Socializing your Puppy
Little puppies don't come with roadmaps and knowledge of their human friends, so it's up to us to introduce them to our world. Without learning about their human friends and their environment, they may grow up to be fearful and anxious, just as a person would. All the more important now, when their lifespans are so often well over 16 years!

Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia accounts for over 30% of all orthopedic problems in some practices. It occurs most often in Rottweilers, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Chow Chows.

Despite the genetic predisposition to the disease, we have found that the incidence of dysplasia can be markedly reduced if puppies are not exercised heavily (running or jogging with their people) until they are at least 5 months old, and if they are fed adult food at 3 months of age. Apparently, slowing down the puppies rate of growth allows the joint surfaces to develop more solidly, without abrasion.

Affected dogs are often reluctant to jump or rise on their rear legs and may be hesitant to climb and descend stairs. Often, the primary sign is limping and stiffness after a day of heavy exercise.

The Orthopedic Foundation of America requires that dogs be X-Rayed at 2 years of age to be evaluated, but another radiographic technic, the Penn-Hip procedure, can be used as early as 5 months to diagnose the condition.

Flea Control
Flea control is now a reality. In the last few years, 3 revolutionary products have proved remarkably effective and safe. PROGRAM is administered by mouth, once monthly, or, in cats, by injection every 6 months, and acts to sterilize fleas and prevent the production of eggs and larvae. There is no skin residue. ADVANTAGE and FRONTLINE are applied to the skin once monthly; ADVANTAGE forms a microscopic skin layer, and FRONTLINE is absorbed into the hair follicles. ADVANTAGE kills adult fleas whereas FRONTLINE kills adult fleas and ticks.

One incredibly effective flea control program consists of giving PROGRAM year-round, and ADVANTAGE or FRONTLINE during the times of year when fleas are most prevalent.

Microchip Identification
We highly recommend microchip implants to provide fool proof, safe, and permanent identification of your pet. By law, Animal Shelters are now required to scan all impounded pets. If a chip is present, the American Kennel Club Registry is contacted and the pets owner is notified by registered mail and by phone.

Skunk Wash
A recipe for deskunking your pet,
Proportions:
1 Quart Hydrogen Peroxide
1/3 Cup of Baking Soda
2 Tbs. Johnson's Baby Shampoo

With a saturated cloth, swab over and wipe off with another damp cloth. Repeat as needed. Discard unused mixture - do not store.