Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital

Murrayhill Vet Hospital

5 Tips for New Pet Owners

Proper dog and cat care can seem like a big undertaking to someone who has never owned a pet before; however, being a responsible pet owner simply means taking your pet’s needs into account and providing them with what they need to live a happy, healthy life. This requires a little bit of planning and investment, but the unconditional love you will receive from your new pet is well worth the effort!

1.  Proper Equipment
Before you bring your pet home, make sure that you have everything necessary to take care of him or her. This includes food and water bowls, toys, and a pet carrier to get your new pet to and from the vet, as well as a litter box for cats and a collar and leash for dogs.

2.  Food and Water
Your pet needs a regular supply of quality food and fresh water. Make sure to purchase the proper food for your pet’s needs, as animals require different food at different stages of development.

3.  Veterinary Care
Just as humans need periodic visits to the doctor’s office, a pet should be regularly taken to his or her veterinarian for general checkups, vaccinations, and preventative diagnostics. Dogs and cats age seven times faster than humans, so one year for you is really like seven years for your pet. For the best care, seek recommendations by friends and family and select an AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital.

4.  Housetraining
Housetraining your pet can be one of the most frustrating parts of pet ownership, but it is very important to remain patient and be consistent in your efforts. Establishing a routine is the most efficient way to accomplish this.

5.  Spay/Neuter
One of the most important things you can do for the well-being of your pet is to have them spayed or neutered. Not only are you doing your part to fight the pet overpopulation problem, but you will also be able to enjoy the many health benefits associated with sterilizing your pet.

To learn more about caring for your new friend, contact Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital today by calling (503)579-3300, or visit our website at www.murrayhillvethospital.com. As an AAHA-certified facility, we offer preventative, routine, and emergency pet care, as well as boarding and grooming services.

Lost pet……Found!!! – Keep your pet safe with a MICROCHIP FOR JUST $35, now through 9-30-11

Reports show that 10 million dogs and cats are reported lost every year and only 16% of those lost make it back home.

Recently we had a dog brought into Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital by a good Samaritan. The sweet girl was found wandering the streets without any collar or identifying tags. Like most veterinary hospitals, we have a microchip scanner that can quickly check a lost pet for a microchip. Luckily, this dog’s owner had invested in her safekeeping. Her microchip number was traced to a veterinary clinic in California. The owner was quickly located and they were happily reunited within a few hours.

Let Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital help you to keep your pets safe.

From now through September 30th, 2011, we will install a HomeAgain Microchip and complete the online registration for just $35.

Valid for current patients with physical exam in the past 12 months. New patients require a physical exam.

Contact us at 503-579-3300 to schedule your appointment.

New Review for Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital on Yelp

Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital is committed to celebrating and protecting the human animal bond through progressive quality veterinary care in Beaverton, OR.  For more information about Murrayhill Vet Hospital, call (971) 238-0231 to speak with a member of our friendly staff.

Everything You Need to Know About Dog Heat Stroke - by Bob Hamilton

Dogs are not capable of tolerating heat as well as their human counterparts.  Dogs do not have sweat glands and so cannot disseminate heat through sweating as we do.  Their only way of giving off excess heat is through panting - so if the air is warm, they are exchanging warm air with warm air. Heat stroke in dogs is an emergency condition.  Immediate treatment is necessary or your dog may die.   Dogs of all ages can succumb to heat stroke but there are a few factors that increase risk for your pet. Dogs that are overweight have an increased risk as do the brachyocephalic breeds – those with shortened faces such as pugs, boxers, and Bulldogs.  Canines with a double coat and those which have been bred for colder climates are also at higher risk.

One of the main causes of dog heat stroke is leaving them in the car during hot weather.  Also, dogs that exert themselves too much during hot weather may also develop the condition.  If you chain your dog on a concrete run during a hot day, the concrete will absorb the heat and your dog may become overheated.  All dogs must have adequate shade and adequate water during warm weather or they can develop heat stroke.

If your dog has a heat stroke, you will notice him start breathing rapidly and noisily.  His heart rate will increase, his saliva will become thick, and he may vomit.  If you do not treat the dog quickly, he will become progressively worse.  Soon, he will collapse and fall into a coma.  He may die soon after doing so. If you notice the signs of heat stroke, immediately get your dog to shade and immerse in water or hose him down with cool water.   Even with these emergency treatments it is imperative to get your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent brain damage or death.  You can use cool towels with ice cubes and place them on the ears during transport.  The veterinarian will place your dog on IV fluids and closely monitor the cooling process.

There are certain things that you can do to prevent dog heat stroke. Many cases of heatstroke happen when dogs are locked in cars – even with the windows cracked slightly.  Even when outside temperatures are a moderate 70 degrees, the temperature inside a car can quickly climb to more than 110 degrees.  Never leave your dog confined to a hot car on hot days.  Heat stroke in dogs is a very serious condition.  Be sure to contact your veterinarian as quickly as possible if you suspect heat stroke.