July 2016 Mill Pond Mingle Contact Information 215.536.4443 [email protected] Fax: 215.536.5549 2255 Mill Pond Road Quakertown, PA 18951 Hours: Veterinarian Appts, Laser Therapy, Small Animal Rehab, Surgery, Dental Acupuncture, Diagnostic Imaging, Stem Cell Therapy, PennHip Testing By Appointment Only Mon - Sat Daycare: No Appointment Needed Mon - Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Boarding By Appointment Only Drop-off/Pick up Mon - Sat 9:00 - noon or 3:00-6:00pm Sun 4:00 - 6:00 pm www.millpondvetclinic.com There are several reasons your pet may have a hypoactive (underactive) or hyper-active (overactive) thyroid . Because the thyroid affects so many body systems, a thyroid patient can show countless types of symptoms. Like patients with allergies, hypothyroid dogs are frequently itchy, and develop issues directly related to the skin and hair coat, as well as chronic ear infections. Lethargy, weight gain, mental dullness, decrease in activity and/or appetite, and constipation are all indicators of potential hypothyroidism. Fortunately, blood testing for T4 and T3 levels can provide a simple way to diagnose this condition, and a thyroid pill (thyroxizine, thyroxine) can help alleviate the problem. Blood tests should be repeated about a month after beginning treatment, and routinely afterwards to ensure levels remain good and provide the best health for your pup. The 5th most common feline condition reported in 2015 (AAFP) Hyperthyroid cats can be a little more complex. Symptoms may include weight loss, increased urination, increased thirst/drinking, defecating outside the litter box, increased “talking,” restless- ness, vomiting, diarrhea, poor hair coat, and/or unkempt fur. Annual exams and routine bloodwork can help with an early diagnosis, and may indicate a need for further testing. Treatment may include oral or transdermal (topical) medication, radi- oactive iodine, and/or surgical thyroidectomy. Pilots n Paws is one of several organizations which helps get rescued dogs and cats relocated to a new place and a new family. Pilots n Paws is a nation-wide non-profit organization, with approximately 5,000 pilots who volunteer to help get move the animals, sometimes all the way across the country! Long flights are split into legs, with a short break in the middle to let the dogs out and switch airplanes. The website has an excellent video showing how to tether a dog into an airplane (or car!). You can also see pictures and stories about recent flights, request a flight of your own, become a volunteer pilot, or make a donation right from their website: pilotsnpaws.org