 Big dog lovers know that more dog means more love! However, it’s important to understand and recognize some of the common health issues that are more common in large dog breeds. For example, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition most often seen in large, deep-chested dogs. Thankfully, there’s a surgical procedure known as gastropexy, which helps prevent GDV.
At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we’re able to perform laparoscopic gastropexy as both a preventative measure and as part of the surgical management of GDV. What Is Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)? Gastric dilatation and volvulus is often referred to as “bloat.” During GDV, the stomach dilates with gas and/or fluid and then twists on itself. This prevents the gas/fluid from escaping and leads to rising pressure levels within the stomach. Rising pressure decreases blood flow to the stomach tissues, which can lead to necrosis (death) of the stomach wall. In some cases, the spleen can also get twisted with the stomach. Dogs with the highest risk of GDV are large and giant breed dogs with deep or barrel-shaped chests. This includes Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds and St. Bernards to name a few. Standard Poodles and other “doodle” breeds are also at high risk. GDV is a serious and life-threatening condition. Without emergency treatment, it is always fatal. Benefits of Preventative Gastropexy Luckily, there’s a preventative procedure that can help prevent GDV in high-risk dogs. This procedure is called a gastropexy. During a gastropexy, your veterinarian “tacks” the stomach to the inside of the body wall. This holds the stomach in place, preventing the twisting that causes GDV. For dogs at high risk of GDV or dogs who have a history of GDV, gastropexy can be a life-saving intervention. For example, if your dog has experienced GDV in the past, gastropexy reduces the risk of recurrence from 55% to only 4%. Even better, in many cases this preventative procedure can be performed during your puppy’s spay or neuter, eliminating the need for a second anesthetized surgical procedure. What To Expect With Laparoscopic Gastropexy Before your pet’s procedure, we’ll perform a thorough physical exam and any recommended lab work to ensure your pet can safely tolerate anesthesia. During check-in, one of our Certified Veterinary Technicians will explain the procedure, answer your questions, and schedule a pick-up time with you. This team member will be your pet’s dedicated nurse before, during, and after the procedure. During laparoscopic, or minimally-invasive, gastropexy, your veterinarian will use cameras and tools passed through small incisions to guide the procedure. The scope and the instruments are used to grasp a small portion of the stomach and permanently suture it to the inside of the abdominal wall. Because of the smaller incision sites, patients often experience less postoperative inflammation and pain, heal faster, and can return to normal activity more quickly. If you opt to perform a preventative gastropexy at the same time as your pet’s spay or neuter, their recovery instructions are typically the same. Patients should be kept calm for 14 days post-op to allow for healing. Avoid running, jumping, swimming, and baths to keep incision sites clean and dry. A gastropexy performed on an emergency basis may require additional postoperative care. Your veterinarian and care team will discuss your dog’s specific needs with you! Get In Touch About Laparoscopic Gastropexy! It’s extremely important for large- and giant-breed dog owners to understand the risks of gastric dilatation and volvulus. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of gastropexy, give us a call at (971) 405-1111.  Canine osteoarthritis (AKA arthritis or degenerative joint disease) is a chronic, progressive disease that will affect 20-40% of dogs at some point during their lives. While canine osteoarthritis has no cure, treatments can reduce symptoms and slow its progression. Now, with the recent release of FDA-approved Librela, we have more options than ever to help dogs with arthritis live happier, healthier lives! What Is Canine Osteoarthritis? Canine osteoarthritis (osteo: bone; arthr: joint; itis: inflammation) is painful inflammation caused by the deterioration of cartilage around the joints. In a healthy joint, the ends of the bones are covered in a smooth, slippery tissue called cartilage. Cartilage pads bones and helps them move easily. With osteoarthritis, this cartilage breaks down, becomes rough, or wears away. Without that protective cartilage, bones may rub together. This causes inflammation, pain, and even structural changes to the bones around the joint. What Causes Canine Osteoarthritis? It’s tough to pinpoint just one cause of canine osteoarthritis. What we know is that many factors can contribute to its development. For some dogs, it's likely a genetic condition. A few other known risk factors include:
Though canine osteoarthritis can impact dogs of every breed and size, it’s more common in large-breed dogs. German shepherds, golden retrievers, labs, and rottweilers are commonly diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Obesity also contributes significantly to the development of arthritis, as it increases pressure and strain on the joints. Osteoarthritis Symptoms in Dogs The symptoms will depend on how severe your dog’s osteoarthritis is and which joints are affected. Some signs to watch out for include:
Treatment Options for Dogs with Osteoarthritis Pain While osteoarthritis isn’t curable, treatments are available to help manage pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. These treatments aim to slow the disease’s progression and keep dogs moving comfortably. Lifestyle Changes These recommendations depend on your pet’s breed, age, health history, and weight. Suppose your dog is carrying around some extra weight. In that case, your veterinarian may recommend changing their diet and increasing their activity to alleviate excess pressure on the joints. It can also be helpful to have plenty of non-slip surfaces, such as yoga mats and rugs, to protect pets against slipping and falling incidents. A ramp or stairs might be recommended for dogs having difficulty getting on and off furniture or into/out of the car. Physical Rehabilitation Low impact exercises such as swimming, water treadmills, and range of motion exercises can help dogs with arthritis maintain muscle mass and stay active without putting too much stress on damaged joints. Other treatments for osteoarthritis pain include laser therapy, acupuncture, and massage. Pain Management NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the primary medications used to help relieve dogs’ arthritis pain. They work quickly to relieve pain, but must be given at regular intervals to be effective. NSAIDs also have the potential to impact your dog’s liver and kidneys. Because of this, routine blood work for dogs who are taking NSAIDs long-term is required. Joint Support Supplements like glucosamine chondroitin sulfate and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health and alleviate pain/inflammation symptoms alongside other therapies. Specific, veterinary-recommended diets can also help support bone and joint health. Introducing Librela: A First of Its Kind Treatment for Canine Osteoarthritis Pain A few months ago, we spotlighted Solensia, a new treatment for feline arthritis pain. This year, Zoetis released a monthly injectable to help effectively control dog’s arthritis pain. Librela works differently from other pain medications. Its unique mode of action targets something called Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is specific to osteoarthritis pain. In two separate studies, monthly injections improved dogs’ mobility and overall quality of life compared to dogs that received a placebo. Best of all, Librela is metabolized and eliminated without negatively impacting the liver and kidneys. We’re very excited to offer this groundbreaking treatment option to our canine patients with osteoarthritis. We hope that one easy, monthly visit to the clinic can make managing osteoarthritis easier for both patients and their people. Making Canine Osteoarthritis More Manageable! While canine osteoarthritis is not a curable condition, you can work with your veterinary care team to help your dog move better and experience less pain. It all starts with an appointment to assess your dog’s condition and get them started on a sustainable pain management program. Want to learn more about canine osteoarthritis, Librela, and other pain management options? Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment!  From snowy forest trails to icy waterfalls and rivers, there's nothing like winter in the Pacific Northwest. And while winters here in Beaverton, Oregon, tend to be pretty mild, we still have the occasional cold snap! Keeping some cold weather safety tips in your back pocket is always a good idea. Today, we'll look at everything from paw protection to outdoor kitty shelters to help keep our furry friends safe and comfortable.
Cold Weather Animal Safety Tips #1: Know How Cold Is Too Cold Knowledge is power, and knowing your pet's tolerance for cold weather is an important first step in keeping them safe. Not all pets will respond to the cold in the same way. In fact, your pet's cold tolerance threshold could vary based on several factors. First, consider their size and breed. While huskies were bred for extreme cold, pugs can quickly become uncomfortable when temps drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. You'll also want to consider your pet's coat type (short, long, wiry, silky, double-coated, thick, thin), age, and health history. Both senior dogs and puppies have a higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite. You can use the following guidelines as a helpful starting point, but be sure to consider your pet's unique needs and response to the cold when making decisions:
#2: Watch The Weather & Make A Plan During cold snaps and winter storms, watch your weather apps! Try to plan walks and outings for the warmest part of the day and avoid going out during storms and windy conditions. If you do walk your dogs outdoors during a snowstorm, be sure to keep them leashed! Snowy conditions can be disorienting for off-leash pups and more dogs are lost during this season than any other. Remember that wind chill can increase the risk of hypothermia, even if the "actual" temperature is in a safe zone. If it’s extra windy, consider staying home or bundling them up for extra protection. #3: Protect Their Paws Ice and snow aren't the only risks your pet's paws have to navigate during winter. Salt and other ice-melting chemicals can cause irritation between the toes and around the paw pads. Some commonly used ice-melting chemicals can also be toxic if ingested. For example, imagine you take your dog for a walk. Afterward, they get cozy in bed and lick their paws. They may ingest dangerous chemicals that have been brought in on their fur. Wipe down pets' paws with a damp towel after every walk. For extreme temperatures, consider investing in some winter booties to lower the risk of frostbite. #4: Invest In Cold Weather Protective Gear In addition to booties, cold weather gear goes a long way towards keeping pets comfortable even in extreme cold. Small or thin-coated dogs, seniors, and puppies will appreciate a warm jacket or sweater. Waterproof items are also highly recommended here in Oregon, where winter rain is common. That's because damp items like sweaters can make pets colder and contribute to a higher risk of hypothermia. #5: Recognize the Signs of HypothermiaRegardless of the temperature, it's crucial to recognize signs of hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when your pet's body temperature is dangerously low and, in severe cases, can be a life-threatening emergency. Common signs and symptoms include:
If you suspect your pet is hypothermic, contact your veterinarian or nearest veterinary urgent care ASAP! Your pet may need medical intervention to bring their body temperature back to a safe level. #6: Provide Safe Bedding for Indoor/Outdoor Cats Not every kitty wants to be snuggled up indoors during the winter. Consider constructing a warm, insulated shelter for indoor/outdoor cats or feral cats in your neighborhood. This article by Alley Cat Allies has useful tips and ideas for creating a good outdoor cat shelter. Appropriate bedding is the most important thing to consider when making an outdoor cat shelter! Some beddings, like hay, blankets, and towels, accumulate moisture and become damp. This dampness actually draws body heat away and makes cats colder. Instead, use straw, which will resist moisture and keep the shelter warm. #7: Check Your Car Before Each Trip During the cold winter months, animals of all sorts are drawn to warm car engines. Check underneath your car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn before starting the engine to make sure no critters have made a bed out of your engine. #8: Take Care Of Pets' Skin & Coats Damp fur and wet conditions can lead to itchy, flaking skin. The ASPCA recommends wiping pets down with a towel immediately after they come inside to avoid skin issues. Cold weather can also dry a pet's skin out (just like ours!). If possible, keep bathing to a minimum during the coldest months to preserve natural oils and prevent dry, irritated skin. #9: Keep Antifreeze Safely Out Of Reach Antifreeze is a deadly poison! It's estimated that 90,000 pets are poisoned by antifreeze each year. That's because it has a sweet flavor that pets enjoy. But even one teaspoon can be fatal or cause severe kidney damage. Keep antifreeze stored in a sealed container away from pets and quickly wipe up any spills. If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, seek immediate veterinary attention. Antifreeze is absorbed quickly once ingested and starts forming toxic metabolites quickly. Any delays in treatment can be deadly. #10: Be Prepared For Anything! When it comes to winter weather—for both people and their pets—a little preparation goes a long way. We recommend keeping at least a two week supply of food, water, and medications on-hand. That way, if the city shuts down due to icy conditions, you and your pets will be safe and comfortable staying home together. Have Questions? Mountainside Is Here To Help. Whether you and your pets are snowy adventurers or prefer to cuddle up on the couch until the cold passes, we hope you have a fantastic winter! If you have any questions about keeping your pet safe and comfortable through the cold snap, get in touch. Our team is happy to help in any way we can.   It’s been a whirlwind 2 years since opening our doors at Mountainside Veterinary Hospital.
With the anniversary date approaching this week, Steve and I would like to take a moment to express our true gratitude to you all!! The support of our clients has been immense, from those of you that followed us to our new location and those that found us after we came to the neighborhood, we feel so fortunate to have you with us on this journey. Thank you for your support, your referrals, and for allowing us to take care of the pets you love! There is a huge team that comes to work each day with Steve and I, and we want to recognize their hard work, dedication, and support over the last 2+ years. Our people are the absolute best, and they are what keep Mountainside thriving. When we started this process, we knew we had to have a strong foundation of dedicated people and we are so grateful we found them! Thank you all for everything you do every day, we love and appreciate you more than we can put into words! We are excited to continue this journey and look forward to the future of Mountainside Veterinary Hospital. With much appreciation, Ronna and Steve  Keeping your pets’ vaccines up-to-date comes with life-saving benefits and minimal risks. That’s why they’re an important part of routine preventative care for all dogs and cats. Still, it’s common for pet parents to have questions about how pet vaccination works, the benefits provided, and how to make sure you’re doing what’s best for your pet. This blog breaks down the science behind pet vaccinations and answers some frequently asked questions about their safety and importance.
What Are Pet Vaccines? Vaccines help teach your pet’s immune system how to recognize and fight off certain disease-causing agents. They introduce a controlled preparation of either killed or altered virus particles into your pet’s system. This triggers an immune response, prepping the animal’s immune system to react to future infection from that microorganism. Pets are typically vaccinated subcutaneously (just under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle) for maximum immune system stimulation. With distraction and low-stress handling techniques, most don’t even notice the injection. Benefits Of Pet Vaccination Vaccination is an important part of your pet’s healthcare and their first line of defense! While no medication is completely free of risk, the benefits of pet vaccination far outweigh the risks. Benefits of pet vaccination include: Prevent potentially deadly illnesses Disease prevention is the top benefit of keeping your pet’s vaccines up-to-date. Core vaccines protect against highly contagious and potentially deadly diseases such as parvovirus, canine distemper, rabies, and feline viral rhinotracheitis and panleukopenia. These serious and often painful conditions can be prevented with appropriately scheduled and administered vaccinations. Protect your family Some diseases that affect our pets can also be dangerous for people. By keeping pets vaccinated, you’re protecting your family from potentially deadly diseases. Consider the fact that approximately 59,000 people around the world die each year from rabies, according to the World Health Organization. But only one or two deaths occur in the US, where laws require pets to be vaccinated. Prevent the spread of contagious diseases With the current outbreak of atypical canine infectious respiratory disease here in Oregon, pet owners are already taking precautions to protect their pups. And while not much is known yet about what causes this particular disease, we do know that vaccination can help! The OVMA has noted that most dogs, especially those vaccinated against respiratory illness, experience mild illnesses. Not only does vaccinating protect your pup, but it also helps prevent the spread to other animals. That’s why boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and even some dog parks require pets to be vaccinated before they visit. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure Vaccines are useful in preventing serious, life-threatening illnesses. When unvaccinated pets contract these illnesses, they often require intensive treatment, and the outcomes are rarely positive. Long hospitalizations, round-the-clock care, and medical interventions aren’t just expensive, they’re also stressful for you and your pets. That’s why an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! After a pet has been fully vaccinated, their immune system rarely fails to fight off the disease. Pet Vaccine FAQs Are Pet Vaccines Safe? According to the American Animal Hospital Association, vaccination is the most reliable method of disease prevention and poses few risks. Serious side effects rarely occur. Improvements are constantly being made to increase vaccine safety and effectiveness. Most importantly, vaccines are much safer than contracting the diseases they prevent. While few pets will react adversely to a rabies vaccine, 100% of rabies cases are fatal. What Should I Expect After My Pet’s Vaccination? After receiving a vaccination, your dog or cat may show some mild side effects, such as:
These are all normal effects and are not a cause for concern. You can keep your pet comfortable after vaccination by making sure they have a quiet, cozy place to rest and recuperate. Contact your veterinarian if these symptoms last over 24 hours or seem severe. Which Vaccines Does My Pet Need? Pet vaccines can be broken down into two categories: core and lifestyle. We recommend that every pet gets their core vaccines. For dogs:
For cats:
Non-core or lifestyle vaccines may only be necessary in some situations. For example, if your dog often goes hiking with you in tick country, we might recommend the canine Lyme vaccine. Your veterinarian can work with you to establish the appropriate administration and booster schedule based on your pet’s age, health history, and lifestyle. Do I Need To Vaccinate My Indoor-Only Cat? We recommend all pets, including indoor cats, get their core vaccines. This helps to protect them from serious diseases if they ever bolt out the front door, visit a grooming or boarding facility, or even spend time nose-to-nose with a neighbor cat through the screen door. Even a quick sniff around your backyard could be enough for your unvaccinated kitty to contract one of the very contagious viruses cats are susceptible to. Is Your Pet Up-To-Date On Their Vaccines? Routine vaccination is an important part of keeping pets happy and healthy. Vaccination is an inexpensive, low-risk, high-reward part of your pet’s overall health plan. Call us to schedule your pet’s next annual exam and ensure they’re current on necessary vaccines. Still have questions? Our veterinary team is passionate about making sure owners have the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their pets’ care.  By now you may have heard about a new “dog pneumonia” outbreak in Oregon. While this news can sound scary, experts are telling dog owners not to panic! As a veterinary hospital that serves Portland, Beaverton, and surrounding areas, we want to make sure pet owners have the information they need to safeguard their dogs’ health. Here’s everything you need to know about this infectious disease and some precautions you can take to protect your pups.
What We Know In September, the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) announced that the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) was investigating reports of “atypical canine infectious respiratory disease.” This disease is considered atypical, or not usual, because the infection is caused by different bacteria or viruses than the more common ones. There are at least nine different bacteria and viruses that are known to cause Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC). Currently, a team of pathologists and virologists is working to figure out what virus or bacteria causes this particular canine infectious respiratory disease. Where Are Cases Being Reported? A heat map of these reported cases shows that Portland, Salem, Corvallis, and Eugene have reported the most cases of this atypical canine infectious respiratory disease. There are also some pockets of reported cases closer to the coast. How Does It Spread? Much like canine influenza (dog flu) and kennel cough, this atypical canine respiratory infection spreads through respiratory droplets. In other words, infectious dogs transmit the pathogens when they cough, sneeze, or have nose-to-nose contact with other dogs. What Are The Symptoms? In general, it seems like these cases fall into one of three clinical syndromes:
The ODA is currently focusing on how to diagnose cases that lead to acute pneumonia. When we understand the underlying cause and know how to diagnose these cases early, we can provide better treatments that hopefully lead to better outcomes. Should Dog Owners Be Worried? Currently, the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association is encouraging dog owners to be cautious rather than worried! They also outline a few ways that dog owners can protect their pets from respiratory illness. These include:
While not much is currently known about what causes this infectious disease, ODA is working with pathologists and virologists to figure out the best way to diagnose and treat these patients. If your dog is showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, please give us a call so we can get them seen! We’ll provide updates and more information as it becomes available.  Osteoarthritis (AKA arthritis or degenerative joint disease) is a complex and chronic condition that can impact any joint in the body. While cats can develop arthritis at any age, it’s much more common in older animals. In fact, it likely impacts 70-90% of cats over 12 years old. Learn to recognize the symptoms of cat arthritis so you and your veterinarian can work together to catch it in its earlier stages. Symptoms of Cat Arthritis Cats are masters when it comes to hiding pain symptoms! When they lived in the wild, this adaptation kept them safe from larger predators. Now, however, it can make it harder to recognize and diagnose their chronic pain. That’s why it’s important to know what’s “normal” for your cat. Yearly routine wellness exams can help you track your cat’s normal and establish a baseline of good health. Other symptoms of cat arthritis to watch for include:
Use this helpful interactive checklist from Zoetis to see if your cat is showing signs of osteoarthritis! What Causes Cat Arthritis? Osteoarthritis can be caused by a number of factors. Some cats have an increased risk due to genetics or the joint structures they’re born with. Others may develop arthritis after a traumatic injury to the joint. But, in most cases, it’s the result of normal wear and tear throughout your cat’s life. In a healthy joint, the surface of the bone is covered with a thin layer of smooth cartilage and lubricated with a small amount of fluid. This allows the joint to move freely and smoothly. With osteoarthritis, that smooth surface degrades, letting the bones rub together. This leads to further breakdown of the cartilage, making joints stiff and limiting their mobility. The most commonly affected joints include the elbows, hocks, hips, and stifles. Your cat may have multiple joints that are affected by osteoarthritis, not just one. How Is Cat Arthritis Diagnosed? Diagnosing osteoarthritis starts with you! If you notice changes in your cat’s movement quality, habits, or mood it’s important to get in touch with your veterinary care team. If your vet suspects osteoarthritis, they’ll complete a thorough physical exam. This involves moving different joints to check for stiffness, pain, and limited mobility. Your vet may also suggest x-rays to check for changes to your pet’s bones and joint structures. X-rays are the most accurate way for your veterinarian to confirm an arthritis diagnosis. Cat Arthritis Treatment & Management Once your cat develops arthritis, it is a lifelong condition that cannot be cured. Luckily, you have options when it comes to cat arthritis treatment and pain management! This year, Zoetis released the first and only FDA-approved treatment for osteoarthritis pain in cats. Solensia is a monthly injection administered at your vet’s office. In a three month clinical study, 77% of cat owners experienced seeing improvement in signs of pain when their cats were treated monthly with Solensia. Other helpful interventions for cats with arthritis pain include:
While osteoarthritis is not a curable condition, you can work with your veterinary care team to help your cat move better and experience less pain. It all starts with an appointment to assess your cat’s condition and get them started on a sustainable pain management program. Want to learn more about cat osteoarthritis, Solensia, and other pain management options? Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment!  For Dr. Catie Brown, veterinary medicine has been a lifelong pursuit. In fact, she was still a baby when she attended her first classes with her mom, who is also a veterinarian! Some of her favorite childhood days were spent riding in the vet truck to make farm calls. Watching her mom influenced her passion for veterinary medicine.
Dr. Brown earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Oregon State University and completed an internship at DoveLewis, where she learned the ins and outs of emergency and urgent care medicine. For this interview, we caught up with her to learn more about her special interests, the current state of veterinary medicine, and what inspires her about her work! Meet Dr. Catie Brown What do you find most inspiring about caring for pets? CB: I find the animals' resilience really inspiring. A dog or cat can go from feeling really crummy to back to 100% in a few days with the right treatment. They can have surgery and bounce back to their normal energy in less than 24 hours and I really love that. Seeing improvement or impacting a patient’s life positively or improving the bond between a patient and their person. Do you have any special interests when it comes to veterinary medicine (ex. chronic disease care/management, surgery, senior care, etc)? CB: I love neurology cases, it’s cool to put together the pieces to localize a lesion. Additionally, I have found dermatology cases really rewarding. Allergies and skin infections can be so uncomfortable and distressing to patients! When they are under control, that animal can almost seem like a new version of themselves. How do you think your emergency veterinary internship with DoveLewis helped shape your career? It really helped me to see some of the more common emergencies and have the confidence to address them in a general practice setting. I think it has helped me stay calm in stressful situations and taught me to communicate directly to determine the next steps that are needed for the pet’s care. This month we’re also blogging about pet summer safety tips. Do you have any tips or tricks for how pet owners can keep their pets healthy and safe during hot weather? A little precaution can go a long way in hot weather. Consider booties to protect their paw pads on hikes or walks. Always keep your pet hydrated and avoid strenuous activity in the heat of the day. What’s the most memorable patient or moment during your career in veterinary medicine? When I was in emergency medicine, there was a young dog that had a strangulated bowel obstruction. The pup had to have a significant amount of small intestine and large intestine resected and was going to deal with GI issues for the remainder of their life. After surgery, that dog was eating readily and you would hardly know less than 24 hours prior they were crashing, in hypovolemic shock. It’s amazing what our animals can overcome! How do you think vet med has improved in recent years? I really love to advocate for fear free practice and feel that that has been more or a priority for owners and veterinary clinics in recent years. I think this will help us provide better care and teach important animal handling techniques to our staff and to our owners. Based on my experience as a newer veterinarian, I think we have made some improvements in regards to mental health awareness. This is a difficult field to be in and it’s really important to feel supported and to be able to collaborate. I know in this regard we have a long way to go as a profession, but I’m happy that we’ve started the conversation and I’m excited to see where it will take us as a profession. What’s one thing you wish every pet owner knew about their pet’s health or care? Prevention is so worth it! I promise that when vets discuss prevention—vaccines and flea/tick/heartworm prevention, baseline labs—it’s because we do not want to see your animal go through having the disease, or if a disease is present we want to address it early. When you’re not at the clinic, what are you up to? Hobbies, organizations, interests, etc? I am getting married this year, so that’s been taking up a lot of my time this summer. My fiance and I love to get out and hike, backpack and camp when we can find the time. We love to explore with our dog, she’s an avid hiker. I love baking, reading, and crafting. This year I have been getting into gardening and have a small herb garden and some peppers that we have been harvesting throughout the summer. Veterinary care with heart in Beaverton, Oregon Come meet Dr. Brown! With her love of animals and passion for problem-solving, she’s an incredible addition to your pet’s care team. Her special interests include neurology, dermatology, and general medicine. Get in touch to schedule your pet’s next appointment.  **Overheating can be a serious, life-threatening emergency! If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, call Mountainside or your nearest emergency hospital immediately. (971) 405-1111** There’s something special about spending long, warm summer days with our pets. But with Oregon’s summers getting warmer, it’s important to keep pets safe in the heat! By taking a few precautions and knowing how to recognize signs of overheating, we can make sure your pets stay safe this summer. Keeping Pets Safe in the Heat Whether it’s a three digit scorcher or just a warm summer day, these tips can help you keep your pets happy and healthy. Keep pets hydrated In general, dogs should drink approximately 1 ounce of water per pound of their body weight. Most cats need about 4 ounces (about ½ cup) of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. But in hot weather, pets can get dehydrated quickly! Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh, clean water on hot days. Cats, especially, may avoid bowls with dust, hair, or other debris in them. It’s important to keep water bowls clean and filled with fresh water. You can even add ice cubes to pets’ water to help keep it cool. If you’re hiking, running, or camping with your dog, always pack enough drinking water for them as well. Offer frozen treats If you’ve ever had ice cream on a hot day, you already know the joys of frozen treats during the summer. While ice cream isn’t the best choice for our pets, there are plenty of other frozen treats you can make to help them beat the heat. For dogs, you can offer small pieces of frozen fruit like watermelon, blueberries, or banana. Important: grapes are toxic for dogs and should never be offered as a treat, frozen or otherwise! You can also freeze some wet food, a low-sodium broth, or peanut butter into a kong. For cats, try freezing small servings of their usual wet food or pate. Make them extra cute with a playful ice pops tray. They might also enjoy low-salt broth frozen into ice cubes or frozen Churu treats. Look for cooling gear These days, you can work smarter not harder to keep pets cool. Special summer gear like cooling gel beds, neck gaiters, and even vests or harnesses can help keep your pup cool. With the right equipment and a solid hot-weather strategy, you and your dog can explore all through the hottest days of summer. Make sure they have shade Many pets enjoy lounging outdoors on warm summer days. But any time they’re outside, make sure there’s somewhere shady for them to relax. Trees and shrubs make excellent natural shade sources. If there’s nothing else available, hanging a tarp or old blanket can provide shade in a pinch. Avoid the hottest part of the day Plenty of pet owners love coming home from work and walking the dog. But here in Oregon, that often means walking during the hottest part of the day. Because of something known as the thermal heat lag, the hottest part of the day tends to occur between 5pm and 6pm. Whenever possible, we recommend walking the dog before things heat up in the morning or waiting until the heat begins to wane in the evening. If you have to take your pet out during the heat of the day, always check the asphalt temperature first! The best way to do this is to hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws. You can also plan for a shorter walk or less intense exercise if you’re going to be out during peak heat. Never leave animals in parked cars This is the most important tip we can offer to keep pets safe in the heat! Even on a mild summer day, the temperature inside your car can skyrocket in just minutes. In fact, hot cars are so dangerous for pets that Oregon has laws in place to protect them. People who intentionally leave an animal in a hot car can be charged with animal abuse in the second degree. So, how hot is too hot? According to our friends at Hill’s, it's generally safe to leave your dog in the car for up to five minutes when the outside temperature is above freezing and below 70 degrees. We recommend your windows are cracked when the sun is out regardless of the temperature. Know the Symptoms of Overheating Even with the appropriate precautions, some pets will be more sensitive to overheating than others. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the symptoms of overheating. For dogs, symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
For cats, symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Signs of a heat stroke emergency include:
If you’re worried your pet is experiencing heat-related distress, consider taking their temperature. The normal body temperature for dogs and cats is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Elevated temperatures could signal heat stress or other conditions like fever or infection. Body temperatures above 105 F are considered life-threatening. Safely Cooling Down an Overheated Animal Hyperthermia, or body temperatures over 103 degrees, is an immediate medical emergency. Safely reducing your pet’s body temperature is the first priority! However, it’s important to cool them gradually to avoid rapid vasoconstriction (AKA contraction of the blood vessels) and triggering a shock response. Start by pouring cool/tap water over their head, stomach, armpits, and feet. You can also apply cool, wet towels to these areas but be sure to change them frequently. Otherwise, you risk them warming up and trapping heat rather than dispelling it. Next, load your wet dog into the car and drive to your vet’s office or the nearest emergency hospital. You can drive with the A/C on and windows down to promote evaporation, which can help lower warm body temperatures. If you can, call to let the veterinarian know you’re coming so they can act quickly when you arrive. Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer! Know the Basics of Heat Safety. When it comes to hot weather, you are your pet’s first line of defense! With a few precautions and a little bit of planning, you can make sure they have a safe and comfortable summer. If you ever have concerns about your pet overheating, get in touch with our team or your nearest emergency hospital as soon as possible. By taking quick action, you can protect your pet and reduce the chances of serious health impacts.  After over 20 years of veterinary experience, Dr. Lisa Thrower’s favorite thing is still witnessing the deep connection between people and their pets. As a key part of Mountainside’s veterinary team, she’s kind, compassionate, and thoughtful. This month, we’re catching up with Dr. Thrower to learn more about her passion for veterinary medicine and her most interesting case to-date! Drum roll please…
Meet Dr. Lisa Thrower Have you always known that you wanted to be a veterinarian? Did you grow up with lots of pets? LT: When I was growing up, my family never had any dogs, cats, or even pocket pets because my brother was severely allergic to anything with fur. We would catch snakes in the neighborhood to keep as temporary pets. We had the occasional fish and even some birds as pets, but that's not the same as a snuggly puppy or kitten. I was jealous of my friends who had dogs and cats, so I always said that I would have as many pets as I wanted when I grew up. I thought being a veterinarian was the best way to do that! I guess I had a one-track mind because I never came up with another career option. What are the best things about your job, either big picture or day-to-day? LT: One of the big picture things I enjoy about my job is meeting a puppy or kitten for the first time and then continuing their care until they are a geriatric patient. I get to know the family as well as the pet during their time together and I really enjoy that. What role do you think MVH plays in the community? How do you see the clinic growing and supporting the community? LT: In the most basic sense, MVH is a source of security for local families. Whether they have a sick dog or cat or a new puppy or kitten, we want to be their trusted go-to clinic for help. Do you have a most memorable patient or moment during your career in veterinary medicine? One of my most memorable patients was a young bulldog that came in to see me for not eating and gagging and vomiting. His blood work and x-rays didn't tell me what was wrong, so we decided to go to an exploratory surgery based on his age and suspicion for a foreign body. I was quite surprised to find a bright yellow plastic drum stick from a child's play drum set in his stomach extending up into his esophagus. I still don't know why that dog ate the drum stick - or better yet HOW he ate it! Compassionate veterinary care in Beaverton, Oregon Come meet Dr. Thrower! With her depth of experience and passion for supporting the human-animal bond, she’s the perfect addition to your pet’s veterinary care team. Her special interests include general medicine, dermatology, surgery, and comprehensive dental care. Get in touch to schedule your pet’s next appointment. |
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Mountainside Veterinary Hospital
www.mountainsidevets.com [email protected] Office: (971) 405 - 1111 Fax: (503) 498 - 5322 |
Hospital Location
15000 SW Barrows Rd. Ste. 101, Beaverton, OR 97007
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Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00a - 6:00p
Saturday: 8:00a - 4:00p Give us a call today to schedule your appointment! (971) 405-1111 
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