Lake Emma Animal Hospital

How is Acupuncture Used in Veterinary Medicine?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that was developed in China thousands of years ago. Humans have been benefitting from acupuncture for many years, and now animals can undergo acupuncture with a veterinarian. Watch this video to see how acupuncture is used in veterinary medicine.

Acupuncture is believed to work by clearing blockages in the body’s meridians that cause pain or illness. Small needles are inserted under the skin to stimulate motion in these blockages. In animals, acupuncture is often used for pain management, liver or kidney disease treatment, and treatment for skin problems. It can also be used to treat allergies and seizures.

Lake Emma Animal Hospital is proud to offer acupuncture services for pets. Contact us at (407) 792-3322 to set up an appointment or to learn more about the advantages of veterinary acupuncture treatment.

Exploring the Most Harmful People Foods for Your Canine Companion

Your dog is your best friend and will be your faithful companion during the good times and the bad times. It’s normal to want to give your pet treats every now and then—after all, who can resist those puppy eyes? Before you give your dog treats, however, check with your veterinarian to make sure they are safe. There are many people foods that are harmful to dogs, including:

Chocolate

Chocolate is a sweet indulgence for humans, but it is absolutely off-limits for your canine pal. Chocolate, caffeine, and coffee all contain methylxanines, which can spell disaster for your dog. This substance may cause vomiting, excessive thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death. The darker the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is for your dog. If you have sweet treats in the house, make sure they are well out of the reach of even the most curious canine.

Avocado

Many people enjoy avocado in sandwiches, tacos, or guacamole, but you should keep it far away from your dog. Avocados contain a substance called Persin, which can cause gastrointestinal distress in dogs. Smaller animals like birds and rodents are even more sensitive to it, so it is a good idea to keep avocados away from any pets in your house.

Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is present in many candies, gums, and even toothpastes. While it might calm your sweet tooth, it can wreak havoc with your dog’s health. Xylitol triggers an insulin release, which may lead to liver failure in extreme cases. If you notice your dog is vomiting, acting lethargic, or suddenly loses coordination, take him to your veterinarian immediately. Liver failure can occur rapidly, so don’t hesitate to get your dog checked out.

At Lake Emma Animal Hospital, we are committed to keeping your pet healthy and happy for his entire life. We provide general checkups, vaccinations, and more. Call us today at (407) 792-3322 to schedule an appointment with one of our caring veterinarians!

A Look at the Connection Between Your Cat's Diet and Her Coat

Did you know that cats can have as many as 130,000 hairs per square inch in their coats? These soft, fuzzy coats do more than give humans a nice petting surface. A cat uses her coat to take in sensory data from the world around her, and it helps to protect her from outside elements. If your cat’s coat is less shiny and soft than it used to be, consult your veterinarian to determine if your cat’s diet could be to blame. Read on to learn about the connection between your cat’s diet and a healthy coat.

Your Cat’s Food

You probably know that a healthy diet can greatly affect the way you look and feel. Cats are similar to humans in that respect, and they need proper nutrition to maintain their supple coats. Cats are true carnivores, and as such, need more protein than dogs. They also need complex carbohydrates and healthy fats to maintain good overall health. If you have been giving your cat low-quality food, talk with your veterinarian to get a recommendation for food that will help her coat look its best.

Supplement Options

Your cat could potentially benefit from supplements to her food if her coat is not as shiny as it used to be. Fish oils containing fatty acids can restore luster to your cat’s fur, especially when added to a healthy diet. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your cat a supplement. Your vet has plenty of experience to guide you in the right direction.

Effects of Obesity

Cats clean their own coats, which is part of what keeps them looking healthy. If your cat is overweight or obese, she may not be able to reach every spot on her body to keep it clean. Ask your veterinarian about switching your cat to a lower calorie diet.

Lake Emma Animal Hospital provides quality care for cats at all stages of life. Call us at (407) 792-3322 if you have any questions about your cat’s health. You can also visit our website to learn more about our services.

Find Helpful Pet Health Facts with These Resources

Pets are as varied as their people, and all have specific needs based on species and individual personalities and health concerns.  Check out the following links for further information on aspects of companion animal care. 

PetEducation.com explains the nutritional needs of birds based on the different types diets for different species.

Worried about the condition of your bird’s beak?  Visit this article by Hartz Mountain Corporation, manufacturer of high-quality pet supplies, for information on the most common types of beak troubles.

Learn more about how dogs experience canine allergies.

If your dog does come down with allergies, WebMD Pets explains types of treatments, depending on the allergen.

Accidents happen. Be prepared and have a plan in case your dog has a health emergency.

Contact Lake Emma Animal Hospital at (407) 792-3322 to put together a comprehensive, individual healthcare plan for your pet. 

How to Care for Your Bird's Beak and Nails

A bird’s beak serves many functions, such as cracking nuts and seeds and grooming. Larger birds also use them to climb or maintain their balance. Proper care and maintenance of your bird’s beak and nails, as recommended by your local animal hospital, can keep your pet happier and healthier. Here is a look at what you need to provide in order to properly care for your bird’s beak and nails:

Chew Toys

A simple way to prevent your bird’s beak from becoming overgrown is to provide her with a variety of chew toys like cuttlebones. These keep your animal from getting bored, but also help wear down the beak, especially on the upper mandible. Chew toys can even be home made, using non-toxic materials such as rope and natural wood.

Proper Diet

Follow a diet appropriate for your pet's species, as recommended by your veterinarian. Provide plenty of fresh vegetables, and the proper seeds and nuts for your particular bird. Malnutrition can lead to beak deformations and uneven growth.

Perches

Perches serve multiple functions; they give your bird a place to sit and help trim your bird’s claws and beak. A variety of perch materials and sizes mimics your animal’s habitat in the wild, where different branches and rocks wear on the claws and the beak. By using perches that are uniform in size and smoothness, you may be depriving your bird the opportunity to groom naturally. However, you should never cover perches with sandpaper or other rough materials. These are more abrasive than natural materials and can injure the bird’s feet.

Home Grooming

Nails can be easily trimmed at home. Use the proper nail trimmers from your local pet store or hospital, and if your bird proves to be too resistant to home trimming, take her to the vet. Beak trimming should never be done at home—always take your bird to an avian specialist if you observe abnormal growth or other deformities.

If you have any questions or concerns about the health of your bird’s beak and claws, let the staff at Lake Emma Animal Hospital assist you. Call us today at (407) 792-3322 for an appointment.