NEWS

 

In her column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner addresses a reader's concerns about a puppy losing its baby teeth. This is a good time to acclimate a pup to having its mouth opened and examined, as good oral health is an important component of a dog's overall health and contributes to its longevity. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like one of our veterinarians to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses ways to keep your pet safe during car rides. No matter how well behaved your pet is, the unexpected can always occur during a car ride, causing potential harm to both you and your pet. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like one of our veterinarians to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

This week, Dr. Marianne Bailey answers a reader's question about creating harmony when all members of a multi-cat household don't get along. She suggests a few alternatives for helping each feline feel secure in the house while learning to live with their housemates. You can read Dr. Bailey's complete column for The Capital here. Do you have a question you'd like one of our veterinarians to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner addresses the issues faced by owners of backyard chickens and the common problem of external parasites. She offers advice for treating both the chickens and their living environment. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her column for The Capital this week, Dr. Rattner discusses how to housebreak your new puppy. Many puppies find their new homes exciting and some can take longer than others to catch on to being housebroken. Dr. Rattner offers solid tips for positive reinforcement training. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about how to make visiting the vet less stressful for her cat. A recent study revealed that the majority of cat owners felt their pets were stressed out going to the vet. Dr. Rattner gives tips for things you can do at home in preparation for your cat's visit as well as once you've arrived at the office. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses the different types of eye discharge that affects dogs. Specific testing allows your veterinarian to determine the cause and proper treatment. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her latest Ask a Vet column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner addresses why dogs lick people. The behavior has its roots in puppyhood and can continue into adulthood for a myriad of reasons. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's Ask a Vet column, Dr. Rattner discusses one of the most common problems in dogs - chronic ear infections.  You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her Ask a Vet column this week for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses pets and breast cancer, which is known in veterinary medicine as mammary cancer. She explains why pets are susceptible to this disease, the diagnostics involved and the possible treatments. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her column for The Capital this week, Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about treating a dog diagnosed with heartworms. She explains the cause of heartworms, as well as the recommended treatment. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's Ask a Vet column, Dr. Rattner discusses the possible pet choices when family members have allergies to cats or dogs. While it may seem limiting, it can actually open a world of caring and understanding for exotic companion animals. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her Ask a Vet column this week, Dr. Rattner explores the possible reason for a cat's sudden change in sleeping patterns. While cats are nocturnal, owners should be aware of the subtle shifts in a pet's sleeping habits that may indicate that a vet visit is in order. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about the effects of vaccines on pets. There are some reactions which are normal and others which are of a more immediate concern for which you should seek additional veterinary care for your pet. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

This week, Dr. Rattner discusses how to recognize the symptoms of bloat in dogs, as well as it's treatment. You can read the complete column here to familiarize yourself with this potentially life-threatening condition. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

Take a moment and vote for South Arundel as Best Veterinarian in Bay Weekly's 2011 Best of the Bay. Follow this link (look for the crab logo) to complete the online ballot. (At least 12 local categories must be voted for to deter ballot stuffing, per the good folks at Bay Weekly) Thank you for your support!

 

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses how to recognize the signs of asthma in cats, the possible ways to diagnose the condition and the types of treatment often prescribed. You can read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses the benefits of early obedience training for your dog. Paying particular attention to early socialization and training gives your pet a jump on growing up happy and well-adjusted. Read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about whether her cat can transmit tapeworms to her dog or children. She explains how the pet contracts the parasite and the most common type of treatment. Read the complete column here. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

Merrick Pet Care has issued a recall of their Doggie Wishbone treats due to possible Salmonella contamination. The affected treat is Item #29050, Lot 11031, Best By 30 Jan 2013. Check the FDA's recall page for complete details. Exercise caution in handling possibly affected treats and if your pets have consumed these treats monitor them for lethargy, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Contact your pet's veterinarian if these symptoms are exhibited.

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner covers the basics of beginning to crate train your puppy. A gradual approach most often leads to your puppy's successful acclimation to a crate environment. Check out this week's column for a few basic exercises to get you and your pet on the road to success. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column in The Capital? Click here to submit your question.

Purina has issued a voluntary recall of their One Vibrant Maturity dry cat food for possible Salmonella contamination. Visit Purina's press room for complete recall details. As always, if you suspect that your pet has consumed this product and begins to exhibit signs of ill health, please contact your cat's veterinarian immediately.

Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about her recently adopted dog's aggressive behavior. She addresses the importance of ruling out possible health issues that can cause this behavior, as well as ways to assess a pet's triggers. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column in The Capital? Click here to submit your question.

Every month the staff of South Arundel has chosen a Pet of the Month winner from photos submitted by our clients. We've decided to open the voting up to everyone who visits and "Likes" our Facebook page. Check out the current entries in the Pet of the Month album, "like" your favorite and we'll tally the winner from your votes each month. The winner is featured on our website, receives a $25 credit on account and bragging rights. Cast your vote today!

If you haven't submitted your pet's photo yet for Pet of the Month, what are you waiting for? Simply email your favorite photo to info@southarundelvet.com.  

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner investigates the various causes for a dog's uncontrolled urination. Read her tips for determining whether your pet is exhibiting this behavior due to excitement or if there is a submissive component. Once the cause has been determined, you can work with your veterinarian to create viable behavior modifications to your pet's behavior. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column in The Capital? Click here to submit your question.

This week, Dr. Rattner explores the possible reasons for the sudden death of a seemingly fine dog. The loss of a pet is always traumatic and when the circumstances are unforeseen the loss can be all the harder to comprehend. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column in The Capital? Click here to submit your question.

This week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses hot spots which are technically known as acute moist dermatitis. The origins can be many, from insect bites to impacted anal sacs. Read the column to learn more about the possible causes and the most common forms of treatment. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses why tapeworms may actually be present even when the stool analysis lab test result indicates "no parasites seen." She explains the reason for this confusing scenario and the steps you should take once you have visual proof of the tapeworm's presence. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

Primal Pet Foods has issued a voluntary recall of their Feline Chicken & Salmon nugget formula in 4-pound bags for possible Salmonella contamination. The affected food has a "Best by" date code of 043112-17. No other Primal Pet Foods products are affected. To date, no human or pet illnesses have been reported; this is a voluntary recall. Please visit the manufacturer's website for further details.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner examines some of the possible causes of inappropriate elimination in a cat in new surroundings. A cat can begin this behavior for many reasons - physical, emotional or behavioral. A thorough examination by your pet's veterinarian can rule out physical causes and get your pet on the path to overcoming this behavior. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses the optimal way to deal with your dog's intact baby teeth. She outlines why baby teeth often remain intact after the permanent teeth have appeared, why it is necessary to address them and the possible problems that can occur if left untreated. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

Managing your pet's medication schedules can feel like a job in itself. This critical task has just been made easier with the Remind My Pet medication reminder service. The service can provide reminders to you via email, text message or mobile app for Apple devices. Multiple pets and multiple medications can be reminded through this free service. Sign up today and never forget another medication time!

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses why it is important for your vet to examine your pet's abscesses. The doctor can determine if the lump is an abscess, tumor or cyst and then proceed to treat accordingly. Timely treatment can prevent more serious conditions from developing and get your pet on its way to optimal wellness. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question. 

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner addresses the physical and psychological origins of repeat licking. Pets who repeatedly lick the same spot until it becomes sore can be responding to an emotional cause or an underlying physical cause. Consult your veterinarian to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner discusses the reasons your formerly fit feline may be gaining weight and some possible solutions. "Cutting back" food without precise calorie calculation can be dangerous for cats; consult your pet's veterinarian for help in calculating the correct amount. Keeping your kitty at a healthy weight not only contributes to their current quality of life, but can help stave off future problems caused by obesity. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to answer in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

 

Vote for South Arundel in The Capital's Readers Choice Awards 2011

Basketball has March Madness and local Annapolis businesses have The Capital's Readers Choice Awards. We were finalists last year; help us get bragging rights this year in the Best Veterinary Center category! You can vote online by clicking here or look for your paper ballot in The Capital and return it directly to them. The deadline for voting is Sunday, April 10th, 2011. We appreciate your vote!

 

 

Ask a Vet - Dogs and Thunderstorms

In this week's column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner explores ways to help your dog deal with thunderstorm anxiety. There are numerous techniques which you may want to acquaint your pet with before we're in heavy thunderstorm season. There are numerous ways - medical, behavioral and holistic - to ease your pet's fears. Consult your pet's veterinarian for the most appropriate treatment for your pet. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to address in a future column? Click here to submit your question.

 

Remember Your Pet's Heartgard - There's an App for That!

Iphone users now have an app to remind them when their pet's next dose of Heartgard is due. Download your app today and keep your pet on schedule!

 

 

Ask a Vet - The Subtle Signs of Diabetes in Dogs

In her latest column for The Capital, Dr. Rattner answers a reader's question about her fairly young dog's death due to diabetic ketoacidosis. She addresses the different types of diabetes, their diagnosis and the changes a pet experiences as the disease progresses. Do you have a question you'd like Dr. Rattner to address in a future column? Click here to submit your question.