Five Reasons to be Thankful for Our Pets

Haley Anderson Kennel Assistant South Town Animal Hospital

Five Reasons to be Thankful for Our Pets

 

1.They Enrich and Enlighten Our Lives.

Everyday our pets give us priceless gifts.  Whether it be a warm welcome home after a long hard day, reducing our stress, or just being a buddy.

2. They Love Us Unconditionally.

They watch our every move. They are here for us for the good days and the bad.  Our pets know when we are sad. They want to be by our side and make sure that we are okay. The best cheer is some love, cuddles, and kisses from your furry best friend.

 

3. They keep us moving

Are you ready to head out the door? Chances are, Sparky is, too! Who doesn’t love going for a nice walk outside with their best friend? They are more than just a best friend- they are a great big part of our loving family!

4. They Better Our Lives

Not only do our pets reduce stress. With all of the extra loving cuddles and precious memories shared, it’s no wonder that the bond with our fur babies improves our health in so many ways. Healthier heart, reduce stress, keep us social, happy mood, & emotional support.

5. Pets Give us Purpose

Having a pet is a great responsibility.  Everyday they give us a reason to wake up in the morning, feed, walk, and love them.  Being their guardian gives us the responsibility to provide a safe, healthy environment for our pets to thrive.  Having a purpose allows us to live longer healthier lives.

Having a pet is a mutually beneficial relationship.  Everyday we are thankful that our pets are here for us as we are for them.  South Town Animal Hospital is blessed to be able to foster the relationship through medical care and support.  Thank you for allowing us to be here for you and you family. 

 

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It’s What’s Inside that Counts! Intestinal Parasites at their Worst!

Worm

It’s What’s Inside that Counts! Intestinal Parasites at their Worst! 

As a partner in your pet’s healthcare, South Town Animal Hospital wants to ensure that you have the information you need to keep your pets free of intestinal parasites.

Did you know?
Both dogs and cats can get intestinal parasites.

Did you know?
Intestinal parasites can be transferrable from pets to people.

Intestinal parasites may be present in your pet even if she is not experiencing any symptoms!

What are intestinal parasites?
Intestinal parasites are organisms that live in the host’s gastrointestinal tract. Companion animals typically acquire intestinal parasites by ingesting the eggs or spores. They can also contract parasites in utero or while nursing. Intestinal parasites are found in contaminated soil, water, fecal matter, or food. They can even be found in the soil of your house plants!

It is veterinarian recommended to have your pet’s fecal sample tested every 6 months since intestinal parasites are so prevalent in the environment & spread easily.

Types of Intestinal Parasites
Roundworms– These common intestinal parasites can look like spaghetti. Roundworms can be contracted by either or licking contaminated fecal matter and also transmitted from mom to babies in utero or nursing.
Hookworms– These parasites attach to intestinal wall and suck blood and nutrients from their hosts.
Giardia– This parasite is contracted through contaminated water or areas soiled with feces. It is not visible with the unaided human eye.
Coccidia– Is a microscopic parasite that can be spread through contaminated feces. This intestinal parasite can be found in both cats and dogs.
Tapeworms– Transmitted by infected fleas. These types of intestinal parasites often resemble small pieces of rice. Your pet may have a higher chance of acquiring tapeworms if she enjoys catching rodents and other wildlife (which are prone to flea infestation).
Whipworms-These intestinal parasites live in contaminated soil. After ingested, whipworms will then survive in the pets intestines.

Signs Your Pet May Have Intestinal Parasites:

Intestinal parasites may cause your pet to exhibit one or more of the following signs or
symptoms:

-Diarrhea
-Vomiting
-Weight Loss
-Lethargy
-Bloody Stool

There are many times that our pets may seem perfectly healthy, and they may not show signs or symptoms of intestinal parasites at all! The best way to diagnose an intestinal parasite is through examination of a fecal sample.

What is Zoonotic?
Zoonotic simply means that a disease or parasite can be transferable from animals to people. Many of these intestinal parasites found in our companion animals can transmit from pets to humans. Intestinal parasites can also lead to secondary infections and diseases.

Testing for Intestinal Parasites
Unlike heartworms, that are tested using a sample of blood, intestinal parasites are found in your pet’s stool. A stool sample, the size of a walnut, is all we need to run the intestinal parasite screening. The sample is sent off to the lab where it is analyzed under a microscope. The results are then sent back to our veterinarians to determine the course of treatment needed.

Treatment for Intestinal Parasites
For most intestinal parasites oral dewormers are used. There are various deworming medications that can be prescribed depending on the parasite. If you suspect your pet may have an intestinal parasite, it is important to have your veterinarian test a fecal sample in order to identify which type of intestinal parasite may be present.

Prevention
There are ways to avoid these pesky critters. Monthly preventatives such as Heartgard and Revolution have a deworming component. Our veterinarians recommend giving your dog Heartgard year-round because the medication not only protects against heartworms contracted from mosquitoes, but it also has a deworming component for common intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms.

For cats, we recommend a topical medication called, Revolution. This monthly deworming medication is for treatment and prevention against roundworms and hookworms. It also protects against fleas and ear mites.

If you have more questions, please contact the office at (847) 695-7387, or email us at reception@southtownhosp.wpengine.com. We are here for you if you have any questions or concerns. If pets are on monthly prevention, an annual stool sample is checked, and we keep our yards clean of fecal matter, then responsible pet ownership is being practiced. Safety of the entire family is a top priority at South Town Animal Hospital.

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October is Intestinal Parasite Awareness Month!

Sad Dog

October is Intestinal Parasite Awareness Month!

What is Lurking Within?

Did you know that a majority of all puppies and kittens have some sort of intestinal parasite? Did you also know that intestinal parasites can be transferable from pets to people? South Town Animal Hospital wants to insure that your pet is intestinal parasite free. In honor of October’s Intestinal Parasite Awareness Month we are offering discounts on running fecal samples. For the safety of your pet and your family, bring in a stool sample to be be sent to the lab and you will get $5 off!

For further information please contact us at 847-695-7387. You can drop off a stool sample at any time or bring it to your appointment. We get the results for the doctors to diagnose the very next business day!

Stay Tuned for further information on intestinal parasites…………

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Important Things to Do After Adopting Your Pet!

Client feeding her puppy treats

Important Things to Do After Adopting Your Pet!

Giving the Care Your Newly-Adopted Pet Needs

Just adopted a pet? Congratulations! This is a very exciting time! The adoption process  is more than exciting, as it is a life-changing experience for both you and your new best friend! Many emotions that are experienced during the adoption process can be quite overwhelming. In addition to the emotions that you are feeling, your adopted pal will be feeling a variety of emotions, too. He may be scared at first. There will be a lot of new things that he will experience upon his/her adoption. From the adoption center to your home, here’s a list of important “to-do’s”!

The Ride Home

This might be your new pet’s first time riding in a car. Any new noises and unfamiliar movements may be intimidating. Try to keep the ride home as short as possible, avoiding any extra stops. Loud music may make him/her even more nervous. Keeping a quiet, calm, and reassuring environment will make him feel more at ease. In addition, insure a comfortable temperature and that there are no unfriendly odors in the vehicle.  

Also, it is critical to have a safe transport crate for your new feline or canine.  Dogs may do well in a wire crate in the back of your vehicle.  Pet stores also now have doggy seat belts that attach to your pets leash. As for your new cat, a enclosed carrier is critical for safe travels.  Felines typically are not accustom to car travel so your new pet is sensitive to sights, sounds, and smells.  Even placing a towel over your carrier to create a darker environment is recommended. If you are conscious about these factors your pet is sure to have a more enjoyable ride to their new home.   

The New Home

You’ve just arrived home. It is such an exciting feeling to be with the new addition to your family! Your new pet might be feeling similar emotions, yet this is also a good possibility that they feel nervous and scared. There are a few things your family should do help your new buddy acclimate to his/her surroundings.  With both dogs and cats make sure you have all the necessary equipment ready before you get home.  You will need treats, food, toys, and bowls ready to go.  It is recommended that a dog has a crate that has a designated area not only for training purposes, but it will also be a nice safe place for your new pup.  The crate should be the height of your pet sitting up straight and the length of your pet laying down comfortably.  

Cats need safe places too.  It is vital for felines to have higher places to get away if need be.  Cat trees are a great choice to ensure that they have a high place that they can find comfort in while checking out their new place.   In addition, when you initially bring your new kitty home it is also doctor recommended that you find a smaller room to keep him/her in with his or her litter box and food.  When you first introduce a cat into a new environment, especially a small kitten, they may get lost in a great big place.  Introducing them slowly will ensure that he/she knows where their potty is and will get him/her off to a great start!

Veterinary Care

Within a week of bringing your new pet home, it is recommended that you make an appointment for him/her with your veterinarian. At his/her first veterinary visit, they will be examined from head-to-tail.  The doctors will check for any issues and abnormalities. They are ready and willing to answer any questions or concerns that you might have.   If it helps, write down the topics that you need to discuss.  Having a new pet is a lot like having a new child, and there are so many topics to think about.  It may become overwhelming.  Writing down your questions will help us cover everything that is on your mind.  

Our staff will also confirm that he/she is up-to-date on all of his vaccinations.  If it is a young animal, like children, there are many vaccines that might need boosting.  Also there are immunizations that the animal shelter may not offer.   South Town Animal hospital tailors vaccine protocols to fit your pet’s needs and lifestyle. There may be additional protection that is needed and will be discussed at the time of this exam.   

At this appointment your pet will also begin monthly heartworm medication and flea and tick protection.  You will receive a complimentary first time dose, along with a puppy/kitten pack that is filled with essential information to get this commitment started on the right foot.  The pack contains vaccine information, trainer business cards, emergency information, and much much more.  South Town Animal Hospital staff wants your pet to have the best start in their new home!

Lastly, it is vital to bring in a stool sample to check for intestinal parasites.   Starting on heartworm preventatives assist in intestinal parasite control, but checking that stool sample ensures safety for not only your new pet, but your family, and yourself.  There are many intestinal parasites that can be transmitted from animal to human.  Lots of times new pets come home and need additional dewormers to get that clean bill of health.

A healthy lifestyle begins with the best, high quality veterinary health care!  Our educated staff is ready and waiting to answer any questions and give the best medical advice that you may need to welcoming your new family member into your home!   Please look below at the services our hospital has to offer.  You can always pop on by for a tour, give us a call, or shoot us an email with any questions you might have.  We are proud to serve our community in treating our furry loved ones!

South Town Animal Hospital- Offers the Following Services

Medical & Preventive Health

Complementary Medicine

Surgery

Laser Therapy

Housecalls

Call to schedule today!  We are always waiting to lend an ear and answer any questions you have!

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The Fall Newsletter is Here!

Dog holding a leaf

Fall Fun is Upon Us!
The end of the summer is upon us and fall is just around the corner! Fall is a time where the kids go back to school and family festivities are poppin! South Town Animal Hospital is going to be busy with many activities and events in the works. For the month of September South Town is taking part in Anderson Animal Shelters Pets a Palooza on Sunday September, 17 from 11am-4pm.  Come visit the pups and kitties at Mooseheart Child City and School and stop by our booth for this fun filled event.  For more information please read the flyer below!  We would love to see you there!

 

October brings our Intestinal Parasite Awareness month.  Please look forward to information about the creatures lurking within and the importance of checking stool samples.  South Town wants to keep our families safe from the critters that people can get from our pets.   Also look out for specials on routine fecal screenings.  

 

Besides visiting us at Mooseheart, we would also love to see you, your friends, and family here in the office!  Check out our referral appreciation program.  We love to see your friends and family too, and just wanted to give back a little thanks!

 

Lastly, as the seasons change – temperatures fluctuate. There will still be plenty of warmer days, so it is important to still be aware of how these temperatures may affect your pet’s health. Our fall newsletter will address maintaining a safe & healthy lifestyle by keeping your pet cool during the remaining warmer days, feline hyperthyroidism awareness, and a reminder that warmer temperatures mean that flea and tick season is still here – so remember to keep your pet’s protected!

Please click on the link below to check out our newsletter and get more information on these exciting topics!

http://mailchi.mp/54c305def3f3/happy-fall-from-your-friends-at-south-town-animal-hospital?e=[UNIQID]

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Pets A Palooza

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Does My Pet Have Storm-Anxiety?

Clients puppy

 Does My Pet Have Storm-Anxiety?

Have you noticed that your pet acts differently when there’s a storm outside? Anxiety can affect your pet in a variety of ways. How do you know if your pet has storm-anxiety? We are here to tell you all about it!

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety occurs when your pet is fearful, or preoccupied, with worried thoughts from a perceived unknown origin. There are many things that may cause your pet to feel uneasy when it comes to certain situations or experiences. Storms can be a major factor in your pets stress.

Does Your Pet Display These Top Signs of Storm-Anxiety?

  1. Your pet hides when they hear unfamiliar sounds. They feel unsure about the situation and find protection in what they consider a “safe” place.
  2. Loud noises startle them, such as wind, rain, thunder and hail. Your pet may jump, bark, growl, hiss, or run away the instant that loud noises are heard. They may pace back-and-forth and smacks their lips.
  3. Seeing strong winds blow things around outside may terrify your pet. They may begin to drool excessively.
  4. They anxiously lick or bite themselves.

Treating Storm-Anxiety in Your Pet

There are ways to limit the anxious feelings that your pet may be experiencing during weather conditions. The key to reducing anxiety is by creating comfortable feelings which bring a sense of security within your pet. Every pet responds differently when it comes to frightening situations; therefore, your pet’s anxiety treatment will be designed to meet her/his exact needs!

Try These Calming Techniques

Make a safe room– Create a comfy, cozy room for your pet by gathering up her/his favorite things. Place their favorite blanket and toys in the area she likes the most, keep a nightlight on, and play some calming noise in the background.  You can either leave the TV on or play music for your pet. Soft, gentle, soothing sounds, along with her familiar toys and blankets will help her/his feel more at-ease, safe, and secure.

Pheromones– Pheromones are calming to both cats and dogs. A pheromone is a chemical substance that is naturally released by pets. Dogs and cats release certain calming pheromones when they are relaxed, and when those pheromones are released- they will perceive a comfortable environment. There are topical pheromone products and pheromone diffusers, made specifically for cats and dogs, that can provide a safe, calming sense of comfort. South Town Animal Hospital does carry dog and cat pheromone products.

What Can I Do For My Pet?

Scheduling an appointment with your Veterinarian is recommended. An examination can help rule out any other health concerns that may be causing anxiety. South Town Animal Hospital offers a specific behavior assessment to help address the signs of anxiety and behavioral disorders, which can be very beneficial in developing a plan to help address the very specific needs of your pet. In addition to offering a behavior assessment, we also provide our patients with calming pheromones used aromatically and topically, practice lower-stress handling techniques, and prescribe anti-anxiety medication when necessary.

Call us at (847) 695-7387 or email reception@southtownhosp.wpengine.com for more information

.

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Beware of Bloodsuckers!

flea

Summer time is an optimal time to talk about our blood-sucking enemies, fleas and ticks. Keep your pets protected against fleas and ticks during the warmer months! For optimum protection against fleas and ticks, we recommend that you keep your pet on a monthly flea and tick preventive.

Fleas

Did you know?

Flea season usually begins in May and lasts up until there has been a few good consistent “below-freezing” temperatures. The months of September, October, and November are generally the worst time of the year for fleas in Illinois.

Both dogs and cats can get fleas. So if you have an indoor/outdoor cat, it is highly recommended that she/he is on a monthly flea and tick preventive.

So How Does My Pet Get Fleas?

Many wild animals such as squirrels, raccoons, deer, small rodents, feral cats, and other wildlife can be infested with fleas. When these wildlife animals roam around in your yard- they can spread fleas to your and to your pet.

How Do Fleas Affect My Pet’s Health?

Fleas cause your pets to be extremely itchy, causing them to excessively chew and scratch at their skin. So flea bites can be painful!

In addition to making your pet feel uncomfortable, fleas can transmit intestinal parasites.Tapeworms are a type of intestinal parasite found in both cats and dogs who have ingested adult fleas after being infested by them.

Treatment for Tapeworms

If your pet has been infected with tapeworms, an oral medication can be prescribed by your veterinarian for treatment.

Fecal samples should be routinely performed at your pet’s yearly examinations to rule out tapeworms and other intestinal parasites. Although your pet may not exhibit any symptoms – you may be able to see tapeworms in your pet’s fecal sample, or your pet’s stool may test positive for tapeworms.

Flea Infestation

Since fleas have many life stages, it can be very hard to eliminate them once they have come in contact with your home. Flea eggs and larvae can hide deep within your carpeted areas and floor boards.  It is recommended that if you have an infestation use a flea and tick preventative for at least three consecutive months.

How to Eliminate Fleas in Your Home

Read about it here, https://www.terminix.com/blog/diy/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-in-the-house

Prevention

Flea preventives can help keep fleas from jumping, feeding, and laying eggs on your pet.  We recommend the following flea/tick preventive options: Frontline Gold, Nexgard, and Bravecto.

Ticks

Did You Know?

In Illinois, the most active months for ticks are the months of April, May, and June. Winter months limit tick activity, However, ticks don’t die from the cold.  Instead, they retreat daily into the leaf litter and climb back onto knee-high vegetation any time temperatures are above freezing. In recent years due to warmer weather, ticks have been apparent all year round.

Types of Ticks

The most common ticks found in Illinois are the American Dog Tick, the Blacklegged (Deer Tick), & the Brown Dog Tick.

How Does My Pet Get Ticks?

Many wild animals such as squirrels, raccoons, deer, small rodents, feral cats, and other wildlife animals can be infested with ticks. When these wildlife animals roam around in your yard- they can spread ticks to your yard and to your pet.

Even humans infested with fleas may transmit ticks to pets.

How Do Ticks Affect My Pet’s Health?

The bite site may be red and may cause itchiness and redness and inflamed skin.  Ticks may cause paralysis from a neuro-toxin produced on the salivary gland of the tick.  Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks. It is more common for dogs to get Lyme disease than cats.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease may include the following:

  • Fever
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Stiffness
  • Swollen Joints
  • Lameness, or limping.

Treatment for Ticks

If you see a tick on your pet- please call us to schedule your pet to be seen, so that we can determine what kind of tick, and so we can properly removed the tick from your pet. Your pet may need the tick removed and to get on a flea/tick preventive immediately if he/she isn’t already on one. It is possible that antibiotics may be started if an infection is suspected.

Treatment for Lyme disease requires a specific antibiotic. If you suspect that your pet has Lyme disease, please bring him/her in to your veterinarian, immediately for an examination!

Prevention

There are many tick preventives. Call South Town Animal Hospital for product recommendations.  It is truly the best medicine for your pet to keep him/her on flea and tick prevention year round due to increasing global temperatures.  

 

 

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Enter South Town’s Great Givaway Raffle! Free Basket of Goodies for Your Pet!

South Town Animal Hospital raffle flyer

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Get to Know Our Doctors

Dr Denise Crittenden

Dr Deborah Groth

Dr Sheri Cody

Our Services

Whole Health Care

Our preventative medicine approach is as unique as your pet.

Surgery & Procedures

We offer a range of soft tissue surgeries from routine to more advanced.

Diagnostic Testing

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House Calls

We offer medical services in your home including in-home euthanasia.

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