Why does my dog need an underwater treadmill?
“Our state-of-the-art underwater treadmill is very different than a swim in your back yard pool. Swimming is a flex motion for a dog. The underwater treadmill mimics an extension motion, like walking, while simultaneously taking the stress off the joints. As the muscles get stronger, the water level is lowered, and this ultimately allows your geriatric pet to move better on land. It’s also beneficial for post-surgical recovery and a fun way for healthy or overweight pets to exercise in a safe and air conditioned environment.”
Ashley Geoghegan, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT, CCRT VetNaturally by Dr. G | 123 Girod Street, Mandeville | 985-718-9991 | VetNaturally.com
What are the most important things I can do to keep my pet healthy?
There are several things I recommend to keep your pet physically and emotionally healthy. Spend plenty of quality time with your pet, including enrichment activities, exercise and training. Feed them a balanced, healthy diet with adequate moisture and ensure they maintain a healthy weight. Visit your veterinarian at least twice a year. Follow their recommendations for dental care, wellness and preventative medicine such as lab work, vaccinations and parasite control. Regular grooming and hygiene are important as well. Of course, lots of snuggles and loving too!
Liza Ledet, DVM
Mandeville Animal Hospital | 419 Girod Street in Mandeville | 985-377-0800 | mandevilleah.com
Why might my pet need a surgical specialist
Board-certified surgeons work closely with the owner and the primary veterinarian before and after surgery in a team approach to ensure well-rounded, continuous care for your pet. Veterinary surgeons are dedicated to providing the very best in surgical care. They also act as a resource for your primary veterinarian by providing consultations on difficult or unusual cases. With their extended and concentrated training, specialists offer expertise that ensures the best possible outcome for pets and their owners.
Dena Lodato, DVM, MS, DACVS CCRP
South Paws Veterinary Surgical Specialists | 2631 N. Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville | 985-809-1590 | southpawsvetspecialists.com
Does my pet have a microchip and how does it help my pet?
A microchip is a non-harmful device, smaller than a grain of rice that is injected into your pet between the shoulder blades and will be functional lifelong as a permanent way to identify a pet. Each microchip is embedded with its own personal 15 digit number that will be registered specifically to your pet. If an animal is found and brought to an animal facility, they will be scanned and if “chipped”, their number will be searched in a national database to find you immediately. One out of every two dogs and one out of every three cats with registered microchips return home.
Christie McHughes, DVM
Crosspoint Veterinary Hospital | 70323 Highway 1077 in Covington | 985-888-1566 | crosspointveterinaryhospital.com
Is the cost for blood work prior to surgery really worth it?
Blood work prior to surgery is very important. Most veterinarians recommend performing a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and a Chemistry. Your pet could possibly have an underlying problem that might not be obvious on a physical exam. Certain illnesses can affect your pet during or after surgery but certain precautions can be taken if any abnormalities are noted on the blood work.
Eugene Jenkins, DVM
Crosspoint Veterinary Hospital | 70323 Highway 1077 in Covington | 985-888-1566 | crosspointveterinaryhospital.com
Is there an alternative to treating my pet’s constant scratching other than steroids, antibiotics and immunosuppressive drugs?
Absolutely! Keeping your pet’s immune system strong and balanced is paramount to prevent inflammatory reactions in the skin (including ears) that cause allergies. Feeding real, nutritious food that nourishes skin–which is the barrier to bacteria, yeast and parasite invasion–is most important. We can help you do this! Adding natural anti-inflammatories, herbal formulas and acupuncture serves to stop the itching and help the skin to heal naturally and stay healthy. Your fur baby will be ecstatic at meal time and live a longer, happier life!
Janice E. Posey, DVM, CVA
Veterinary Holistic Healing | 320 E. Lockwood Street in Covington | 985-898-3623 | vetholistichealing.com
