CLINIC NEWS

February Newsletter 2015

We're already into our second month of the year and the weather has been incredibly kind to us so far! We hope that you and your pets alike have been enjoying the sunshine and beautiful beaches we're lucky to be surrounded by.

What's new?

We are very excited to welcome our newest staff member Alix to the team! Having recently graduated from Otago Polytechnic with a Certificate in Vet Nursing, she is excited to have her experience and skills grow from working in a fast-paced clinic environment and we know she'll make a great addition to our team.

From now until the end of March, with any purchase of Merial Ancare flea and tick products, you can be in the draw to win one of ten Susie's Bags Picnic Bags. The picnic pack includes cutlery and crockery for four people, shatterproof wine glasses, a cheeseboard and knife, linen serviettes and an accompanying tea towel, perfect for these lovely summer days we've been having. Simply purcahse any Frontline product, any two Broadline products, or Nexgard chewables, and fill in the entry form to be in the draw!

Love their hearts this Valentine's Day!

Just like with people, our pets are susceptible to heart problems and today's pets are living longer than their predecessors so, as a result, heart disease is becoming increasingly more common in dogs and cats. Heart disease occurs when the heart, either due to defect or disease, struggles to circulate blood around the body at an adequate pressure. The body recognises that the heart is not pumping properly and compensates by increasing blood pressure and retaining fluid.

Clinical signs may vary in animals and will depend on the severity of the problem. Most animals don't show clinical signs until the heart problem is quite advanced, because in the initial stages the body learns to cope with changes, and cats especially are good at hiding illnesses. Some of the most commonly seen signs are fatigue, reluctance to exercise, increased respiratory effort and rate (heavy breathing/panting), weight loss, collapse/fainting, and coughing (usually only in dogs). If left untreated, these symptoms will become worse, shortening your pet's life.

Keeping your pet healthy is not only a great way of helping to prevent heart disease but it can also help pets that have been diagnosed with heart problems to stay healthier for longer. Managing your pet's weight, ensuring they get regular exercise, and feeding a well balanced healthy diet are all good ways to improve the health of your pet. Ensuring regular check-ups with the vet, as early detection is crucial, and knowing the signs of heart disease to watch for are also important ways to assure your pet a long and happy life.

If you would like to know more about heart disease or have any concerns about the wellbeing of your pet, please do not hesitate to contact us.

All the best,

The team at Whangaparaoa Vet Centre.