News and notes straight from us to you! | Page 2 - Leesburg Vet Blog

February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month and today is World Spay Day!!
For the pet population as a whole, spaying and neutering is the only way to effectively reduce overpopulation and unnecessary euthanasia in crowded shelters. Spaying and neutering also improves your pet’s health and longevity and may help reduce unruly behavior. The Humane Society of the United States has a great article on their website on the importance of spaying and neutering. We’ve included some of the information in the image below.
Spaying and neutering have many benefits for both shelter pets and own furry family members.
Many of our clients that rescue pets or have puppies and kittens have questions regarding the need for spaying and neutering and what is involved in the procedure. LVH’s Dr. Jennifer Boyle is here to answer those questions.
When is the best time to spay/neuter my puppy or kitten?
We generally recommend spaying/neutering pets at 6-8 months of age. However we prefer to tailor our recommendations based on each pet’s age, size, breed, physical confirmation, etc. so it is best to discuss the ideal age for your pet to be spayed/neutered with your veterinarian.
Are there consequences or risks for spaying/neutering too early?
There are some studies that suggest spaying/neutering too early can have a negative consequence on joint and skeleton development and may predispose some female dogs to urinary incontinence as they age.
It is important to realize that spaying/neutering too late can have MANY negative health consequences such as testicular tumors and prostate issues for males and a life threatening uterine infection (“pyometra”) in females. A female that goes through several heat cycles also has a much higher risk of malignant mammary tumors when compared to females that are spayed at a younger age.
Will spaying/neutering affect my pet’s personality?
Spaying/neutering will not alter your pet’s personality. The only potential change you may see is a decrease in their overall metabolism so you should monitor their weight and body condition closely to be sure they are not getting excess daily calories that may cause obesity. There is a chance that aggression and dominant behaviors could subside some after a pet is spayed/neutered, but this is not always the case.
What is involved in the procedure?
A routine neuter involves a small incision just in front of the scrotum; the spermatic cord and vessels to each testicle is ligated and severed so that both testicles are removed through this incision. The incision is typically closed with absorbable sutures that will dissolve in a few weeks’ time.
A routine spay involves a midline abdominal incision – the uterus and ovaries are excised, vessels ligated, and the abdomen is closed in several layers of absorbable suture.
I’ve seen advertisements for reduced or free spay/neuter clinics. Why is the procedure at LVH more expensive compared to the reduced spay/neuter clinics?
Some hospitals may have higher overall costs associated with their surgical procedures for many factors. At LVH, we have a licensed veterinary technician monitoring the pet at all times while the doctor performs the procedure. All or our pets have an IV catheter placed (essential in case of an emergency), receive warmed IV fluids (important to keep pets warm and maintain blood pressure and adequate circulation). We provide warm water blankets and air circulators to keep their temperature normal. We provide a local anesthetic block, as well as optimum pain control through injectable opioids and anti-inflammatories. And all of our patients are monitored with state of the art equipment (EKG, blood pressure, temperature, pulse oximetry, capnography) to ensure the safest anesthetic experience possible.
All of our surgical procedures, including routine spays and neuters, utilize state-of-art equipment and techniques. A licensed technician assists our doctors on all procedures and with pre and post-operative care. Image Source: Ellen Zangla Photography
LVH doctors and staff also volunteer their time and our hospital resources to help local shelters and rescue organizations spay and neuter adoptable pets. To read more about some of our recent volunteer efforts, check out the following blog posts:
You’ve probably been hearing more and more about essential oils, one of the biggest trends in natural health for people and, increasingly, for pets. The oils can be used for mood and aromatherapy, for minor skin wounds, and as insecticide aids. There are several big companies that produce these oils, with varying degrees of quality control. As with many natural therapies or supplements, keep in mind that essential oils are not approved by the FDA for medical use with pets, and there is no regulated difference between oils labeled “therapeutic grade” and others.
Why are we so concerned about essential oils and cats, anyway?
Cats pose a particular concern with unregulated therapies, like essential oils. While dogs can process many of the same compounds that humans can, cats cannot!*
There is a specific enzyme produced by the liver that is important for metabolizing certain compounds and cats do not produce this enzyme. This makes them incredibly sensitive to drug and chemical toxicities, not just natural therapies.
There are multiple ways that your cat can be exposed to oils. They can ingest the oils orally and absorb the oils rapidly through their skin; cats can also be particularly sensitive to respiratory exposure through oil diffusers. It’s important to remember that oils can be very concentrated, so even just a few drops applied to your cat’s skin can be a huge amount of the oil itself. And don’t forget how flexible your cat is! Anything applied to your cat’s skin has the risk of being licked off as your cat grooms their coat.
Tips for enjoying essential oils with cats in the home
When diffusing oil in your home, always make sure that your cat has the option to leave the room that the oil is being diffused in. It’s a good idea to avoid active diffusers – those with motorized fans that actively push the essential oil out into the room. Passive diffusers, like reed diffusers, warmers with no fans, or jewelry diffusers are less worrisome, as the concentration of the oil into the surrounding area is much lower. Avoid diffusing oils where your cat eats, drinks, or has their litter box.
There are some specific oils that are not to be used with cats, period. Wintergreen, tea tree, citrus, oil of sweet birch, pine oils, Ylang Ylang oil, peppermint oil, cinnamon oil, pennyroyal oil, clove oil, and eucalyptus oil. These have been shown to definitively cause toxicity in cats and should not be used with cats at all. Vomiting, drooling, lethargy, chemical-like burns to the skin, difficulty walking, muscle tremors, and respiratory distress can all indicate toxic exposure.
*In many cases dogs can metabolize compounds more effectively than cats. However, very young puppies and dogs with liver disease cannot and caution should be used around these animals. In general, we recommend taking the same precautionary measures described above around all pets when using essential oils. Remember, most pets are naturally curious and will probably want to lick or sniff the diffuser and/or oils directly. Even a small lick can irrirate or burn your dog’s mouth!
So, can we use essential oils safely with our pets?
The answer is… maybe. There is a lot of unregulated use, but not a lot of scientific studies to show whether essential oils are beneficial to our pets. Though our recommendations may change, I would not encourage using essential oils for medical treatment for pets at this point. Using them in your home with safety in mind can be done effectively.
We highly recommend consulting with your veterinarians before using any over-the-counter natural pet product. Many of these products appear to have the same compounds used in human aromatherapy products. And it is important to note, that the essential oils found pet products are greatly diluted. So succesfully using a product containing an essential oil, is not the same as applying the oil directly to your pet!
If you use essential oils in your home, be careful with your pets, especially your cats. Avoid applying it to their skin and take measures to insure your cats can easily avoid diffused oils at their will, and never allow ingestion of oils. If you think your cat may have been exposed to something toxic, call Leesburg Veterinary Hospital or the Pet Poison Hotline as soon as possible.
Our pets are naturally curious creatures. Often times, if given the time or accessibility, some will take that curiosity as an opportunity to get into substances or materials that could be harmful to them. Ellie is a 6-month old fun, loving, poodle mix that ingested an unknown quantity of human prescription medications. Luckily, Ellie’s owner was able to get her to Leesburg Veterinary Hospital within 30 minutes of ingestion of the medications.
As shown in the image below, there are numerous everyday household foods, plants, and medications that can be seriously harmful to our pets. Some of these might suprise you! (For a more detailed list please visit – https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control).
Many products, foods, plants can be harmful to our pets.
Veterinarians take every toxicity case very seriously. Consequences of toxicity can include digestive upset, organ damage, neurologic abnormalities, and even death if not treated appropriately. There are multiple factors that play into each situation:
Characteristics of the poisonous substance
Amount ingested/animal exposure
Time ingested/length of exposure
Species of pet, age, breed
Medical history of your pet
Ellie was treated immediately upon arrival to the hospital. Vomiting was induced to help recover as much of the ingested medication as possible. While making an animal vomit can be ideal in certain cases, it is not always warranted. This is because certain substances can actually be harmful if the body attempts to force them back up. For instance, for a pet that ingests and chews up a large amount of chicken bones or drinks a caustic substance, vomiting would not be recommended. Additional damage to the esophagus or oral cavity could result.
We were able to find numerous tablets of various sizes, colors, and consistencies in Ellie’s vomit. In a veterinary hospital setting, we have the ability to induce vomiting by administering a specific medication intravenously. Within 30 seconds, animals will typically vomit about 40-70% of the contents in their stomach at best. Unfortunately vomiting alone may not always be enough treatment for a serious toxicity.
Because of the amount of medications and types of medications that Ellie ingested, she was treated very aggressively to have the best possible outcome. After contents from the stomach were recovered, her bloodwork was assessed for any immediate abnormalities and she was hospitalized. Her hospitalized treatments included multiple administrations of activated charcoal, fluid therapy, liver/digestive protectants, and regular blood pressure checks. Ellie was hospitalized with critical care monitoring for two days straight. She was constantly monitored for any changes in behavior, appetite, urination output, and bloodwork.
Due to quick action by Ellie’s owners to get her to LVH as soon as she realized meds were ingested, and treatment workup and hospitalization plan by LVH’s doctors and staff, Ellie made a full recovery!
After 48 hours of hospitalization Ellie was discharged and continued on outpatient treatment at home. At home, she was kept on a very strict schedule of medications to aid in her recovery. These consisted of anti-nauseas, gastric protectants, liver protectants, anti-oxidants, and anti-diarrheals. Ellie was rechecked at 72 hours after ingestion and then again one week after ingestion to ensure that no further delayed abnormalities originated.
~
Due to quick action by Ellie’s owners to get her to Leesburg Vet as fast as possible post-ingestion, this sweet pup’s story has a happy ending. Nearly 50% of all pet poisonings involve human drugs and unfortunately, many pets aren’t as lucky.
As Ellie’s story shows, pets metabolize human medications very differently than people. Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter medications may cause serious poisoning in pets. Never give your pet any medications unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian, give them human medications, or change the dosage amount. Be mindful of species-specific insecticides (such as spot-on flea and tick preventatives); never apply dog-specific products on cats, or vice-versa.
Happy New Year and welcome to 2018 – a time for a fresh start and a great opportunity to set up healthy habits for both you and your furry family members. While you’re working hard at carrying out your New Year’s resolutions, also make a commitment to your pets to help them have their healthiest year yet!
Below, the doctors from Leesburg Veterinary Hospital share their tips to help you stay on track all year long.
Dr. Strickland suggests:
Take it slow when starting a new exercise regimen – especially during the colder winter months!
It may sound counter-intuitive, but my recommendation is to avoid too much exercise this winter with your pets. Since most of our pets are “couch potatoes,” their bodies are not prepared for the cold weather in regards to pad protection or keeping warm. Even though they have a fur coat, animals are not as conditioned for cold as you might think. We recommend a coat for short hair animals. Also, look out for snowballs hiding in the webbing of their feet and ice cutting their pads with exuberant exercise. And watch out for over-exertion in the deep snow. Many animals will tear knee ligaments and pull muscles by running and jumping in the snow, especially when adrenaline makes them feel like they can keep up with you.
Have fun in the brisk outdoors this winter, just take it slow to reduce injury or over-exertion!
Dr. Dunn suggests:
Reduce fear in stressful or new situations.
Many pets experience some level of stress or anxiety in either new situations or learned/feared trigger events. These situations can include thunderstorms or loud noises, car rides, and even vet visits, just to name a few. My tip is to quickly identify the cause so that we can best create a more stress-free and inviting environment.* Developing a plan and providing resources to keep your pet happy is something we take pride in doing. Fear that we ignore or do not acknowledge can turn into unwanted and adverse behavior.
*LVH is proud to be a “Fear Free Practice.” This means we’re implementing methods and protocols that reduce stress or remove anxiety triggers, which creates an experience that is rewarding and safer for all involved. Here, a little peanut butter went a long way in creating a positive experience during Bella’s puppy checkup!
Dr. Boyle suggests:
Actively work on building positive veterinary experiences for your pet.
I encourage all owners to try to foster a positive relationship between their pets and their veterinarian. Taking the time for positive happy visits (This could be as simple as stopping by for some treats or belly rubs.) and listening to suggestions for other anti-anxiety methods can make a big difference in the veterinary experience you and your pet have over the years. We would much rather spend time building a positive relationship with your pet instead of seeing very scared pets – this is stressful for the pet, you as the pets family member, and on some occasions, even the veterinary staff.
Maintain a healthy weight and body condition by measuring food.
Make 2017 the year to keep or get your pet to a healthy weight and body condition! Excess weight increases the risk for developing endocrine and systemic diseases and puts increased stress on the joints and heart. Pets in an ideal body condition enjoy a longer and higher quality life! We can assess your pet’s body condition score during your pet’s exam; you can also view the standardized body condition scale here.
One of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy weight and body condition is to focus on the amount and type of foods your pet is eating. Start by measuring how much food goes into their bowl. You’d be surprised how many people just fill up the bowl once a day or whenever pets start scratching or begging. The nutrition label on their food bag will give you a good idea of what a reasonable amount of food is for your pet’s weight. Additionally, when a pet is on a diet, make sure you are feeding a “light” or diet food, so they are getting the appropriate amount of vitamins and minerals. And don’t forget about treats and table scraps, which can add a lot of unnecessary fat and calories. Substitute a baby carrot, slice of apple, green beans, or a few kernels of plain microwave popcorn for dogs, and a small piece of canned tuna or chicken for cats.
Discuss steps for weight loss or maintaining weight with your veterinarian to be sure it is done safely.
Do you really know how much food you’re feeding your pet every day? Read the food bag label or talk to your vet about the optimal amount of food for your pet.
Dr. Rockwell suggests:
Use Your Veterinarian
Seriously! Veterinarians have a wealth of knowledge that can help you with your pets or maybe even before you ever get a pet. We can help discuss breeds of dogs or cats that may suit your family best.
How do you keep your pet healthy? We can help create a preventative health care plan specialized for your pet, based on their lifestyle risk factors.
Unsure if you should be feeding your beagle a salmon-based food? What about chicken by-products? We have training in animal nutrition to help you sort through the wide array of pet foods available.
Maybe you notice that your older pet seems to have slowed down a little. We can help decipher the multitude of joint supplements and chronic pain management options to find the best treatment plan for your pet.
We are here to help you and your four-legged family in any way we can. Keeping your pet’s veterinarian in the loop about medical and health questions is the best way to keep your pet feeling great through the next year!
Dr. Rockwell, and all of the doctors at Leesburg Vet are here to answer your pet-related questions!
Dr. Melberger suggests:
Brush your pet’s teeth, ideally a few times per week.
To follow up on Dr. Kloer’s point, dental health can be so easy to overlook, but it really is a vital part of keeping your pet healthy and happy. The “gold standard” is a toothbrush (or finger brush) and enzymatic toothpaste. Most pets are surprisingly tolerant of these, but, of course, not all are. For pets that are more standoffish or stubborn to a brush, dental chews are a possible second choice.
It is also very important that pets not be allowed to chew on items that are too hard as this could cause their teeth to fracture. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t dent the chew toy with your fingernail, then it is probably too hard for your pet to safely chew on it.
Just like us, brushing does not replace the need for a professional cleaning, but it can dramatically increase the interval of time before a pet needs their teeth cleaned again. Another huge benefit of maintaining your pet’s dental health is their breath will be so much better!
For a great demonstration of how easy it is to brush your pet’s teeth, watch this video of Dr. Boyle with her lovely assistant, Elphie.
Dr. Henly suggests:
Treat your pet to a dental day.
Our doctors are serious about pet dental health and for good reason! Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats five years and older. Smaller dog breeds like my toy poodle, Molly, are predisposed to periodontal disease as early as three years old. Radiographs in these young small breed dogs can be surprising. I found a fractured tooth in Molly at four years old based solely on the radiographs as I was not able to tell by just looking at her tooth. Tartar, in general, may not be pathologic but once the gums become red and inflamed from the bacteria present, this infection needs to be addressed sooner than later to prevent tooth loss or more concerning heart, liver and kidney disease. Halitosis is a major concern and can affect the bond between a pet and their owner. Some cats are unfortunately subject to gingivostomatitis and require aggressive therapy in the form of full mouth extractions. Refer to the animal owner section at www.avdc.org for more information, or please feel free to ask us at your pet’s next appointment. You can even test your dental health knowledge by taking our quiz here!
Dental health and oral hygiene are extremely important to your pet’s overall health. Besides trying to brush your pet’s teeth at home, we may recommend regular cleanings. Dental cleanings include ultrasonic scaling, followed by polishing and a mouth rinse, all of which are designed to remove plaque and slow its build-up.
We hope these suggestions help you and your furry friends have a happy and healthy 2016. Do you have a pet resolution that wasn’t mentioned? Please share in the comments section or on our Facebook page.
As we near the end of 2017, we are looking back on a cause that was near and dear to our hearts this year. In partnership with Zoetis, Leesburg Veterinary Hospital’s Dr. Jennifer Boyle helped dogs from local rescue organizations FOHA and Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue overcome heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease is a very serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the pulmonary vessels – the vessels which carry blood from the heart to the lungs. Heartworm disease causes severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs in the body. Dogs and cats of any age, breed, or living condition (indoors or outdoors) are at risk in our area.
Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitos. Looking at the map below, you can see that our area ranks in the mid-to-high levels of heartworm incidence compared to the rest of the country.
This map shows the regional incidence of heartworm disease in the United States. Testing data from thousands of veterinary practices and shelters is used to create a detailed map showing the average number of heartworm-positive cases per clinic. Source: American Heartworm Society
Dr. Boyle and the LVH team provided treatment to four dogs in 2017- Sachi, Mae, Goliath, and Joni. Their treatment consisted of veterinary exams, laboratory tests to confirm the heartworm disease, baseline bloodwork values, medications, heartworm treatment injections, and hospitalization during the procedures. With the help of Zoetis, LVH was able to provide these services at no cost to the rescues – making the dogs more adoptable and allowing the rescues to help more pets!
Meet the four rescue dogs we have helped this year:
This is Sachi, a 2-year old spayed female Rottweiler who couldn’t be any sweeter!
Mae, a 2-year-old spayed female Border Collie Mix had several health issues when she first came to see us, but is doing much better now!
Goliath is a 1-year old gentle giant that we loved having visit our hospital!
Here is Joni, a 6-year old spayed female German Shepherd who began heartworm treatments this past Fall.
Here are Goliath and Sachi during one of their heartworm injection treatments. Dr. Boyle was able to get a quick selfie with Goliath!
Being able to save these dogs from a serious and oftentimes fatal disease like heartworm has been incredibly rewarding for the entire LVH team. We hope to expand upon this service to help even more dogs in 2018. If you would like to donate to this cause, please contact us at 703-777-3313 or download and fill out our Benevolent Donation Form.
Even though heartworm disease is prevalent in our area, it is preventable! We recommend routine annual heartworm screening (a simple blood test) for all of our dog patients, and monthly heartworm prevention for all of our dog and cat patients (and ferrets too!). The diagnosis is much more complex in cats; currently, there is no feline treatment and medical management is very expensive and challenging. To learn more about this illness, visit our blog: The Heart of the Matter: Understanding and Preventing Heartworm Disease.
Thanksgiving is over and now we’ve all got one thing on our minds – holiday shopping! Instead of getting stressed out battling the crowds at the malls and browsing the same old goods at big box stores, take advantage of the wealth of unique small businesses right here in Leesburg and all around Loudoun County. Kick off your holiday shopping by getting out on Small Business Saturday this weekend. Launched by American Express in 2010 as a way to promote shopping at our local, independent mom-and-pop shops, Small Business Saturday has grown to have as much prominence as it’s weekend retail cousins Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Last year, over 95 million people went out to support local small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and continue to support local retailers throughout the entire year.
We might not be a traditional retailer, but Leesburg Veterinary Hospital is proud to be a local small business, a part of the Loudoun County community for the past thirty years!
To promote shopping small in our area this season, the staff at Leesburg Veterinary Hospital are sharing some of their favorite local shops and restaurants. Get our advice then get out this weekend and support our community by #shoppingsmall in Loudoun County.
Jennifer Strickland, Licensed Veterinary Technician
I like supporting all the small businesses in Middleburg. Many of them are employee owned and stand alone businesses. The restaurant scene has really expanded to include Oystar Bar, Red Fox Inn, Red Horse Tavern and Upper Crust Bakery. There are also retail stores where you can get some cute outfits for daily wear or special occasions (Lulu, J McLaughlin, etc.) and several equine specific shops. I really don’t have to shop anywhere else; I can get everything I need in that small town!
Historic Middleburg, VA
Amy Bosley Marketing and Events Manager
I enjoy supporting small businesses because of the unique services they offer and what they give back to our community. They add charm and character – driving through pretty towns like Purcellville is great. Imagine if there were no small businesses around, it would look pretty bland. Some of my favorite small businesses are Jennys Salon, Vintage Magnolia, Western Loudoun Chiropractic, Old 690 Brewing Company and Bella Ballerina for my two little girls.
Jenny’s Salon in Purcellville
Melissa Davis, Office Manager
I like the personal feel of a small business. This feel along with the customer service is something that can’t always be matched at other stores. By shopping small, I know that I’m supporting that person, their employees and families and our local community. There are so many to chose from, but some of my favorites are Natural Mercantile of Hamilton, Alter’d State, Dirt Farm Brewing, and Healthy by Nature.
Natural Mercantile of Hamilton
Dr. Jennifer Boyle, Veterinarian
By “shopping small”, I know I’m helping to support our local community and strengthening our economy. There are so many unique things to find in a small business and the customer service is always great. Some of my favorites are: WK Hearth, Finn Thai, Leesburg Nails, South Street Under, La Conche and Stone Tower Winery.
Stone Tower Winery
Kimberly Shaffer, Licensed Veterinary Technician
We are so lucky to have such a wide selection of amazing small businesses in this county. I’m so thankful our clients support our small business, so I will always try to return the favor and give back to our community by shopping small. Some of my favorite small businesses are: Ellen Zangla Photography, Solo Pizza, Blue Ridge Hospice and Consignment Store and ProFit Ski and Skate.
Ellen Zangla Pet Photography
We also asked local residents and shop owners what their favorite LoCo-based businesses are. The response was overwhelming! There were so many, but we didn’t want to leave anyone out. So keeping in the community spirit, we are giving them all a “shout out” here. Please note, Leesburg Veterinary Hospital does not have direct experience with these businesses, nor are we offering direct endorsement or reviews.
Leesburg Veterinary Hospital was proud to sponsor and take part in the “Whiskers and Wine” fundraising event at 8 Chains North Winery this past weekend.
This fun event brought together local veterinary and feline professionals, boutique vendors, and artists to help raise awareness and money for the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition – a local non-profit organization whose mission is to save the lives of our local feral cat communities through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Leesburg Veterinary Hospital has hosted several TNR clinics in the past and will be hosting LC3’s next clinic on Sunday December 10th. You can read more about the impact these clinics have on our local cat communites here.
Several doctors and staff from LVH including Dr. Strickland and Dr. Dunn, Joanne Scott, Kimberly Shaffer, Kim Cupples, Chris Zimmerman, Amy Bosley, and Felicia Belcher took part in the event. What better way to spend an Autumn Saturday in Loudoun County!
LVH’s Front Desk Supervisor, Kim Cupples and Licensed Veterinary Technician Kimberly Shaffer did a presentation on the Fear Free Approach with cats. Over the past year, our hospital has implemented both Fear Free protocols and has become certified as a Cat Friendly Practice. Both programs help us create the most positive veterinary experiences for both pets and their owners.
Loudoun County Animal Services stopped by in their adoption truck. You can check out all of their adoptable pets and find out where their truck will be stopping next on their Facebook page.
“The Kitten Lady,” Hannah Shaw talked about her work traveling around the country doing educational seminars, workshops, and meet & greets to help people learn how they can help save the lives of abandoned and feral kittens.
Did you know, when LC3 goes out and traps cats to be spayed and neutered, kittens are often found. LC3 needs volunteers to join their Kitten Rescue Team. They provide the training, you provide the love, attention, and support needed until adoption.
Leesburg Veterinary Hospital is excited to be celebrating National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week from November 5th – November 11th. We are so fortunate to have many wonderful animal shelters and rescue organizations here in the Leesburg and Northern Virginia area, with countless volunteers, dedicating their time to help pets in need.
Our local shelters and rescues work hard every day to help homeless animals while they wait for their forever home. Besides being a safe haven for many animals, these organizations also strive to be a source of education and outreach for our community. Many shelters look into cruelty and neglect cases, provide spay/neuter services and hold educational seminars.
Thank you to all our of local shelters for all that you do!
Have you been thinking about adopting a pet or looking for volunteer opportunities in our community? National Animal Shelter Week is the perfect time to rescue a furry friend in need or volunteer.
Here’s a list of our local animal shelters and rescues and a few ideas of how you can get involved:
Looking to help the Loudoun County Animal Shelter but can’t adopt? The shelter is currently accepting donations to help keep pets as comfortable as possible. Items such as washcloths, standard 6 foot (non-retractable) leashes, and stimulating cat toys are needed.
In an effort to help control the overpopulation of our local feral cat communities, HSLC also takes part in trap-neuter-return programs. Leesburg Veterinary Hospital has been a proud host of several trap-neuter-return events. You can read about those events here.
Middleburg Humane Foundation
Middleburg Humane Foundation operates a 4.5 acre farm shelter in Marshall, VA for neglected, abused, and at-risk animals both large and small. You can learn more about the shelter or ways you can help by visiting their website. We also offer a courtesy exam for any pet adopted from Middleburg Humane Foundation – download the certificate here
Sadly, cancer is the leading killer of pet dogs and cats in the United States. Like human cancers, the disease is caused by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells on or within the body. Luckily though many cancers are treatable and in many cases curable, with early detection and specialized care.1
At LVH, we believe consistent examinations (yearly or biannually, depending on the pet’s age) and our diagnostic tools are the best ways for prevention or early detection of cancers. While young pets can get cancers, they are generally seen in our older canine and feline populations. Because of this, we recommend biannual exams once our patients turn seven years old.
We also use state-of-the-art diagnostics to screen for any abnormalities. All new lumps, or an existing lump that has changed, should be examined. It is impossible to tell if a lump is a lipoma (a benign, fat tumor) just by feeling it. Just because it feels “soft and fatty” does not mean it’s a non-cancerous lump. The primary method used to tell if a lump is benign or if it should be removed is by performing a fine-needle aspirate (FNA) and cytology examination. In this procedure, a few cells are extracted from the lump and examined under a microscope. This is a quick, easy, and effective procedure that our doctors and technicians perform on a daily basis.
While blood work can be a helpful assessment of overall pet health, from a cancer diagnostic perspective, bloodwork can diagnose only cancers of the red blood cells and white blood cell cancers, (namely leukemia). Despite this, we advise biannual bloodwork on our older patients. If bloodwork values are abnormal, it leads the doctors to more specific diagnostics. For example, if bloodwork returns show high organ enzyme values, our doctors will look more closely at the specific organ.
Radiographs (X-rays) and ultrasounds are also two additional and important diagnostic tools available at LVH. X-rays of bones in older, limping pets help to diagnose bone cancers, while abdominal, chest, and heart ultrasounds help detect cancers in those respective areas. Whenever a concern of possible cancer is present, the doctor will help owners with decision-making about whether these diagnostics should be performed.
Treatments for cancers vary greatly depending on the particular type of cancer. Some cancers can be cured by surgery alone; others need surgery and follow-up chemotherapy and/or radiation. Pet chemotherapy is slightly different than human chemotherapy in that the goal is to not only put the cancer into remission but to also provide the pet with the best possible quality of life. Also, unlike human chemotherapy, pets rarely lose their hair.
As mentioned earlier, when cancers are caught early there is a greater chance of a successful treatment plan and cure. In cases where the cancer becomes complicated, the LVH doctors work with board certified specialists – specifically those at The Oncology Service at TLC in Leesburg– to further care for and treat these pets. More advanced diagnostics including but not limited to CT and MRI are available at The Oncology Service should they be needed.
The Veterinary Cancer Society is a great resource for insight and information; their site can be accessed here.
According to a Petfinder survey, older pets in rescues are considered “less adoptable” and are the hardest group of shelter animals to find homes. With November being Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month, we’re here to say senior sweeties are the best!
One of the benefits of adopting an older pet is that they are typically more calm and better trained compared to a rambunctious puppy or kitten. If they do need some training, it’s usually much easier than trying to train younger animals. Their experience around humans and more established physical and mental abilities allow them to better adjust to their new living environment. Also, unlike puppies that require much focus and energy to be properly trained, older pets are not a 24/7 commitment. Senior dogs are more mellow and content with a relaxing day-to-day routine. Because of this, senior pets may also be a better fit for families with children or senior citizens.
For more information, visit Petfinder.com. We also encourage you to visit The Grey Muzzle Organization’s website. This organization seeks to improve the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other non-profit groups nationwide.
As we prepare for the spookiest night of the year, let’s take a moment to take our furry friends into consideration. Nothing is more frightening than having to deal with a pet emergency in the midst of the seasonal festivities. Get our veterinarian-approved tips to be pet-prepared this Halloween weekend.
Furry friends beware – these foods are truly frightful!
Chocolate
Mini chocolate bars in iconic flavors may be one of our favorite seasonal indulgences, but sharing these sweet treats with our pets is a big no-no. Even if you don’t plan on sharing, many dogs are attracted to chocolate’s dark, rich aroma. In small amounts, chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but in large amounts it can be potentially fatal. Dark chocolates and cocoa powder are particularly toxic in small doses.
Also, be mindful of candy wrappers and lollipop sticks. As kids excitedly unwrap their Halloween goodies, pets may be apt to snatch and eat the packaging, which can lead to life-threatening bowel obstructions. Signs of obstruction include lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, and decreased or straining to defecate.
Sugarless Sweets Containing Xylitol
Xylitol is a word you may never have heard of, but it’s a common ingredient in many gums, mints, baked goods, and even human dental care products and some peanut butters. And while you may think it’s not a big deal if your pet sneaks a little piece of gum or a mint, the consequences could be fatal. A sugar substitute, this compound is extremely toxic to pets – even 1-2 pieces of sugar-free gum can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood pressure), seizures, and/or liver failure.
Raisins
Mini-boxes of raisins are a popular healthy treat for trick-or-treaters but are extremely toxic to dogs, causing liver and kidney failure. Clinical signs may not show up for days – after damage to the liver or kidneys has already occurred.
When in doubt, contact us or call the Poison Control Center hotline.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful food, call us immediately. If we are closed, we recommend calling the ASPCA’s Poison Control Center’s hotline at 866-426-4435. (This contact info is also available on their mobile app as discussed above). Please be aware, a $65 consultation fee may apply to the phone call.
When calling us or the hotline, be prepared with the following information:
Species, breed, age, sex, weight
Symptoms and signs of your pet’s poisoning
Name, strength, and amount ingested (have the product container or packaging available for reference)
Be Proactive with Pumpkin!
Want to include your pet in the seasonal offerings, but not sure how? Try pumpkin! 100% pure, canned pumpkin (NOT the pumpkin pie filling) is a highly nutritional seasonal treat. Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber. It helps with digestive regularity; we often recommend adding a tablespoon of pumpkin to pets’ regular food to aide with constipation and diarrhea. Pumpkin’s high fiber and low calorie content also make it a great choice if you’re working on weight loss.
Pet Friendly Decor
Decorating is a huge part of the Halloween fun! However, pets are in danger if they are exposed to wires and cords from electric lights, or chew on decorations such as pumpkins and gourds. Keeps pumpkins and candles out of each of animals as they can easily be knocked over by playful and mishieveous pets.
Use Caution with Costumes
Some dogs and many cats may get stressed out donning a costume. If your pet seems comfortable dressing up, keep the costumes simple to avoid getting tangled in strings, ties, belts, and sashes. Avoid costumes that restrict movement, vision, or swallowing. Keep a close eye on your costumed pet at all times, never leaving them unattended in their getup.
Keep Pets Away From Doors
To avoid anxiousness, agitation, fright, or the potential for pets to run through open doors, keep dogs and cats away from your entrance during trick-or-treating hours. Make sure your pets are wearing their ID tags and are micrcochipped so they can be easily returned in case of an escape.
Leave Fido at Home
Even if your pet is a well-behaved leash walker, it may be best for him to sit out the trick-or-treating trek. The most polite pooches may act up when exposed to the sights and sounds of other yards and strangers’ porches, or get anxious among throngs of costumed kids. If you insist on bringing your pet along, keep them close to you on a standard six-foot leash – and we’re begging you, leave the retractable leash at home!
Halloween is a great time to have fun with your family and friends, but it’s so important to keep our furry friends safe during the festivities. We encourage to share our Pet Safety Tips infographic to help spread the word about Halloween pet safety!
October 1-7 is officially designated as National Walk Your Dog Week! If you ask us, there is no better time than the Autumn season to get out and enjoy all of our areas’ unique natural wonders and historical landmarks with your pup!
The Benefits of Walking Your Dog
Besides the special bonding time you’ll get to share with your pet every day, a daily walking routine has several health and behavioral benefits for your pet (and you too!) Walking at least 30 minutes a day can help increase energy levels, reduce boredom, improve socialization, lower blood pressure, and keep weight in check. And don’t let a fenced-in yard stifle your motivation. Your pet will be mentally stimulated by the sights and sounds beyond the backyard, get to use muscles they normally wouldn’t use, and perfect their leash walking.
Veterinary Tips for Successful Dog Walks
Before you head out this fall, here are some tips for establishing a safe and fun walking program for you and your pet.
Work with your vet to create a customized vaccine plan:
Did you know that where you walk your dog is an important factor in determining the best vaccine protocol for your pet? For example, a dog that typically only walks on sidewalks in a more urban area will not have as high of a risk for exposure to leptospirosis as a dog that is walking on hiking trails. Leptospirosis is a contagious bacterial disease carried by wild animals such as deer, raccoons, mice, and cows. It is spread through an infected animal’s bodily fluids (urine, specifically) or by drinking contaminated water from lakes or streams. At Leesburg Veterinary Hospital we tailor vaccine protocols to each individual pet so that we are not “over vaccinating,” but providing the best comprehensive protection for that pet based on their lifestyle and risk factors. You can learn more about all of our recommended vaccines here.
Stay up-to-date on monthly preventatives:
We recommend all of our pet patients take a monthly chewable or topical preventative to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease, including in the colder fall and winter months.
Loudoun County has one of the highest rates of Lyme Disease in the country. Lyme disease is transmitted by the deer tick, a very hardy insect with peak population during the Autumn months.
Heartworm disease is caused by worms that live in the pulmonary vessels (the vessels that carry blood to the heart and lungs) of infected pets and is transmitted by mosquitoes. Heartworm preventatives work by killing the immature (larval) stages of the heartworm parasite. Once the immature larvae become adults, they cannot be effectively eliminated by preventatives. Because of this, it is very important that heartworm preventatives be administered strictly on schedule each month without interruption.
By ordering your pet’s preventatives from our online pharmacy and setting up the “Auto Ship” option, you will never have to worry about running out or missing a monthly dose.
Leave the retractable leash at home!
For the safety of you, other walkers, and pets, Leesburg Veterinary Hospital highly recommends using a standard 6-foot leash when walking your dog in public. In our article here, we go into detail on the drawbacks and dangers of using a retractable leash.
Our favorite pet-friendly walking and hiking spots:
We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful area of the country with so many unique parks and greenspaces – there really is no excuse not to get out with your pet. Hopefully we’ll see you out there this fall!
Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Park in Leesburg and Algonkin Regional Park in Sterling – both of these parks are a part of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority. The parks are open daily from dawn to dusk and include trails that follow along the Potomac River. After your walk, your pooch can cool off in the river while you take in the breathtaking views and fall foliage.
High point on Red Rocks overlooking the Potomac River in Leesburg
W&OD Railroad Regional Park – a 45 mile paved trail running from Shirlington (just north of Alexandria) to Purcellville along the old Washington and Old Dominion Railroad line. There are numerous access points along the entire trail and several parking lots in Leesburg and Purcellville. This trail is popular with bikers and even equestrians, so keeping your dog on a standard 6-foot leash is important here!
Franklin Park – A regional park in Purcellville, Franklin Park has two 3.5 mile-long trails, one dedicated for horses, and one where leashed dogs can join their two-legged friends.
The National Mall in Washington D.C. – Sometimes it’s easy to forget that our nation’s capital is only 40 miles away! Pack a lunch and spend the day in Washington. Flanked by the Washington Monument, the Capitol Building, various memorials, and the museums of the Smithsonian Institute, you and your pet are sure to get a good workout, exploring the two miles of expansive greenspace, while taking in some of our country’s most specutular historical sights. Please note, dogs must be leashed on the Mall; they may go up to the monuments, but are not allowed under covered areas or indoors; dogs are not allowed on the walkways of the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials.
Bear’s Den overlook located in Bluemont, VA, is a favorite spot of our LVT and Technician Supervisor, Kim. “The trek up to the top is just enough for my dog to release some energy, but not too much for my kids to do too. The overlook has breathtaking views, and my pup absolutely LOVES going!”