The pet medication Albuquerque specialists at Petroglyph Animal Hospital recommend that pet owners keep their pets healthy at home with these six medication storage tips. 

Tip #1: Never keep pet and human medications together.
The first rule of pet medication is to store it away from human medication so that no one accidentally ingests it. Always check the label before giving medicine to a human or animal.

Tip #2: Understand that some medications are engineered with flavouring.
This is to help the animal ingest it, however, the smell or taste can make it tempting for them to find. You’ll want to make sure it’s away from where your animal may be able to find it.

Tip #3: Keep the medication stored away from children too.
Not only could children ingest the medication if they find it, but they could also give it to your pet. Make sure the medicines are out of reach of everyone except responsible adults.

Tip #4: Be prepared in case an accident occurs.
Accidents happen. Since your pet cannot tell you what the problem is, an overdose of medication is a serious issue that you need to be ready to respond to. Have your pet’s list of medications close by your veterinarian’s phone number so that if an accident happens, you can immediately alert the vet of the problem.

Tip #5: Obey the storage instructions from the pharmacy and veterinarian.
Follow all storage instructions that were provided to you so that you can keep the medicine working properly. If refrigerated medication is left out or if medication is expired, you should dispose of it and not give it to your animal.

Tip #6: Safely discard all medications your pet no longer needs.
Don’t assume your pets will never dig through your trash. Always dispose of medications properly by mixing it with something that doesn’t taste good to pets or by immediately disposing of it in a sealed container in your outdoor garbage bins.

For more tips on safely storing pet medications to avoid danger, call the pet medication Albuquerque specialists at Petroglyph Animal Hospital.

Original Source: https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2019/02/6-pet-medication-storage-tips-to-avoid.html

Petroglyph Animal Hospital is the animal clinic Albuquerque pet owners trust. We have identified the five most important facilities that we believe an exceptional animal clinic in Albuquerque should have.

The 5 Most Important Facilities Required in an Animal Clinic Albuquerque

#1: Outpatient Facilities
Over half of homeowners in the United States also have a family pet. Out of this group, about 75 percent of them take their pets to the veterinarian once a year. A reliable animal clinic will offer a variety of outpatient services, like vaccinations or checkups, so that pet owners can easily get their animal examined then return home on the same day.

#2: Inpatient Facilities
Unfortunately, as many as 53 percent of pet owners believe that veterinary costs are too expensive. Because of this belief, many do not take their pet to the vet until they discover that the animal is sick. Some sick pets may require additional diagnostic testing which is why it is important that an animal clinic can perform these tests in-house and comfortably keep the pet overnight if necessary.

#3: Emergency Facilities
Pet emergencies are an animal lover’s worst nightmare. In the event that a pet experiences a serious health problem, it is important that the animal clinic is prepared to tend to these emergencies. They should have all emergency equipment and medications on-hand so that they can quickly and successfully perform a medical intervention.

#4: Surgical Facilities
One common pet emergency is one which requires surgical intervention. Whether a broken bone needs healed or growth needs to be removed, it is critical that an animal hospital has a surgical facility and staff available to tend to these emergencies right away.

#5: Specialty Facilities
Not all pets are dogs and cats. Rodents, reptiles, and birds can all be part of a pet owner’s family. An animal clinic should be equipped to treat these special animals and have a licensed veterinary professional on staff that is specifically trained and educated in treating these exotic animals.

The five types of facilities — specialty, inpatient, outpatient, surgical and emergency — are critical resources that every reliable animal clinic should have. For more information about our exceptional facilities, call Petroglyph Animal Hospital today!
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Original source: https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2019/02/5-most-important-facilities-required-in.html

The Importance of Emergency Care Veterinarians
While all pet owners hope that they will only need to visit a veterinarian for routine checkups, unfortunately, accidents, injuries, and illnesses do happen. At some point in your pet’s life, they may have a medical emergency that needs to be addressed by a trained professional. Thankfully, there are emergency care veterinarians in Albuquerque, like the compassionate staff at Petroglyph Animal Hospital that can provide the medical intervention necessary to help your pet overcome their health issue.

Duties of a Vet during Emergency & Critical Care
When considering an emergency vet Albuquerque pet owners may be wondering what role these individuals play during an animal’s health crisis. Though all veterinarians receive training in emergency care situations, some of these individuals choose to specialize in critical animal care. Depending on the type of trauma or health condition, an emergency vet may perform any of the following duties:

• Perform blood tests to determine and monitor infections or illnesses.
• Take X-rays, MRIs or CT scans to observe bone fractures or internal organ damage.
• Administer medications to the animal to treat pain, infection or to prepare them for surgery.
• Place endoscopic tubes into the animal to view or retrieve items from the digestive or respiratory tracts.
• Perform CPR.
• Evaluate traumatic injuries and write case reports.
• Monitor and guide other veterinary technicians.
• Prevent external bleeding.
• Perform surgery.
• Supervise intensive care units for animals.
• Stitch wounds or set broken bones.
  
  

Emergency and critical care veterinarians are all required to achieve board certification, which means the intervention methods they can perform are much more diverse and intensive than a general veterinarian. Some vets will also specialize in emergency care for particular animals like horses, reptiles or birds. Regardless, all emergency care vets provide prompt and professional veterinary intervention for your pets and strive to make your animal happy and healthy again.
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Emergency Vet Albuquerque
No pet owner wants to experience a pet emergency, but it is an unfortunate reality that could occur. Emergency and critical care veterinarians have the knowledge, training, and experience necessary to treat animals that have been injured or have become ill. If your pet is ever experiencing an emergency, let the board-certified emergency vet technicians at Petroglyph Animal Hospital help. Call us today for more information about our emergency veterinary services.

​Original source: https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2019/01/duties-of-vets-during-emergency.html

As your dog ages, they may face certain health conditions that require veterinary attention. From injuries to illnesses, medications may be prescribed by a licensed vet to treat these issues. Petroglyph Animal Hospital, an Albuquerque pet medication specialist, believes that all pet owners should know which medications may be prescribed and which should never be given to your dog.
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Common Medications for Dogs
The following are the most common types of medications that veterinarians may use to treat your canine. Though there are many more used in veterinary medicine, pet owners should at least be aware of what these drugs are and why they are used:

• Pain Relievers: Similar to pain relievers for humans, these medicines are made from morphine and are only available with a prescription. Types include oxycodone, butorphanol, and meperidine.
• Antibiotics: Often used to kill bacteria and treat infections, common antibiotics include penicillin and cephalexin.
• Antiparasitics: These medicines are used to treat parasites like worms, heartworms, fleas, and ticks.
• Steroids: Steroids like prednisone and dexamethasone are used for a variety of reasons including to reduce allergic reactions and lower inflammation.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories: Instead of using steroids, a vet may prescribe NSAIDs like meloxicam and carprofen to treat pain, swelling, and inflammation.
• Sedatives: These drugs are used for behaviour modification and can reduce anxiety. Types include diazepam and midazolam.
  
  

Medications that Will Harm Your Dog
Pet owners should only give medication to their dogs that have been prescribed by a licensed and trained veterinarian. Giving your dog medicine that’s not prescribed or intended for that specific animal may result in injury or death. The following human medications should not be given to dogs:

• Acetaminophen, a painkiller
• Ibuprofen, a painkiller
• Aspirin, a painkiller
• Adderall, ADHD medication
• Clonazepam, anti-anxiety medication
• Duloxetine, antidepressant medication
• Zolpidem, a sleep-aid
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Pet Medication Albuquerque Dogs Can Safely Use
Some medications can heal your animal; however, others may only cause more harm. Always remember that you should never give any medication to your animal unless it’s been approved and prescribed by a licensed and experienced veterinarian. To learn more about medications for dogs, call Petroglyph Animal Hospital and speak with a trained veterinary specialist today.

Original source: https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2019/01/dog-health-wellness-your-guide-to-pet.html

Dog dental surgery is a rather disturbing topic for homeowners owing to the strong human-pet bond. However, in some unavoidable circumstances like difficult tooth extractions, dislocated teeth, oral tumor extraction, or nasal fistulae, palate defects, and jaw fracture management, the procedure has to be done.

Standards followed before, during and after surgery.

Specific surgical protocols must be followed

Assessment before surgery is done to verify the particulars of the surgery and do a physical examination of the dog. Physical exams include blood tests, documentation among others.
Surgical suits; these are meant to avoid infections and contamination of the wound. Sterilize the room and everything in it to prevent contaminating the wound.

Surgical attire; these are disposable and sterile masks and gloves worn by everyone involved in the surgery.

All equipment is sterilized and properly wrapped before every procedure. This ensures no infections arising from the equipment used.

Recovery of your pet after dog dental surgery
For your dog to heal fast and without any further complications, there are several things that you need to ensure you follow religiously such as:

1. You need to keep your pet confined
   The drugs that your dog will take during and after the procedure could have different effects depending on various factors like breed, age, height and weight of the dog. Keep the dog under close surveillance in a comfortable cage for as long as the doctor recommends before you can set it free.
2. Water and food
   Dental procedures are very painful causing a lot of discomfort for your pet. This, therefore, means that you have to ensure the food is easy to chew, is the right temperature and has the proper nutrients for fast recovery.
3. Handle the pet with care
   Even if the dog is under painkiller drugs, there might be some discomfort in its mouth till it heals completely. Be careful while moving, petting or cleaning it to avoid any pain inflicted on the mouth.
4. Take the pet for a walk as soon as possible
   This is an important part of the healing process of your pet. This is the time it will take to relieve itself; most pets are not comfortable using the toilet facilities at the vet.
5. Keep it warm
   Following the procedure, the pet might not be in a position to maintain normal body temperature, hence the need to keep it warm. Keep a warm blanket in its cage to lie on and some to cover part of its body.

After dog dental surgery
Veterinary reviews even after the dog has healed are critical. We ensure that ourvet identifies any complications as soon as possible for immediate medical attention. Consult a reputable animal clinic in your area for pet health services as soon as you realize something is wrong with the procedure, or any other problem.
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Original source: https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2018/12/dog-dental-surgery-what-you-should-know.html

Petroglyph Animal Hospital can administer the puppy shots Albuquerque canines need to live long and healthy lives. We understand that you may have concerns about these shots and want to ease your mind with these four vaccination facts you should know.

1. Canine Core Vaccines are safe.
Veterinarians will administer shots that are considered core vaccinations. The diseases that these shots treat include canine parvovirus, canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus, and rabies. The canine core vaccines are considered safe and efficacious for all dogs. In fact, there have been recent developments throughout the last decade that have made these shots even safer for your pet.

2. Your puppy may get very sick or die without proper vaccinations.
Many of the vaccinations that veterinarians administer treat diseases that are extremely harmful to dogs. There are no cures available for canine diseases like rabies and distemper. If left unvaccinated, your puppy is at an increased risk of severe harm and even death if they contract these diseases.

3. Vets will never overprescribe vaccinations.
You should trust that your veterinarian has the best interest for your puppy at heart. They will never recommend or administer vaccinations that they don’t believe are necessary for your pet. For instance, there are several canine vaccines available that aim to protect your puppy against everything from Lyme disease to rattlesnake venom. However, it is unlikely that your vet will encourage your pet to receive these vaccinations unless they believe the puppy is at an extreme risk of harm or death.

4. Vaccination visits can help veterinarians spot other health issues.
Dogs need to receive routine vaccinations from your veterinarian and a trip to the vet could inadvertently preserve the wellbeing of your pet in other ways. In many cases, especially when it comes to oral health issues, many dogs will not show obvious signs of pain or discomfort. Veterinarians are trained to spot these symptoms of illness or injury and can administer treatment if necessary.
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Puppy Shots Albuquerque
Don’t risk your dog’s health. Come to Petroglyph Animal Hospital and allow us to administer the puppy shots Albuquerque canines need to grow into healthy and happy dogs.

​Original Source: - https://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2018/11/what-do-you-need-to-know-about-puppy.html

Some people may believe the adage that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth, leading them to believe that their dog does not require significant oral hygiene treatment. Unfortunately, a dog’s mouth is actually one area of their body in which they can experience significant health issues if their teeth and gums are not properly cared for.

Dogs are actually five times more likely to get dental disease than humans; their mouths actually promote the formation of plaque. Without regular brushing, this plaque can build and become a serious problem. Canines are also at an increased risk of damaging their teeth or jaws via trauma from activities like playing or chewing.

Warning Signs of Canine Oral Health Problems

Unfortunately, your dog may not display signs of their pain. In some cases, unless you are watching your dog as they engage in specific activities like eating or chewing, you may not be able to recognize that they’re suffering from an oral health issue. Smaller issues like chipped teeth and even larger issues like periodontal disease may be present in the animal although they don’t show any sign of discomfort. Some warning signs include:

•    Bloody gums, teeth or saliva and blood found on their toys or food bowls
•    Loose, chipped or broken teeth
•    Audible discomfort when using their mouths
•    Avoiding chewing on one side of the mouth

Pet owners should be vigilant in checking for mouth damage. Although some issues can be treated with medications and small procedures, serious complications could require dental surgery.

Dog Dental Surgery Albuquerque

At Petroglyph Animal Hospital, we understand that any type of surgery can be a worrisome event for dog owners. We want you to know that we’ve been the providers of the safe and effective dog dental surgery Albuquerque pet owners have trusted since 1996. Our team of compassionate veterinarians has the skills, knowledge, and resources available to treat all of your dog’s oral health issues. If you believe your canine may need dental surgery, bring them to Petroglyph Animal Hospital — your reliable neighborhood veterinary specialist.

Original Source: http://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2018/10/why-pet-dental-care-should-be.html

The veterinary experts at Petroglyph Animal Hospital love animals as much as you do and we want to ensure that every pet that visits our clinic lives a happy and healthy life. We take annual canine vaccinations very seriously and understand why some pet owners may be unsure if their furry friend really needs these shots. Rest assured, we’re here to answer all of your questions and put your mind at ease.

Does my dog need to receive any vaccinations?

Yes. Although you may be worried that the vaccination may harm your dog, you must also understand that your puppy is susceptible to damaging and even fatal diseases if left untreated. For instance, there is no cure for rabies in dogs. Without a rabies vaccination, your pet could contract the disease and pass away within one week. Speak with one of our veterinarians to learn more about which diseases can be avoided with proper vaccinations.

Does my puppy need annual or repeat vaccinations?

Yes. Rabies shots and vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza and parvovirus are suggested throughout your puppy’s development. In order to help them grow into a healthy dog, you should follow the vaccination schedule determined by one of our knowledgeable veterinary specialists.

Once my puppy grows into adulthood, are annual vaccinations still necessary?

Yes. It’s suggested that rabies and DHPP vaccinations are administered to dogs every few years to ensure they don’t contract these diseases.

Are optional vaccinations necessary?

Maybe. Depending on where you live and your dog’s individual risk factors, your veterinarian may or may not suggest that your pet receives these shots. A veterinarian at Petroglyph Animal Hospital can suggest the appropriate optional vaccinations for your dog.

Annual Dog Vaccinations Albuquerque

Ultimately, both you and your veterinarian want to do what’s best to preserve the well-being of your dog. Keeping your pet on the suggested vaccination schedule helps ensure that they will not contract potentially fatal diseases. The trained and licensed experts at Petroglyph Animal Hospital will educate you about all of the vaccinations they believe your dog should receive annually. Call us today for more information about the annual dog vaccinations Albuquerque canines need.

Original Source - http://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2018/09/the-veterinary-experts-at-petroglyph.html

Your pet is part of your loving family. To keep them healthy and happy, you may need to treat them with veterinarian prescribed medications. Veterinary care is quite different than human healthcare — even the types of medication, though similar to other human drugs, can impact your pet in vastly different ways. That’s why it’s important to consider all issues when giving medications to your animal.

Issues to Consider While Giving Medications to Your Pet

Understand dosages. 
The medication schedule your pet is placed on by a veterinarian must always be followed. Changing the amount of medication given or altering the dosage schedule in any way could harm your pet. Too much medication could make them sick and infrequent dosages may not heal their health issue.

Understand side effects.
Though medications are administered to help your pet heal, some of them can cause unwanted side effects. Pain, discomfort, inflammation and swelling could occur. If the side effects are severe, it could cause internal bleeding, sickness and even death. It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of every medication and monitor you pet while they’re taking them.

Understand the difference between human and animal medications.
At face value, some medications seem like they could be administered to both species. After all, humans and pets are often prescribed pain relievers, antihistamines, steroids and antibiotics. Even though these drugs are used to treat similar health conditions, they may be very different in chemical structure. You should never give an animal any human medication or any other medication not specifically prescribed by your veterinarian.

Understand drug interactions.
Certain medications do not interact well when used together. For instance, corticosteroids and NSAIDs should never be taken at the same time. Various drugs will also increase serotonin levels and cause serotonin syndrome. Other drugs will increase or decrease CYP enzymes which could lead to overdose symptoms. 

Pet Medications Albuquerque
While necessary, pet medications can be dangerous if used incorrectly. You should only let a licensed veterinarian prescribe your pet medication and determine a dosage schedule. Speak with the caring veterinarians at Petroglyph Animal Hospital to discover which pet medications Albuquerque pets need.

Original Source: http://petroglyphanimalhospital.blogspot.com/2018/08/issues-to-consider-while-giving.html

Petroglyph Animal Hospital is the emergency vet care Albuquerque pet owners trust in their time of need. While it is important that your pet receives consistent care from a veterinarian that is familiar with their medical history, some veterinary offices are only open during weekly business hours. When your pet falls sick or becomes injured, you need a reliable animal hospital that offers emergency care on nights, weekends and holidays.

Importance of Emergency Vet Care
Having access to emergency veterinary care is crucial in preserving the wellbeing of your animal. Because medical symptoms can range in severity, it’s necessary that your pet receives medical intervention immediately.

There are three critical reasons why emergency vet care is important:

• Emergency animal hospitals are available when you need them most. Unfortunately, a pet emergency can happen at any time of the day or night. An animal hospital that offers emergency vet care on nights, weekends and holidays will be available to treat your pet at a moment’s notice.
  
• Symptoms can change quickly. While some injuries or illnesses may progressively get worse over time, there are many types of trauma that can quickly become medical emergencies. It’s never wise to wait until symptoms become too serious to seek treatment. If your pet needs immediate medical intervention, an emergency animal hospital will be ready to provide life-saving treatment.  
• Having an emergency vet as your primary veterinarian keeps them prepared. Although you may have a primary veterinarian, choosing to provide your pet with a veterinary office that also offers emergency care is ideal. An emergency vet will be prepared with the specific treatment options your pet needs to stay healthy.  

Emergency Vet Care Albuquerque
Pet medical emergencies can happen at any time. It’s important that you have a reliable and knowledgeable emergency veterinarian available to provide your pet with the healthcare they need. Petroglyph Animal Hospital has provided Albuquerque pets with emergency veterinarian services for over twenty years. Our staff of compassionate veterinarians is available to care for your pet 364 days of the year. Trust Petroglyph Animal Hospital for your entire emergency vet needs.