Otterkill Animal Hospital
Newsletter Volume 8, October 2006

A new disease test is now available!

We are now able to offer an in-house test that screens for heartworm, Ehrlichia canis, Lyme disease, and Anaplasma phagocytophilium in dogs. Previously, we were able to screen dogs in approximately 10 minutes for only the first three diseases with a test called the 3DX. IDEXX has added anaplasmosis detection to their routine screening test (now called the 4DX). Anaplasmosis phagocytophilium (also known as E. equi) is a tick borne bacteria that puts exposed dogs at risk of becoming sick. Dogs with anaplasmosis can have vague symptoms such as: chronic weight loss, fever, anorexia, enlarged lymph nodes or bleeding abnormalities. Some of these symptoms can go undetected by owners because chronically infected dogs may appear healthy. Treatment can involve antibiotics such as doxycycline. We are excited to be utilizing this new technology to help combat the ever growing number of endemic diseases in our area. Just a reminder to keep up those tick control preventative measures!

Good luck Vicky!
Our best wishes go out to our receptionist Vicky who unfortunately is leaving us to resume her college career in pursuit of a law degree. She's been a great help to us and we all wish her well.

Receptionist Position Open.
We therefore are in need of a receptionist once again. If you or anyone you know is interested, please apply online through our website via the following link: http://www.otterkill.com/jobs.htm

Managing the costs of veterinary care.
We understand the substantial financial responsibilities involved in providing proper care for your companion animals. You can always rest assured that we are doing our best to minimize your costs as much as feasible. We always want to help you provide the best for your companions.

We are now participating in a program with an outside financing company to help you manage your veterinary costs. Basically, they function as a health care credit card for your companion's veterinary care. Some physician and dental offices may accept this card also. Visit www.carecredit.com for further information or contact our office manager Lauren through staff@otterkill.com to apply for this card prior to your next visit. Many of our clients find their easily set up payment plans to be very convenient.

Several new pet health insurance plans have now come on the market. We gladly participate in all of them, but do not necessarily recommend one in particular. Many clients find these as another helpful way to manage veterinary care costs, particularly in the event of an emergency or serious illness. You can find some information about specific plans at www.petshealthplan.com, www.petinsurance.com, or www.petcareinsurance.com among others.

Please remember that we do not provide in-house charging and that fees are needed at the time of service. The above financial assistance programs may make that easier for you.

Halloween Tips:
We hope you have fun this season but remember a few helpful tips:

• Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so make sure that candy's in a safe place.
• Keep decorations out of reach of your curious companions.
• Make sure that any lit candles are in a safe area where pets can't knock them over.
• Stay out of the paths of black cats.