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• The Differences between Brand Name and Generic Medications

  This handout summarizes the differences between brand name and generic medications. Included is an explanation as to why both forms of medications exist, as well as things to watch out for when opting to use or request a generic medication. Cost savings for generic medications are also discussed.

• The Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Pets

  Secondhand smoke is not just detrimental to people but also our pets. Pets may be even more sensitive, due to their enhanced smell and different anatomy and physiology. Cancer risks are significantly higher in pets exposed to secondhand smoke.

• The Importance of Dental X-Rays in Cats

  Dental X-rays in cats are similar to those taken in humans. In many cases, intraoral (within the mouth) dental X-rays are necessary to identify and treat dental problems in your cat. Nearly two-thirds of each tooth is located under the gum line. Your cat will need to be anesthetized to accurately place the X-ray sensor and perform a thorough oral assessment, treatment, and prevention procedures.

• The Importance of Sharing Medical Records

  Complete and accurate medical records are like a medical diary for your pet. The ability to review your pet’s medical history before the first appointment will allow your new veterinarian to provide exceptional care that is tailored and timely. You can request that your previous veterinary clinic send your pet's records to your new veterinarian.

• The Importance of Your Pet’s Skin and Coat, and the Role of Diet in Keeping Them Healthy

  A lustrous coat signals vitality and can indicate the health status of a pet. Pets with a dry, flaky, or unkempt coat may be suffering from conditions such as thyroid disease, hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease), kidney or liver disease, or nutritional disorders. In fact, one of the main ways your veterinarian assesses the health of your cat is by looking at the condition of her coat and skin.

• The Ins and Outs of Pet Doors with Microchip Sensors

  Electronic pet doors with microchip sensors can make life easier for pet owners and their pets by giving the pet freedom to enter and exit the home without disturbing the owner. However, there are things to consider before installing one. The location, size, and type of door should be carefully considered in relation to the pet and the outside environment. Following a few guidelines will make it simpler to choose and install the best door.

• The Role of Nutrition in Managing Urinary Stones

  Nutrition plays an essential role in treating and preventing urinary stones (uroliths). Since the diet can affect urine dilution, composition and pH, pet foods can be critical to the success or failure of treatment and prevention. Important factors are covered, such as the importance of water intake, diet composition, relative supersaturation (RSS) testing, and urinary diets.

• Theophylline

  Theophylline is used off label in dogs and cats to treat cough caused by bronchoconstriction. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid, or in hospital as an injection. The most common side effects include stomach upset and excitement.

• Therapeutic Massage and Your Cat

  As veterinarians become more conscious of the details and nuances of how cats experience pain, they search for more methods with which to battle both acute and chronic pain in these patients. Therapeutic massage is one example of a physical medicine technique that has found a place in the feline pain management toolbox.

• Therapy Pets

  Therapy pets can help people with many facets of their health including physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. These pets live with their owners and make visits to hospitals and other facilities to spend time with these human patients. Therapy pets are not the same as service animals.