Blog ArchiveHide
2011
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
2012
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
Fleas, Ticks and Lice
Posted on 2012-05-12 16:59:38
Invasion of the Miller Moths in Colorado Springs!
Posted on 2012-05-01 06:14:12
No it's not the latest IMAX thriller, but these pests can cause a lot of consternation amongst our human and pet population. Here is a timely article from CSU Extension:
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/insect/05597.html
Check out our facebook page for the article under Northwest Animal Hospital
Worms in our pet's and why we hate them!
Posted on 2012-04-27 16:09:21
Wriggly Culprits
Most pet owners have heard about the worms their pets carry and try
to prevent them with regular monthly preventive medication. But do you know your tapeworms from
your heartworms? Were you aware that worms can seriously affect your
family’s health as well as that of your pet? And did you know that less
than 25% of dogs and cats receive adequate worming? Check out this reputable web site link www.capcvet.org for accurate information on parasite control and how you can prevent health problems from contact with them . This is vital information for any pet owner who wants to be informed
Or for a brief summary read on for our run-down of who these wriggly culprits are and what you can do to make sure your pet and your family live happily side-by-side.
Wriggly Culprits
The Worm: Heartworm
The Risk: Heartworm is a killer worm that grows to
adulthood in the chambers of the heart and blood vessels of the heart.
Obviously this is pretty bad for the body and affected animals
eventually die due to heart failure. A few decades ago, heartworm was a
relatively uncommon diagnosis in Colorado. Fact: Now the numbers of positive cases is growing in our area of Colorado Springs.
However, thanks to the effectiveness of modern preventive wormers, this problem is being kept under control. (although it has become a serious threat in some areas of travel throughout Colorado and beyond).
Prevention: At Northwest Animal Hospital we
recommend monthly preventive medication. Check out this link http://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/resourcesforyou/animalhealthliteracy/ucm188470.htm
The Worm: Intestinal Worms
The Risk: Most puppies and kittens are born with
intestinal worms from infection while still inside the mother's body. In rare cases these can cause obstructions, though
they are more commonly associated with upset tummies (vomiting or
diarrhea) and slow growth rate. Most dogs however with intestinal worms will
show no symptoms at all! These eggs can contaminate the area the puppy or kitten stays in the home or yard.
In many ways the bigger problem is the risk to children posed by these worms. Kids, as we all know, don’t always remember to wash their hands after handling their pets. Studies show that almost 30% of pets have worm eggs on their coats.
Put those two problems together and you have a potential issue. So children may unwittingly ingest the worm eggs picked up by touching their pet.
But it’s not just as simple as your kids getting worms in their tummy. Because they are ingesting dog and cat worm eggs (designed to develop in the dog or cat body), the immature worms get confused and go to weird places you wouldn’t expect( for example the eyes). Doctors have been treating children for blindness, asthma, skin problems and epilepsy all suspected to be caused by dog and cat worms.
Prevention: Now, don’t panic. What I just described
above is very, very rare. But as I am sure you will agree, severe enough that it just isn’t worth taking
the risk of possible exposure. To prevent intestinal worms we recommend worming monthly with a safe effective product we recommend. Check this link http://www.capcvet.org/expert-articles/who-is-uniquely-susceptible-to-parasites-transmitted-by-dogs-and-cats/
The Worm: Tapeworms
The Risk: There are two kinds of tapeworms. The most common one is spread by fleas, but thankfully it’s not very dangerous and easy to treat.
So let’s move onto the nasty one. It’s called a Hydatid Tapeworm and causes big problems if it gets into human contact.
Animals get tapeworm by eating sheep organ meat (usually farm dogs). For most dogs this doesn’t cause any major problems. BUT there’s a particularly nasty sting in the tail of this worm for people.
The Hydatid Tapeworm eggs are passed into the soil when an infected dog has a BM. These eggs can be transferred to farm produce and children growing up on the farm are particularly at risk of infection.
If infected the tapeworms form large cysts in the kidneys, liver and sometimes brain. Aggressive treatment involving surgery or chemotherapy is usually required to remove the cysts and in many cases infection is fatal
Prevention: Again this is a pretty rare problem, but
given it is completely preventable, surely even one case is too much don't yo agree?
Monthly worming is effective against this worm and others. Check with us for details
Our advice for a healthy worm-free pet
At Northwest Animal Hospital we have a parasite protocol that is designed to offer maximum protection to your pets and family. We also understand that it pretty confusing with the massive number of products on the market. So in the interests of convenience, clarity and effectiveness here’s what we advise:
1. Give your dog a Iverhart/Heartgard chew every month.
2. Use Revolution in indoor/outdoors cats every month.
Use a flea/tick preventive called Vectra for the most broad protection Call us for our recommended product which we know is effective 593-8582
Don't risk your pets nor your families health! Prevention is easy
All of these products are available at Northwest Animal Hospital. Job done. There, how easy was that? For more information check out http://www.capcvet.org/capc-recommendations/
Spay/Neuter at Northwest Animal Hospital at a reduced fee!
Posted on 2012-04-11 11:39:56
Why You Should Spay or Neuter Your Pet
Stopping pet overpopulation starts with you!
We are doing our part! During the next few months we will provide spay/neuter services at Northwest Animal Hospital at a $80.00 reduced fee ! That's the lowest fee among veterinary clinics in the Colorado Springs area.
Spaying or neutering your pet is an important decision for pet owners. As animal lovers who value our pets, it is important to understand the impact of this decision.
It happens everywhere...
In every community, in every state, there are homeless animals. In the U.S. as a whole, there are an estimated 6-8 million homeless animals entering animal shelters every year. About half of these animals are adopted, and tragically, the other half are euthanized. These are healthy, sweet pets who would have made great companions.
The number of homeless animals varies by state—in some states there are as many as 300,000 homeless animals euthanized in animal shelters every year. These are not the offspring of homeless "street" animals—these are the puppies and kittens of cherished family pets and even purebreds.
Yes, your pet's offspring could be shelter animals
Many people believe that their pet's puppies or kittens would never become homeless shelter animals. But the reality is that every time the dog finds his way under the fence to visit the neighbor's female dog, or the indoor/outdoor cat comes back home pregnant again, the result is a litter of dogs or cats. Even if they are placed into homes, it is still possible for them to end up in shelters once they become "hard to handle," or for them to reproduce further and for the next generation of puppies or kittens to wind up homeless.
Many people are surprised to learn that nationwide more than 3 million cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters. Spay/neuter is the only permanent, 100-percent effective method of birth control for dogs and cats.
Not just for dogs and cats
When being conscientious about the pet overpopulation, don't forget to spay or neuter your pet rabbit. Rabbits reproduce faster than dogs or cats and often end up in shelters where they must be euthanized. Spaying or neutering rabbits can reduce hormone-driven behavior such as lunging, mounting, spraying and boxing. Spaying females can prevent ovarian, mammary and uterine cancers, which can be prevalent in mature females.
Millions of pet deaths each year are a needless tragedy. By spaying and neutering your pet, you can be an important part of the solution.
Stopping pet overpopulation starts with you! We are doing our part! During the next few months we will provide spay/neuter services at Northwest Animal Hospital at a $80.00 reduced fee ! That's the lowest fee among veterinary clinics in the Colorado Springs area....spread the word among your friends and family and help us prevent the heartbreak of euthanizing unwanted pets....call us today as spaces are limited. However if we give you an appointment for this special limited time offer, we will honor the reduced fee. So plan ahead and call us for an appointment at 593-8582.GRAPHIC IMAGES OF AN ACTUAL SURGERY FOLLOWS FOR THOSE THAT MAY BE INTERESTEDCopper goes home after ACL Surgery
Posted on 2012-04-01 19:03:40
Copper going home after ACL surgery. Dr Sudduth constructed an artificial ligament during the surgery making it possible for her to use the leg. We are very optimistic that Copper will be able to run, jump and play again. Join us at
http://www.facebook.com/NWAnimalHospital for other stories about our patients!
Be the first to leave a comment!
Kidney Malfunction suspected from Chicken Jerky Treats
Posted on 2012-03-29 10:37:33
March 29th, 2012 For immediate release:
Dr Sudduth will be on KRDO channel 13 tonight and/or Friday discussing this news report:
http://www.annarbor.com/pets/fda-chicken-jerky-treats-dogs-fanconi-syndrome-china/
If you miss the news, you will find it under krdo.com news videos
March 30th, 2012 update to the above post:
Murphy update....Murphy is doing well after his bout with acute kidney failure.....at the time we were unclear as to the possible cause of the kidney failure. Here is an update....the day before Murphy started having kidney problems was his birthday and his owner lavished him with treats on his special day. Among those treats we have come to find out, was the Milo's Chicken jerky treats that we talked about in the FDA warning entry we made yesterday!! See the entry "FDA cautions about chicken jerky treats". At this time we strongly advise our clients to avoid these products. We have advised the FDA of our experience and will update you all further as this unfolds!
See our Facebook page for further information!
Boarding your Pet at Northwest Animal Hospital
Posted on 2012-03-04 12:22:27
Northwest Animal Hospital offers the most comprehensive boarding kennel services 
for
dogs and cats in the Colorado Springs area. As our guest, we will treat
your pet with the care, affection and dignity they deserve, drawn from over 25 years experience
and the unique needs they may have. Whether your dog or cat is in need
of healthcare and medications during boarding from our on-premise
hospital staff, or whether you may be seeking a fun, happy experience
for your pet, you will find it at Northwest Animal Hospital's boarding
kennel.
We are open 7 days a week for convenient check in and check out times!
Saturday 7 AM - 2 PM
Sunday 9 AM - Noon
We have veterinarians and trained medical staff on premise in
the event your pet needs medical attention while boarding. Also, many
pet owners find that while their pet is boarding, it is a convenient and
logical time to have medical services performed. Teeth cleaning, lump
removal, nail trims, etc, can be arranged and we take care of the
post-operative care.
Our experienced kennel staff oversees and personally interacts
with each and every animal under their care. They follow your
instructions on the unique and individual habits pertaining to your pets
comfort.
We provide an outdoor exercise yard where your dog is walked off
lead by our kennel staff twice each day as part of their regular
boarding stay.
We have A La Carte personalized services and packages to choose from: 
Personal Cuddle Time
Yappy Hour
Brushing Session
Personal Outdoor Exercise Yard
Pool Time Play (Seasonal)
Day Camp Sessions are available to enroll your dog in while
boarding. They can romp and play with other doggie playmates under the
supervision of our playland leaders.
A separate quiet and secure area designed for our feline friends to relax in our Cat Condos, Window-View Condos or The Luxury Suite", an entire room exclusively for them!
Grooming
Appointments can be scheduled during their stay with our professional
grooming department. Treat your pet to a refreshing bath or groom with
our all-breed professional grooming staff.
Come in for a tour today!
Tapeworms in Dogs and Cats
Posted on 2012-02-25 06:05:52
"Those Disgusting Tapeworms"
Nothing can compare to the disgust or repulsion pet owners experience when they find a slimy, white tapeworm segment stuck on their favorite easy chair or bed soon after the dog or cat gets up. When we examine a pet we always peek under the tail to make sure nothing is sticking to the hairs around the anus. This is the world of the tapeworms. Although they don't cause lots of damage in the pets, tapeworms sure are gross and disgusting to pet owners. Tapeworms are the worms we see!
The various species of
tapeworms
You will notice in the images
below that tapeworms use an "intermediate host" to accomplish transmission from
one dog or cat to another. There are three common species that affect dogs and cats:
Dipylidium caninum which can infect dogs, cats and people uses the flea larva as
an intermediate host; Taenia pisiformis which infects dogs uses the rabbit; Taenia
taeniaeformis which infects cats uses the rat or mouse. To make a long story short,
if you can keep your pet from eating fleas, rabbit, mouse or rat viscera it won't get a
tapeworm. The intermediate host is required.
Life of the Tapeworm
In the images below the scolex or head end of the tapeworm is labeled. The scolex has a little sucker and or
hooks which grasp onto the wall of the small intestine of the dog or cat. Behind the
scolex are individual segments joined together to form the length of the worm, much like a
beaded chain. These segments are called proglottids. Each individual proglottid is a
separate reproductive unit. They each contain ovaries and ducts leading to a tiny pore on
their surface. Any number of proglottids can break free from the scolex and pass with the
feces. We often see them mixed with feces - they appear as little white, rice grains if
individual or if chained together they are flat appearing like a shoe-string. These
individual units are mobile and can move around on the ground or worse yet on furniture in
the house. As they move they squeeze out little packets of 6 to 12 eggs all
nicely cemented together. Flea larva consume these eggs. The eggs are
also laid on grass or vegetation and are consumed by rabbits, mice or rats. The egg
hatches within the intermediate hosts and becomes an infective stage for dogs and cats.
When a dog or cat eats the flea or intestines of the rat, mouse or rabbit the immature
tapeworm scolex attaches to the wall of the small intestine and begins growing its' own
chain of proglottids. The lifecycle then can repeat anew as the proglottids break free and
pass with the feces. The images below will make the lifecycle easier to understand.
What are the
signs of a Tapeworm infestation?
Most tapeworm infestations go
totally unnoticed. We rarely ever know unless we find a segment on the couch or see them
in the feces. In other cases, we can hear a "rumbly tummy syndrome" where the
animal undergoes increased intestinal motility, cramping and sometimes gas. We can also
see diarrhea streaked with mucous, but most of the time tapeworms don't cause problems
that we are aware of.
How are Tapeworms
diagnosed?
Unlike other intestinal parasites
of the dog or cat, tapeworms don't lay eggs inside the pet. For that reason, when
veterinarians perform fecal floatations looking for parasite eggs, tapeworms are often
overlooked. We usually have to see the segments stuck to the hairs around the anus, or in
the feces or environment to diagnose tapeworms. That's why using a safe preventive which we recommend is the best course of prevention!
How are Tapeworms
treated?
Most over-the-counter wormers
won't affect a tapeworm. In the "old days" it was rather difficult to rid
a pet of tapeworms. Purgatives were used that caused violent contractions of the intestine
in attempts to physically flush the worm free. These were the wormers that caused
severe diarrhea when administered; since they didn't get rid of the scolex they were very
ineffective. The modern tapeworm medications work on a different principal. They
cause the tapeworm to lose their protective layer and they are simply digested.
We never see them pass; they just disappear. Northwest Animal Hospital uses a
medication called Droncit® to deworm dogs and cats. Given by injection, it is a very effective treatment. Other options exist depending on the species of tapeworm and host(dog/cat).
How do you control
tapeworm infestations?
Sometimes it is difficult to keep
tapeworms from reoccurring over and over again. Why? Because it can be difficult to get rid of the
fleas. Newer medications such as Vectra are effective in getting rid of flea infestations.
This takes care of the Dipylidium species which uses the flea as an intermediate host. Where we have problems is with the cats that are hunters. They often get the
Taenia species which use the mouse as an intermediate host. Watching for the telltle mouth part in your cats feces ir around the anus would indicate that they need an injection to kill the tapeworms. Watchful monitoring is needed by the pet owner.
Can people get
tapeworms?
Not generally. On very rare
occasions, children have been infected with Dipylidium species by swallowing a flea
accidentally. It generally causes tremendous cramping and discomfort. Totally unrelated to
dogs and cats tapeworms discussed above, are the tapeworms that people are getting from eating Sushi or raw fish.
There are certain species of tapeworms that use the fish as an intermediate host. If food
is cooked properly there is no worry.
Be Safe - Be
Sure - Check Your Pet's Feces for Intestinal Worms Twice a Year! Use year round preventives in all dogs and monitor your cats feces for tapeworms
The Truth behind K-9’s and Chocolate
Posted on 2012-02-14 14:20:58
We have all heard people say things such as “Don’t give your dog chocolate, it will kill him!” or “Even a small amount of chocolate will kill a dog.” Fortunately for all cabinet opening dogs out there, the truth to the chocolate rumors lies somewhere betw
|
Did you know? |
Chocolate is usually associated with being bad for just dogs, but it can be bad for any pet.
It’s important to know that it is not the actual chocolate that will harm your pet, but an ingredient known as “Theobromine” which is toxic to pets. The amount of Theobromine varies from chocolate to chocolate. This ingredient increases urination and affects the central nervous system in pets.
What to do if your pet gets into your secret stash:
It might not be necessary to run out to the emergency veterinary clinic on Christmas or Thanksgiving if your pet decides on a new snack. As soon as you realize your pet got into the goodies, asses the situation. If your pet
| |
Look at the packaging and see how much chocolate your pet ate. Packaging must include the contents weight. Hopefully you will know if the package was already open and about how much was left inside.
Examine the type of chocolate. Unsweetened bakers chocolate is considered Theobromine dense. Milk chocolate has the least amount of Theobromine, while semi-sweet chocolate falls in the middle of the chocolate road.
Consider your pet’s weight. A large Great Dane will not be as affected by the Theobromine as a small Maltese dog.
Assess how your pet is reacting. Did you notice the chocolate had been eaten because they acted funny? Are they vomiting, do they have diarrhea? Increased urination is another side effect. Go ahead and give us a call if your pet experiences any of these symptoms.
Understand that just like humans, dogs who have tasted chocolate can actually crave more of it. Never give in to your pet that keeps eyeballing that chocolate chip cookie from under the table. Letting your pet have a taste of chocolate will leave them looking for more and more.
Pet Dental Month at a reduced fee!
Posted on 2012-01-12 07:44:18
Pet Dental Health Month between now and the end of February 2012
Many pet owners believe that their pets don’t really need professional dental care, making periodontal disease one of the most overlooked health problems pets suffer from today. Unfortunately, untreated periodontal disease can lead to infections, severe pain and tooth loss – and when they become advanced, infections can spread into the blood stream and cause heart, liver, or kidney damage. Preventive care such as annual dental cleanings at Northwest Animal Hospital, along with consistent home care, can not only keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain free – it can actually extend their life!
The chart below shows the progression of the four stages of periodontal disease:
How do you know if your pet needs a dental cleaning?
Symptoms of periodontal disease can include bad breath, pain, and gums that are swollen and red. If you wait to see visual signs of tartar or swollen gums, it’s too late to reverse periodontal disease. Your pet will need professional veterinary care to keep the condition from worsening, but when dealing with the health of your pet’s teeth – prevention is key.
Between now and the end of February Northwest Animal Hospital will be offering a reduced fee for dental procedures performed for your pet. Our knowledgeable staff and Doctor's will discuss your pet’s individualized treatment plan, as well as provide you with an estimate of what your costs will be on the day of the procedure. They can also advise you about proper home care, such as brushing your pet’s teeth and choosing the best treats and toys for dental health.
Spaces for Dental Month at a reduced fee are limited, so don't delay. Call us at 719-593-8582 to schedule Dental Care for your pet.Happy New Year 2012!
Posted on 2011-12-31 13:30:08
For many 2011 has been more than a challenge. Most of us can handle actual bad news, but it is the uncertainty that 's difficult! Making a deliberate effort at cultivating a sense of gratitude, even when we don't "feel" like it puts us on a course for positive change. And as we cultivate that in ourselves, we also influence those around us, because we are all inextricably connected to each other:
The best predictor of human happiness is human(and pet) relationships and the amount of time that people spend with family and friends and those that they love. The same could be said for our pets! There's a reason we call them "Man's best friend"
Happy New Year - 2012 Wishing You Health, Happiness, Love, Laughter, New Friendships & Learning Something New Everyday And don't forget to hug that four-legged friend everyday!
The Doctors and staff at Northwest Animal Hospital
Merry Christmas Happy Holidays from Northwest animal Hospital
Posted on 2011-12-24 09:15:55
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday 2011 . May we all feast on friendship, happiness and good will for all! And be sure to give that special furry friend a hug too!
Your friends at Northwest Animal Hospital and Pet Care Center
Holiday boarding at Northwest Animal Hospital
Posted on 2011-11-03 15:51:43
Time flies! It's time to make holiday boarding reservations at
Northwest Animal Hospital and we understand that one of the often
over-looked stressful part of travel is leaving your pet in the care of
others.
Careful planning, however, can help ease anxiety for both pets and
their owners. Northwest Dog Boarding Kennel and Cat Boarding staff have
been with our organization for more than a decade. Knowing you are
placing the care of your pet in the hands of someone experienced should
give our clients confidence and comfort knowing that they are being
watched closely. Overlooking this can have disastrous consequences
What to look for in kennels:
|
When selecting a kennel/boarding facility, consider the facility’s
cleanliness and housekeeping, which are essential to the prevention
of contagious diseases such as kennel cough, canine flu or other
illness. By maintaining higher standards our kennel has prevented
numerous common problems associated with boarding your pet.
We follow strict control measures by isolating any sick pet so as to not cross contaminate between the hospital and boarding kennel. By doing so all pets are protected.
We encourage clients to stop by for a tour to see the difference!
A Safe Halloween
Posted on 2011-10-13 15:53:45
A Safe Halloween
Halloween can be a spooky time for pet owners across the country. It can be spooky and also scary for our furry friends as well. Northwest Animal Hospital encourages pet owners to protect their four-legged family members this October by being mindful of their F.E.A.R. – food, environment, attire, and recovery.
Food
Halloween means candy and tasty treats are plentiful and easily accessible to young children and pets. Candy, especially chocolate, is toxic to animals and can cause vomiting, restlessness, heart disturbances, and even death. Although grapes and raisins are a healthy alternative snack for humans, they can be potentially deadly for dogs. These fruits contain an unknown toxin that can damage dogs’ kidneys and cause kidney failure.
Candy wrappers can also cause health problems. Animals may eat the wrapper, causing obstruction or irritation to the pet’s digestive system. Candy and wrappers should be kept out of pets’ reach and young children should be taught not to share Halloween goodies with their pet. Seasonal foods such as pumpkins and corn may cause minor stomach irritation; however, they are relatively safe for Fluffy and Fido. Pumpkin seeds may cause digestive system obstruction if consumed by smaller animals.
Tip: Just a reminder when arriving home after the trick or treat fun, be sure to not leave your bag where your pet has access to it.
Environment
Due to the increased foot traffic and commotion in your neighborhood, outdoor pets should be kept indoors during the days surrounding Halloween. Unsupervised outdoor animals are susceptible to stress, inhumane practical jokes or theft. Providing a safe, stress free environment reduces the probability of your beloved friend injuring himself or others. Loud and excessive noise created by trick-or-treaters can frighten your cat or dog. Animals should be kept away from the door and out of hearing range if possible of a constantly ringing doorbell and excited children. Fluffy or Fido should be put in a room where they will not be disturbed by noise and activity. A frightened or upset pet may run out the door at the first opportunity and could harm the children in its way as well.
Be sure decorations are safe from the paws and teeth of curious pets. Crepe paper streamers, fake cobwebs, glow sticks, plastic spiders and cardboard wall hangings can easily be chewed and swallowed, damaging your pet’s digestive tract. Animals can also tip over the candle in a jack-o-lantern and burn themselves or start a fire. Keep decorations out of animals’ reach, and maintain supervision if they play nearby.
Tip: Know where your pet is and confine them if neccessary. In the event that this is impossible or not having them around is safer, consider boarding them at Northwest Animal Hospital boarding kennel. We will make sure they are well cared for and make it fun for them with our a la carte options like personalized one on one play or personalized quiet time.
Attire
Transforming your pet into a superhero that can leap tall buildings in a single bound, ghost, or goblin can instead be a stressful and unpleasant experience. Some animals love to dress up, but others dread it. If your furry friend doesn’t mind dressing up, make sure that you select a costume that doesn’t restrict his normal movements, breathing or vision. Costumes that interfere with these things can cause ligament or joint injuries, and animals are more likely to bite if their vision is impaired. And think twice before taking them with you as some pets are better off left at home during trick-or-treating excursions. However, if they do tag along, it is best to keep them on a very short leash and harness to keep them from fighting with other animals, eating the treats, becoming victims of practical jokes – as black cats often do – or biting strangers they encounter.
Tip: Know your pet and avoid conflict before it happens. Your pet may be well behaved but you may run into one that isn't
Recovery
It is important to have a plan if your pet becomes sick, injured or lost this Halloween season. Since time is critical during any unfortunate incident, pet parents should always have contact information for their veterinarian and local animal shelters easily accessible. Also, pet owners need to be aware that not all veterinarians are available 24 hours. However, Northwest Animl Hospital like all AAHA-accredited hospitals has access or referral for 24 hour emergency care. It is also important to update your pet’s identification tags and micro chip information each time you move or change phone numbers so that current contact information is always available on your pet. Northwest Animal Hospital wishes all two and four-legged friends a happy and safe Halloween.
About Colorado Springs veterinarian AAHA-member hospital Northwest Animal Hospital: Established in 1933, the American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices throughout the U.S. and Canada for dedication to high standards of veterinary care. More than 3,000 AAHA-accredited practices pass regular reviews of AAHA’s stringent accreditation standards that cover patient care, client service and medical protocols
Tips to Keeping Halloween Fun for Pets
Posted on 2011-09-27 12:59:29
Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
from Northwest Animal Hospital & Pet Care Center
With visitors approaching the door throughout the night and plenty of activity, Halloween can be fun for the whole family, pets included. However, our veterinarians recommend keeping your pets indoor on Halloween night. Your pet will be less stressed by the activity and less likely to get lost, making Halloween a fun evening for the whole family.
Helpful Tips from our Colorado Springs Veterinarian
Keep candy away from pets: When Halloween arrives, keep your bowl of trick-or-treat candy in an area your pet can't access. If you leave the candy right next to the door, the temptation may be too great for your dog to resist. Halloween night won't be much fun if it is interrupted by an emergency vet call or visit to the animal hospital!
Use pet safe decor: Keep tempting Halloween decorations like stuffed animals or potpourri out of reach, and secure cords used for decorative lighting. Even pets that normally leave household objects alone may become curious about new arrivals; check with your Colorado Springs veterinarians if you are in doubt about decorating safely any time of year.
Choose costumes with care: Some pets love to be the center of attention and wear a costume, while others won't enjoy the experience at all. At Northwest Animal Hospital & Pet Care Center, we recommend that you make sure your pet is really willing to dress up, and that you pass on the costume if it causes undue stress. Consider selecting a Halloween-themed breakaway collar or bandana from your dog grooming professional; the item will be festive and fun, but safe as well.
Costume safety: If you decide to dress your dog or cat in a Halloween costume, make sure the item you choose is safe. Buy a costume designed for pets, not people and double check for choking, tripping or other hazards. Check with our Colorado Springs vet if you are in doubt about using a costume.
Watch your doors: If you have an indoor cat who is prone to making a dash for freedom, consider keeping her in room away from the door while trick or treating is in full swing. If your dog is prone to anxiety when the doorbell rings, give him safe spot away from the door, or consider using our pet boarding service for the evening.
We'd love to know -- how are you celebrating Halloween with your pets this year?
Pet Health Tips from Our Vet Center: Benefits of Quality Food and Supplies
Posted on 2011-09-10 11:11:40
The food that you choose to feed your pet has an enormous influence on their health and lifespan. The caliber of pet food has changed over the years, and many pet owners now demand food for their animals that is rich in nutrients and manufactured from quality ingredients. It has become increasingly apparent that animals that eat pet food that contains quality ingredients tend to live more active and healthy lives. The pet food industry currently provides many options for animal owners, but it can be difficult to determine what type of food meets the needs of your pet. Inferior pet food can have a negative impact on the health of your pet. Some studies indicate that low-quality pet food can suppress your pet’s immune system which can lead to disease and a shortened lifespan. An animal that receives adequate vitamins and minerals in a quality pet food will usually have fewer skin problems, allergies and digestive issues. A healthy diet will also increase your pet’s energy level and allow them to maintain a healthy weight.
Protect Your Pet’s Health with Veterinarian-Recommended Food and Supplies at Our Colorado Springs Animal Hospital
We recognize that pet's dietary needs are dependent on characteristics like breed, activity level, age and health status. The skilled staff and each Colorado Springs vet at our animal hospital welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to help you select the food and diet plan that best suits your animal.
We would enjoy reading your questions regarding pet nutrition. What food has been the best fit for your pet?
Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy at Northwest Animal Hospital's Doggie Daycare Center
Posted on 2011-08-30 19:10:25
You treat your dog as a family member. It's never easy, then, to leave your beloved pet in the care of others when you have to travel or work during the day.Here are the top three reasons why you should consider daytime dog boarding at Northwest Animal Hospital:
The healthy dog: You love your dog. You want your precious pet to be as healthy as possible. Sitting around idly all day while you work is no way for a dog to live. At our doggie daycare, your pet will get regular exercise whether it's doing the doggie paddle in our pool or chasing cloth balls in our outdoor or indoor exercise areas. This leaves you with a dog that's not only happy but healthy.
Don't you owe it to your dog to explore our Colorado Springs daycare center? Check out our Colorado Springs vet to find out.
Tips for Grooming Your Pet at Home
Posted on 2011-08-27 15:56:46
Home Grooming Tips from Northwest Animal Hospital & Pet Care Center
Like getting regular rabies shots, most veterinarians will recommend professional dog grooming services for your pet on a regular basis. You should, however, also be grooming them at home in between visits to the groomers. Grooming them regularly also improves their health, and it makes them feel better. It is also a great way to welcome them home after a stay in our dog kennels. The following are some grooming tips which come from a conversation with the veterinarians and groomers at our Colorado Springs animal hospital to help you groom your pet at home.
Tips for Grooming Your Pets at Home
Snip large tangles. Do not try to yank and pull at matted fur or tangles. Simply snip away the tangles that are too big to work through. Be careful not to snip the skin while you are cutting. If your pet is very matted, leave the work to the professionals who can handle dog grooming issues like matted fur.
What other tips for grooming your pet at home can you suggest which has worked for you? Please feel free to share with our readers.
AAHA Accredited
Click for more info about
Northwest Animal Hospital's AAHA Accreditation
Pet Selector
Launch Pet Selector
Contact
4575 North Chestnut Street (adjacent to Wells Fargo Bank}
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Get Directions
- Phone: 719-445-8005
- Fax: 719-593-1980
- Email Us
Member Login
Follow Us On Twitter
We're On YouTube!
