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Dr. Schaedler’s Spring Pet Peeve
We all appreciate a beautiful, warm, sunny day and fresh spring breezes. But the moment is ruined for me, when a car speeds by with a dog’s head hanging out the window – jowls and ears flapping. So unsafe. So irresponsible.
The risks to the dog’s health are usually minor with most concern to irritation of the eyes – conjunctivitis and corneal abrasions. But, the consequences can be tragic. I lost a patient who fell out the open car window and dragged to death on the end of his leash. I knew a handsome yellow lab, who enjoyed riding in the open bed of his dad’s truck. For some reason he chose to jump out while the truck was in motion, suffering fatal injuries.
My suggestions for safe warm weather car rides:
· Open the window an inch – just enough to let your dog put his nose to the breeze and catch all the exciting scents blowing by.
· Dog goggles and a secure seat belt harness for convertible passengers.
· Small dogs should travel in a crate securely fastened to the seat.
· Dogs should never ride loose in an open pickup bed.
I wish my patients all a happy, healthy and safe spring!
We're growing!
We are happy to have new patients join our practice every day. We are still absolutely committed to providing the best quality care for all of our patients - old and new. This can be challenging as our appointment schedule books up and the phones are busier. Some tips for avoiding frustration:
 Take advantage of contacting us by petmail. Request appointments and prescription refills through your pet portal.
 You may also reach us by regular email, northtownanimals@msn.com.
Schedule routine wellness and follow up exams a couple of weeks in advance when you have the best selection of appointment times to fit your needs.
When you call with a medical concern that needs immediate attention, be as flexible as possible. We will be trying to find space in an already full schedule that allows the Dr. time to tend to your pet between other patients.
If you have a less urgent problem and a very flexible schedule, ask to be placed on our cancellation list. Sometimes openings arise at the last moment.
Finally, we appreciate your understanding when we ask you to wait while we attend to unexpected emergencies and ill patients.
As always, we remain fully committed to providing the best quality, individualized, and compassionate veterinary care for your pets!
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