, you donated over 100 lbs of candy! Let's see if we can beat that this year!

Thank you for supporting our brave men and women who are serving in the Armed Services.

"Mommy, look, that cat has no hair!"

Sphynx, also known as Canadian Hairless, is a breed of cat characterized by having little to no hair on their bodies. Sphynx have a genetic mutation in the gene that causes hair growth, thus they have very little to no hair. Typically, a Sphynx has a light covering of down-like hair on their nose, the backs of their ears, and the tops of their feet. Because they are hairless on their bodies, the oil their skin produces accumulates and Sphynx need to be bathed with a mild cat shampoo weekly. Wax can also accumulate in their ears and they also need to be cleaned weekly with a cleaner from your vet.

Sphynx need to be kept warmer than other cats because they don't have a natural coat! They can wear small dog t-shirts and love to snuggle under a fleece blanket or in bed with their person.

Sphynx come in all the same colors housecats come in, like torti, calico, tabby, bicolor(spotted), tuxedo, and color points (seal point, blue point, etc).
They have the same life span as other domestic cats and require the same diets and veterinary care. They can get a genetic disease known as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, or HCM, where the walls of their heart become thickened and the heart cannot pump effectively. Yearly check ups at your regular vet, as well as an ultrasound of the heart, known as an echocardiogram, should be done by the cardiologist. The onset of HCM is uaually 4-8 years of age.

2nd Annual SPAYgetti Dinner

The Promise Animal League will be holding it's 2nd Annual SPAYgetti dinner on Sunday, November 1 from 4-8pm. The cost of the tickets are $15.00 per adult and $7.00 for children 8 years and younger. Tickets can be purchased in bulk 5 for $60.00 or 10 for $100.00. The event includes and All You Can Eat Spaghetti Pasta Bar, Silent Auctions, Raffles, 50/50 Drawing, Door Prizes and Goody Bag for your pet. Proceeds benefit their low-cost spay/neuter clinic. The dinner will be held at Next Dimensions Restaurant, 132 Old National Pike, Hagerstown, MD. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 304-274-0534.

Top Cat Breeds

There are about 100 million pet cats in the Western world. The most popular is a combination of different breeds - the domestic shorthaired cat. The Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) holds the largest registry of pedigree cats in the world. A pedigree is the product of two parents from the same breed.

Let's take a look at the top ten most popular cat breeds of 2006, according to the CFA.

1. THE PERSIAN

Number one since the CFA first started keeping records in 1871! Although Persians are high-maintenance and need grooming every day, this is more than compensated for by their affectionate and loyal personality.

2. THE MAINE COON

This enormous all-American cat has been in second place since 1992. Maine Coons are one of the biggest domestic breeds. Males average 12 to 18 pounds in weight and females are usually 10-14. They are hardy, gentle and loving with long fur but don't need as much grooming as a Persian.

3. THE EXOTIC

These are also known as exotic shorthairs and are rounded and solid in appearance. This cat is like a Persian but with short fur. Some people call them 'a Persian in pyjamas'! They have the sweet personality of the Persian but only need combing twice a week.

4. THE SIAMESE

These cats are very communicative, yowling in a rasping voice for attention or just to chat! They are slim and athletic with large ears. Their fur is short and lies close to their skin. They love to be stroked, and are extremely loyal and close to one person. They are very intelligent and loving.

5. THE ABYSSINIAN

It is said that these pretty cats are descended from those worshipped by the ancient Egyptians - but no one knows for sure. Their coat is ticked with colors. Abyssinians are very active, busy and playful, and they love people.

6. THE RAGDOLL

Ragdolls, or 'Raggies' are extremely cute cats. They are called Ragdolls because when you pick one up, it goes completely limp in your arms! They are another large breed with males growing anything up to 20 pounds and females 15. They have blue eyes and mid-length, silky fur. They are extraordinarily affectionate and will follow you everywhere.

They are so docile that it can be dangerous for them to go out as they wouldn't defend themselves if another animal attacked them.

7. THE BIRMAN

This blue eyed cat also glories in the name of the Sacred Cat of Burma! They have characteristic white paws, making them look as if they are wearing little white boots. They have even temperaments, and are known for adjusting to your daily routine. A Birman will often be waiting for you when you get home from work (as do Siamese and Orientals). Although their fur is long and silky, they don't require much grooming.

8. THE AMERICAN SHORTHAIR

These look like regular tabbies but true American Shorthairs are pure-bred. These cats originally arrived in America on the "Mayflower" with the pilgrims. They are good hunters, have a loving nature, general good health, a quiet temperament, and they are great with children. They come in a multitude of color combinations, the most popular being silver. More than a third of all American Shorthairs have this coloring of black 'stripes' on a beautiful silver background.

9. THE ORIENTAL

This breed looks and behaves just like a Siamese but is available in two different hair lengths and over 300 different color combinations. They also have very sweet natures, and have many of the characteristics of Siamese, though they don't quite talk as loudly. But they are very affectionate and loyal, very people-oriented.

10. THE SPHYNX

This extraordinary naked cat has a rather bizarre appearance. Strangely, they are available in a multitude of colors, albeit skin colors rather than fur! They are lively and athletic, and enjoy climbing. They are loyal, loving and constantly demand attention.

Nutro Pet Food Recall

Nutro recently recalled several types of pet food after learning that a factory employee's plastic hat mysteriously made its way into the manufacturing line, was melted, and then combined with the food. Nutro is asking pet owners who think they may have tainted food to either return it to the store in which they bought it for a full refund or to call their "Consumer Care" team at 1-800-833-5330.


PRODUCT THAT MADE IT TO SELECT PETSMART STORES IN CA, AZ, CO, TX and NM
Product Name UPC Size Best by Date
NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs 79105 51313 4.5 LB 09/10/10
NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® Chicken Meal, Rice and Oatmeal Formula Small Bites Puppy 79105 23050 5 LB 09/10/10



PRODUCT THAT MADE IT TO SELECT PETCO STORES IN CA, NV, HI and UT

Product Name UPC Size Best by Date
NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs 79105 51315 30 LB 09/10/10

Cat Food Recall

Diamond Pet Foods has just announced a voluntary recall of their Premium Edge Finicky Adult Cat and Premium Edge Hairball Cat foods with the following date codes: RAF0501A22X 18lb, RAF0501A2X 6lb, RAH0501A22X 18lb, and RAH0501A2X 6lb. Early reports from pet owners and veterinary practices show geographic trending in the Rochester, New York area and according to Diamond, patients are presenting with neurologic signs. Although the food is not tainted, it is deficient in thiamine.

Behavior Resource

The Animal Behavioral Resources Institute is a non-profit organization where leading professionals in animal behavior and training can share their expertse & experiences. Their website features videos and articles relating to animal behavior, allowing us to enrich our relationships with the animals we love. Check it out at (http://abrionline.org/index.php

National Veterinary Technician Week

October 11-17, 2009 is National Veterinary Technician Week.

Veterinary technicians are trained professional support staff who provide assistance to veterinarians and biomedical/laboratory researchers. Technicians provide patient monitoring, animal restraint, surgical and dental assistance, laboratory diagnostics, administration of medicines and treatments, anesthesiology among other vital animal care and veterinary clinical tasks.

Some technicians are trained on the job by the veterinarian(s) or other technicians on staff. Some technicians attend schools that offer two or four year degrees in the science of veterinary technology. Upon completion of a formal academic program and after passing state-administered certification tests, one can become registered as a veterinary technician or RVT.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the technicians at Kingsbrook Animal Hospital for their dedication and compassion to the animals in their care.

New Convenient Antibiotic

Antibiotics are wonderful medications to help our loved ones feel better. Sometimes, though, they can be extremely difficult to give. Have your ever chased your cat around the house to give push a pill down it’s throat? Have you ever tried to hide an antibiotic in a piece of ham, cheese, etc. only to find out that Fido spit it out 5 minutes later?

Administering antibiotics can be very frustrating for clients and we are happy to announce that there is another option! Convenia is a injectable antibiotic that is professionally administered at the veterinary office and lasts for up to 14 days of treatment. Convenia is statistically proven to equal a veterinary label, multi day course of oral antibiotics. Convenia ensures that you pet gets the medication it needs without the hassle of daily administration.

The next time your loved one needs antibiotics ask your Veterinarian about the injectable option – CONVENIA!

Oh No! I have to pill my cat!

We all know that cats are difficult to pill. Here are some helpful ways to make it easier and take the anxiety out of medicating our feline friends.


1. Pill Pockets. These are great if your cat loves treats. It is a soft pocket that you place the pill in and conform around the pill to hide it. They come in chicken or salmon flavors.

2. FlavorX. Most pills can be compounded into a liquid and flavored to your cat's liking.
Flavors range from tuna, fish chowder and chicken pot pie.

3. Felovite and a syringe. We remove the tip off a 3-ml syringe and pull the plunger back. Squeeze a bit of Felovite into syringe then hide the pill in it. Open your cat's mouth and quickly push the plunger to administer the pill and Felovite.


Ask one of our trusty technicians which option would be best for you and your cat.

Have you pet-proofed your house?

Here are some ways to protect your pet

** Plants- There are lots of plants that we have in our households that can spell trouble for our pets should they get into them. Examples:lilies, azaleas or philodendron are all toxic to dogs and cats. Placing your potted plants out of reach and keeping an eye on your pets when they go into the yard are precautionary steps that can be taken. Furthermore, never use cocoa mulch- it contains caffeine and theobromine which are both potentially deadly to dogs. You can visit http://warreneckstein.com/pet-tips/poisons.html/ and click on "Pet Tips" or the ASPCA website (http://aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/) to access a more extensive list on dangerous plants.

** Electrical Cords- Cats have been known to burn their mouths from chewing on electrical wires. They seem to be drawn to the cords because they can feel the electricity running through them- which may give them the same adrenaline rush as hunting prey. Safety measures that can be taken include unplugging your electronics when you aren't using them or decoying wires with tubing to prevent chewing.

** Chew Toys- Imported treats can sometimes be contaminated with salmonella or chemicals. Make sure the goodies are American-made and be aware of how the product(s) are handled and shipped.

Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Animal shelters are vibrant and exciting places to go; barking, bustling, and busy. You'll find wonderful animals, many choices for your new companion. Our shelter employees have a wealth of information and experience to offer you about offer you about selecting the right pet for your family. You'll also find a pet adoption process that's designed to find a good home for our pets and a good pet for your home.

Our shelter employees will ask a number of questions about you; your pet experience and what you expect from the pet; questions you may not have expected Some people feel that it's harder to adopt a pet than a child, but we want to insure our pets find good homes and our citizens find the right pet. So hang in there; adopting a pet is worth it.

If you are ready to make a commitment to the right pet, not only will you save a life, you'll enhance your own. People with pets live longer and recover from illness faster than people who have none. Kids with pets learn empathy earlier than other kids. Research suggests that kids with pets handle family tragedy, such as divorce, better, too and may have fewer problems with allergies.

The Frederick Animal Control Center (FCAC) cares for abandoned and relinquished animals through funding from Frederick County Government. Each year, several thousand animals come into the shelter. While a few hundred of these pets are eventually reunited with their owners, the remaining thousands need new homes. Because the FCAC accepts all unwanted, injured, stray and sick animals in the County, we are often unable to find homes for all the pets in need.

How to Adopt

Find the pet of your dreams, bring your family to the shelter to meet the pet and fill out an application to adopt.

Make an appointment with an adoption counselor the following day. In the meantime we check references you provide.

Our adoption counselors will give you information on integrating your new pet into your household. If we've found a good match, you will pay adoption fees and take your pet home. If your pet is not yet altered, our vets will perform the surgery here at the shelter BEFORE you take your pet home