PROTECT YOUR PETS FROM RABIES!

Almost always fatal, rabies is a disease of the central nervous system that is transmitted by a bite or the saliva of an infected animal to humans and other mammals. In New York State, rabies is usually carried by wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats but can also be found in coyotes, opossums, and woodchucks. Humans and pets are exposed to the disease if an infected animal should bite them or its saliva enters an open cut or comes in contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth. Although we usually associate signs of rabies with a crazed animal that is foaming at the mouth, it is most often indicated by a significant change in the animal’s behavior. An infected animal may become unusually tame or affectionate or may become extremely aggressive. Once the physical symptoms appear, death follows in 7-10 days. Prevention is extremely important for protection. All pets should have current rabies vaccinations, even if they never go outdoors (bats live in houses!!). Also, keeping pets indoors at night when wild animals are more active, making sure your property is free of stored foods and garbage, and feeding pets indoors will discourage unwanted visitors. Resisting the urge to feed, touch or adopt wild animals also is extremely important. Many counties and veterinary clinics offer low-cost rabies clinics. The Marcy Clinic is holding their rabies clinic on Saturday, June 11 from 2-4 pm. Vaccinations are $10 and if you have a certificate from a prior vaccine, bring it with you to receive a three-year vaccination. Help us protect your furry friends!

Marcy Veterinary Clinic Newsletter June 1, 2016

BARBECUE BLUES

Looks tasty, doesn’t it? Summertime is the season of get-togethers and backyard barbecues. With a little forethought, these events can become more safe and enjoyable for our furred family members also. Establishing the boundaries for your pets and your guests helps to avoid unwanted trips to the emergency clinic. Goodies such as corn on the cob and bones can cause severe intestinal obstructions. The high fat content in most barbecue meats (sausage, hamburgers, and hotdogs) can cause an inflammation of the pancreas, which can lead to pancreatitis that is sometimes fatal. The unwanted leftovers such as grease from the cooked food and garbage are prized treats to our dogs and cats. In addition to causing a major stomach upset, grease may fall on small stones or dirt, which are then also consumed and can cause blockages. Citronella candles and torches should be firmly anchored so as not to become a burn hazard. Insect repellants, weed killers, and other chemicals are toxic and should be used in areas that are off-limits. Our pets enjoy the company of others but sometimes it can be overwhelming. Provide a place for your pet to go that is quiet and private so they can get away from all the revelry if they need to. If your pet is more of a wallflower, keep them safe indoors in an area that is off-limits to your guests. With a little planning, your summer activities can be fun for all your family members!

Maintaining your pet’s good health is a year-round effort. Although the focus of care may change from season to season, all aspects of your pet’s healthcare are important. Annual preventative examinations are as important to your pet as they are to you. In addition to the physical exam, this is the opportunity to update your pet’s vaccinations, check for intestinal parasites, and discuss any concerns that you may have with the veterinarian. Topics such as dental care, aging concerns, spaying and neutering, or general health questions are also covered during the visit to the veterinarian. Flea and tick prevention is becoming necessary 12 months a year. The milder winters, increased urbanization of wildlife, and resistance of these pests to environmental extremes makes using some type of preventative more necessary. This not only protects your pet from these annoying pests but helps keep your environment pest-free also. Many of the newer products also repel mosquitoes and biting flies to keep your pet more comfortable during the hotter weather. Our goal is to assist you in making the best choices for your pet’s continued good health. Call us anytime if you have a question or concern we can help you with.

MARCY VETERINARY QUICK BITES

The clinic is still looking for those absolutely adorable pictures of your favorite furry (and maybe not-so-furry) friend for our 2017 calendar contest. Submit your pictures online through our website or Facebook page. We will accept submissions through September and put the staff favorites out for your vote in October. We can’t wait to see all your amazing photos!!

The staff and their pets at the Marcy Clinic love to walk. This month we will be participating in the Mutt Strut to benefit the Herkimer County Humane Society. The Strut takes place on

Sunday, June 5 at HCCC. If you would like to join in on the fun, the registration is $25 in

donations. If you don’t have a dog to walk, the Herkimer County Humane Society will have

dogs available to walk with you. Hope to see you there!

Check our Facebook page for updates and photos of our activities as well as helpful tips for you and your pets.

Visit our website, www.marcyvetclinic.com and get to know our staff, read about pet care topics and see what’s new in our news and updates section.