March 21, 2008
Protecting Your Pet from Pesky Parasites
Sarah Dowling and Dr. Amy Fischer
Happy Spring! It is time once again to make sure we are all taking measures to protect our four-legged friends from fleas and heartworms.
February 29, 2008
Here's to a Longer, Healthier Life
Ashley Mitek and Dr. Amy Fischer
It is estimated that eight million cats and dogs enter animal shelters each year. Half of the animals are adopted, while the rest are euthanized. Spaying and neutering can prevent this sad situation, as well as help your pet live a healthier, longer life.
February 8, 2008
Pet Blood Donation
Sarah Dowling and Dr. Amy Fischer
While not as widely known as its human counterpart, pet blood donation is an essential resource for veterinarians and their patients. Blood transfusions are used by veterinarians to treat a wide variety of ailments, from acute trauma to life-threatening autoimmune diseases.
January 25, 2008
Winter Weather Tips
Sarah Dowling
For much of the nation, Mother Nature has doled out some seriously cold temperatures this winter, and this is reason for all of us to take extra precautions on behalf of our animal companions. Pets can encounter many cold weather related hazards ranging from antifreeze consumption to hypothermia.
January 3, 2008
Celebrating animal shelters in 2008
Dr. Amy Fischer, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Make a New Year's resolution to learn more about the history and services of your local animal shelter. Don’t know where your nearest shelter is? Just plug in your zip code at pets911.com.
December 14, 2007
Holiday precautions for pet lovers
Sarah Dowling
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget that our celebrations can pose potential hazards to our pets. Learn more about toxic plants and other holiday hazards at www.aspca.org/apcc.
Sarah Dowling is a veterinary medical student at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Amy Fischer is a Teaching Associate in the Department of Animal Sciences.
November 30, 2007
Osteosarcoma and lymphoma
Ashley Mitek
Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and lymphoma (a disorder of white blood cells) are the most common types of cancer in dogs. But thanks to the efforts of two veterinary oncologists at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, these evil enemies of our four legged family members have a tough battle ahead.
Ashley Mitek is a veterinary medical student at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Amy Fischer is a Teaching Associate in the Department of Animal Sciences.
November 16, 2007
Turkey temptation
Ashley Mitek
Thanksgiving carries several potential risks for our furry friends. Most incidents involve guests feeding pets too much human food, sharing foods that are toxic to pets, or accidentally letting the pet outside. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure that the holiday is safe and enjoyable for ALL members of the family…including the ones with four legs.
Ashley Mitek is a veterinary medical student at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Amy Fischer is a Teaching Associate in the Department of Animal Sciences.
October 19, 2007
Shape Up, Pup!
Ashley Mitek
The University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital has created a program to counter the increasing number of overweight pets in the United States. Shape Up, Pup! is a program run by veterinary surgeon Dr. Ann Johnson, and Kim Knap, a certified veterinary technician and canine rehabilitation practitioner. The experts at Shape up, Pup! meet with you and your dog to tailor a weight loss plan that fits your needs.
Ashley Mitek is a veterinary medical student at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Amy Fischer is a Teaching Associate in the Companion Animal Biology and Humane Education program, Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, pets.ansci.uiuc.edu/outreach. Lyrics of Wild Kitty (podtrailer) and Cat’s Chasing Butterflies (podintro) by Marc Gunn, www.catdrinkingsongs.com; All music is traditional.
October 5, 2007
Degenerative joint disease
Dr. Amy Fischer, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degenerative joint disease is a condition in which arthritic changes following a primary problem in a joint lead to intermittent lameness. Moderate exercise and weight management are essential tools in helping dogs minimize the effects of degenerative joint disease.
Dr. Amy Fischer is a Teaching Associate in the Companion Animal Biology and Humane Education program, Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, pets.ansci.uiuc.edu/outreach. Lyrics of Wild Kitty (podtrailer) and Cat’s Chasing Butterflies (podintro) by Marc Gunn, www.catdrinkingsongs.com; All music is traditional.
