Antimicrobial Stewardship: Safeguarding Antimicrobial Drug Use
When we think of “Antimicrobials”, to the general public this could mean “antibiotics”. While it is true that antibiotics are antimicrobials, not all antimicrobials are antibiotics. As a definition, antimicrobials are “Products that kill or curb the growth of microorganisms”.
Pet Dental Health Month
February is dental health month for pets! Dental health is just as important in your furry pets as it is in you. During dental month, we want to educate owners about dental disease and what they can do to improve their pet’s dental hygiene. Routine dental care is an important way to keep your pet from needing oral surgery to treat infection, but also keeps bad dog breath out of the way of cuddling with your furry friend. Your pet’s teeth should be shiny, white, and clean.
Canine Separation Anxiety
A tough, but pretty common problem, often seen in canine patients is anxiety. Some level of short term stress is healthy for an animal, and even humans, because it allows us to survive and thrive despite threats to our well-being. However, when the stress becomes long-term negative side effects may occur leading to unwanted behaviors and health risks.
Pets and the Summer Heat
As the summer nears and the weather continues to warm up, it is important to be mindful of the impact it can have on our pets. Dogs, especially, are spending a lot more time outdoors and traveling with their owners which can be a lot of fun, but can be potentially dangerous if we (their owners) are not prepared for the heat.
Dog and Cat Parasites in the Roaring Fork Valley
With spring finally becoming a reality, it is time to about ticks and other parasites that become more prevalent as the weather begins to warm. As a general rule, we are very fortunate in this valley to have less parasite problems than most of the rest of the country. Because we don’t see as many outward signs of parasites here, we tend to grow a little complacent in our approach to preventing parasite infestations and especially in remembering that there can be dangers to humans as well as to our pets.
Safe Summer Fun
Summer is such an amazing season to get outside and spend time with our four-legged friends. Hiking, swimming, playing ball or frisbee, or even relaxing in the sun are all great things to do with you pet. In order to ensure that you and your furry friend can continue to play and have fun safely be sure you are thinking about the activity from your pet’s perspective – they may have a difficult time letting you know when they are feeling overworked or possibly scared. Exposure to the environment can often invoke a fear response in certain animals – knowing how your
Heartworm Awareness Month
Happy Spring! We hope this post finds you and your loved ones (including those fur babies) in good health. We wanted to check in and remind everyone that April is Heartworm awareness month! As the weather starts warming up and that desire to spend all your weekend outside comes about, it’s wise to make sure that your pets are prepared with heartworm preventatives. With Spring comes warmer weather, as well as the less than ideal fleas, ticks and mosquitos. These pests can transmit unwanted diseases to your pet, including our topic of discussion, heartworms.
Taking Care of Your Senior Pet
By Jolee Stegemoller, DVM As our pets age their needs change, just as ours do! When your pet comes to our office for a preventative care visit, we are interested in a few additional things than if your pet were a young pup! Monitoring weight and appetite are important for assessing problems with metabolism, cancer, endocrine diseases, internal organ dysfunction, and issues with dental disease. It is always helpful if you can remember the brand and amount of food your dog or cat is fed daily.
How Routine Vet Care Strengthens the Bond with Your Pet?
At Alpine Animal Hospital, we understand that your pet is more than just a companion—they’re part of your family. Whether it’s a trail run up Red Hill or a cozy evening snuggle, the connection you share is something special. One of the best ways to nurture and protect that bond is routine veterinary care.
The Purr-fect Tips for Happy Healthy Cat Month
September is Happy Healthy Cat Month, the time to appreciate our feline companions and give them the best care to live long lives. We at Alpine Animal Hospital are committed to helping owners with these tips and insights.