February is Dental Month!

February is Dental Month! Your pet’s teeth are important for his entire health and longevity. Don’t overlook the need to keep those teeth and gums clean. Dental disease affects the major organs of the body and can make your pet sluggish and ill.

Professionally clean your pet’s teeth annually (performed by your veterinarian) and maintain oral health at home by brushing, chews and water additives. Ideally, strive to brush your pet’s teeth daily. In addition to brushing with a pet toothpaste, give him dental chews daily and use a veterinary approved water additive to reduce tartar accumulation. Your pet will be happier by your efforts.

January is a Great Month to License Your Pet

Remember to license your dogs and cats with your local Health Department.

A rabies license is obtained for a nominal fee and is required by law to ensure the safety of pets in our society. Rabies is a highly dangerous, potentially fatal disease which is contagious to people.

Most towns have an arbitrary date through which the rabies must be effective in order to license pets at the beginning of the year. The chosen date is usually between October and November. If the rabies vaccine expires prior to the chosen date in October or November, the pet is not eligible for a license. In this case, the rabies vaccine needs to be repeated. The rabies vaccine may be safely repeated every three months, if necessary. Repeating the rabies vaccine this month will not only be safe, but will also put your pet on a January schedule for the rest of his or her life to satisfy licensure
requirements.

Listed below are links to local Health Departments.

Mia Frezzo, DVM

Dr. Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Winter Pet Safety Tips

Winter weather calls for some extra precautions. Here are several reminders

Minimize time outside. Exposure to the cold and wind can cause dry, flaky, chapped and irritated skin and paws. Help protect your pet with a high quality diet and supplemental fish oil.

Upon returning inside, dry your pet’s face and body with a clean, dry, soft towel. Carefully remove snow and ice from his paws and in between toes. If your pet has contacted any rock salt or chemicals, rinse his paws, dry them well and apply protective, soothing essential oils.

Choose a salt-free pet safe product to melt ice on and around your property or where your pet frequents.

Avoid bathing your pet excessively during Winter. Frequent bathing removes protective oils from the coat and can lead to dry, flaky skin. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and fully dry your pet before going out in cold weather.

Brush your pet regularly to stimulate blood circulation and maintain a healthy coat.

Consider a sweater or booties for your pet.

Never leave your pet alone in the car in cold weather.

Never let your dog off of the leash in snow or ice. Be sure he wears identification tags at all times.

Mia Frezzo, DVM Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Protecting your Pet’s Skin in Wintery Weather

Pets’ paws are particularly sensitive. Cold, icy weather can quickly lead to cracks, and irritations. Protect your pet’s paws by applying pure lavender or geranium essential oils twice daily or as often as needed. Lavender is one of the most widely used essential oils for numerous skin conditions. Geranium is soothing to the skinand is very gentle. properties. If your pet has developed chapping or irritation, myrrh essential oil is a good choice.

Although each of the suggested oils may be applied neat (undiluted), it is best to begin by diluting the essential oil of your choice with fractionated coconut oil. Simply massage the fractionated coconut oil with 1-2 drops of essential oil. For added protection, apply an essential oil carrier oil stick directly to the paws by painting it on. Then, massage 1-2 drops of the chosen essential oil onto the paws. The carrier oil will maintain a protective barrier for longer lasting protection. Essential oil carrier sticks are available from AromaTools (http://www.aromatools.com).

Many of you may be concerned about putting oils on your pet’s paws which will then be tracked all over the house, on the bed, couch, chairs, and rugs. Pure essential oils and high quality carrier oils do not stain and are absorbed readily into the skin. For any persistent wounds or actively bleeding injuries, please contact your veterinarian.

Mia Frezzo, DVM Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Essential Oil Tips for Pets and People

Pet and People Tips

Apply protective blend essential oil to the palms of your hands, rub together and inhale deeply. Protective blend will help support healthy fucntion of you nasal passages. Apply 1-2 drops to the bottoms of your feet daily. Rubbing a drop or two of Protective blend on your dog will support his or her immune system, too. As the weather becomes colder, our skin becomes dry and vulnerable. Our dogs feel the change in weather, too, often with dry, cracking paws. Try lavender diluted with fractionated coconut oil to soothe dry skin, discomfort , and insect bites.

Peppermint Fun Facts:

Peppermint packs a punch! One single drop of pure peppermint essential oil is equal to 32 cups of peppermint tea. Counting calories? Sniff peppermint oil during a meal to help you feel full. Study time! Increase alertness by inhaling peppermint deeply or by taking a peppermint beadlet. Simultaneously, your sinuses will open, freeing up your nasal airwaves. Perk up naturally and without caffeine! Smell peppermint from a handkerchief or directly from the bottle for a natural pick-me-up on long drives.

Lemon tricks:

Refresh your laundry: Try adding a few drops of lemon to a damp cloth and add to the dryer instead of dryer sheets. Cleaning tips around the entire house: Polish your furniture with olive oil and a few drops of lemon. Add a few drops of lemon to your dishwater for crystal clean glassware. Clean and purify counter tops with a spray bottle of lemon essential oil, water and vinegar. Banish odors by diffusing lemon. Get it out! Lemon essential oil is excellent for removing permanent marker, sticker residue, even gum from hair! Cheers! Add 1-2 drops of lemon to a glass of water. It’s refreshing and invigorating.

Handy uses for lavender:

Sleep soundly with lavender drops on your pillow, bottoms of your feet and diffused in the bedroom. Incorporate lavender into the children’s bath and bedtime routine by adding 1-2 drops to the bath water and applying 1-2 drops to their feet. Air freshener and more! Keep a spray bottle of lavender and water in the bathroom to dispel odors and cleanse the area. Ouch! Lavender is soothing to skin that has been exposed too long to the elements or just in need of some TLC from daily living.. Splinter solution: Rather than picking at your finger to extract a splinter, add lavender, allow the splinter to swell and slide out. Long day? Pamper your feet by soaking them in a hot foot bath with a few drops of lavender.

Mia Frezzo, DVM Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Your Litter Box and Essential Oils

Many cats and kittens are difficult to medicate, especially once they are aware of their owners’ intent, no matter how benevolent it may be. One technique to influence our cats’ behavior is to add essential oil into the litter box. To do this, add 1-2 drops of chosen essential oil to 1 cup of baking soda. Allow the mixture to rest overnight in a glass jar. Add 1 tablespoon of the mixture of essential oil and baking soda recipe to the litter box daily. The aromatic benefits of the essential oils will be released into the air as your cat steps in the box and paws at the litter.

I recommend providing a second litter box which does not contain essential oils to allow the cats time to acclimate to the new litter box. Once you are sure that your cat is not experiencing any adverse effects, you may remove the untreated litter box or add essential oil to all litter boxes in the home.

Essential oils added to the litter box may be quite beneficial for your feline pet. For example, add a digestive blend for cats to support a healthy digestive system. A nervous or anxious cat may benefit from Lavender added to the litter box, especially when the home may be busy, filled with visitors, or when clients go away on vacation. Choose Cedar to control odors naturally.

Mia Frezzo, DVM

Dr. Mia Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Travel and Anxiety for Your Pet

At the holidays, many pets travel to visit family, friends or to stay at boarding kennels. Many dogs and cats feel anxious about spending even a short time in the car. Others may need to board an airplane during the holidays. Signs of anxiety in pets include vocalization, restlessness, and panting.

Lavender is a powerful and versatile essential oil. Applying or diffusing lavender has been shown to inexpensively, safely and effectively reduce pet anxiety. Simply rub 1-2 drops of lavender or calming blend of essential oils between your hands and pet your dog or cat (use 1 drop for cats). You may also choose to diffuse lavender or calming blend in the home for 30-60 minutes prior to departure. For long drives, a car diffuser is quite handy. Depending on the length of travel and degree of anxiety, some pets may need reapplication of essential oil periodically.

Does your pet have a favorite blanket, bed or toy? Place a few drops of essential oil on the object to comfort your pet. If you are boarding your pet with a boarding facility, family member or friend, see if they would allow you to bring a diffuser to calm your pet while you are away.

Mia Frezzo, DVM
J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2006 Sep 15;229(6):964-7.

Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Probiotics for Your Pet

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacterial supplements available in the form of pills, powders or liquids. These concentrated bacteria are essential to the functioning of the digestive system. The intestines are normally teaming with multiple types of good bacterial organisms. A variety of bacterial organisms greatly aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

When a pet suffers from diarrhea, the bacterial population is depleted by the rapid transit of waste. Antibiotics frequently kill bacteria indiscriminately, meaning the good bacteria is lost as well as the bad bacteria. Thus, a probiotic supplement is very important to replace the lost bacteria and restore a healthy, highly functioning gut.

Interestingly, the immune system is linked to the digestive system. Probiotics given on a daily basis even in the absence of illness and use of antibiotics help to maintain health. I recommend a veterinary probiotic for your pet in addition to a high quality diet to keep him or her healthy.

Mia K. Frezzo, DVM

Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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The Single Most Essential Supplement for Your Pet

The most essential supplement to give your dog or cat is Omega 3 essential fatty acid (EFA) which is also known as fish oil since the greatest source of this nutrient is marine fish. Our bodies and the bodies of our pets cannot make this essential nutrient. Thus, it is essential because it must be obtained from your pet’s diet or supplements.

What do Omega 3 EFA do for us and our pets? Omega 3 fatty acids are recognized as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha linolenic acid). These nutrients reduce inflammation, lessen the onset and severity of osteoarthritis, protect the cardiovascular system and fight cancer. They also support a strong immune system, aid nervous tissue development and maintenance, decrease allergies and improve the skin and coat. Omega 3 EFA play a vital role in reducing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Common sources of Omega 3 EFA are mackerel, herring, salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, trout, sturgeon and cod liver oil. Plant sources of Omega 3 include flaxseed, linseed, canola, walnut and soya oils.

In addition to Omega 3 EFA, Omega 6 essential fatty acids are also required by the body, yet this nutrient is abundant in our diets and in the diets of our pets. Omega 6 EFA is found in meats, eggs, avocado, nuts, cereals, most vegetable oils, safflower, sunflower, soybean, flax and linseed oil. Omega 6 essential fatty acids are comprised of LA (linoleic acid) and AA (arachidonic acid).

Why are EFA’s important? Every cell in the body is dependent on omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids for a healthy cell membrane. Although Omega 6 EFA are important for a healthy coat and skin, too much will leave the pet’s appearance dry, dull and flaky. Excessive Omega 6 can result in poor digestion, poor appetite, food sensitivities and a weakened immune system. On the other hand, too much Omega 3 DHA causes cells to succumb to oxidation and premature aging.

The key to optimal health is a balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids. The ideal ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is 5:1. Diet provides plenty of Omega 6 sources. So, the single best nutritional supplement you can give your dog or cat is a high quality pet Omega 3 supplement.

Mia K. Frezzo, DVM

Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights. She makes house calls while constructing her new, start-of-the-art Hospital. Call 201-288-7800 today.

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Pets do NOT Make Good Gifts

As the holiday season approaches, many families consider adopting, rescuing or purchasing a pet. While the intentions are sincere, a number of factors should be considered. A pet is a large responsibility. Any pet requires financial investment and a time commitment. Pets demand attention, training, veterinary care, grooming, and, in some cases, lifestyle changes. Introducing a puppy in the Winter means housebreaking in the cold weather and often in the dark. Pets do not sleep later on the weekends, and they are happier with a consistent schedule. Prior to bringing a pet into the home, the house should be puppy proofed for safety and ready to accept a pet. Furnishing the home for a pet includes purchasing things like a crate, bowls, toys, litter boxes, a scratching post, leash, collar, caging, bedding, etc.

The most suitable pet should be a good fit for the family. The needs of a puppy, dog, kitten, cat, rabbit or pocket pet differ. Consider the breed of dog or cat in making a selection. Shedding vs. non-shedding in dogs is often a deciding factor in choosing a particular pet or breed. Some dogs are very high energy, demanding lots of exercise and stimulation. For example, a Jack Russell Terrier may not be ideal for an elderly person who is sedentary. Consider the breed’s temperament with children, for example. Evaluate the time the pet may spend alone in the home. Many dogs will become destructive, difficult to train or develop signs of separation anxiety if they do not receive adequate attention. For families who work full time outside of the home, arrangements should be made for a trusted friend, neighbor or pet sitter to let the puppy or dog outside during the day.

Small mammals such as rabbits and pocket pets such as guinea pigs require special diets and housing requirements to be healthy. It is best to research a particular pet by consulting a veterinarian, reading books, and reviewing reputable sites on line before purchasing one. Remember that impulsive decisions are often easy to make once the pet is seen. For once the pet is in front of you, it may be very difficult to say no or to walk away.

Dr. Mia Frezzo, DVM is an established veterinarian with over 15 years of experience based in New Jersey. She will be opening her own animal hospital in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ in 2014.

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Pet Dental Care and Response to 20/20 Segment

Recently, 20/20 broadcast a segment portraying veterinarians as dishonest professionals. Of course, veterinarians and pet owners alike are outraged. I would like to present a discussion of the importance of dental care, the safety of anesthesia and the standard of care expected among veterinary professionals. Standard of care, by definition, is “the level at which the average, prudent provider in a given community would practice. It is how similarly qualified practitioners would have managed the patient’s care under the same or similar circumstances.” The standard of care in veterinary medicine is to recommend annual dental cleanings and oral radiographs (x-rays) for all dogs and cats over 3 years of age.

Dental disease is the most common diagnosis among dogs and cats over three years of age, affecting 85% of patients. When left untreated, dental disease, plaque, tartar and bacteria, lead to irreversible damage to the teeth, gums, and supporting tissues. This damage is called periodontal disease. As dental disease progresses, pets will most commonly have offensive breath, buildup of tartar, redness at the gum line and exhibit signs of pain.

Once present, periodontal disease is irreversible and often leads to tooth loss or extractions. Chronic bacterial infections which develop due to untreated dental disease affect major organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver, and increase your pet’s risk of diabetes. General anesthesia is required to perform these procedures appropriately. Experienced veterinarians use the safest anesthetics and thoroughly evaluate your pet with a complete physical examination and blood work prior to engaging in anesthesia.

Under anesthesia, your pet should be monitored closely by a trained technician and numerous continuous monitors to observe several vital parameters. Anesthesia, properly performed, in the right patient is safe. Anesthesia does not accumulate in your pet’s body over time.

The cost of an annual professional dental cleaning is far less than the cost of tooth extractions, medications and diseases which ensue due to neglect. Pets’ teeth are deeply embedded in bone and require trained oral surgery to extract properly. Additionally, a routine teeth cleaning takes only 20 minutes under anesthesia, while numerous extractions may take hours

Proper dental care will directly extend your pet’s life by up to 25%. The most important steps you may take to protect your pet’s teeth are to visit your veterinarian every 6 months for a thorough examination, perform annual professional dental cleanings with oral x-rays, and practice daily home care through brushing with fluoride-free toothpaste, oral chews and rinses. Our pets are family members, and as such, they deserve the highest quality of medicine, dentistry and surgery available.

Dr. Mia Frezzo, DVM is an established veterinarian with over 15 years of experience based in New Jersey. She will be opening her own animal hospital in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ in 2014.

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What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the volatile, aromatic compounds found in plants. These oils are extracted from the flowers, leaves, stems and bark of the plants and give the plant its characteristic smell. In addition to smelling beautiful, the essential oils are the plants’ defense system. These complex compounds act in many ways to protect the plant from bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.

Pure essential oils may be used in three Essential_Oil_2 ways:

Aromatically- diffused into the air and inhaled
Topically- applied directly to the skin or diluted with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil and absorbed readily
Internally- ingested in a glass of water or in a capsule

Pure, therapeutic grade essential oils, are safe for dogs, cats, children, babies, adults and the elderly. They can be used safely by your family or pets for a variety of wellness applications. However, there are several safety guidelines that you should follow when using essential oils and essential oil products.

Be sure to use only pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils and follow all label warnings and instructions.
Essential oils should not be used in the eyes, inside the ear canal, or in open wounds. In the event of accidental contact with the eye, dilute with vegetable oil NOT water.
Do NOT consume an essential oil internally unless labeled with a Supplement Facts box with specific dietary supplement, use instructions, and warnings.
When using on children, apply a very small amount of the oil to test skin or other sensitivity. Do not use oil on a child’s hand as they may transfer to their eyes or mouth.
Consult your physician/veterinarian before using essential oils if you or your pet are under a doctor’s care, if you are pregnant or have other safety questions regarding essential oils.
If you are taking medication you may want to consult your pharmacist.

Essential oils do not interfere with medications and do not have any side effects. Because essential oils are complex in their chemical makeup, they are impossible to duplicate in a laboratory. And, because of this complexity, each individual oil has several different uses or benefits. For example, lavender is a natural antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, soothing for cuts, scrapes and minor burns and improves the quality of sleep.

Essential oils have been used as remedies for thousands of years and are mentioned over one hundred times in the bible. Now, thanks to advanced science and technology, we have identified the chemical constituents of numerous essential oils and can measure and guarantee the quality of each oil. Pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils offer the most therapeutic value and can be ingested safely.

Please join me on a journey to greater natural health for our pets.

Dr. Mia Frezzo, DVM is an established veterinarian with over 15 years of experience based in New Jersey. She will be opening her own animal hospital in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ in 2014.

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