NEWSLETTERS

Hawaii was all it has been advertised. The active volcano,waterfalls,clear water snorkeling, heliocopter ride, good food, the contrast of the rain forest side of the island and the dry volcanic lava side, all great. Recommend the visit. The entire family minus the Bob and Michelle family were there (4 month old Joshua precluded their attending.) Still trying to get the pictures together.

Mother and I are proud to announce the acceptance of Dr. Marjorie Williams into the post graduate school of veterinary clenical pathology. She joins her husband Mathew who is in his 2^nd. year .

I’m getting lazy in my old age so excerpts from previous newsletters are still applicable.

Make arrangements for boarding. Kennels fill quickly. As anyone who lives on the island knows, they want you to evacuate until after the hurricane passes. If you are leaving town, make sure your motel accommodations will accept pets.
Have adequate medication for the pet if it is on a maintenance prescription. . Finding a pharmacy open during a storm might be difficult. A 5-day supply would suffice.
Tranquilizers might be a good idea for those pets that have trouble with storms as well as those who suffer from separation anxiety syndrome. The kennel owner would appreciate being aware of these conditions and the medication left with the dog.

4. Many pet owners elect to ride out the storm in their own home. Decide on a safe location for the pet and have an ample food and water supply (4-5 days). A large cage would be a good idea. Provide an area big enough for the pet’s normal body requirements.

It’s summer time and the mullet are jumping. Also the sun is shining and the temperature is rising.

HEAT STROKE!!!! The newspapers tell us that there have already been human fatalities. Take heed. Provide plenty of shade and water and avoid excess physical activity for our pets during the hottest time of the day. Never leave a pet in a closed car. Cracking the windows an inch or two isn’t good enough. Even five minutes can be fatal under the right circumstances. Symptoms of heat stroke can include heavy breathing, salivation, collapse, hot skin and coat. Rectal temperatures will exceed 103 degrees F. These symptoms can rapidly progress to coma, shock and ultimately - death.

If your pet begins to exhibit symptoms of heat stroke here’s what you should do: The pet should be cooled gradually by applying cool water to the skin and providing a good airflow. The temperature should be reduced gradually over a 15-20 minute period since rapid temperature reduction can cause shock. Avoid iced water applications and do not place the pet in front of a cold air conditioner. Air-conditioned rooms are ok.

A 75-80 degree swimming pool helps. Just remember, dropping the temperature too rapidly can do harm. Transport the pet to the Veterinarian as soon as possible for supportive treatment- fluids, cortisone for shock, etc.