There is a trend I have seen through the years when it comes to how owners see their cats.  Where most dog owners will bring the dog in for yearly wellness exams (And this is so important), the cat tends to get left out of this equation.  When I discuss this phenomenon with people I always hear the same thing.  “He never gets sick, and he is strictly indoors so he never get’s exposed to anything.”  First thing I want to point out is that just because an animal is “indoor only” does not mean they do not get diseases such as heart disease, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, etc.  All of which common and life threatening illnesses suffered by cats.

Most cats will never indicate to owners when they don’t feel well.  They do not cry in pain or try to get your attention.  In fact, they are incredibly stoic and suffer in silence.  And most of the time, because they are not making an issue of it, you, the owner, will not realize there is a problem until the kitty is very ill. Then the situation can become very expensive and very tragic.  My wish and my job is to help show you that the best path is the path of prevention.  Kitties need to be seen at least once a year, possibly twice if they are older.  It is truly that important.

What problems can we discover and even prevent with routine exams?  The list is much to long to write, but I will give you some of the most common troubles I see kitties face.  And know this, I can tell you without a doubt, there have been many a cat who has come to me that I feel certain I gave years of life because we discovered these problems early in the process.  And I have seen just the opposite and had to watch my dear client make heartwrenching decisions that may not have needed to be made had we seen the kitty a bit earlier.  And please know, I understand that many people don’t know what to look for, but that is why we veterinarians are here. Use us!!!!

Common ailments that may be prevented or at least managed with good preventative care:

Top 4 are as follows

Kidney disease: signs are frequent urination, increased thirst, increased or decreased appetite and weight loss (but early in the game none of these may be recognized).  Early signs may only be seen with blood chemistries and urine samples. 

Diabetes: often seen in overweight cats and a common thread noted is the cat was overweight but then suddenly lost significant weight.  Other later signs are increased thirst (significant), increased urination (significant) increased hunger with weight loss.  (Sounds a little like kidney issues doesn’t it?)

Hyperthyroid disease: Common signs are hyperactivity, increased appetite (they become voracious) and significant weight loss.  Gone untreated, significant heart disease will follow.

Cancer: signs depend on the type of cancer the kitty is suffering from, but commonly see weight loss.

And then there is heartworm disease: this is completely preventable and every cat, just like every dog, should be on a once a month prevention.  There is no treatment for this disease, it will kill your kitty overtime and there is no reason it should ever occur.

So there are some of the top problems cats suffer.  This is just the tip of the iceburg, so please, I implore all of my kitty lovers, bring them in for the care they deserve and the care they depend on you to provide.  You will thank me for it and they will thank you by having a longer, healthier life.

I think there is a trend out in the world today to look for options other than just western medicine, both in humans and pets.  I would like to address some good reasons to consider alternative methods, along with western medicine, when it comes to caring for your pet.  I believe that we can offer better care if we think a little outside of the box at times.

So what does Alternative medicine mean?  a good definition would be any medical modality not taught in Western Medical schools, human or veterinary.  Technically, this is not the same term as Holistic because it does not imply a specific philisophical mind set.  And I find this intriguing and attractive, because it allows us a broader box of tools to practice with.  Examples of alternative methods would be cold laser therapy, acupuncture, animal rehabilitation, etc. and I would add Eastern medicine such as TCVM.

When thinking Holistic medicine we have to think of considering that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  In other words we need to treat the entire animal, not just the problem.  IE: what good are drugs for seperation anxiety if the emotional needs of the pet are not met?  With strictly Western Medicine the concept is to break systems down into smaller and smaller pieces, reducing them to the basics in order to understand how they work.  Therefore, we are treating parts and not the whole.

I believe, after years in practice, that we must consider all aspects of our patients in order to treat them in the best possible manner.  This means looking at the pet as a whole and not as many parts breaking down.  We need to consider the mind and spirit, the body and the disease when attempting to treat these animals. 

If you find that you have an interest in treating your pet as a whole, then we at CCAH are here to help.  I do believe in western medicine and use it every day, but I also recognize there is more ways than one to skin a cat.  If I feel a pet can benefit from TCHM, Acupuncture or some other modality, either I will perform these services or I will recommend someone who can.

I will be posting a series of blogs addressing different medicine approaches such as TCHM.  so keep checking in with us and if you would like more information please call us at 970-263-8882

In my practice I believe in striving to prevent illness rather than attempting to repair an animal once they are already severly ill.  The only way I can accomplish this feat effectively is to actually see and evaluate the pet on a regular basis.  This may be once a year or more often if the animals health or age warrants.  It also means there are certain medical recommendations I am going to make because I feel it is in the best interest of the pet.

What I have found is my dog owners are very good at bringing their pets in and even following my recommendations, but for some reason the cats in the same household, or even a strictly cat household, don’t come in as frequently or at all.  So many people feel that since the cats are only indoors (which is often not truly the case) that they are not at risk for any problems.  Being indoors does help prevent such tragedies as being hit by a car or eaten by a predator, but it does not protect them from dental disease, parasites, or viral infections (such as rabies).  Cats have been pushed under the bed as less important and it is time we stop thinking that way.  They are part of the family as well and need to be treated as such.

I have a few stories to tell regarding strictly indoor cats.  28% of heartworm positive cats were strictly indoors.  Guess what?  Mosquitoes did not read the do not enter sign. They fly into your house and bite your cat, infecting him with the heartworms, and there is no treatment once infected. But there is a very effective preventative and cats deserve the benefit of this type of care.  Another cat was infected by rabies when bitten by a bat who flew into the house.  The cat had not been vaccinated because she was an “indoor only” cat.  This cat died and the owners were put at great risk.  So please, listen when I say, indoor does not mean nothing bad can ever happen.

In order for us to do our jobs and keep your pets healthy for as long as possible, we must see them.  There are many things we can do to prevent illness in your kitties, please give us that opportunity so you can have as many wonderful years as possible with them.

How many of you out there have ever had to have surgery?  Maybe to repair a knee injury or a back problem?  Many of our canine friends suffer from the same troubles as we do.  They blow out their ACL running balls out, ears flying, and then seeing the squirrel over their shoulder, spinning on a dime and leaving the knee behind.  Or maybe they had the bad luck to be born with hips that don’t fit together correctly, IE hip dysplasia.  Or perhaps you just have an older kid who is now suffering from the effects of wear and tear from a long life of fun, resulting in some serious arthritis.  Well those of you who have had surgery most likely also had an appointment with their appointed physical therapist.  If so, smart move, because it has been shown that physical therapy is likely as important as the surgery itself in returning you to your previous level of fitness or at least getting you close.  Guess what?  Our pets need the same quality of medicine and no animal who has had any type of orthopedic surgery, injury or suffers from arthritic pain should be denied the benefits of a good rehabist.

There are many reasons for rehabilitation in dogs, and yes cats too.  Some of the reasons you may need the hands and expertise of a qualified therapist are these: Post surgical (ACL repair, Hip replacement, Elbow surgery),  Dengenerative diseases (degenerative disk disease, osteoarthritis), Soft-tissue injuries (muscle strain, ligament or tendon sprain), Age related ( osteoarthritis, weight gain, etc) or injury associated with sport or job (canine cop, agility dog).  But not only can we help animals recover from pain or injury we can also help prevent some of these problems.  By formulating a conditioning program, we can keep animals from injuring themselves as often or as severly as they might otherwise do.  Imagine the canine cop who has had a great deal of money put into his breeding, training and upkeep.  This animal has a job to perform, and can only do that if he is fit and sound.  It is the job of the handler and the rehabist to not only help that animal should he get injured in the line of duty, but to actually keep him at a level of fitness and athleticism to avoid injury in the first place.  A good rehab therapist will keep you animal healthy and pain free for many years to come.

As I said previously, I have a huge mushy spot for the older pets in our lives.  I see them every day.  They come in many different shapes, sizes, colors and conditions and I love them each and everyone.  Of course I enjoy seeing the youngsters too, but what I love most is knowing I will get to see them grow older because they are a part of my extended family.  Therefore I take a very personal interest in making certain my clients have good information and access to many tools which can keep their pets healthy for a very long time, even in the twilight years.

Older dogs and cats are like older people.  They are wise, often kind and patient, rarely complain but often hurt.  It is my job to help you decide if you pet is in discomfort.  How many of you have ever experienced the pain scale at the doctors office or in the hospital?  That little sliding scale with the smiley or frowny face, depending on where your pain is on the chart?  Well, the problem with that system is most of our pets are not Mr. Ed and can’t talk to us verbally and tell us where they fit on that particular chart.

Recently I was given this advice, and through experience I have to agree.  If you were to ask most animals where they were on the pain chart they would say 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 6 or 7 or 8.  Do you see what I am saying.  Most animals will not show overt, outward signs of pain until they are quite high on the pain chart.  Now some people would use the argument that animals don’t feel pain like we do.  This is absolutely incorrect.  They have the same nervous system as we do, but the difference is this.  They have not lost the instinct to survive.  If an animal shows pain or weakness, they are going to be consumed by a stronger predator.  If we show pain or weakness, we are going to get sympathy or another pain pill.  You have to stop thinking that just because your pet doesn’t whine, cry out, whimper, etc that they are not in pain.

Stay tuned for how to tell if your pet hurts and what you can do for it.  this is important, please don’t discount the effects of long term, chronic pain on the health and well being of your friend.

We all have them, old friends we love dearly.  No, I am not referring to someone you new in elementary school or that special person who knows all your secrets, I am talking about the older dog in your life.  I mean, the older “mans best friend”.  I have a special place in my heart for these guys and it is my passion to create a quality of life and to increase the longevity so these old friends canbe with my clients longer.  What is my mission?  To help you have the best, longest, most productive life with your dog that is humanly possible.  want to hear more then just keep reading.

what are some of the keys to slowing down father time where are pets are concerned? 

1.  Exercise is paramount.  We see this everyday in our sedentary individuals and older folks.  They stop moving, use a scooter to get around, sit on the couch, drive everywhere and what is the end result?  Decreased strength, increased pain in their joints, increased weight gain, loss of mobility and loss of quality of life.  The biggest reason dogs reach a point they can no longer get up is not because of joint pain or neurologic disorders, but a direct result of no longer exercising and becoming weak.  This is not inevitable and there are ways to keep that older pet up and moving.

2.  Nutrition: food is energy and crap in means crap out.  therefore the quality and quantity of diet being fed to your pets is directly related to longevity of life.  Study after study, humans, dogs, mice, show that inhibiting caloric intake increases life span.  IE: overfeeding your dog or yourself will decrease not only the length of life you live but the quality of life.  I believe in a long life but it needs to be one of quality.  If you don’t feed your pet well, they are not going to live as long as they might otherwise.

3. Near and dear to my heart: Regular Veterinary visits and care.  Animals age at an accelerated rate compared to humans.  Therefore when we recommend a “yearly or twice a year” visit, the animal has actually aged anywhere from 4-9 years.  That is huge and many problems can arise in that time period.  Without proper veterinary exams, guidance and care, your pet could develope a serious disease you may not even be aware of until the final stages.  I don’t want you or your pet to suffer this kind of trauma.  If we catch disease early, we can head many problems off at the pass.

I have a true soft spot for the geriatrics and I want to be a part of keeping them in our lives as long as we can.

Dr. Aimee

Halitosis anyone?  How many of you have experienced the dog in the car with you, panting with excitement, pumping out breath which could be considered toxic fumes and require hazmat gear?  Or perhaps its the family puddy, rubbing their face on yours, whos breath causes your eyes to water.  In either case I am willing to bet you have experienced some form of what I describe.  What does it mean you may ask yourself?  It can many things, but the certainty is that foul odor indicates bacteria and infection: Think Komona Dragon.

It has been said that the mouth is the gate to the body.  If you have an infection in your mouth then you can quickly get an infection in other parts of the body as well.  Sometimes life threatening infections.  Therefore it is important to man the gates and keep them clean and free of the enemy: infection causing bacteria.  How can we do this?  There are many ways to help keep an animals mouth clean and healthy and I would like to list a few.

Gold Standard: Brushing your pets teeth.  This is not a difficult thing to teach an animal, the more difficult process is teaching ourselves to remember to do this particular chore.  I usually encourage people to make this a fun time for the pet.  Use treats, praise, toys etc to encourage the animal to allow brushing.  Start with your finger and use something like peanut butter.  let the animal lick the peanut butter and then using your finger, rub all surfaces of the teeth (10 seconds) and then stop.  Continue this daily until they will allow your fingers in your mouth without fuss.  Next use a toothbrush and go through the same steps.  It may take several weeks, but if persistent you can teach the pet to allow you to brush.

Chew bones and toys are all mechanical ways to help keep teeth clean.  This is not infallible and plaque and tartar will still accumulate.  So one cannot expect this to be the only method and the teeth will stay pearly.

A product I love is called Healthy Mouth.  It is an enzyme based additive to the drinking water.  This product changes the pH of the mouth making it a less inviting environment for bacteria to grow and thrive.  Used daily it does help keep the mouth healthier and the teeth clean.

Dental diets

But please understand, none of the above methods replace a regular professional cleaning (and I don’t mean from your groomer) by your veterinarian.  These animals must be placed under anesthesia, allowing all surfaces of the the teeth to be examined, allowing a good oral exam, including evaluating tonsils, throat, tongue, under tongue etc.  Many times cancer and other abnormalities are discovered because the veterinarian is actually able to see in the mouth.  We probe looking for pockets which could indicate abscess or bone loss.  We can look for fractured teeth and we can take care of most problems while they are under.

So the next time you come in for a wellness exam and your veterinarian indicates oral disease, please recognize the importance of preventative care.  Get those teeth cleaned, follow through with home care and watch your pet live to a longer, healthier life overall.

What are your expectations when it comes to your veterinarian?  Are you looking for someone who is warm and fuzzy or would you prefer someone with a more reserved demeanor but who’s medical knowledge is impeccible?  Is money the main concern or is making certain your pet get’s the best possible care?  Do you want a doc who is going to listen to you and give you advice or do you want someone who is going to tell you what is in the best interest of your pet?  There is a great deal involved when you are deciding who is going to be the care giver to your four legged friends and only you know the answers to who is going to be best suited for you.  But my advice, above all else look for someone who wants to make certain you are informed about what is important to keep your pet healthy, because the fact is no matter how little you spend for “basic” care, there is a heavy price to be paid if preventative medicine is at the bottom of your list.

I am a believer in preventing illness before it happens rather than trying to fix the motor once it freezes up.  Dracula stories or not, we can’t raise things from the dead, so the goal should be keep them alive and well while we have them here on this realm.  And that is my philosophy.  I love to help people keep their pets healthy.  I will always be that doctor who tells you what I think is in the best interest of your pet, not necessarily your wallet.  That does not mean I am not aware and considerate of financial concerns.  We all have them and we all know that at times we have to budget.  But that is the key word.  If you own a pet make certain you have budgeted them into the expenses.  That way when a need arises you are prepared.

So my recommendations to all my friends out there, when shopping (and yes people shop these days) for a vet, keep in mind that it is our duty and our privilage to inform you of what your family member needs to keep them in optimal health.  It does not mean we are here to strong arm you into performing procedures you do not want.  But we (I) would be remiss if I did not tell you what I felt fido or fluffy needed and then later down the road your pet became ill.  When your vet gives you information please know they do so out of concern for the well being of their patient.  But also please understand that what we do for a living, though a passion for most of us, is also a service to you and does not come without a price tag. 

I would love the opportunity to discuss any comments or questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Dr. Aimee

How many out there have ever had to undergo surgery?  Fun don’t you think?  I mean seriously, you get to have sharp objects inserted into pipelines carrying life supporting fluids.  You get to wear that seriously flattering night gown (unisex and one size fits all).  You get the special attention of inquiring minds, both old and new (seems I always get the new).  Orifices are examined, probed and emptied, you are encouraged to lose a few pounds due to lack of nourishment either through decreased intake or increased output, or perhaps both.  But then my friends, the big pay off.  No, not the improved state of being upon awakening, but the fabulous effects of those mind altering pharmaceuticals which allow that improved state to occur.  Admit it, we all like the drugs, but we don’t all like how it feels when those intial drugs wear off. (except for those friendly little pain stompers our kindly physicians prescribe to us.  Neither does your pet.

Whenever you or your pet undergoes any type of surgery, there is a period of significant discomfort and gradual healing.  Our only true option is to give the body the time it needs to become less uncomfortable and to heal.  but in the interum, there are things which can be done to decrease the discomfort and shorten the healing period, as well as improve the final outcome.

One thing which is so important is to make certain the pain is controlled.  Study after study has proven that animals feel pain and when that pain is controlled they heal faster and recover better.  How is pain control achieved?  through pharmaceuticals, cryotherapy (cold), thermal therapy (heat), and rehabilitation exercises.  Get them moving (in a supervised  manner) and the pain will be better controlled.  That is where canine rehabiliation can be of huge benefit, both to you and your pet.

Here at Creature Comforts Canine Rehabilitation Center we are able to take an animal who is suffering after surgery or from age related pain, and help get them back to full function.  Or if not full function, as in the case of some neurologic or degenerative processes, at least to the best quality of life available.  Do you want your four legged friend to have the ability to not only be with you longer, but to do so with the benefit of decreased discomfort?  Then please come see us and let us show you how we can help.

Hello everyone,

we are in the midst of the hot part of the year, ah glorious summer.  Long days, warm evenings, scortching afternoons and very little shade or water to be had here in the grand valley.  It is hard on all of us, not to mention those four legged creatures we call family.  I am an avid hiker, sometimes runner, and love hitting the canyons at different times of the day.  The lighting is incredible, the shadows decieving, and simply awe inspiring at times.  The best way I have found to discover the treasures this part of the world holds is on foot with your best friend.

That being said, it is also important to realize the heat may seem intense to you, but imagine that same heat in a down jacket, ski pants and a hat.  Imaging not being able to sweat to cool yourself.  That my friends is exactly what your dog is experiencing.  The only way they can cool their bodies is through panting, the few sweat glands they have in their paws, evaporative cooling (sweating or a wet coat) and conductive cooling (laying on a cool surface so heat transfers from their body to that surface).  It is absolutely imperative you make certain you have plenty of water and shade is found when hiking the desert with your friends.  In fact, it is likely best not to take them at all unless it is either early morning or evening. 

It isn’t that I don’t think most of you have common sense, but I have seen many a dog come in overheated and have even had a couple die from heat exposure.  It is a true risk and I don’t want you to be the victim of inadvertantly harming your dog.  So be smart, keep them at home or make absolutely certain you can provide them what they need to enjoy the hike as well.  Otherwise you may find yourself carrying your buddy out on your back.  Not my idea of a good time. Probably not yours either and definitely not the dogs.