How To Be An Informed Owner

Since we discussed arthritis last week, I thought this would be a good time to remind perspective puppy owners to consider potential problems when interviewing  your breeder.  We all instantly fall in love with that cute little eight-week-old, but we must remember that before we take that pup home, we want to minimize future health issues.  What it all comes down to is researching and knowing the breed you want before you see the puppy.  For breeds that are prone to hip and elbow displasia, you want to ask the breeder for the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) test results (http://www.offa.com/).  If the parents have bad hips, then the likelihood is high that the offspring will also have poor hips.  If the parents have allergies, the offspring have an increased likelihood of developing allergies.

By researching the breed of dog you want, you can learn which diseases to check for and which breeds commonly have tests for them.  As an example, when I looked at a litter of Golden Retriever puppies, I asked about the OFA status of the hips and elbows as well as whether the eyes had been examined by an ophthalmologist to be sure they were free of congenital abnormalities.  Many good Golden Retriever breeders will have the thyroid tested and heart checked for congenital abnormalities.  I also ask about allergies.  These answers will not guarantee health, but will lessen the chances that my little one will develop these problems in the future.  Also, don't forget to consider the mother's behavioral disposition.  A less trusting, fearful mother will likely have cautious pups.  So, enjoy the pup you get, but make sure you try to avoid the common issues your special breed may acquire. 

"What it all comes down to is researching

and knowing the breed you want before

you see the puppy."

Todd Whitney, DVM

Ready to Adopt a Sweet Little Furball?

So you want to get a new puppy or kitten?  Sure, who doesn't?  Have you done your research?

When you choose a new family member, it is important that you sit down and define your lifestyle.  Active families are suited for active dogs.  Quiet and reserved families are suited for less active dogs.  What about size?  Do you have a big enough house and yard for a larger breed dog such as a Saint Bernard, or do you have an apartment suited for a smaller breed like a dachshund?  Breed research is the key to deciding which breed of dog would best be suited for your family.

With kittens, most of us adopt from a shelter or a private home.  If this is the case, how active is the kitten when you view it?  Does it appear unhealthy?  Is it sneezing, eating, etc?  Even sick puppies and kittens need a home, but are you prepared to provide the proper care that kitten or puppy will need once you adopt or purchase it?

If you do not wish to adopt a dog in need from a rescue organization or a shelter and want a specific breed, please be aware of that breeds health predisposition and insist on health certifications of the parents in the form of OFA/PennHip/CERF certificates.  The same recommendations apply for pure bred cats-research the breed.  Certain cat breeds are known to be reclusive; others can be very social.  Some breeds, such as Maine Coons, have friendlier and calmer tendencies, while some Abyssinian's may be extremely vocal and flighty.  Conducting your research before acquiring a dog or cat can help to ensure that this new family member remains a family member in good standing for its lifetime. 

We look forward to meeting your new cat or dog soon!

Stephanie Severson, CVT