Everything you need to know about keeping your best friend healthy and happy

New World Screwworm

The Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam is a 24/7 solar-powered live stream operated by the Friends of Big Bear Valley, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Located 145 feet up in a Jeffrey Pine tree in the San Bernardino National Forest at 7,100 feet elevation above Big Bear Lake, it offers a real-time window into a wild bald eagle habitat.

Did your baby have a accident on the rug try this

 DIY Solution (If you don't have an enzyme cleaner on hand)

1. Mix 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap.

2. Mist the solution lightly onto the affected area and let it sit for about 5 minutes.

3. Soak up the liquid by blotting it with a dry towel or vacuuming with a wet-dry extractor. 

Over-The-Counter Medications

Used correctly, OTC's may help to ease your pet's symptoms. OTC (over-the-counter) means you don't need a prescription but it doesn't automatically mean it's safe for your pet. Some human OTC medications are toxic to pets.  Call us before starting any medical therapy, to discuss your options.  If you've tried an OTC prior to veterinary treatment be sure to let us know, as this will help to make an accurate diagnosis.  As with all illnesses, persistent symptoms warrant a trip to the veterinarian.

DO NOT GIVE

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen (Aleve)
Antidepressants (Effexor, Cymbalta, Prozac, Lexapro)|
ADD/ADHD meds  (Aderall, Ritalin, Concerta)
Sleep Aids (Ambien, Lunesta, Xanax, Klonopin Imodium

PEPTO-BISMOL:  upset stomach

Can be administered to dogs (never cats!) with upset stomach or vomiting.  Give one teaspoon per 20 pounds of weight every 6-8 hours for up to 24 hours.  It is best to fast your dog during this treatment (but always allow access to fresh water.) 

Diphenydramine (BENADRYL)  allergic reactions

Benadryl is an antihistamine that helps relieve swellings and itching from allergic reactions.  Benadryl is very safe and effective for bee stings and other sudden allergic reactions.  (There are much more effective medications for chronic skin allergies in dogs.)  The dose is up to one milligram for every pound of body weight.  (Although safe to use, Benadryl is not very effective in cats, and other antihistamines are more commonly prescribed.)  Ask us about Apoquel.

ASPIRIN  pain/inflammation

Although buffered aspirin can be given short term to dogs to help relieve inflammation and pain, there are much safer NSAIDS (non steroidal anti-inflammatories) available.  If you choose to give your dog aspirin for a dose or two, make sure you use BUFFERED aspirin and always give with a full meal.

Cats - DO NOT GIVE.  Very rarely (only after having a heart ultrasound/echocardiogram) a veterinary cardiologist may prescribe an extremely low dose aspirin regimen for cats with a high risk of cardiac embolism.  Never give aspirin to a cat that is not under the care of a veterinary cardiologist.

Dimenhydrinate (DRAMAMINE)  motion sickness

Dramamine is an antihistamine that prevents motion sickness.  Although safe, we have more effective medications available.  Ask us about Cerenia.

Cimetidine (TAGAMET) Famotidine (PEPCID) Ranitidine (ZANTAC)    upset tummy/acid reflux

Reduces the amount of stomach acids and can be dispensed to dogs and cats suffering from ulcers, acid reflux or belly ache. Sometimes they are used to prevent ulcers in animals taking other medications. These medications are given once to twice daily. It's best to discuss the exact dosage with your veterinarian.

HYDROCORTISONE  itchy skin

Can help to relieve itchy, raw or irritated skin. It can be used topically to reduce itching from hives, hot spots, and insect bites and stings. Apply a small amount up to two times daily.

Simethicome (GAS-X) 

Simethicone is used in dogs to help with unusual flatulence or gas discomfort. Any dog suspected of Bloat should get 2 doses immediately before transport to the Emergency Clinic.  

GLUCOSAMINE

Glucosamine (and glucosamine in combination with chondroitin sulfate) is used to treat joint pain associated with arthritis. This is a long term treatment and its effects may not be immediately noticeable.

ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENTS: 

Are helpful in the treatment of small wounds, bites or minor infections.  Always thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water first.

ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP: 

Can be use to clean any wound or injury. 

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE: 

1 - 10 teaspoons given orally can be used to induce vomiting in dogs.  (See toxicities.)  Never induce vomiting unless being directed to by a veterinarian.  If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.  Hydrogen peroxide is not as effective to clean wounds as antibacterial soap and water.

 NASAL SPRAYS: 

Saline nasal spray and pediatric nasal sprays (Little Noses) can be given in kittens, cats, puppies, and dogs to alleviate dryness and nasal congestion associated with a cold.  No other type of OTC nasal medication should be used unless prescribed by 

Small changes make a differance

Making small changes to your pet's routine can add years to their life and save you some major vet bills down the road. You don't have to overhaul your entire schedule to make a big difference.

Here are four simple, high-impact health adjustments you can start making today.

Simple Upgrades for Pet Health

Ditch the "Eyeballed" Meals

It is incredibly easy to accidentally overfeed a pet. A few extra kibbles a day can slowly lead to weight gain, which puts massive stress on their joints and organs.

Stop using a random plastic cup to scoop food. Use a literal, standard measuring cup or—even better—a digital kitchen scale to get the exact portion your vet recommends.

Swap Processed Treats for Whole Foods

Many store-bought treats are packed with fillers, artificial preservatives, and empty calories.

Swap them out for fresh, pet-safe whole foods. Many dogs love crunchy baby carrots, green beans, or blueberry pops made by freezing blueberries in a bit of water or plain bone broth.

Elevate Their Water Game

Standing water in a plastic bowl can collect bacteria quickly, and some pets (especially cats) instinctively prefer moving water because it signals "freshness" in the wild.

Wash their bowls daily. If you have a cat or a picky dog, consider switching to a stainless steel or ceramic water fountain to encourage them to drink more and stay hydrated.

The 30-Second Dental Wipe

Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common diagnosed conditions in adult pets, and it can eventually affect their heart and kidneys.

While brushing with pet toothpaste is best, if your pet fights the toothbrush, start small. Wrap a piece of gauze around your finger or use a pet dental wipe to quickly swipe the outside of their teeth a few times a week.

When making any dietary changes—even just adding fresh veggies as treats—introduce them slowly, one at a time, to make sure your pet's stomach handles them well