Newsletter - May 2023
Time flies when you're having fun!
Congratulations to Dr. Louër, who's celebrating 40 years as a veterinarian! Thanks for all you do to keep the pets of West Milford looking and feeling their best! Keep up the good work!
Choosing a job you love means you'll never work a day in your life !
Memorial Day Safety Tips
As the unofficial kickoff to summer, Memorial Day is a great time to get outdoors and celebrate with your family and friends, including the four-legged ones. Whether you're barbecuing, traveling or soaking up some sun, it's important to factor your pet's safety into your plans.
Party Smartly
One of the most popular Memorial Day activities, barbecuing brings with it a variety of potential dangers for your pets, including citronella torches, grills and an array of food and drinks. Be sure to keep alcoholic beverages away from your fur babies, and remind guests not to feed them any table scraps, especially raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and avocado.
Mind the Pool
While many dogs are capable swimmers, never leave your pets unsupervised around a pool or a lake. If your pet seems like they would enjoy swimming, introduce them to water slowly and make sure they always wear flotation devices while boating. Also, pool water contains a number of chemicals, such as chlorine, that can cause burns to the mouth, throat and stomach, so be sure to keep your dog from drinking pool water.
Stash the Spray
Unless it's specifically designed for pets, insect repellent and sunscreen can be toxic to animals. Signs of toxicity include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The common human insecticide DEET may also cause neurological issues in dogs.
Keep Cool
If you're spending time outside, make sure your pets have plenty of fresh, clean water, and a shady place for them to get out of the sun. Animals with flat faces, such as Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, as well as the elderly, overweight or those who have heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.
Have IDs Ready
Be sure your pet has a collar and ID tag with identifying information or a microchip implanted or both, as the risk of curious pets escaping increases with time spent outdoors and visitors they may be unfamiliar with.
Pet-Proof the Car
If you're planning to travel Memorial Day weekend, never leave your pet unattended in the car and pet-proof your vehicle to keep them from ingesting any personal items, like gum or medications.
Frozen watermelon dog treats!
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but helps freshen breath)
Directions:
- Add the watermelon and yogurt to a blender or food processor. Blend or process until combined and completely smooth. Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Fill a silicone mold or ice cube tray with the mixture.
- Place the molds in the freezer until solid (at least 3 hours or overnight).
- Gently release frozen treats from mold and indulge your pup's sweet tooth!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer.
