Current Topics
UPDATE ON U.S. Travel -July 22/2024
It looks like there may be a reprieve on the horizon for the extensive requirements needed to bring your dog to the U.S. We are awaiting more official information from the CDC and/or CFIA, but dogs coming from Rabies-Free or Low risk countries may be exempt from the extended paperwork and other items. It appears that a CDC Import form may still be required, but will no longer need the special form to be completed by the Veterinarian.
Please be aware that regardless of the possible change of regulations, a valid Rabies vaccine is still needed to be able to return to Canada.
We will update the information once more official details are obtained.
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UPCOMING CHANGES TO TRAVEL WITH DOGS TO USA!
Travel to USA after August 1, 2024 (information current to May 24, 2024)
There are changes resulting in severe tightening of regulations for dogs and their owners traveling to the US. Information is available on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-state...
Requirements include:
- Must be at least 6 months of age at time of entry or return to USA
- Must have ISO compatible Microchip (implanted prior to rabies vaccination)
- That the pet appear healthy at time of travel
- Have “CDC Dog Import Form” receipt- available starting July 15
- Forms will have to be certified by Canadian government veterinarian
- Have additional documentation which varies depending on where the dog has been in the 6 months before entering or returning to the United States, or if the dog has a current rabies vaccine administered in the United States
We are very concerned that these regulations will be unworkable, as the official government veterinarians are already severely overworked and it will likely be extremely challenging for them to certify the paperwork.
We are awaiting further guidance from Canadian authorities.
Unless these regulations change, it is strongly advised to reconsider travel to US with pet during August and September 2024 while we all learn to navigate all the new requirements.
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WARNING!
STREET DRUGS: Due to the alarming increase in incidents of accidental exposure to recreational drugs, we strongly recommend to our clients the use of either a basket muzzle or an Outfox field guard on their dogs if free roaming in public parks or areas. We advise particular caution when visiting the downtown core areas. Please refer to the following websites for more information: https://www.dog-muzzles-store.ca/
XYLITOL: Please be aware of the ingredient Xylitol which is being put into many foodstuffs, including peanut butter. It is very toxic to dogs and even in very small amounts can be deadly. Check your labels! For more information see: www.preventivevet.com
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FELINE HYPERTHYROIDISM
Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in middle aged to older cats in which there is an overproduction of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. This is usually due to a benign growth called an adenoma, but the condition can occasionally be caused by a malignant growth called an adenocarcinoma.
Signs
The most common signs include weight loss, increased appetite and thirst, and vomiting. Other changes can include hyperactivity and changes in coat quality.
Diagnosis
Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by a blood test that examines thyroid hormone levels.
Treatment options
1. Radioactive iodine therapy-The gold standard of treatment. Radioactive iodine concentrates in the thyroid gland and destroys overactive thyroid cells, while its effect on other tissues is minimal. The treatment involves one injection under the skin, or drops in the back of the mouth. This takes place in Vancouver, at a facility called Northwest Nuclear Medicine for Animals. The total cost for the treatment, tax included, is $2178.75. Payment plans are available. Length of stay is minimum of 4 days, and transport by air can be arranged, including transport to/from the airport if you are not able to accompany your cat to Vancouver. Before your cat is referred, we need bloodwork, chest radiographs, and a urine sample to ensure your cat is healthy for hospitalization. After treatment, you will be given homecare instructions, and we will need to see your cat back 1 month and 3 months post treatment to check thyroid levels. The first time cure rate is 98%. Under 10% of cats will become hypothyroid after treatment.
2. Daily medication-The medication is given by mouth and works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It is very effective if given every day and at the correct dose. Further blood testing will be required after a few weeks on medication to ensure adequate control is being achieved. This blood test costs approximately $125. The rough cost of the pills is approximately $30-$40 dollars per month. There is also a medication that can be rubbed on your cats ear instead of the pills. The cost of this is approximately $60 per month.
3. Surgical removal of the thyroid gland can be done, however it has the risk of damaging the nearby parathyroid glands, which play a role in maintaining blood calcium.
4. Finally, iodine restricted food has been introduced, but remains controversial due to the potential health risks of a long-term iodine restricted diet.
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CREMATION OPTIONS
When that difficult day arrives for your pet, we want to do everything we can to lessen the burden and help our clients say goodbye as comfortabably as possible. One decision that must be made will be how to care for your pets remains after they are gone.
You may choose to have your pet cremated in a regular communal cremation where you will not receive any ashes back, if this is desired. If you prefer to get the ashes returned to you, we can arrange this through Glory Bound Pet Crematorium. They offer a choice of urns and mementos that you can view on their website www.gloryboundpetcrematorium.com
Occasionally people will do a home burial of their pets, however, this can present significant challenges. If this is your choice, we will require a special release document to be signed by you.
If you have any questions about this process, please call our office to discuss.