Newsletter

A Better View of the Ear

Approximately 15-20% of all dogs, and a smaller percentage of cats, have ear problems. Ear problems can cause moderate discomfort to severe pain for your pets and can result in hearing loss and even neurological problems. However, diagnosis is often problematic. Our hospital has acquired a new diagnostic tool to assist our veterinarians determine the cause of your pet's ear problem. The Video Vetscope, pictured here, was purchased a few months ago for this purpose.

Typically, ear problems are diagnosed by a combination of visual examination by the veterinarian and a cytology of discharge from the ear. In many simple cases, this is sufficient for the doctor to determine the cause of the problem and to devise a treatment plan.

However, in many cases these diagnostic tools are not sufficient. Due to the shape of the ear canal, which is like an "L," it is often difficult to see all the way to the tympanic membrane or eardrum. This can be further exacerbated if the ear is so painful, swollen, or full of discharge that the veterinarian cannot conduct a thorough visual examination. The Video Vetscope enhances the veterinarian's capabilities in this respect.

This system has several important capabilities. First, by means of a small camera on the end of an otoscope, the doctor can see all the way into the ear.

This view is displayed on a computer monitor and can also be captured on film. Second, debris or foreign bodies can be grasped and cleared from the ear with a biopsy instrument inserted through the otoscope. Finally, the vetscope is equipped with a system that can flush debris out of the ear.

These capabilities are especially important in the case of chronic ear problems because the infection may be secondary to another problem in the ear, such as a tumor or foreign body. These may not be evident on a normal visual examination of the ear.

Depending on the situation, your pet may or may not be sedated for this procedure. Ear flushes are always performed under sedation. Examinations may be done without sedation depending on the tolerance level of your pet.

Although designed for the ear, our doctors have found the system is also helpful in examining areas of the mouth that are difficult to see.

In the few months that we have used the video vetscope, we have been very excited by its capabilities. It will significantly enhance our ability to diagnose and treat your pet's ear problems.

Photo (above left): Lady, owned by Melinda Hall, helps demonstrate our new video vetscope.

VetCentric.com

Today the Internet provides access to a myriad of pet prescription sites. Many are not supported by the veterinary health community due to concerns about the quality and source of many of their medications.

However, a new site, VetCentric.com, does have the support of the veterinary community. In the future, you will be able to have many prescription diets and medications delivered to your home.

Are you tired of having to dash into the hospital on your way to or from work or trying to make it here on Saturday between grocery shopping and the kids' soccer games? Is it difficult to handle two children, a dog, and 30 pounds of dog food while at the hospital? If so, this new service may be of assistance.

Not only will this system be more convenient for our clients, it will also provide access to a wider range of medications. Currently, space constraints limit the variety of foods and medications that the hospital can keep in its inventory. Our hospital is in the process of setting up an account with this pharmacy and we will provide complete details in our June newsletter.

Poison Alert

As the Easter season approaches, remember that Easter lilies are highly toxic to cats. They cause severe kidney failure and can be fatal. Contact our office immediately if you believe your cat has ingested this plant. For additional information on potential household hazards to your pets, visit the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center web site. It provides a list of poisonous plants and other household toxins. It also describes the clinical signs of toxicity. This excellent site can be found at www.apcc.aspca.org.

Veterinary Conference

Drs. Noel, Levinstein, and Mayo attended the North American Veterinary Conference in January. This is the most important annual professional conference for veterinarians. It is an excellent opportunity to learn new techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of animal disease. Highlights of the conference included presentations on skin problems, pain management, and urinary problems in cats.

Leashes & Carriers

We love your pets and do not want to see any accidents befall them. Therefore, please use leashes for your dogs and carriers for your cats when you bring them to our hospital. Your pets can be easily frightened and get away from you. There are too many busy roads around our hospital. Using leashes and carriers can make you and your pet feel more secure. If you need to borrow a leash, let our receptionist know.

Michaelangelo is one
of the recipients of your generosity.

Your generosity has provided treatment and homes to about six cats during this period. Contributors this quarter include:

• Judith Demont (In memory of Trudy and Simon)
• Mr. and Mrs. John Hughes (In memory of Cujo)

• Carlotta Netherland (In memory of Max)
• Karen Bosze (In memory of Brandy and in honor of Maggie)
• Stanley and Jean Elmore (In memory of Buffy)
• Susan and Al Hughes
• Mr. and Mrs. Charles Allgood
• Alton Crews
• Alice Sheloski
• Marjorie Gibson
• Mary Heard
• Daisy Closter
• Joseph Levy
• Nancy Fiske