Do you do any type of allergy testing?
We send blood into a specific lab, Biomedical Services, to get an analysis. For example, we test for inhalants such as live oak, cat dander/dog dander or fods, such as soybean or wheat. We also have the client or doctor fill out a questionaire relating to the symptoms displayed and the foods the animal normally eats. When the results come back, if they have tested positive for particular allergens, there are hyposensitization injections that can be given. The injections can be given at the hospital or by the owner/s at home. The injections are to be given consistently. We carry varioous types of food like Eukanuba Fish and Potato, Kangaroo and Oats, and Hills rice and salmon to help with food allergies.
What do you advise for helping overweight dogs lose weight?
Overweight dogs lose weight similarily to the way an overweight human would. You need the right balance of diet and exercise. This must be specific to the animal's individual needs. Older dogs must not exercise as strenuously as younger dogs. It is up to the owner to help the animal in this manner. The program must consist of putting the dog on a restricted calorie diet and incorporating exercise, such as walking, running, or playing into the dog's daily regimine. Eukanuba restricted calorie diet and Science Diet Light Maintenance or Prescription Diet R/D are great foods to help follow this diet; low calorie treats are also available. To make sure you are on the right track, weekly wigh-ins are recommended.
What medications do you prescribe for arthritis?
We have had a good success with several different types of arthritis medications. They are:
Cosequin -- a chondroitin, glucosomine medication builds up the cartilage structure and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage. It works gradually.
Arthri-NU -- helps maintain connective tissue and cartilage.
Estogesic and Arthicare -- for arthritic pain.
Things considered are nutrition, weight, exercise, appropriate bedding, pain, and joint function.
