CBD-the conversation we aren’t having
March 1, 2019
We are having more and more clients asking about products containing CBD oil, so I thought I’d address this via blog. At this time, all CBD products are still illegal to sell in Minnesota and other states across the US. Yes, that’s right, illegal. Therefore, we cannot recommend these products at this time. However, the DEA is unlikely to go after every pet owner giving CBD oil products to their pets, and I know some clients are using them, so here is more of what we do know about them. Please, if you are giving them, tell us when we ask what medications and supplements your pet is on so we can make the best possible recommendations for your pet. CBD oil is supposed to contain less that 0.1 % THC (the active agent in marijuana). However, since the products are illegal, they are not being regulated. This means the product could contain varying amounts of THC-from none all the way up to toxic levels. The FDA usually closely monitors and requires rigorous testing to label a drug for sale including monitoring active ingredient levels and label claims for diseases they are used to treat. There is none of this currently in the industry for pets. The ASPCA Poison Control Center has been […]
Read PostCold weather and cabin fever
January 31, 2019
With the polar vortex swirling freezing air around, there are a few safety and sanity tips we’d like to share with you! Keep pets inside! This may seem obvious to some, but it bears repeating. While some dogs have thicker/double coats and are adapted to colder temperatures, these negative temperatures are too cold for all pets. Frost bite is possible on sensitive skin such as paw pads. Limit exposure to short bathroom breaks, and use protective wear such as booties, paw balms, and/or sweaters and coats. If you have pets that cannot be kept inside, make sure they have access to shelter and unfrozen water. Consider offering shelter in your garage or shed, or providing “nest boxes” for neighborhood strays. Leaving pets outside in extreme cold temperatures, especially without adequate shelter, can be construed as animal cruelty and may be cause for legal action. If you see a pet outside and are concerned, you can contact your local police for guidance. Wipe feet after walks outside-sidewalk salt can be irritating and may even be toxic. Use a warm, damp rag to wipe feet after walks outside to prevent your pet from licking these. Or invest in the aforementioned booties. Use pet safe salt on your own driveways and sidewalks if you are able. […]
Read PostA new approach to an old problem
November 1, 2018
Allergies are a common complaint in our animals, with up to 15% of dogs suffering from atopic dermatitis. Treatment focuses on diminishing exposure to allergens (special diets, bathes, HEPA filters), treating secondary skin infections, and altering the immune system so it does not react. Antihistamines and steroids are the most common methods of changing the immune response, with immunotherapy injections being another option. However, steroids can be broad spectrum in their effects on the body, so newer medications and modalities are constantly being researched. There are more specific medications available such as Atopica and Apoquel. An even newer approach is Cytopoint. Cytopoint is an injection given every 4-8 weeks. It differs from steroid injections in that it targets specifically itch receptors instead of the immune system at large. Cytopoint is an antibody against a chemical called cytokine IL-31, which is a chemical that triggers the process of sending itch signals to the brain. By targeting this signal, it is able to interrupt the itch cycle before it even starts. Cytopoint is a safe medication as it mimics the dog’s own immune system. It is used and broken down inside of cells into amino acids and peptides. It is not converted into reactive or toxic metabolites in the body. It is not metabolized by […]
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Maple Grove, MN 55369
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