It’s an unfortunate fact that our dogs and cats become sick and sustain injuries. And sometimes, getting to a vet quickly isn’t an option. Isn’t it comforting to know that you might be able to help simply by using items found in just about every home? Benefit from Dr. Sarah’s expertise as an emergency veterinary doctor, and watch this month’s episode of Pet Talk. You too can become a ‘Medical MacGyver’! Hopefully, you’ll learn something new that’ll help a companion animal in need until you can get to the vet.

If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you’ll know that we want you to be prepared. Being able to recognize an emergency situation as opposed from something that’ll ‘just pass’, is critical. To make these vital decisions, we offer the following documents: “Tips for Emergency Situations” and “Recognize the Signs of Shock (Requires Immediate Vet Care)”, PDF’s to print for future use. Consider posting each page in a central location, like the refrigerator, for quick reference, should an emergency arise.

People often ask me if cats can get asthma. Unfortunately, the answer is a definite, “Yes”. The signs of feline asthma can come on quite suddenly and can constitute a medical emergency, so let’s review this condition in some detail.

Just like in humans, the airways in cats with asthma become restricted and inflamed. Mucus forms in the respiratory tract and the airway walls spasm. This can lead to wheezing, coughing, tiredness and difficulty breathing. Some cats can also vomit or lose their appetite. A cat having an asthma attack may sit with his head extended and breathe with an open mouth. Open mouth breathing is abnormal in cats. If you see this, consider it a sign of emergency and contact your veterinarian immediately. More...

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The Dr. Jane’s HealthyPetNet Foundation is gratified to bring you news of our latest grant, awarded to Richardson Rescue, a medium-sized group in York, SC. Richardson Rescue has been rescuing pets since 2003. The mission of this Carolina rescue is to provide shelter and care for both dogs and cats, and ultimately to place them in forever homes. In addition to these vital services, they also provide a low-cost spay-and-neuter program for local families subsisting on low incomes. An ardent advocate on behalf of animal rights, founder Janet Richardson views her work as falling under the umbrella of “preserving the sanctity of animal life”. As goals go, it’s our opinion that her rescue agency has become a great success! Unlike many of our grant recipients, Richardson Rescue owns and operates a physical facility. The rescue center has a capacity of 130 animals, with nearly 40 dog runs, a medical facility with 15 crates and an observation area with 12 crates. And outdoors, there’s a dog park for exercise and play. More...