http://www.amccascades.com/ en-us Tue, 1 May 2012 12:31:34 GMT Tue, 1 May 2012 12:31:34 GMT http://www.amccascades.com/OPEN-HOUSE-MAY-12th-11-3.asp OPEN HOUSE MAY 12TH, 11-3!... Please join us for the AMC Cascades Open House on May 12th, 2012 from 11-3. Come learn more about our hospitalrsquo;s inner workings and how to best care for your pet or just to have a good time. There will be activities and shows for the entire family (including the four-legged members). Stop in to enjoy these exciting activitieshellip; - See a myriad of exotic animals from Wildlife Ambassadors - Tour the hospital while being guided by one of AMCrsquo;s doctors - Let the kids bounce off some energy in our Moon Bounce! - And if they donrsquo;t want to bounce they can enjoy our special childrenrsquo;s activities including face painting and a costume contest with prizes - Cool off with a Snow Cone (with flavors for kids and dogs) - Watch a pet rehabilitation demonstration with our underwater treadmill from our very own pet rehabilitation practitioner, Tracy Teats, CCRP. - Bring the dogs by for a bath from our staff at the dog wash - Purchase some yummy snacks from our Bake Sale - And if sweets arenrsquo;t your thing, hot dogs will be available as well - Enter into the raffle to win prizes from the hospital See you there! http://www.amccascades.com/.asp 1ST PETWELLNESS WEDNESDAY A SUCCESS! On April 11th clients of AMC Cascades and the surrounding community were able to attend a complimentary pet wellness education session designed to keep pet owners educated about the most common issues affecting their pets. The first ever Pet Wellness Wednesday was an all-around success as Dr. Wolff gave a compact presentation on the special needs and care of aging dogs in the AMC hospital. Attendees were treated to complimentary food and drinks while they received valuable information that affects their pet. Afterwards, all three of the AMC Cascades doctors were on hand to answer questions pertaining to specific patients and about the lecture in general. Feedback from those who attended has been amazing and the most common question asked was, when will the next Pet Wellness Wednesday be held? Pet Wellness Wednesdays will be held every second month and will cover topics ranging from care of aging cats to arthritis to dental health. Keep an eye out for upcoming emails detailing when the next session will be held and what topic it will cover. http://www.amccascades.com/April-28th-is-World-Veterinary-Day.asp April 28th is World Veterinary Day... World Veterinary Day was started in 2000 as a way to celebrate the hard work of veterinarians around the world and to recognize the most pressing issues in animal medicine. Veterinarians do much more than vaccinate household pets. They are responsible for the safety of animal agriculture and therefore protect a large portion of our food supply. Veterinarians are at the forefront of the study of disease transmission and work tirelessly to understand emerging pathogens and their spread from animal to animal and animal to human. Veterinarians also work in laboratories around the world, using animal models to study new medications and disease processes to better serve the human population and keep us healthier. The selected theme for the 2012 World Veterinary Day is Antibiotic Resistance. This issue is relevant both today and for the future as we continue to discover the dangers of the overuse of antimicrobials and the continuing emergence of powerful, resistant microorganisms. Since their discovery 60 years ago, antibiotics have revolutionized medicine, both human and animal. Today they are an essential tool for ensuring the health and welfare of our animal patients. However, their overuse, both in private practice to treat disease, and in agriculture to prevent disease, has had far-ranging consequences. As the use of antibiotic drugs became more common, quickly evolving bacteria started developing ways to survive. These new resistant bacteria quickly outgrow their less protected friends and soon an entirely new ldquo;super bugrdquo; has evolved, one which modern drugs cannot kill. Antibiotics are necessary to create a safe and stable supply of milk, meat and eggs but their prudent and responsible use must be promoted. The same can be said for their use in private practice. No antibiotic is a cure-all for disease and in the majority of cases are not appropriate to treat a given condition. Careful and purposeful use of antibiotics around the world is crucial for ensuring a healthy future for humans and the animals we love. Please visit the World Veterinary Association for more information. http://www.amccascades.com/Fast-and-the-Purr-ious.asp The Fast and the Purr-ious.... Do you ever wonder why some people can eat an entire birthday cake and never gain a pound and another person can lick the icing and burst a belt loop? Ever wonder why some people are bouncing off the walls with energy while for others every step is a struggle to stay awake? Many factors determine an individualrsquo;s metabolic rate, but one of the larger components is the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, a two-lobed organ that sits on the front side of the trachea, produces a hormone that helps regulate metabolic rate, blood pressure, heart rate and a host of other essential body functions. In the vast majority of young, healthy animals the thyroid gland works well. However, as our feline friends age, the thyroid gland can kick into overdrive and a once sedentary, plump, content kitty can change in an instant. Older cats are predisposed to benign adenomatous hyperplasia, a condition that results in non-cancerous overgrowth of the thyroid gland. More tissue means more thyroid hormone production, resulting in a speedy metabolism. Owners usually notice rapid weight loss due to the increased need for energy from a ramped up metabolic rate. They may also see a voracious appetite, behavioral changes like increased energy and aggression, vomiting, diarrhea and increased drinking and urination. The test to determine thyroid disease is simple. The veterinarian sends a blood sample out to a lab to test levels of thyroid hormone (T4) and free-thyroid hormone (fT4). If these values are increased, the cat is confirmed to be hyperthyroid. At the same time we also check kidney values, liver values, red blood cell levels and a urine sample. Hyperthyroidism has a wide array of affects on the body due to the vast number of functions of thyroid hormone. Almost every organ can be affected by increased thyroid levels in the blood. Treatment of hyperthyroidism is also generally simple. Patients can be started on a drug called methimazole that selectively destroys thyroid tissue, thereby reducing the amount of thyroid hormone produced. Regular monitoring is needed after starting methimazole to make sure the patient is not being under-treated or over-treated (since low thyroid hormone causes its own set of problems). Methimazole is a life-long medication but is very affordable and generally easy to administer. AMC works with pharmacies that can compound this medication into chewable treats, liquids, and gels that are absorbed through the skin at an increased cost. Alternatively, cats can be treated by I-131 radiation therapy to completely cure the disease within a few days. The patient is injected with a radioactive form of iodine which is quickly absorbed by the thyroid gland. The radiation destroys the overgrowing tissue and returns the thyroid to a normal state. This procedure is only offered at specialty clinics and is generally reserved for cats that are otherwise completely healthy. Cost may be a prohibiting factor, but for the some the convenience of not giving pills is worth the bills. After either treatment, the veterinarian will want to recheck thyroid and kidney values to make sure they are normal. This is because hyperthyroidism can mask chronic kidney disease. After treatment, kidney values may rise, reflecting underlying kidney disease that was previously not detectable. Hyperthyroidism is a very common and very treatable disease of older cats. Left untreated it leads to hypertension, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, muscle wasting and dangerous weight loss. Talk to your vet or the staff at AMC if your cat exhibits any of the early symptoms. We recommend annual blood testing to detect early thyroid disease before your cat is bouncing off the walls. http://www.amccascades.com/Pet-Wellness-Wednesdays.asp Join us for Pet Wellness Wednesdays! http://www.amccascades.com/AMC-Welcomes-New-Groomer.asp The Doctors and Staff welcome Miguel Retes, Certified Groomer to the AMCTeam! Meet Miguel... Miguel Retes, Certified Groomer, graduated from the Virginia School of Pet Grooming in 2003 and is currently studying Business Management at the Northern Virginia Community College, Sterling Campus. He also holds a Cosmetology Certification from Paul Mitchell the School in Tysonrsquo;s Corner, VA. With more than 10 years of experience in pet grooming and over 20 years experience in the veterinary industry, Miguel understands the unique bond between the clients and their four-legged family members. Miguel is proficient with all grooming styles and enjoys the challenges of the difficult breed cuts. He lives in the Sterling area with his Standard Poodle, Shelby. Miguel welcomes the opportunity to meet with you and discuss your petrsquo;s grooming needs. Feel free to contact him or stopby and meet him in person. http://www.amccascades.com/Valentines-Day-Tips-for-Pets.asp LOVE IN THE TIME OF CHOCOLATE.... Valentines Day is here and itrsquo;s a time to celebrate all those you love, both two and four-legged. But remember, when yoursquo;re snuggled up by the fire with your sweetheart, that those same gifts and treats that they love so much can cause a whole bunch of trouble for your pets. So how do I keep my pet safe around these potentially hazardous Valentines essentials? Well, all you need is love! (And these few simple tips from your friends at AMC Cascades) CHOCOLATE PAIN Chocolate contains a group of chemicals called methylxanthines. These caffeine-like stimulants can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, heart arrhythmias and even seizures. A general rule is that the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is ndash; so bakerrsquo;s chocolate is worse than dark chocolate, which is worse than milk chocolate, and so on. But donrsquo;t even think about heading home without some chocolate in tow or you might be greeted by a decidedly unhappy spouse or significant other! Instead make sure to keep chocolate well out of reach of wandering paws and snouts. If your pet ingests any, call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline as soon as you can for further instructions. FLOWER POWER Flowers are a universal sign of affection and staple of V-Day. As you can imagine, ingestion of almost any flower can cause mild gastrointestinal distress. However, there are certain types that can cause even more damaging conditions. When eaten by cats, lilies can cause acute kidney failure, an emergency and often fatal condition where the kidneys suddenly shut down and waste products build up quickly in the blood stream. Roses can also be a thorn in your side. The thorns on the stems can poke their mouth if bitten, causing an infection. If swallowed they can get lodged in the throat or even puncture the lining of the stomach and intestines causing all sorts of trouble. To avoid these botanical missteps, make sure flowers are kept in pet-free areas. If sending flowers to a pet owner, consider bouquets with only pet-friendly varieties. A quick internet search can find libraries of pet-safe flowers that you and your loved ones can enjoy without concern. PLAYING WITH FIRE Nothing sets the mood like candle light. Just be careful where you set the flame. Paws, snouts and tails are like wick-magnets and a curious pooch or kitty may get a nasty burn or, even worse, knock a candle over and cause serious damage to your property. COCK TAILS AND WAGGING TAILS There is no need to cry over a spilled drink as long as you can clean it up before your furry friend starts wetting their whistle. A little bit of alcohol goes a long way in our tiny companions and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, depression, tremors, trouble breathing and even coma. Keep alcoholic beverages out of reach of pets. Bottles should be kept in a safe place and never leave a full glass unattended. If your pet accidentally ingests alcohol, note how much they drank and what type it was, then call your veterinarian or poison control for further instructions. http://www.amccascades.com/The-Store-is-Open.asp The Store has Opened! http://www.amccascades.com/Online-Store-to-Open-February-1st.asp AMC Store to Open.....Visit the Store on February 1st to see all available products! http://www.amccascades.com/PET-BABYPROOFING.asp PET BABYPROOFING... For years your pet has been your child and yoursquo;ve loved and spoiled them appropriately. But what happens when most of your love, attention and valuable time are directed to the new creature in the house ndash; your newborn baby? Use AMCrsquo;s guide to preparing your bundle of fur to meet your little bundle of joy. Plan Ahead Make an appointment to update yearly examinations and vaccinations prior to the babyrsquo;s arrival. Use the opportunity to talk to your vet about any concerns you have with the baby and your pet. At this visit, refill your petrsquo;s medications including heartworm and flea/tick prevention so you donrsquo;t run out in those first few busy months. Start adapting your pet to the post-baby routine. If they sleep on the bed every night but wonrsquo;t once the baby is born, begin to train them to sleep on the floor. If they wonrsquo;t be allowed in the nursery, make sure they learn that ahead of time. Install baby gates in advance so your pet gets used to a certain level of separation. Make plans for your petrsquo;s care while yoursquo;re in the hospital. Make sure the person responsible for walking and feeding them can be available on short notice and has a key to your home! Start shifting responsibilities away from Mom-to-be. Most of her time will be spent caring for a newborn so feeding and walks may take a back seat. Now is time for Dad to step up and take over the majority of pet duties so that a routine is established for when the baby comes. If you have cats, Dad should be doing all the litter scooping already so Mom and baby arenrsquo;t exposed to Toxoplasmosis from your catrsquo;s stool! If your pet is not used to being around babies and small children there are things you can do to get them used to these mini people. Invite friends with children over to the house to get acquainted with your pet. Let them sniff diapers, wipes, clothing, and other babies ahead of time so they can get used to the smells. You can even play a recording of a baby crying to acclimate them to the new sounds. Baby, Meet Pet The introduction of your baby to your fur-baby can be stressful. Before you bring the baby home, take an item that smells like baby, such as a hat or blanket, home for the pets to sniff. When you get home, have Dad control the dog while Mom holds the baby. Make sure that they only approach Mom and baby when they are calm. Having treats at hand to make them sit patiently is always helpful. Also use treats to reward your pet for calm, gentle and appropriate behavior. If your pet is shy or anxious, donrsquo;t force them to interact too quickly. Some need a little extra time to process this major change in their lives. Make sure they associate the baby with good things like treats and positive attention and theyrsquo;ll be best friends in no time! The unfamiliar sound of a crying baby in their home can be very upsetting to pets. Make sure your dog or cat is getting enough activity and stimulation as this will help decrease pent up stress. AMC Cascades also has several supplements available to help naturally relieve stress. Donrsquo;t Stress If you are the parent of a newborn, you already have enough stress in your life. The majority of the time, with patience and a few tricks, babies and pets coexist peacefully and without major issues. It is normal to feel overwhelmed but, as you and your pet get used to your new addition, life will slowly slip into a harmonious routine. If yoursquo;re ever concerned that your pet is not adjusting well, becoming too anxious, or yoursquo;re worried about aggression, donrsquo;t hesitate to contact us at AMC Cascades so we can help keep your entire family happy and healthy. http://www.amccascades.com/Annies-Feeding-Tube-Success-Story.asp Anniersquo;s Feeding Tube Success Story..... Annie is a 12 year old gray tabby cat who recently moved with her owner into a new home with some new feline housemates. Annie did not get along with the other cats and began hiding from everyone. She did not eat well for several weeks. Over the course of a 6 week period, she lost 3 pounds! When Annie came to AMC on Halloween, she was very depressed, dehydrated, thin and jaundiced. Her skin and eyes almost glowed yellow due to the buildup of liver toxins in her system. After blood testing and an abdominal ultrasound, Annie was diagnosed with hepatic lipidosis. This serious condition can occur in cats who stop eating because they mobilize fat to fuel basic body processes. The fat builds up in their liver and causes liver failure. To read more about Annies story click here... http://www.amccascades.com/Holiday-Tips.asp HAPPY HOLIDAYShellip;DONrsquo;T EAT THAT! While holiday goodies may look and taste beautiful, they can also cause serious problems for your pets, from minor stomach aches to life threatening illness. Follow this guide to navigating your own merry minefield! The Christmas Tree ndash;The needles and the water reservoir are the most toxic parts causing diarrhea, vomiting, kidney and liver damage and even seizures. In addition, pine needles can get stuck in your petrsquo;s nose and throat. A good trick to prevent this is to sprinkle lemon pepper around the tree skirt. Cats hate the smell and will usually keep a safe distance. Mistletoe ndash;Eating mistletoe may cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination and can dangerously slow the heart rate. Hang it up high, well out of the reach of any stray paws Poinsettias ndash; Can cause gastrointestinal distress to your cat. In some cases it can cause conjunctivitis as well. So this year consider a plastic poinsettia if your feline friend has a propensity to gnaw on your yuletide deacute;cor. The Fruit Cake ndash;More than likely your fruit cake has raisins in it which, when consumed by dogs, can cause acute renal failure, a serious and life threatening condition where the kidneys shut down, causing toxic material to build up in the blood. So instead just re-gift it. I mean, who doesnrsquo;t like fruit cake? The Presents ndash; Yes, even the presents under the tree represent a risk. At least the ribbons do. When ingested, ribbon can cause the intestines to kink on themselves, causing obstruction and compromising blood flow to the gut. What does this all mean? Costly surgery, long recovery, potential removal of a large portion of the intestines, possible death and a really bad holiday. Remember the information in this guide and you and your family, furry and furless, will have a happy holiday and a wonderful new year. And of course, HAPPY HOLIDAYS from your friends and neighbors at the Animal Medical Center of Cascades! http://www.amccascades.com/Introducing-Johnny-Cat.asp Introducing Johnny Cat..... Johnny is a sweet, low key and affectionate young adult male neutered cat. He is fairly new to our hospital and has been an absolute joy to have. Although he would love to stay with us, his special holiday wish is to find his forever home. He gets along very well with dogs;however, he would prefer to be the only cat in your household. Johnny Cat is up-to-date with all vaccines, is feline leukemiaand feline aids negativeand declawed in the front. If you are searching for a new kitty to add to your family, please consider giving Johnny a try. He will forever thank you!! Visit the adoption page to learn more about Tommy amp; Phillip who are also looking for their forever home! http://www.amccascades.com/Thanksgiving-Note---2011.asp Give Thanks for Furry Friends....... As you feast with friends and family during the Thanksgiving holiday, remember to keep your pets safe. Visitors to your home, travel and enticing new foods can alter their routine and wreak mental and physical havoc. Be strategic about which parts, if any, of the meal you share with pets. Acceptable treats for most pets include small pieces of fully cooked, boneless turkey or unseasoned carrots or green beans. Avoid high fat foods such as creamy casseroles, stuffing that includes onions, garlic and lots of herbs, or any uncooked dough. Consider your petrsquo;s dietary needs and sensitivities before sharing anything at all. If you plan to travel with your pet this holiday, bring their food, bowls, treats and a familiar toy with you. Allow plenty of time during a long drive for breaks to stretch their legs and relieve themselves. If you plan to have visitors to your home, provide your pets with a quiet place where they can get away from the excitement. While some pets love a new face to lick, others become stressed and prefer to hide. Remind all visitors to keep doors and gates closed so that pets do not escape outside or have access to forbidden parts of the house. At AMC, we give thanks for the opportunity to take care of your furry family members and wish you a very happy holiday. http://www.amccascades.com/Flea-Fiasco.asp Flea Fiasco.....Fleas are flourishing this year in Loudoun County. The dramatic increase in flea infestations this year has left our patients itchy and their families wondering how to evict these unwanted visitors in their homes. Fortunately we have some very effective weapons against fleas. These parasites cause many problems for pets and their owners. Their blood-sucking bites leave a raised itchy spot on the skin. In very sensitive animals, one flea bite can make them itchy for up to two weeks. A severe flea infestation can lead to life-threatening anemia, especially in very young, very old, or debilitated pets. When pets lick fleas off their skin in an effort to stop the itching, they can ingest a tapeworm along with the flea. Fleas have several stages in their life cycle. When you see a live flea on your pet, remember that he may be a single representative of a large population. Eggs, larvae and pupae can live in the environment for months, then mature into their recognizable form as black specks jumping and crawling on your pet when conditions are just right. Basic rules of flea control are simple: Use a topical flea preventive such as Frontline Plus or Vectra 3D every month, all year. These two products differ from some of the over-the-counter products because they contain ingredients that both sterilize and kill fleas. Use them year-round because, although the weather outside varies, inside the house is always their ideal temperature. Treat every animal in the house, including indoor cats. When fleas hitch a brief ride into the house on the Frontline-treated dog, they will quickly find a more hospitable place to live on any untreated cats. Learn to differentiate dirt from flea dirt.When your petrsquo;s skin is covered in black specks of dirt, do the flea dirt test. Wipe some of the dirt away with a moist white paper towel. If the black dirt leaves a pinkish red tinge on the paper towel, it is actually flea feces (digested blood) and evidence that your pet has some unwanted visitors. If you find fleas, act fast with some or all of these steps.Make sure all pets are treated with appropriate preventives.Consider using Capstar, a pill that kills all the fleas on an animal for 24 hoursWash all bedding in hot water two times.Vacuum the house and throw the bag away outside each day.Use a spray insecticide or contact a professional exterminator. Please notify AMC if you know your pet has fleas prior to any clinic visits so that we can help you treat them and keep our clinic flea-free. Our staff is always available to provide suggestions and advice about flea control. http://www.amccascades.com/Update-on-Kittens-for-Adoption.asp Over the last few months, the AMCteam has been caring for a group of kittens and adult cats that had been running wild outside a horse barn in Loudoun County.None of the kittens had ever had much contact with humans, and they were VERY timid and nervous.Over time, with lots of love and patience, the kittens became friendly. The adults cats were tested for feline leukemia and feline aids, vaccinated, dewormed for intestinal parasites and those that were not adoptable were taken to a large farm in Maryland where they could be released. Several of the kittens have been adopted by wonderful people, while two ("Tommy" amp; "Phillip") still wait patiently for their forever home. "Dill" amp; "Suzie" were adopted a few weeks ago by our wonderful clients, Danielle and Barrett. They have adjusted amazingly to their new home and big brother, "Bob". Since the adoption their names have been changed to "Luke" amp; "Leia". Below is a picture of them enjoying their forever home. The orangekittenis "Luke" and the blackkitten is "Leia". For more information and to see pictures of "Tommy" and "Phillip", click here.... http://www.amccascades.com/No-Scream-Halloween-Guide.asp The AMC No-Scream Halloween Guide: With Halloween only a few days away, its important to remember our furry trick-or-treaters and their safety. Whether theyre following children door-to-door or just helping you pass out candy at home, these reminders will make you have a no-scream Halloween. 1. Candy ndash; all types of chocolate (especially dark chocolate) can cause severe problems for pets including vomiting, diarrhea and seizures! Certain types of mints contain the sweetener xylitol which can cause life-threatening drops in blood sugar. And for those health conscious households, even raisins arenrsquo;t ok for your fluffy friends. Grapes and grape products can cause acute kidney failure. 2. Decorations ndash; Harvest corn is a popular decoration through Thanksgiving, but make sure it is kept out of reach of your pets. If eaten, corn on the cob is an almost guaranteed intestinal obstruction! 3. Jack-O-Lanterns ndash; The pumpkin? Pretty safe. The lit candle inside? Not so much. Especially when there are waggily tails and curious paws around. Keep pets away from all lit candles to avoid burns to them and your house. 4. Costumes ndash; Is there such a thing as pet that doesnrsquo;t look cute in a costume? Probably not. But that doesnrsquo;t mean that every pet enjoys dress-up. Animals use body language as their primary means of communication. Having portions of their body covered can cause undo stress. If your pet is not used to wearing clothing, a bulky hot dog costume may not be the right choice for their first time. But, if your pet is okay wearing costumes, make sure you choose the right one. They should fit well but not be tight. Make sure it doesnrsquo;t constrict their breathing or interfere with their hearing and allows normal movement. 5. Trick-or-Treaters ndash; Having the door bell ring every thirty seconds all evening can cause a lot of stress on your pet. Unless your pet is very social, they should be kept in a separate room away from the front door. This is not only for the safety of the children but also for the safety of your pet. 6. Run-aways! ndash; Another reason to separate your pet is to ensure that they donrsquo;t run away through a door that is constantly being opened a closed. Still, it is a good idea to make sure your pet is wearing a collar that clearly identifies them and yourself, with a contact number in case they get lost. Also make sure to ask the AMC staff about microchip identification if you havenrsquo;t already. 7. Have fun ndash; Our last tip is to have a happy and safe Halloween and to drop by AMC for a wonderful selection of healthy treats for your pet if they feel left out! http://www.amccascades.com/Kittens-for-adoption-2.asp Meet Phillip amp; Tommy!! KITTENS FOR ADOPTION!!! In mid-August, we acquired a kindle of kittens that were running wild outside a horse barn in Loudoun County. None of these gorgeous little kittens had ever had much contact with humans, and they were VERY timid and nervous. Our staff has spent many hours holding and touching and interacting with the kittens. Although they are still a little shy, theyrsquo;re really starting to become more trusting, affectionate and playful. Theyrsquo;ve all been dewormed and vaccinated appropriately for their age so their new owners will only need to get them neutered or spayed. They will need to be handled with patience and understanding but are sure to become beloved household pets with the right owners. To learn more click here... http://www.amccascades.com/National-Technician-Week.asp NATIONAL TECHNICIAN WEEK - OCT 9-15 In honor of our licensed veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants, AMC is celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week from October 9th ndash; 15th. Our technicians are an essential part of the health care team. They provide loving care for our hospitalized patients. They teach our clients about everything from vaccinations to how to care for their pets after surgery. They assist our doctors in every possible way. Licensed veterinary technicians have completed a rigorous two-year program to learn about all aspects of veterinary medicine including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and anesthesia. They learn about the most current advances in medicine and sharpen their technical skills by meeting an annual continuing education requirement. AMC is proud to have several licensed technicians and an assistant who is currently attending in the NOVA Veterinary Technician program. AMCrsquo;s doctors and staff are so grateful for the hard work of our technicians and assistants. We value their knowledge and compassion as partners in caring for our patients. We would not be able to complete AMCrsquo;s mission without them. http://www.amccascades.com/World-Rabies-Day.asp Raising Rabies Awareness September 28 is World Rabies Day, a global health observance that seeks to raise awareness about rabies and enhance prevention and control efforts. Co-sponsored by CDC and the Alliance for Rabies Control (ARC) since 2007, World Rabies Day has been celebrated in countries throughout the world, including the U.S. World Rabies Day is an excellent time to take steps that can help prevent and control rabies, such as vaccinating pets including dogs and cats and providing education on how to avoid the animals that typically transmit rabies: raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. To learn more about the Center for Disease Controls effort to raise awareness click here.... http://www.amccascades.com/Emergency-Preparedness-for-Pets.asp Emergency Preparedness for Pets It has been an eventful few weeks in the Washington DC area. An earthquake, hurricane force winds, and flooding have tested our emergency preparedness. If these events found your emergency kit lacking, read on to find out about how to keep the four-legged members of your family safe. All pets should be clearly tagged with their name and ownerrsquo;s information. AMC uses the ResQ ID chip, which is implanted under the skin as a permanent method of identification. The microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, carries a unique identification number that will be linked by the ResQ company to contact information you provide. If you have moved recently, remember to update this information. Any clinic or shelter should be able to scan the microchip and identify your pet. Clearly marked collars and tags should still be used to provide quick external identification. Some pre-planning can make natural disasters easier to handle. Locate a friend, family member or pet-friendly hotel outside of your immediate area where you could take your pet if your home is damaged. Also identify a friend or neighbor who could care for your pets if you are not home in the event of a natural disaster. Provide this person with a key to your house and written instructions about your petrsquo;s diet and medical conditions as well as favorite hiding places in the house. Bring pets inside well in advance of any known natural disaster such as a snow storm or hurricane. If left outside, they may make their own disaster preparedness plan by hiding! Keep the following items on hand: - Food amp; water for 3 ndash; 5 days - Manual can opener if your pet eats canned food - Extra cat litter or potty pads for dogs if weather prevents walking outside - 1 week supply of any regular medications - Sturdy carrier labeled with petrsquo;s name and address - Collar, leash, and muzzle if dog becomes fearful/aggressive during times of stress Monitor your state and local government websites for additional emergency and evacuation details and instructions. http://www.amccascades.com/Seelys-Surgery-Surprise-.asp Seelyrsquo;s Surgery Surprise Seely is a bouncy 11 month old beagle mix who wags not only her tail, but her whole body. AMCrsquo;s hospital administrator, Dana, adopted Seely as a tiny puppy from a local humane society. She was spayed prior to adoption at an early age. The practice of spaying and neutering young animals at shelters and humane societies has several benefits. They know that the pets adopted there will not continue the cycle of pet overpopulation by breeding. The organizations are also able to absorb the cost of this surgery and monitor pets during their recovery, which takes the time and financial burden off of new families. Unfortunately there are occasional side effects of early spaying and neutering. As Seely grew from a puppy to a young adult dog, she experienced several urinary tract infections and irritation around her vulva. Her vulva was abnormally recessed with extra tissue trapping urine in an area that should normally stay dry and clean. Allowing female dogs to go through one heat cycle can change the shape of this area and prevent further problems, but Seely did not have this option due to her early spay. Dana elected to have the extra tissue on Seelyrsquo;s rear end removed surgically. To read more about Seelys story click here..... http://www.amccascades.com/THE-GOSPEL-OF-BOB-BARKER.asp THE GOSPEL OF BOB BARKER ldquo;Please have your pets spayed or neuteredrdquo;. While it may be easy to tune out the message, having your pet spayed and neutered is vital to controlling the pet population and maintaining the health of your pets at home. There has never been a worse time to be a shelter animal. Overcrowding in shelters is at a tipping point and animal rescue groups are already overstretched. The poor economy has led to a decline in pet adoptions and more animals are being surrendered as families struggle to keep them on a reduced budget. Purposeful breeding increases the pet population and decreases the chance of sweet and loving shelter dogs finding a home. There also medical benefits to having your pet spayed or neutered. Unspayed females are more susceptible to diseases like epilepsy, diabetes, and uterine or ovarian cancer. Intact females can also develop a condition called pyometra (infected uterus). This life-threatening condition turns the uterus into a large abscess and deadly bacterial toxins spread through the blood. An infected uterus also becomes soft and prone to rupture! Intact males are at risk for testicular and prostate conditions such as cancer and infections. Enlargement of the prostate can obstruct fecal output and cause severe constipation. Surgery is recommended around 6 months of age while sex organs are still immature and the procedure is simple. Every year that passes represents an exponential increase in risk of disease for your pet. If you are determined to breed your pet, do your homework first. Make sure your pet conforms to breed standards. Educate yourself on the most common health conditions affecting the breed and have a veterinarian test for them. Research the costs and time commitment required for raising a litter. Lastly, ask yourself if the risk is worth it Do your part and have your pets spayed or neutered. If you wonrsquo;t do it for the homeless animals then do it for the animals in your home to make sure they have a long and healthy life. http://www.amccascades.com/Therapy-Dog-Gets-Therapy-of-Her-Own.asp Therapy Dog Gets Therapy of Her Own! Cleo is an adorable and incredibly sweet Yellow Lab with a golden heart. When she is not giving tons of big, wet kisses she spends time as a therapy dog! In fact, Cleo is a Certified Educational and Rehabilitative Assistance Dog with Paws4People and a Reading Educational Assistance Dog with Intermountain Therapy Animals. Her outgoing and loving personality is perfect for helping young children. But in October of 2010 she came to AMC Cascades in need of some help of her own. Cleorsquo;s owner had noticed a small growth on her right side and was understandably concerned. Small masses on the skin can be benign growths like warts, cysts, and bug bites. However, they can also be cancerous and delaying diagnosis can make treatment more difficult. To Read more about Cleos story, click here.... http://www.amccascades.com/Canine-Rehabilitation.asp The Doctors and Staff of AMC congratulate Tracy Teats, LVT forbeing awarded her credentials as a Certified Canine Rehabilition Practitioner (CCRP).Tracy attended the University of Tennessees Certificate Program in Canine Rehabilition. She traveled to Tennessee to take the exam in early June. The University of Tennessees program is a sequence of postgraduate courses for veterinarians, physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and veterinary technicians or students of these professions, followed by a supervised clinical experience and a cumulative examination. The courses are designed to guide the practitioner through the theoretical foundations to the clinical applications of canine rehabilitation. The program begins with separate curricula for veterinary and physical therapy professionals and ends with these professions joining together for their final courses to best meet the needs of the participants. Tracy Ann Teats, LVT, CCRP is the rehabilitation specialist at Animal Medical Center of Cascades. Tracy has been working in the veterinary field since 1997, and is a 2005 graduate of the Veterinary Technician program at Northern Virginia Community College. She has had a special interest in physical rehabilitation for many years, and achieved her CCRP (Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner) certification at the University of Tennessee this June. Rehabilitation services at Animal Medical Center of Cascades are available on a referral basis only. If your pet is currently a patient here who might benefit from physical rehabilitation, please see one of our veterinarians for your referral. If you are not a client of AMC Cascades, please contact us and we will happily work together with you and your regular veterinarian. To learn more about Canine Rehabilition click here... http://www.amccascades.com/Boo-Boo-and-Family-Work-to-Defeat-Diabetes.asp Boo Boo is an 11 year old cat with elegant black and white tuxedo markings. In December of 2009, Boo Boorsquo;s owners noticed that he was drinking more water and visiting the litter box frequently so they brought him to Dr. Vincent for a checkup. Dr. Vincent thoroughly examined him and sent out basic blood tests to evaluate his organ function. Obesity was the only problem identified on his physical exam. Boo Boo weighed almost 20 pounds! The extra weight he was carrying around put him at risk for joint problems, cardiac problems, and diabetes. To read more about Boo Boos story, click here.... http://www.amccascades.com/Open-House-Thank-You.asp Thanks to all of you who joined us on Saturday, June 4th for our Open House and Fun Fest!! It was a huge success and a lot of fun. A special thanks to all the doctors and staff of the Animal Medical Center of Cascades and to the vendors who attended. We couldnt have done it without you!! Many pictures to follow so check back often. http://www.amccascades.com/Dr-Vincent-CE.asp Dr. Vincent recently attended the CVC Conference in Washington, DCat the Gaylord Convention Center. She participated in a full-day hands on training course in feline medicine techniques and attended many lectures by leaders in the fields of internal medicine, critical care and ophthalmology. The hands-on course was taught by two board-certified feline specialists. Dr. Vincent learned how to place esophageal feeding tubes, which can be a life-saving procedure in cats who cannot or will not eat. She practiced taking bone marrow biopsies and placing intraosseus (in the bone) catheters. The feline gurus also dispensed tips about weight loss plans and fluid therapy for cats. This course renewed her passion for feline medicine. Cats are truly unique creatures and when we focus on their metabolic, behavioral, and anatomical characteristics, we can provide much better care. She attended a series of ophthalmology lectures that provided an excellent update on diagnosis and treatment of common eye issues. She also made sure to hear about the most current research on some of veterinary medicinersquo;s most frustrating conditions ndash; chronic vomiting in cats, managing diabetic pets, and pancreatitis. Though we challenge ourselves to continue learning every day by reading journals and researching the best ways to treat our patients, conferences provide a concentrated boost of enthusiasm and information. http://www.amccascades.com/Open-House-June-4th-Raffle-Items.asp OPEN HOUSE RAFFLE ITEMS...... We hope you can join us for our Open House amp; Fun Fest on June 4th from 11am-3pm. We have several items to raffle. Proceeds will benefit Lost Dog and Cat Rescue and HART (Homeless Animal Rescue Team). List of Raffle Items Free Eye Exam - Style Eyes Family Eye Care $15 Gift Certificate - Carmines Pedicure Gift Certificate - Creative Nails amp; Spa 2- $25 Gift Certificate -Velocity Five 3-Free Large Pizza - Papa Johns $25 Gift Certificate - Good for a Mans Hair Cut - SHEBANG Salon Gift Certificate for One Month of Tae Kwon Do Classes amp; a uniform - TigerDen Martial Arts Floral Arrangement - Potomac Falls Florist $50 Gift Certificate - Mokomandy Starbucks Gift Card - Care Credit Coupon for One Year Supply of Vectra (Flea amp; Tick Preventive) - Pet must have current Wellness Exam to redeem. - AMC of Cascades Coupon for One Year Supply of Heartgard (Heartworm Preventive) - Pet must have current Wellness Exam to redeem. - AMC of Cascades Gift Basket (Dog amp; Cat Supplies and Toys) - AMC of Cascades http://www.amccascades.com/Open-House-Flyer.asp Open House amp; Fun Fest....Join us June 4th, 11am-3pm http://www.amccascades.com/May-is-Lyme-Awareness-Month-Continued.asp More information about Lyme Awareness Month...... The weather outside is getting warmer everyday and that can only mean one thing: summer is coming. Itrsquo;s the wonderful time of year where sandals are the norm and backyard barbeques run rampant. Adults, children and pets alike begin to head outdoors to enjoy everything nature has to offer. However, the great outdoors also offers dangers to both people and their pets. That is why May has been made National Lyme Disease Awareness Month, a time for folks to learn about necessary precautions to take to protect not only for their pets, but their entire family as well. Here are common questions about Lyme disease and what you can do at home to protect your loved ones. What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by the bite of an infected tick. Not every tick carries Lyme bacteria but it only takes one to spread the disease. Humans, dogs and cats are all equally susceptible to infection. Is Lyme disease common in Virginia? The short answer is, YES! Loudoun County, in particular, has one of the highest rates of Lyme disease in the country. However, Lyme disease is a nationwide problem and can affect anyone, anywhere at anytime. Where are the ticks that carry Lyme most commonly found? Ticks can be found anywhere, but particularly in areas of tall grass and bushes adjacent to areas frequented by people and animals. High risk areas are walking paths, outdoor parks, and backyards with lots of landscaping or tall grass. What are the effects of Lyme disease in pets? Lyme disease causes a variety of clinical signs in pets that range from mild to deadly. If you notice swollen joints, lameness or lethargy in your pet you should contact your veterinarian. This is especially true if you have found a tick on your pet. If your pet is exposed to Lyme disease, treatment with an antibiotic is needed to prevent fatal kidney disease, crippling arthritis, heart disease and neurological disorders. Is there a test for Lyme disease? There are several tests for Lyme disease in pets. Discuss with your veterinarian which is most appropriate for your pet. Is there a vaccine for Lyme disease? Lyme vaccination is available for dogs. Make sure to talk to your vet about the benefits and risks of this vaccination. Unfortunately, there is no vaccination available for cats. How do I prevent ticks from infesting my pet? Topical flea and tick preventatives such as Vectra and Frontline Plus are effective at repelling ticks and helping to prevent attachment. Over-the-counter products are also available at pet stores but their effectiveness is questionable and they are not considered as safe as veterinary approved products. Ticks thrive in high grass, so keep your lawn mowed short particularly in areas in which your pets spend time. Make sure that any pesticides you use are pet and people safe. If my dog is vaccinated, do I still need preventatives? Yes. While the Lyme vaccine is a great tool to prevent this deadly disease, like every other vaccine, it is not 100% effective. In addition, ticks that carry Lyme disease also carry several other diseases which can cause illness in pets. No vaccines are available for these diseases. What if I find a tick on my dog or cat? Be sure to check your pet for ticks regularly. If you find one, remove it in this manner: First put on gloves to prevent contaminating yourself Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine-point tweezers Pull straight out without crushing or puncturing the tick Wipe the area with an antiseptic If desired, save the tick for testing in a container filled with rubbing alcohol. Clongen Labs in Germantown, MD is available to test removed ticks. Visit amccascades.com for more information. Where can I learn more information about Lyme disease? PBS and Verizon On Demand will be airing the documentary ldquo;Under Our Skinrdquo; which investigates the emergence and threat of Lyme disease. Visit the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society at iliads.com for current information, recommendations and events related to Lyme disease. Visit the Loudoun County website at Loudoun.gov ndash; once there, search for Lyme Disease/Tick-borne Diseases National Capital Lyme Disease Association at natcaplyme.org Turn the Corner Foundation at turnthecorner.org Virginia Lyme website at virginialyme.org http://www.amccascades.com/Missy-Thrives-Despite-Cancer.asp Missy Thrives Despite Cancer Missy is a beautiful Domestic Shorthair cat who presented to AMC in October of 2010 for vomiting, not wanting to eat, and just not doing right. Missy is an only child and is extremely loved so, needless to say, her parents were very worried about her. Missy was examined by Dr. Wolff who found nothing out of the ordinary except that she had been losing weight. Missyrsquo;s parents were great and decided to go ahead with blood work, abdominal x-rays and an abdominal ultrasound. It may seem like a lot but when a cat stops eating it is usually an indication of a serious illness. Cats can only go 2-3 days without eating before damage to their liver begins (this is even shorter in obese kitties). To read more about Missys story click here... http://www.amccascades.com/May-is-Lyme-Awareness-Month.asp May is Lyme Awareness Month!! Loudoun County - Lyme Disease/Tick-borne Diseases National Capital Lyme Disease Association Clongen Laboratories, LLC (To Send Ticks for Testing) International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) TurnThe Corner Foundation Virginia Lyme Learn about Lyme Disease! Thursday May 5th, 7-9:30 PM 1st Annual Loudoun Lyme 5K http://www.amccascades.com/AMC-Congratulates-Tracy-Teats-LVT.asp The Doctors and Staff of AMC congratulate Tracy Teats, LVT for her acceptance to sit for the Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP)exam. Tracy attended the University of Tennessees Certificate Program in Canine Rehabilition. She will travel to Tennessee to take the exam in early June. For acceptance to sit for the exam, Tracy had to complete and submit several case studies of rehab patients she has worked with. She will present one of them for her exam. The University of Tennessees program is a sequence of postgraduate courses for veterinarians, physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and veterinary technicians or students of these professions, followed by a supervised clinical experience and a cumulative examination. The courses are designed to guide the practitioner through the theoretical foundations to the clinical applications of canine rehabilitation. The program begins with separate curricula for veterinary and physical therapy professionals and ends with these professions joining together for their final courses to best meet the needs of the participants. Animal Medical Center of Cascades looks forward to working with Tracy to build a thriving rehabilition service. Currently the hospital has an underwater therapy treadmill, as well as other modalities such as pilates balls, a TENS unit and range of motion and strengthening exercises. Please feel free to visit our hospital and talk with Tracy aboutour services. Again, we congratulate Tracy on this professional and personal accomplishment!! http://www.amccascades.com/Dr-Wolff-CE.asp Dr. Wolff recently attended the Virginia Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA) Conference in in Roanoke, VA. This 3-day conference, open to VVMA members, is a gathering of the States veterinary community and serves to help educate them on the newest developments and findings in veterinary medicine. Speakers from the Virginia Tech veterinary college, veterinary colleges around the country and boarded independent professionals attend as speakers to share their wealth of experience and knowledge. Dr. Wolff attended lectures focused on respiratory disease diagnostics, respiratory distress in cats and management of respiratory emergencies. He also furthered his knowledge in new surgery techniques and wound management.Theinformationhe found most useful was the three part lecture on management of arthritis in dogs. Updates were discussed on some classic approaches to managing arthritis pain and breaking techniques such as stem cell therapy and low dose antibiotic therapy. Dr. Wolff returned more knowledgeable and ready to treat his patients at AMC of Cascades with the most current and effective techniques available in veterinary medicine. http://www.amccascades.com/Under-Our-Skin.asp Learn About Lyme Disease!! Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 7:00-9:30 PM Turn the Corner is dedicated to the support of research, education, awareness and innovative treatments for Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. http://www.amccascades.com/1st-Annual-Loudoun-Lyme-5K.asp 1st Annual Loudoun Lyme 5K - Sunday May 15, 2011 http://www.amccascades.com/Open-House---Update.asp Paws in Motion Fitness Trek Bring your dog and join for a fun filled morning walk around the community. No registration fee required but donations to benefit the Mid-Atlantic Akita Rescue are greatly appreciated. http://www.amccascades.com/Student-Job-for-a-Day-Program.asp Student Job-for-a-Day Program Animal Medical Center of Cascades proudly participated in the Loudoun County School-Business Partnership Job-for-a-Day Program. The goals of the program are to: Allow students to explore career fields in which they have an interest or aptitude. Offer students exposure to career fields they have not previously known about. Strengthen studentsrsquo; awareness of business and industry enterprises within the community. Heighten studentsrsquo; decision making processes related to life skills and career choices. Provide students with hands-on experiences with people, places and things not always available in the classroom or school environment. Help students learn about job/career opportunities within the local area. Lauren is a local Potomac Falls High School junior. She is an honors student who is passionate about learning, achieving good grades and ballet. Lauren has danced a wide variety of ballet roles in over 70 performances and has attended several ballet summer programs including: Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre; Miami City Ballet; and the Kennedy Center Master Class Series. Lauren enjoys making friends, helping people and spending time with her family and pets. Her career interests include opportunities involving biology, research and political science. When choosing a Job-for-a-Day business location, Lauren expressed interest in the medical research field and the legal field. The Program paired her with our veterinary hospital. Lauren had the opportunity to observe a spay surgery, where she learned about anesthesia and patient monitoring. The doctors discussed with her the career opportunities in the veterinary profession, what college majors she might want to consider and the classes needed to be accepted into veterinary school. They also discussed opportunities to further her education and specializing in the veterinary field. http://www.amccascades.com/OPEN-HOUSE---642011.asp AMC OPEN HOUSE - Join Us on Saturday, June 4th from 11 AM ndash; 3 PM for a Fun Filled Day with Family, FriendsandPetshellip; Many Fun Activities and Prizes including: Moon Bounce Childrenrsquo;s Activities and Crafts Old-Fashion Dog Wash Pet Adoptions Parking Lot amp; Sidewalk Vendors ...And more! ****Keep checking back for more details**** http://www.amccascades.com/Kittens-for-Adoption.asp Summer is upon us and kittens have arrived at AMC for adoption! Come on in and meet Mandarin and Chiffon. These beautiful sweet kittens are about 11 months old and arelittermates. Mandarin is a maleorange tabby and Chiffon is a female orange and white tabby. Adoption is through Lost Dog amp; Cat Rescue. To read more click here. Mandarin Chiffon http://www.amccascades.com/Congratulations-go-out-to-Veterinary-Assistant-Christa-Hotle.asp The doctors and staff of Animal Medical Center of Cascades congratulate Christa Hotle on her acceptance into NOVAs Veterinary Technology program. Christa joined the AMC team in November of 2009.Becoming a licensed veterinary technician has been a long time career goal of Christas and she is excited to begin the process in the Fall of 2011. Christa has always had an interest in animals and was previously a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator in the state of Indiana. In Texas she worked with the San Antonio Zoo and the Abilene Zoo, and has a strong affinity for bats and reptiles. Christa is looking forward to learning more about zoology, anatomy, physiology and anesthesia. She is particularly interested in canine and feline dentistry. Christa is a full-time veterinary assistant with AMC and is our Inventory Manager. AMC is very proud of Christa and wishes her the very best as she continues to advance her career! http://www.amccascades.com/AMC-attends-Veterinary-Technology-School-Job-Fair.asp On March 24, 2011, Dana Eddy, Hospital Administrator, and Tracy Teats, LVT attended NOVAs Veterinary Technology Job Fair. NOVAs Veterinary Technology Program isaccredited by the American VeterinaryMedical Association and students who successfully complete the program are eligible to take a post-graduate exam to become credentialed as Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT). The program provides training in all aspects of veterinary medicine with all species of animals. In addition to the semster courses, students are required to gain hands-on experienceby completeing a 12-weekinternship at a veterinary facility. The job fair allowed first year students the opportunity to meet and interact with many area hospitals in hopes of finding the perfect internship. Second year students seeking full-time employment opportunities also attended. Prior to the start of the job fair event, Dana gave a presentation to the students on ldquo;Leadership, Ethics and Social Media in the Veterinary Workplacerdquo;. Tracy spoke to the students about the future opportunities to specialize in the field once they are licensed. Licensed veterinary technicians are essential and vital members of the health care team of Animal Medical Center of Cascades. Our LVTs are utilized in every area of our hospitalincluding client education, patient care for hospitalized pets, monitoring anesthesia, assisting in surgery and performing dental procedures. To learn more about NOVArsquo;s Veterinary Technology Program, click here. Michele McDonald,LVT Tracy Teats, LVT Tracy has been in theveterinary profession for more than 10 years. She is a 2005 graduate of the NVCC Veterinary Technology Program. Throughout her career, she has gained invaluable knowledge in many aspects of veterinary medicine, including dental radiology, the value of good nutrition and supplementation, as well as holistic care and alternative therapies. Tracy is currently enrolled in the University of Tennessees Canine Rehabilitation program. Her passion for physical therapy and rehabilition grewfromthe needher Akita/Collie mix, "Mischa" had following multiple knee surgeries. Tracy isexpected to sit for her certification examin June of 2011. She is also certified in canine massage through Integrated Touch Therapy, Inc. Tracy resides in Harpers Ferry, WV with her three cats - "Damian", "Hemi" and "Trinity" (a.k.a. BAD!). She looks forward to adopting an Akita in the near future. http://www.amccascades.com/Case-Highlights---Rusty.asp Rusty vs. Bladder Stones.... Rusty, a spunky 10 year old Shetland Sheepdog, came to see us for a regular wellness exam. During the exam, his owner mentioned seeing some blood in Rustyrsquo;s urine and some accidents in the house. While it might be tempting to ignore these signs in a dog like Rusty who was otherwise acting happy and healthy, blood in the urine should always be investigated. It can indicate the presence of bladder stones, a urinary tract infection, or even a bladder tumor. To read more about Rustys story, click here... http://www.amccascades.com/Phenobarbital-Tablet-Recall.asp The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to veterinarians about the possibility that phenobarbital tablets produced and labeled as phenobarbital by Qualitest Pharmaceuticals may actually be mislabeled hydrocodone tartrate and acetaminophen tablets. The company issued a recall of the phenobarbital tablets on February 5, 2011, but the FDA reports that they have recently received reports of severe adverse events associated with the administration of the mislabeled product to pets. Affected lot numbers are T150G10B, T120J10E and T023M10A. If you have a pet on phenobarbital, Animal Medical Center of Cascades recommends that you contact your dispensing pharmacy and ask if you have received medication from any of these lot numbers. Please contact our staff if you have any questions. http://www.amccascades.com/Digital-Dental-Radiography-Arrives-at-AMC.asp Digital Dental Radiography Arrives at AMC! Animal Medical Center of Cascades has made a tremendous advance in our ability to diagnose and treat dental disease. Our new digital dental x ray system produces detailed images of your petrsquo;s teeth while they are under anesthesia. The tooth roots and surrounding bone can be evaluated for infection, fractures, and congenital abnormalities such as missing or extra teeth. Hidden dental and periodontal disease will be identified and treated at its earliest stages so that pets can maintain a healthy and comfortable mouth. This new tool is essential in achieving our goal of providing the highest quality care. To learn more about this new service, please contact our staff! http://www.amccascades.com/Digital-Dental-Xray.asp Animal Medical Center of Cascades is excited to announce to arrival of Digital Dental Xray! Check back for more information. http://www.amccascades.com/Doctor-Continuing-Education.asp Doctor Continuing Education Dr. Virginia Vincent Soft Tissue Diagnostics - 14 hours of CE (June 2010) Sound-Eklin Training Center Dr. Vincent built upon her earlier ultrasound training by completing this intermediate level course in June 2010. This course focused on imaging the more difficult abdominal organs such as the pancreas and adrenal glands and on integration of ultrasound findings with other diagnostic tests to arrive at a diagnosis. She is now well prepared to use AMCs state-of-the-art equipment to its fullest capability. This training will help achieve her ultimate goal of diagnosing patients in the safest, least invasive way possible. Dr. DeAnna Mitchell Advanced Soft Tissue Diagnostics - 35.5 hours of CE (May 2010) NAVC Institute - Orlando, FL Dr. Mitchell attended the Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound Course at the NAVC Institute in May 2010. NAVC offers advanced five-day courses that are highly interactive between instructors and small groups of participants. More than 100 abnormal cases are reviewed with a board-certified radiologist; multiple lab sessions provide direct hands-on learning with a variety of professors; and small group discussions focusing on additional diagnostics are emphasized so that a final diagnosis can be reached. Dr. Virginia Vincent Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound - 15 hours of CE (May 2010) North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Vincent completed this introductory course in May 2010. The course provided a solid foundation in ultrasound fundamentals including physics, anatomy, and case examples. The highlight of the course was the hands-on laboratory portion in which experienced ultrasonographers guided students through a complete examination of abdominal organs including the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and intestines. Ultrasound is an invaluable tool for identifying common medical issues such as bladder stones, cancers of the spleen and liver, and gallbladder disease. Dr. Virginia Vincent Oral Surgery I, Pathology, Radiology - 24 hours of CE (Spring 2009) Dr. Vincents most recent continuing education focused on her special interest -dentistry. She attended a three day course at the Animal Dental Training Center in Baltimore, taught by Dr. Ira Luskin - board-certified veterinary dentist. Lectures emphasized recognition of dental disease and pathology and interpretation of dental x-rays. Hands-on laboratory time allowed her to practice tooth extraction techniques, oral surgery and jaw fracture repair. This course renewed her commitment to create the best quality of life possible for her patients through proactive and complete oral care. http://www.amccascades.com/Staff-Continuing-Education.asp Staff Continuing Education Leadership Loudoun is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, founded in 1991, with the mission to develop and engage current and emerging leaders to work together to serve the good of Loudoun County, Virginia. For more information about the Leadership Loudoun organization visit www.leadershiploudoun.org or contact Robin Geiger @ 703-771-5511 robin.geiger@loudoun.gov Dana Eddy, LVT, Hospital Administrator Graduate of the 2009 Class of Leadership Loudoun Leadership Loudoun is a nonprofit organization that develops current and emerging leaders to work together to serve the good of Loudoun County, Virginia. The nine-month leadership development program is anexperiential curriculum, during which class participants: 1) learn about themselves; 2) explore thehistory and culture of Loudoun County; 3) identifyand examine important issuesthat are relevant to the community and become active agents ofpositive change; 4)meet a network of diverse people who are interested in making a difference; and 5)practice team building through work in small groups to achieve common goals.The program provides an opportunity to learn about the countys history, geography, political structure, economic climate and more. Explore many of the challenges and issues facing our fast-growing county and learn about ways to "get involved" in the community. In May of 2009, Dana successfully completed the 9-month leadership program with the Countys Leadership Loudoun organization. Working together with 26 other participating class members, they presented four "Issue Days" with experts discussing the topics of gang activity; bringing business to Loudoun County; affordable housing; and historic preservation. The Class of 2009 also completed four Community Impact Projects, working with nonprofits to serve real needs in Loudoun County. The projects: 1) established a program with Loudoun Interfaith Relief to feed lunch to low-income children this summer; 2) developed a business plan for Friends of Mental Health to build awareness about A Place to Call Home - rental subsidies for residents with mental illness; 3) developed a volunteer program for the Loudoun County Community Health Center; and 4) designed and provided a one-day staff retreat, focusing on teambuilding and strategy, for the Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice/Loudoun Abused Womens Shelter. http://www.amccascades.com/Food-Recall-2.asp IAMS / EUKANUBA Food Recall Pamp;G has issued a Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Product Name Version "Best-By" Dates UPC Codes Iams Veterinary Dry Formulas All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes Eukanuba Naturally Wild All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes Eukanuba Pure All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes Eukanuba Custom Care Sensitive Skin All dry sizes 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes The affected products are sold in veterinary clinics and specialty pet retailers. No canned food, biscuits/treats or supplements are included in this announcement. Visit www.iams.com or call us at 571-434-0250 for further details. http://www.amccascades.com/Canine-Influenza-Virus.asp Canine Influenza CANINE INFLUENZA Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a flu virus that is similar to the human flu virus. Dogs that are exposed to the virus develop a cough which can be moist or dry. Even though this disease is highly contagious, most dogs will only become slightly ill and have a persistent cough, nasal discharge, low grade fever, and mild lethargy. However, some dogs will develop more severe signs such as a high fever and pneumonia. Canine influenza is transmitted the exact same way as the human flu, through contaminated surfaces and direct contact such as coughing and sneezing. Virus particles can live on surfaces for longer then 12 hours and affect other dogs.Diagnosing influenza can be difficult due to its similarity to other respiratory conditions such as kennel cough. Your veterinarian may chose to collect nasal swabs to help diagnose influenza, especially if your dog has been exposed to other cases of influenza or if your pet is showing severe clinical signs. Since influenza is a virus there is no specific treatment, instead treatment is aimed at supportive care such as rest, isolation, good nutrition and lots of fluids. If your pet is diagnosed with pneumonia secondary to a severe influenza infection then additional treatment will be needed including antibiotics and nebulization. Protecting your dog from canine influenza can be difficult since other dogs can shed the virus for days before clinical signs appear. Protection starts with keeping your dog healthy through regular wellness visits, good nutrition, adequate hydration and rest. The stronger your petrsquo;s immune system, the more likely they are to fight off infection. A new canine influenza vaccine has been introduced that will decrease the risk of pneumonia, shorten the length of clinical signs, and decrease the amount of viral shedding. Patients must receive two injections 2-4 weeks apart. They are considered protected 24 days after the initial vaccine. However, since this vaccine is brand new, long term safety studies are not available. It has been tested in only 700 dogs and so far has been shown to be safe and moderately effective. Based on the lack of safety data, our hospital is not making the influenza vaccine mandatory for our patients, however some of the surrounding kennels may be requiring it. If you plan on boarding your pet, please call the kennel as soon as possible to discuss their policy. Also make sure to ask if they have an influenza outbreak management plan in place and if they have had any confirmed cases of influenza. Please call our hospital to set up an appointment to start the influenza vaccine series if your kennel is requiring it, however hiring a pet sitter may be a safer alternative. For more information please visit the following websites or call our office to schedule a doctor consultation: www.doginfluenza.com www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp www.sheltermedicine.com/portal/is_canine_influenza_update.shtml www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-canine-flu-question-and-answer.html http://www.amccascades.com/Fitness-Unleashed.asp Fitness Unleashed Obesity: An epidemic among petsThe increasing incidence of obesity in people is constantly brought to our attention in the media and by doctors; however a similar, less publicized epidemic is occurring in the pet population. Our pets become overweight or obese for the same reasons people gain weight ndash; over-eating, excessive treats, and decreased activity levels. Obesity in companion animals can lead to increased incidence of diabetes, skin diseases, and exacerbation of orthopedic problems and arthritis. Pets who maintain a healthy weight live significantly longer than obese pets. We have developed a comprehensive weight loss program to aid owners and pets with reversing this obesity trend. Recognizing the problemSince our pets are not able to tell us that they are tired of trying to squeeze through the doggie door, responsible pet owners must recognize and address obesity in their pets. Unfortunately a study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine showed almost 70% of pet owners of overweight animals denied that these animals were overweight. Many people have come to view animals at their ideal body weight as being too thin, since the majority of dogs and cats seen on a daily basis are significantly heavier. It is impossible to address a problem, if one does not even think it exists.How do you tell if your own pet needs to be enrolled in a weight loss program? The first step is a trip to the veterinarian for a thorough examination and diet history. During the physical we will measure the current weight and determine a goal weight, though this number is an estimate that may change during the process. A pet with an ideal body condition has easily palpable but not visible ribs, a waist when viewed from above, and an abdominal tuck. We will check for any metabolic or disease process that could cause weight gain or inability to lose weight, such as hypothyroidism or Cushingrsquo;s disease. If any of those diseases are suspected, further testing will be done before a weight loss program is embarked upon. You may be asked to keep a diary of food/treats/table scraps that are fed to your pet so that we may better understand exactly how much food they are consuming. Sometimes a few treats from each family member can really add up! Reaching a healthy weight with AMCOnce the health criteria are met, we can enroll your pet in our weight loss program (Fitness Unleashed). This program is a multi-modal approach aimed at addressing some of the common reasons for unsuccessful weight loss. We will establish a support system with regular weight checks and motivational prizes for goals met. We will provide you with suggestions for healthy treats and ways to increase your petrsquo;s activity level. We also offer an underwater treadmill that allows low impact exercise, which is especially helpful for patients with orthopedic problems and older, arthritic pets. A new medication called Slentrol may be added to the weight loss plan for dogs who are 20% or more overweight. Slentrol produces weight loss by speeding up the satiety (fullness) signal from intestinal cells to the brain, so that dogs no longer feel the desire to overeat. This medication is not a life-long treatment, but rather it supports weight loss when combined with sensible diet, exercise, and monthly consultations. Unfortunately, Slentrol is not available for cats or people.We all want our pets to live a long and healthy life. Since we know that maintaining a healthy weight helps accomplish these goals, we need to dig deep and find the motivation to help that become reality. Our pets depend on usto make the best choices for them, so please call us today to schedule a consultation. See the printable brochure for more information about our Fitness Unleashed Program.