7 things you can do to make the holidays safer for your pet

1. Keep people food out of the reach of your pet and ask your guests to do the same;
2. Make sure your pet doesn't have any access to treats, especially those containing chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, onions or other toxic foods;
3. Don't leave your pet alone in the room with lit candles, a decorated tree or potpourri;
4. Keep holiday plants (especially holly, mistletoe and lillies) out of reach of pets;
5. Consider leaving the tinsel off your tree if you have a cat;
6. Secure your Christmas tree to keep it from falling over if your dog bumps it or your cat climbs it; hanging lemon-scented car air fresheners in the tree may deter your cat from climbing it;
7. If your pet is excitable or scared when you have company, consider putting your pet in another room with some of his/her toys, a comfortable bed, etc. or providing a safe place for your pet to escape the excitement (such as a kennel, crate, perching place, scratching post shelf or hiding place)

Dog Waits for Santa

VECTRA 3D Discount!

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital is proud to offer an incredible discount on VECTRA 3D, which offers fast-acting protection against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, lice, mites and sand flies! Buy 6 and get 3 FREE! Call us at 757-464-6009 for more information!

 

Thanksgiving Pet safety Tips

Happy Work Anniversary, Stephanie!

Happy Work Anniversary to Stephanie Tanner! She has been a part of our team for 3 years. We are very grateful to have Stephanie as a part of the Sajo Farm Vet Team!

 

Talking Dog

Happy Work Anniversary!

Happy Work Anniversary to Jaime Nichols, who has been with us for a year! We are honored to have a hardworking and dedicated person like Jaime on our team!

Disaster Planning Tips

Whether it’s a large-scale natural catastrophe or an unforeseen emergency that causes you to leave your home temporarily, everyone’s family can benefit from having a household evacuation plan in place before disaster strikes. Every disaster plan must include your pets!

1. If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Pets most likely cannot survive in a disaster by themselves. 1. If they do survive, you may not be able to find them when you return.
2. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out, well in advance of needing them, which motels and hotels in your area allow pets. Alternatively, arrange in advance for family or friends to house your pets in case of emergency. Include Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital’s phone number (757-464-6009) and the Animal Control office number (382-8080) on your list of emergency numbers to call for information regarding pets during a disaster.
3. Ask your veterinarian or a veterinary care team member about microchipping your pet. In the event of separation during a disaster, the microchip placement and pet registration may help you and your pet be reunited easier. Make the microchip part of your family's preparation before disaster strikes. Don't forget to update your registration when your information changes.
4. Prepare a Disaster Kit for your pet. Keep an Evacuation-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is located. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. (Visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website (www.aspca.org). Look under “Disaster Preparedness” to order a Free Pet Safety Packet and a Free Pet Rescue Sticker.
To purchase a pet first aid kit and guide book, you can visit the ASPCA store to buy one on-line. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:
a. Medications and medical records in a water-proof container
b. Information on feeding schedules and medical conditions
c. First Aid Kit
i. Three to seven days' worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food. Be sure to rotate the food every two months.
ii. Disposable litter trays (Aluminum roasting pans are perfect.)
iii. Paper towels
iv. Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
v. Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
vi. Pet feeding dishes
vii. Extra harness and leash (Note: harnesses are recommended for safety and security.)
viii. Photocopies of feeding schedules, notes on medical conditions, and medical records (with the name of your veterinarian/veterinary hospital) in a waterproof container. Include a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires. (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)
ix. At least 7 days' worth of bottled water for each person and pet. Store the water in a cool, dry place, and
replace it every two months.
x. A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each
xi. Flashlights
xii. Blankets (for scooping up a fearful pet)
xiii. Especially for cats: Pillowcase or Sack, toys, scoopable litter
xiv. Especially for dogs: Long leash and yard stake, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner (or
newspaper).
Name and number of your pet’s veterinarian Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital, 1094 Diamond Springs Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23455, 757-464-6009, www.sajofarmvet.vetsuite.com.
5. You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Some items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.
6. Place up-to-date Pet ID tags on your pets and have recent photos of your pets handy in case you are separated and need to make a “Lost” poster.
7. If you have no alternative but to leave your pets at home, there are precautions you MUST take. Remember that leaving your pets at home alone can place them in great danger! Confine your pet to a safe area inside - NEVER leave your pet chained outside! Place notices outside in a visible area stating that pets are inside. List the pets that are inside the house and where the pets are located. Provide a phone number where you or an alternate contact can be reached, as well as the name and number of your veterinarian.
8. For more information:

• Visit Humane Society of the United States at www.hsus.org and click on “Emergency Services.”

• Visit American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at www.aspca.org and click on “Disaster Preparedness”.

We would like to thank everyone who attended our First Aid and Disaster Response Course! We appreciated your attendance and we hope we were able to further educate you on first aid, disaster planning and safety related issues.

Don’t run the risk of losing with your pet with no chance of reuniting. Even if your pet never wanders away, remember that in old age, pets have a tendency to lose their scent and can wander too far to retrace their steps. At Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital, we recommend a microchip for every cat and dog.

 

August is National Immunization Awareness Month!

On your pet’s next visit to Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital, ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date. For a dog, it’s a good idea to consider vaccinating them against rabies, leptospirosis, distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough and possibly hepatitis as well. For cats, a good set of core vaccinations can include Panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, rhinotracheitis and leukemia. But it’s best to consult with our team first to see what’s best for your specific pet. In short, when making you family’s immunization appointments this month, don’t forget to pencil in your furry family members as well.

 

Pet First Aid and Disaster Response Course

If your pet suddenly becomes sick or injured, would you know what to do?
Join us on August 18th for our Free Pet First Aid and Disaster Response Course.  This course intended to educate pet owners on how handle common health and safety related issues. Don't wait until it's too late to educate yourself on disaster planning and safety care for your pets.

The class will take place at Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Please call 757-464-6009 or email us @ sfvh@sajofarmvet.net to sign up!

Beach Safety for Pets

With summer officially underway, it's time to hit the sand and surf. While taking your dog to the beach can be fun for the whole family, there are a few safety considerations that will make the trip even more enjoyable.
Surf Dog Ricochet is an award-winning surf dog and philanthropic role model. Not only does Ricochet clean up surfing awards, but she was also an extra in the movie Marmaduke. With all her beach know-how, Ricochet's person, Judy Fridono, a certified professional dog trainer, shares her tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach.

Test your dog's swimming smarts. It's a common misconception that all dogs know how to swim. Not all dogs like to swim, either. Before you dive in, allow your dog time to explore along the shoreline or in shallow areas.

Scope out the beach. "Survey the surrounding area. Are there cliffs? If your dog is prone to chase critters like Ricochet, you'll want to keep them away from potentially dangerous cliffs. They can fall off the side, or the structure may be fragile, and a whole section of the cliff can fall from underneath them," said Fridono. She also cautions owners to look for any reefs that your dog could access. "Running on reefs can be dangerous as they have very sharp edges."

Gear up for safety. If your dog's recall isn't strong or if your dog tends to chase animals like Ricochet does, bring a long lead. And even if your dogs are strong swimmers, "they should wear a life jacket because riptides can take them out," said Fridono.
Watch for wildlife. "Watch for jellyfish lying on the shore. Dogs tend to be curious and they can be dangerous," said Fridono. "Same thing with stingrays that like to swim near the shore. They can sting a dog's paw." Practice the "leave it" command before your trip to the beach to keep your dog from picking up dangerous wildlife.

Guard against the elements. Just like you check to see if pavement is too hot for your dog's feed, check to see if the sand is too hot. If need be, get your pup booties to prevent burns. Even though your pup may enjoy romping through the water -- or maybe even surfing like Ricochet -- keep him hydrated on shore. "Don't let your dog drink salt water from the ocean. It can make them very sick," said Fridono. "Bring plenty of fresh water, and make sure they drink it."

You and your dog can have a blast at the beach this summer as long as you take a few safety precautions. The bottom line, according to Fridono: "Make sure you keep an eye on your dog at all times. It only takes a second for an accident to happen."

http://www.zootoo.com/petnews/beachsafetyforpets-1833

Pets in Cars

Now that it's officially summer, it’s fun to take your pet in the car when you’re running errands. Please keep in mind that in the summer heat, the car can become a potential death trap. Inside temperatures can quickly climb to more than 120 degrees on even a mild sunny day. Never leave your pet unattended inside the car during the summer months. Be sure to bring your pet plenty of water to keep them cool as the season heats up!

Unlikely Friends

Pets and Cookouts

Cookouts and family reunions are great activities this time of year. However, the food we often enjoy at these events can make pets sick and even cause Pancreatitis, which is a very serious disease. We want to remind you to bring plenty of food and treats for your pets so they can join in the fun without risking a stomachache or other illness later.

 

Thunderstorms

We would like to share this tip about how to handle your pets during a storm. Fear of thunder and other loud noises may drive pets to seek shelter. Their attempts to seek immediate shelter may damage property and cause injury to themselves. Pets that react to loud noises can be trained not to panic through a process called progressive desensitization. We can review this process and recommend solutions that may help your pet weather through the storm!  

Pets and Allergies

Pets and Allergies

WELCOME

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital has hired a new hospital manager! Tiffany Rice Graduated from Longwood College. She worked as a receptionist and a veterinary assistant before attending school to become a licensed technician. She worked in Florida as an Licensed Veterinary Technician prior to becoming a hospital manager at that facility. Tiffany is originally from the Hampton Roads area and is glad to be back home and excited to bring her experience and expertise to Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital. We welcome her to our team!

When temperatures soar, remember to watch your pet closely for signs of heatstroke or dehydration. Because dogs and cats don’t perspire heavily, their body temperatures rise much quicker than people’s body temperatures. We recommend scheduling exercise in the cooler mornings and evenings…and stopping for rest if your pet is lagging behind, even slightly. Plenty of shade and fresh water is a must, and keep your pet inside for those particularly hot afternoons. Just a tip so you and your pet can enjoy this great season together! 

Sentinel/Dyson Giveaway

Purchase a 6 month or 12 month supply of Sentinel product, and be entered to win a Dyson DC24 Animal Vacuum from the clinic! One winner per clinic is guaranteed. If you should purchase a 12 month supply in addition to being entered to win the vacuum, you will also receive a $10 instant rebate and a $20 mail in rebate for the purchase! Don't miss this chance to receive these incredible savings!

 

Spring is here! It's time to go outdoors with your pet and check out all flowers and plants.  Make sure to keep an eye on your pet in case a bee decides he doesn't want your pet to get up close and personal.  There are all sorts of flying critters out in the garden, so make sure your pet is protected from allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Protect your pet so you both can enjoy the spring season together! 

Happy Mother's Day!

We would like to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. You are appreciated and we are sure if your pets could, they would say the same thing! Have a great Mother's Day everyone!

Fleas

As the temperature begins to raise so does something else…the flea population! Ideally, flea control should begin as flea prevention…before flea season starts. As a loving pet owner, you’d do anything to prevent your cat or dog from suffering, after all, they’re part of the family. Yet every year when flea season begins, it’s like an ...old broken record. Fleas bite, and the scratching and chewing starts again. It’s a painful and irritating routine for you and your pet. But that’s not all. The adult fleas on your pet can actually cause serious medical problems…like flea allergy dermatitis or tapeworms, and in some extreme cases, anemia. We can help! Ask us about how to keep your pet flea free, at your next visit!

 

The fleas you see are only a tiny portion of the problem. By the time you see a single flea, your home may be filled with them. It can take just two days for a flea to develop into larvae that hide in your carpet, furniture, and bedding. One flea can lay 1400 eggs in one month's time. You can even bring fleas inside on your socks or pants legs which can lead to infestations inside your home. Ask about a monthly medication for your pet that can control them.

Pets & Cookouts

Cookouts and family get-togethers are great springtime activities.  However, the food we often enjoy at these events can make pets sick and even cause Pancreatitis, which is a very serious disease. Any food that is not made for your pet…is not good for them.  We want to remind you to bring plenty of food and treats for your pets so they can join in the fun without risking a stomachache or other illness later.

Avoiding The Easter Holiday Hazards!

With the arrival of the holiday season our pets are often prone to new unthought of risks. Nothing makes a holiday more memorable than a panicked trip to the vets. But pet owners need not fret. Here's what you need to know to have an emergency-free celebration this Easter.

Festive Foods:
One of the biggest risks to pets at Easter time is "CHOCOLATE". The canine nose is an expert in sniffing out all the lovely sweet goodies in an instant. And birds, cats & dogs alike are drawn to the bright colours & shiny wrappers. Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine that can be toxic to dogs, cats and parrots. Baker's chocolate has the highest concentration of theobromine. How a pet reacts to chocolate depends on its size, as well as the amount and type of chocolate eaten. Vomiting and diarrhea are common signs of chocolate toxicosis, and while rare, too much chocolate can even be fatal. Carob chocolate is a natural, delicious and pet friendly alternative.

Foil packaging, ribbon and pretty sparkly plastic wadding are irresistible to cats and birds, while a big shiny Easter egg appears as a fun ball for a dog.  Pets love to play with these items and they will sometimes swallow them. Known as linear foreign bodies in vet speak, they are indigestible and can cause a partial or complete obstruction. They are often sharp and run the risk of cutting through the wall of the intestinal tract which can cause peritonitis.

While we all love our pets and wish to include them in the festivities, it is important to remember that now matter how much they beg, what they want may not always be what is best for them. Rich fatty foods can cause an upset stomach, vomiting or even pancreatitis in the extreme. Onions either raw or cooked can be poisonous to cats and dogs. As little as one bite of an onion can cause some of the red bloods cells to be destroyed (haemolytic anaemia) symptoms can include pale gums, reddish urine and lethargy.

It is important to remember never to feed your pets cooked bones as they can splinter and cause internal damage. The same applies to feeding your pets fish which might contain bones. Bowls of nuts and raisin-laden fruitcakes or chocolate covered sultanas are also common holiday treats. Macadamia Nuts are toxic to dogs. Although one nut is not likely to harm your dog, a number of them could require a trip to the emergency ward. Dogs who ingest macadamia nuts could suffer weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia.

Foods that are healthy for us may not be so good for our beloved pets. Raisins and grapes are toxic to cats and dogs causing vomiting, diarrhea, kidney failure and even death. While avocadoes are harmful to dogs, cats, birds and Guinea pigs. They contain a toxic fatty acid called persin which can cause vomiting, gastrointestinal irritation, congestion, respiratory disease, fluid accumulation around the heart tissue and may cause death, especially in small animals and birds. So please be careful when serving fruit platters or salads this Easter.

One very real concern to pets are products containing the artificial sweetener Xylitol. This absolutely needs to be avoided. It will cause low blood sugar if ingested in toxic amounts and has been known to cause fatal liver failure.
During the festive season it is easy to forget the dangers of leaving alcoholic drinks within reach of our pets. It may seem harmless enough to offer your best mate a frosty cold one to celebrate alongside the humans. But alcohol poisoning is a very real danger to our pets. Problems equate to the amount of alcohol ingested compared to weight. Even a very small amount of alcohol can cause severe poisoning in a small pet. The yeast contained in beer can also lead to bloating and abdominal pain.

The good news is there is now a specially designed non alcoholic doggy beer on the market called *Paw Rex* It is made with beef stock so dogs love it and even comes in a six pack.

It is also important to remember that most cats and dogs are lactose intolerant so avoid giving them any dairy products. Specially designed lactose free animal products are an available alternative.  It's up to us to make sure hazards are kept out of reach and that visitors or children know the risks. Remember prevention is better than cure. For healthy Easter treat alternatives to spoil your best friend, please visit our Pet Gourmet section in this special Easter addition of Pet Scene Magazine.

Unexpected Hazards:
With all the coming and going and busy rush that comes with the holiday seasons it is easy for opportunities to arise to get our pets into trouble. It is not uncommon for visitors who are not used to pets to leave gates or doors open. This welcomes the opportunity for your pet to flee the house with all its strange new smells, noise and people. An open window makes for a great escape root for cats or free flying birds. Many pets wind up getting lost or struck by vehicles as a result of this careless mistake. If you have a pet that becomes nervous around new people or strange activity it may be a good idea to plan in advance to have area of the house or yard which is separate where they can feel safe and secure. Visitors who aren't used to living with pets may inadvertently leave their medications within reach. This brings opportunities for serious problems. Dogs are not deterred by childproof caps and can quickly find themselves in a world of trouble. Warn guests to keep medications well out of reach.

Traveling with pets:
If your going out of town with your pet this Easter there are a few things to remember:

* Make sure your pet is in a cool well ventilated position and never left alone in a closed car, temperatures can sore very quickly.

* Make sure your pet is secured in either a pet crate or safety harness.

* If your pet suffers from motion sickness it's recommended that you consult with your vet prior to travel to arrange an appropriate treatment.

* Make sure you plan for toileting and drink breaks. Our pets need to refresh too. 

* If you are planning to go out on the water these holidays be sure to pack your pet a life vest.

* If you are going on holiday this Easter with your pets, be sure you have a full supply of any medications they may be taking with you.

The humble Easter Lily
Many cat owners will be surprised to learn that lilies ( Liliaceae) are extremely toxic to their feline friends. The exact cause is unknown, however even the smallest amounts if ingested by cats can  be fatal, while dogs who ingest large amounts only develop signs of mild gastrointestinal upset. Early warning signs of Lily toxicity include vomiting, depression and a lack of appetite. There is no antidote, but with early detection and aggressive treatment the cat stands a better chance of survival. Cats may sometimes appear to be improving after the first onset of symptoms, but 24-72hrs later crash and become critically ill as they go into acute renal failure. If you suspect there is a chance your cat may have ingested this plant it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated cats die within 3-7 days. Cat owners should never grow Lilies in the garden and should ensure that lilies are never part of floral arrangements. This is important to remember these holidays with the popular Easter Lily appearing  in most flower arrangements.

We hope that these tips will help you and your pets have a happy and safe
holiday season.

Heartworm Disease

Heartworm Disease has been found in all 50 states and continues to spread. Preventing heartworm disease is easy! Sadly, treating it is not. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitos and can infect dogs and cats. Even indoor pets aren't safe. Heartworms damage the hearts and lung, and may even cause death! Fortunately, heartworm preventive medication can protect your pets from these dangerous parasites. 

 Click here for more information about heartworm disease! 

Heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites can threaten your pets all year long, not just when the weather gets warm. So protecting your pet from these dangerous parasites requires a YEAR-ROUND commitment! Monthly parasite preventive medications can protect pets from heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. Don't leave your pet UNPROTECTED from these predators.

As winter leads into spring, there are other safety concerns that you should be aware of regarding your pets. One of the main concerns involves lawn and garden products. Fertilizers can be very harmful and even deadly to pets so be sure to keep these products out of reach. Follow the directions on the fertilizer bag to the T! 

Preventing parasites today means peace of mind tomorrow! Ask a team member of Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital about how you can receive up to $20 in savings with the purchase of a 12 month supply of Sentinel. Offer ends July 31, 2011.

 

Easter Pet Safety Tips

Welcome!

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital is proud to welcome Sara, as a Veterinary Assistant, Dana as a Pet Care Specialist and Tylor as a Receptionist. We are glad to have you as a part of the team!

 

As you enjoy the outdoors and related activities this year, don’t forget to frequently check your pets for fleas and ticks. These parasites will attach themselves to any available, warm-blooded host and engorge themselves. They can carry a variety of serious diseases, some even life-threatening. Ask any one of our staff members for recommendations on how to protect your pets from fleas and ticks at your next visit.

 

Spring is upon us and that means Spring break is quickly approaching. If you're taking a vacation and can’t bring your pet along…then leave them with us! We proudly offer boarding services. Spring Break rolls around fast, so make sure to schedule your appointment ahead of time!

 

Did you know that a dog’s sense of smell is on average 10,000 to 100,000 times superior to that of humans? Dogs have over 200 million scent receptors in their noses versus humans who have only 5 million. If you were to unfold and spread out the membranes from a dog’s nose, they would be larger than the dog itself.

Scientists have recently discovered that dogs can actually smell the presence of autism in children. A 2006 study found that dogs could also positively identify breast and lung cancer with 99 percent accuracy. It’s not clear whether it’s smell or some other sense that Seizure Alert dogs use to alert their humans of an oncoming epileptic seizure. Whatever the reason, we're glad our canine companions have such a keen sense of smell!

Are itching and scratching making life miserable for your pet? These symptoms may not be caused by fleas or ticks...but may be the cause of other skin irritations or allergies. We can help your suffering pet. Ask us about your pets condition at your next appointment with us.

Does it seem like your dog is out of breath after a walk up the stairs? Or is your cat taking up a lot more space on the top of the couch than he used to? Overweight pets may seem like they are happy, but an extra five pounds can be harmful to their health. They can suffer from heart, lung and joint problems. We recommend a sensible diet along with regular exercise and a trip to our hospital to determine if and how much weight your pet needs to lose.

 

Pet Spotlight of the Month-Sara

Pet Spotlight of the Month- Dad says Sara is a very good friend and companion. She was adopted at 5 months of age from not so desirable conditions and is now 2 years and 4 months old. In early November, Sara developed a slight limp that progressively got worse. In early December, she was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma and underwent surgery to amputate her left front leg. Shortly after, she started chemotherapy with phenomenal results. The staff and doctors at Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital love when Sara is at the hospital. She never fails to lift the spirits of everyone that she comes into contact with. Sara has a younger sister Bella who is a 4 month old Poodle. Sara loves all other animals and people. She is incredibly excitable and loves to play with toys and her sister. Sara is always willing to share all her toys, treats, and attention with Bella. Her favorite treats are Beggin strips and she loves to ride in the car.

Cats and dogs find anti-freeze quite tasty and if they come across a spill, they will lick it. Keep new and used antifreeze in sealed containers, away from pets. If a cat walks through a puddle of antifreeze, then licks his paws, he can ingest enough antifreeze to become gravely ill or even die. If you suspect your pet has ingested anti-freeze, please call us immediately.

Heartworms, fleas, ticks and other parasites can be prevented! These parasites can wreck havoc on your pet's body and make their lives miserable. We recommend a simple yearly blood parasite screening and year-round heartworm and parasite prevention. Contact us to discuss the most appropriate product for your pet.

As the weather turns colder, we need to remember our senior pets. Cold weather can affect bad joints and cause arthritic flare ups. Even a quick trip to the bathroom could cause some injury if they have to go down some icy stairs. Please be mindful of your senior pet during this season.

Don’t forget that February is Dental Care Month and that dental care is one of the most neglected of pet health needs. Our pets need care for their teeth just as we do. Bad breath, drooling and pain while eating are some of the signs of periodontal disease. Regular dental check-ups and proper home care are important for good pet dental health.

Before and After Dental Pictures

Could you imagine how your mouth would feel if you never brushed your teeth?

Dental care for pets is the most neglected of all pet health care. Periodontal disease is the most common disease among cats and dogs. You can help your dog by brushing their teeth daily. Don’t let bad breath stand in the way of you and your pet, give them fresh breath and pearly whites.

Angel-Pet Spotlight of the Month

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital is proud to spotlight Angel as our Pet of the Month. Angel is a beautiful animal, she is a German Shepherd in every sense. Very devoted to family, and "shepherding" just comes naturally in that she can be seen awake in the middle of the night looking out the front door guarding her domain. She usually can be won over, but surely has her guard up upon any newcomer that approaches. After she assesses, she is a marshmallow and is ready to bring you her Frisbee, which is her message that she loves you. Oh, and Angel is quite a diva dog. Guess she has earned that at 10 years old!

Valentine's Day Tip

Valentine’s Day will be here before we know it and we want to remind you that candy, especially chocolate, is dangerous for both cats and dogs along with the plastic and foil wrappers. Ask us about treats your pet can enjoy, that are also nutritious; so your pet can join the festivities.

LOOKING FOR A GREAT HOME!

Hi! I might have a funny name, but I am a serious purrer and companion. My foster Mama calls me Little Girl because I am smaller than the beast that permanently lives with her. My sister and I were abandoned a year ago and foster mom took us as a temporary measure, but there will soon be a dog moving in and neither m...e nor Sissy are claw ready for battle. I am up-to-date on all of my vaccinations as well as spayed. I am very vocal and loud when I purr. I love to sleep with you and have fat food aka fancy feast as often as possible because I am worth it.
Being with you in a warm, safe home with plenty of balls, string and other toys would be like Heaven for me. I already know that Heaven is missing an angel because I AM HERE WAITING FOR YOU!!! Please contact my mommy, Ms. Shew, at 757-482-4369.
Purrs and kisses ~ Nowy

LOOKING FOR A GREAT HOME!

Happy Birthday to me!! I turned 5 today and am thrilled. Foster Mama may give me tuna as a treat as I am a tiny girl and need lots of love on my skinny little bones. My sister and I did nothing wrong, but someone abandoned us at the vet and so we found a nice lady to love us until you can com...e take me with you forever. I love to play and am very shy, but will eat like a piggy instead of a kitty. I am tortie in color from the top of my head to my toenails and very inquisitive. My sister and I can go together or not as we are not litter mates, but shared the same home.
I am spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations and declawed… so no outside living for me. I am blowing out the cake and you can be the one to grant my one big true wish--a home and big bed with you! Please contact my mommy, Ms. Shew, at 757-482-4369.
Purrs and kisses. ~Ezme

CET Chews

In honor of February being National Pet Dental Health Month, Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital is recommending our C.E.T. Chews for your pet. C.E.T. oral hygiene chews feature the exclusive Dual-Enzyme System and are made from select beef hide to combine natural antiseptic activity with abrasive action for clinically proven plaque control. Check out C.E.T. Chews for your pet this February!

 

Dental Pictures

Senior Pets

Older pets tend to have a tougher time when the weather changes. If you’ve noticed your senior pet struggling to go up and down stairs, or having trouble rising up after a nap, they may be having an arthritic flare-up. We can prescribe them anti-inflammatory medications to help them feel younger again during the colder weather.

Cats & Car Engines

If the weather starts to get chilly, make sure your pet has some place warm to stay. Look before you start your car, tap on the hood, or better yet, open it. Cats love warm places and they will often climb onto car engine compartments to get warm. Lacerations, burns and other injuries can occur for a cat when an engine starts. Always know where your pets are, especially if the weather starts to turn.

Last Day of Staff Appreciation Week

Our final day of Staff Appreciation Week is here. We indulged with an ice cream sundae bar! Delicious! Even though Staff Appreciation week is over, we will continue to recognize the contributions that each of our staff members offer to our practice. Way to go Team Sajo!!!

 

Staff Appreciation

We celebrated Staff Appreciation week on Thursday with coffees, teas, hot chocolate, doughnuts, and home made muffins. It was our own little coffee shop!

 

Rebate

Purchase Sentinel and receive a mail in rebate. 12 dose supply purchases receive a $20 rebate and 6 dose purchases receive a $9 rebate. Rebates available while supplies last and expire on 12/31/11.

Staff Appreciation Week-Day 3

Here's Day 3 of our Staff Appreciation Celebration. Our wonderful doctors provided the staff with a delicious pizza party from Gino's Pizza. Thanks Docs!

Staff Appreciation Week-Day 2

Here is video of Day 2 of Staff Appreciation Week. This video is from Tuesday, January 11. We held an indoor cookout complete with burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers and hot dogs, chips and drinks! We also took the time to celebrate our Office Manager, Julie's, birthday!

Staff Appreciation Week

Welcome to Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital's celebration of Staff Appreciation Week. Check out this video to see how we celebrated on Monday, January 10 and check back later for more fun videos from our celebrations!

Hero Saves Poisoned Dog

Sentinel Rebate

Purchase Sentinel and receive a mail in rebate. 12 dose supply purchases receive a $20 rebate and 6 dose purchases receive a $9 rebate. Rebates available while supplies last and expire on 12/31/11.

Staff Appreciation Week!

Welcome to Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital's celebration of Staff Appreciation Week. Check out this video to see how we celebrated on Monday, January 10 and check back later for more fun videos from our celebrations!

Featured Pet of the Month

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital is proud to honor Lollie as January's Pet of the Month! 

Lollie came to be ours because of Wessley....We fell in love with Flat Coated Retrievers when Adam and Wessley were teamed up in May 2001. After time with Wessley, we all agreed we just loved the rare breed and contacted flat coat rescue to get on their waiting list.

In 2002, volunteers in central NC contacted us asking if we were interested in looking at a couple of flat coats that had come to them from a very bad situation. A man felt like he could make a bit of money in the flat coat breeding game, and approached a breeder who then sold him a set of flat coats. Flat Coat breeders are VERY protective and after a litter or two, the breeder was worried about how things were looking out at this 'farm'. Apparently, the owner decided it was too much trouble, wasn’t making enough money and had gone back to long-haul truck driving. He would come home and feed the now large group of flat coats, but when leaving for days at a time he would just free feed them in a huge container, and leave them to fend for themselves. The original breeder got involved with animal control and they made him relinquish all 14 flat coats. They were separated into volunteer homes. Lollie being a special needs flat coat didn't go too far away. The volunteers who took her had their own gaggle of flat coats in the show dog circuit, and were diligent in getting her back into shape. She had worms, fleas, and, of course, food anxiety. They had her back/tailbone examined and it was never determined what exactly happened to Lollie. Was she hit by a car, or maybe fallen, and her backside never healed correctly-or was it a genetic defect? No one knew. But it limited her movement, her jumping ability and her ability to stand for too long.

When the volunteers contacted us, we jumped at the chance to have another flat coat. We picked her, because we know what it's like to be limited with your mobility and we are fine with her limitations. Some of her sisters went on to get their legs in obedience and one went on to become a show-dog.

Lollie will talk to you. She loves to talk and sing now-a-days as she comes up and down on our wheelchair lift! Her tail never stops wagging even when you know she has to feel crummy. She's absolutely our gentle girl. She is always watching out for baby birds, possum babies, even our pet turtles in our koi pond. She regularly has brought us baby birds and even a tiny baby possum - ever so gently so they aren't hurt. She would alert us when the biggest turtle would make his way up to the back porch and needed to go back to the pond!
She loved hanging out in our back yard with our pet chicken Lola. She would lay there in the yard, and Lola would walk over, Lollie and she would just hang out on the grass. Lola was a black and white polish frizzle, and hardly looked like a chicken at all. All of our retrievers were very gentle with her, never chasing her, often wallowing in the backyard with her.

Lollie likes to lie down to eat or drink.  With Dr. Johnson's help of meds for her thyroid disease and a specialty diet, we have gotten her down to 84 lbs. since this summer. Lollie has lost a digit on one foot, and the partial amputation of another foot due to cancer in the last few years. The diagnosis of bone cancer the week of September 20th was devastating to our family. With the love and care of Dr. Dailey and Sajo's staff, we have been able to have so much more time with Lollie than we ever thought we would. Lollie is like another child to us, and having more time with her has been such a wonderful gift. These days, she just hangs out wherever I am. She has a succession of pet beds all over the downstairs so wherever she decides to lie she had a comfy place but has been surprising all of us by jumping onto the furniture for the last month or two. Either Kevin or myself sleep downstairs with her on the couch every night instead of expecting her to take the steps to the 2nd floor. It's been a little disruptive at times, but all worth it for the time we have left with her.

She sure has lost a lot of weight!

Take care

Tammi

Tip for Dogs with Dry Skin

Here’s a tip for dogs with dry skin...bathe them less often, and make sure to brush their coat in an effort to rid the skin of dander. When you do bathe your pet, make sure to use a shampoo and rinse made for their special needs. Do not use a shampoo or conditioner made for people. If you would like some help picking out a dog safe shampoo and conditioner, please bring it to our attention at your next visit.

It's time to check in with our Book Club Participants!

It's time to check in with our Book Club Participants! Last month we posted the selection "From Baghdad, With Love" and we've enjoyed reading about Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman and his struggles to bring Lava, a spunky puppy found in an abandoned house in Fallujah, safely to the U.S. and away from danger.
This book gives an incite to a Marines inner battle with the horrifying surroundings of war and the emotional struggle to be a fierce soldier while showing sympathy for a small animal in need.
Kopelman, in more than one instance, wonders if his fellow Marines will mock him if they realize how much he cares for Lava, the puppy he discovered.
Kopelman and the members of the First Battalion, Third Marines also known as the Lava Dogs, heard a noise in the abandoned home that served as their command post, they all raised their weapons in defense. They were shocked to discover a small dirty puppy in the midst of all the bombings and war torn surroundings. 
Kopelman writes, "The best part is how these Marines, these elite, well-oiled machines of war who in theory can kill another human being in a hundred unique ways, become mere mortals in the presence of a tiny animal."
Apparently Lava was in the home when it was stormed by the Lava Dogs, but not one of the men could find the courage to put him out on the streets. The book details the treatment of strays in war zones and the cruel and inhumane way they are disposed of and often used in bombing attacks by insurgents in Iraq.
Knowing Lava's fate if left to his own, Kopelman begins a long journey to get Lava safely into the states. Many people put their lives at risk to help in Kopelman's mission, including Anne Garrels, journalist for the National Public Radio.
In one nail-biting chapter, we realize just how dangerous the task is of getting Lava to the U.S. when Anne and Lava get to the Jordanian border. The scene is tense already as border patrol is strict and checkpoints are frequently subjected to bombings. Even a sneeze can be mistaken as a signal and can get you killed.
Lava probably senses the tension and in one fell swoop escapes the crate and continues to have Annie chasing him around their SUV. It sounds comical but this was no laughing matter to the border patrol and Lava and Anne were turned away.
 The hardest part to read is the frustration of Kopelman to go through this journey via email. Kopelman had to have the help of many people due to his commitment to the military and the location of his unit. Much of the book details his reactions to e-mails from Anne and also John Van Zante, director of Public Relations at the Helen Woodward Animal Center in California. John was also crucial in the fight to get Lava to a safe place.
In April 2005, after over 6 months of striving, Lava was able to land at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois.
Lava is now living well with Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman and his wife, stepson and their other dog Koda.
We thoroughly enjoyed the book club selection and recommend this heartwarming story to other animal lovers. What did you think of Lava's story?
Did you have any favorite parts? Comment your thoughts and stay tuned for next month's book club selection!

Best Wishes to Shelly!

 

Shelly is our receptionist at Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital and is 39 weeks pregnant. Her due date is Monday January 10th, 2011. She has been employed with us since April of 2009. She and her husband found out they were pregnant on Mother's Day 2010! They are having a baby girl and are planning to name her Miranda Rayelee. Best Wishes!

Thank You!

Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital would like to say Thank You to our caring and dedicated team! We appreciate all your contributions to the practice as well as all the excellent service you have provided to our community and their pets!

The True Meaning of Dog Sledding

Anti-freeze Danger to Pets

When the weather starts to cool off, be mindful of dangerous chemicals normally used during the colder seasons, especially anti-freeze. Pets actually love the taste of antifreeze and will sneak a taste any chance they get. So be sure to wipe spills or puddles and keep this poisonous liquid away from pets.  Even a teaspoon of anti-freeze can seriously harm your pet. Signs of anti-freeze poisoning include drowsiness, lethargy and depression. Keep pets safe as the weather gets colder this season.

Heartworm Reminder

Did you know that heartworm is a disease you can prevent your pet from having?  Heartworms are a constant threat to your animal, which is why our hospital recommends heartworm screening and prevention for your pet.  The most common signs of heartworm disease in cats are coughing, vomiting, breathing difficulties, weight loss and lethargy and are often mistaken for other conditions such as asthma, pneumonia and digestive problems. In fact, the most common clinical signs of heartworm disease in cats actually resemble bronchial asthma. The only way to know for sure is to have us examine and test your pet. This pre-emptive approach can spare your pet the pain of this often fatal disease.