Best Anaheim Veterinarian

Anaheim Veterinarian Tips

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In honor of National Rescue Day, we wanted to provide everyone with the resources to adopt a new best friend for life! There are millions of dogs and cats in need of loving homes in the US and we encourage anyone who is looking for a pet to take in a rescue instead of purchasing from a breeder or store.


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May 9, 2019 Pet Care

As the weather begins to warm up and we approach the summer months, our first instinct is often to get outside and enjoy the hot weather! However, it is extremely important to remember that just because we want to be outside does not mean our pets do. To keep your pets healthy and cool this summer, follow these tips!


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May 9, 2019 CatsUncategorized

If you haven’t had your cat spayed, there’s a definite possibility that she can become pregnant, even as a house cat. Unlike dogs, many owners allow their cats to roam around the neighborhood at their own leisure if their cats are able to navigate the streets and return home regularly. Cats are also much smaller and often have an easier time “escaping” home by climbing out of windows or sliding through doors. Obviously, we can’t spend all our time regulating our cats’ activities, but we also can’t ignore them if and when they become pregnant! Here’s what to do if your cat is expecting!


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March 27, 2019 Dogs

Most dog foods are made with ingredients like meat, poultry, fish, grains, vegetable oils, and added vitamins and minerals. Ideally, these ingredients should provide enough nutrients for dogs to live a long and healthy life on kibble alone; however, our veterinary team encourages owners to incorporate other foods into their pets’ diets, too. Not only will this combat taste fatigue, dogs can benefit from eating a variety of foods and gain more nutrients that aren’t always available in regular dog food.

Pet owners often associate dogs as carnivorous animals. While dogs do need more protein, they’re actually omnivores with the capacity to eat fruits and vegetables as well. Since their food is already high in protein, treating your dog to fresh produce occasionally can be a nice change of pace. Not only are fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals, they have a high water and fiber content. It is important to note that dogs cannot eat all the fruits and vegetables that humans can, owners should be careful when they’re feeding their pets new foods.

Since there are so many fruits and vegetables, our veterinary experts at Brookhurst Animal have compiled a comprehensive list of fruits and vegetables that dogs can eat. Next time you have some scraps leftover, check if your dog might enjoy it first! Chances are, it may not only be edible for canines but also a delicious treat.

Vegetables

Leafy Greens & Cruciferous Vegetables

Though dogs can consume some raw vegetables, keep in mind that they only have canine teeth, so it can be difficult for them to grind crunchy greens up on their own. If you notice your dog struggling to chew, cut up or cook their vegetables before you serve them to your pet. Too much indigestible fiber can also cause bloating or gas, so be conscious of portion sizes.

  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Cabbage
  • Collard greens
  • Arugula
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Brussel sprouts

Root Vegetables

Dogs have different digestive systems than humans and they struggle to digest sugars as easily as we do. Since root vegetables are high in sugar, it can take a lot of energy for your dog to digest them. If you still want you pet to benefit from the carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamins, and sterols that these veggies provide, cook them and serve them in small amounts. This will make it easier to digest for your pooch. Here are some popular root vegetables dogs can eat:

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Carrots
  • Turnips
  • Beets
  • Yuca

Unlike the veggies listed above, onions and garlic are toxic to dogs. If you keep them around to for your own cooking, make sure they’re safely stowed away where your pets can reach them.

Beans, Stems, Pods, Grains, & Fruit Vegetables

Vegetables are chock full of water, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They’re especially refreshing for dogs during the summer when it gets really hot. At Brookhurst Animal, we have tons of patients who love eating zucchini or cucumber! Just remember to slice up the vegetables before serving them, so they’re not choking hazards. Corn needs to be removed from the cob to keep puppies from choking.

  • Zucchini
  • Cucumber
  • Corn
  • Pumpkin
  • Squash
  • Asparagus
  • Celery

Dogs can also eat certain nightshade vegetables, like tomatoes and eggplants, but only in small quantities. These vegetables contain solanine, a substance that can be harmful when it’s excessively consumed by dogs.

Fruits

Berries

Fruit is known as nature’s candy because it’s so sweet and delicious. Berries, in particular, are a quick and easy snack because they don’t need to be peeled or chopped. Here are a few types of berries that your dog can enjoy with you next time:

  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Blackberries
  • Cranberries

Not all berries are ideal for our furry friends, though. Raspberries should be eaten in moderation because they have high amounts of xylitol, a natural sweetener that can be toxic to dogs in high doses. Berries with pits or seeds should be avoided because dogs can accidentally swallow them, leading to health complications. A notable berry offender is the grape! Not only do most grapes have large seeds, they can also lead to kidney failure even when eaten in small amounts.

Tropical fruit

Take your pet to puppy paradise with these delicious tropical fruits. Just remember, most of them do need to be prepared by opening, peeling, cutting, etc, before your dog can enjoy. It’s also best to eat these fruits fresh because the canned versions can be saturated in sugar, causing stomach upset

  • Coconut
  • Pineapple
  • Mango
  • Apricots
  • Dragon fruit
  • Kiwi

Citric fruits like grapefruit, lemons, or limes can irritate your dog’s stomach, so they’re not the best choice for pets. Another “tropical” fruit that dogs definitely can’t have is the avocado. They contain persin, a fungicidal toxin, that can be poisonous to dogs. So as much as your pups want to  participate, definitely keep them away from the salsa and guac on taco night!

Household Fruits

Since berries and tropical fruits can be more difficult to buy (especially out of season) and preserve, most people don’t usually have them on hand. Below are the most common fruits that dogs can eat:

  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Watermelon

Feeding your dog juicy, fibrous foods isn’t just beneficial for your dog, it can be helpful for owners, too! Certain fruits, like apples, can clean the teeth naturally and reduce unpleasant “dog breath”. They can also regulate your dog’s digestion and bowel movements by incorporating moving fiber through the body.

Remember, not all animals are the same. One dog may love eating cucumbers while another could be deathly allergic. If you notice your pet coughing, vomiting, or behaving abnormally, stop feeding them the fruit or vegetable that may have caused it and take them to the vet immediately. Getting your animal treated or diagnosed can help prevent major problems later on! At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, our Anaheim veterinarian is always prepared for veterinary emergencies. Give us a call if you would like to make an appointment or swing by. We’re here to help!


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February 25, 2019 Dogs

Dogs and cats are primarily meat eaters, so why do we sometimes catch our pets chewing on grass in the yard? As strange as it seems, it’s actually quite common behavior and it’s not necessarily dangerous. In fact, it can actually be a good sign in some cases. Read on to understand what exactly attracts your pets to those glorious blades of greenery.

Indigestion

Most cats are pure carnivores, so they actually can’t digest plant matter. In fact, some plants can even be poisonous to your pets! Luckily, grass is harmless, but it can help expel unwanted toxins from the body. When cats need to get rid of bones, hair, fur, or other indigestible materials, they may eat grass as a laxative or to trigger a natural gag reflex. Similarly, dogs often use grass as a way to ease an upset stomach.

Eating grass often results in vomiting, but unless the vomit is excessive or contains blood, owners don’t have to be too concerned. Just make sure to keep your pet well hydrated and keep an eye out for any other symptoms of distress. If the grass eating and vomiting persists over a long period of time, however, it could be a symptom of a different problem. Your pet’s foliage habit could be their way of treating worms, food allergies, overeating, etc. The best way to find out is getting your pet checked up by the veterinarian. Better safe than sorry, right?

Dietary Deficiencies

Dogs are naturally omnivores in the wild, so grazing on your front lawn may be their way of satisfying a natural instinct to consume greens. This doesn’t mean, however, that you should start feeding your dog a vegan diet. Their diet still needs an adequate amount of quality protein from meat, but they may be craving a fibrous supplement.

Likewise, cats may eat grass even if they can’t digest it because grass contains dietary benefits. For example, it has folic acid, which regulates oxygen. If your pets are regularly eating grass, this may be a sign that they are lacking vital nutrients. Consult with your veterinarian about making changes to your pet’s diet if you believe this is an issue. You can start incorporating certain fruits and vegetables for dogs and vitamins for cats.

Curiosity

Let’s face it, there’s not much for animals to do when they’re stuck at home all day. Cats and dogs are intelligent, playful, curious creatures and they may simply want to know what grass tastes like. If they like how it tastes or feels, they may just continue gnawing on it for fun. It’s similar to how humans like to eat sugary treats or fast food! It may not necessarily be healthy, but it satisfies a specific craving.

Concerns

While eating grass may be normal, there are still precautions owners need to take for their pets. Grass in public spaces could be treated with harmful pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals that are harmful when they are digested. Certain plants are also toxic to animals and it can be easy for your pet to accidentally ingest them when they’re grazing grass.

To prevent your furry friends from consuming the wrong plants, limit their grass eating habit to your own yard where you can control the environment. There are also specialty wheat and oat grass kits designed for in-home use if you don’t have an outdoor area. And if your pet does enjoy a little nibble outside once in a while, keep an eye out to make sure they’re not overdoing it. Lure them over with a little treat – it’s sure to be more appetizing than a handful of grass!

We hope that answers your question! There are a lot of reasons your pet could be attracted to eating grass and that’s okay as long as they are carefully monitored before, during, and after their “snack”. Our Anaheim veterinarian is trained to treat both domestic and exotic animals at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center. If you have questions or you would like to book an appointment, give us a call! We’re happy to help.


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February 1, 2019 Birds

In the wild, birds attempt to hide their illnesses because they are more susceptible to predators when they’re perceived as weak. While this is may be an important survival tactic, it makes it difficult for owners to treat or even detect their bird’s sickness. By the time bird owners recognize their birds are sick, it’s often too late. To avoid this situation, bird owners need to be familiar with the subtle signs of sickness in birds. Take note of any deviation in your bird’s typical behavior and activity – it could save their life!

What to Look Out For

Since most birds won’t show obvious signs of illness at first, owners need to be extra cautious to any changes in their bird’s health. Here are a few things to keep in mind when tending to your pet:

  • Droppings: Droppings are a great indicator of your bird’s health. They excrete soft brown feces, clear urine, and white urates when healthy. If there is a strong odor, the presence of blood, or an unusual amount of droppings, you may want to consult with the veterinarian.
  • Feathers: Prolonged molting, baldness, dullness, picked, bent or broken feathers can be a sign that something’s wrong. This can result in inflammation or swelling, too.
  • Behavior: Take note of changes in your bird’s talking, biting, or eating habits. Different behaviors, like walking, talking, sleeping, should be observed regularly. Obvious signs are extreme lethargy, trembling, wheezing, and sneezing.
  • Weight loss: Birds may ruffle their feathers frequently when they aren’t feeling well. See if your bird has lost any weight recently or had a change in appetite.

There are many ways your pet could exhibit their symptoms. The key is to know what their regular patterns, so you can spot any fluctuations.

Causes of Illnesses

The cause of your pet’s illness could be anything, but there common problems that can easily be addressed. Poor living conditions or change in diet are the first suspects when your bird gets sick. Bacteria and viruses can easily get transmitted to pets when they live in unhealthy environments or eat contaminated food. Any of the following could be causing your bird’s illness:

  • Sandpaper perches
  • Polluted air (cigarette smoke, pesticides, toxic fumes, asbestos, cleaning fluids)
  • Dirty cages (mold, fungus, rust, droppings)
  • Mite boxes or sprays
  • Small toys that could be ingested
  • Mosquitos

Common diseases in birds include Salmonella, Trichomoniasis, Avian pox, mites and lice, and aspergillosis. The best way to prevent the spread of these diseases is to keep their feeders and homes clean. Bird feed should be stored in airtight containers to avoid spoilage and mold.

Emergency Situations

When the illness has progressed far enough, certain symptoms may become extremely clear. Convulsing, vomiting, diarrhea, change in breathing, discharge from the mouth, or collapse are all emergency situations. At this point, pet owners should take to the bird vet as soon as possible. For the time before you and your bird are able to see a veterinarian, it’s important to keep the bird at an ideal temperature and provide them with food as necessary. 80-85 degrees is ideal temperature for birds. They should have water and food available to keep them nourished.

If you find yourself in an avian emergency, give us a call at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center. Our Anaheim veterinarian, Dr. Lopez, is experienced with exotic animals like birds. As soon as you notice something is amiss, please contact us so we can diagnose and treat your bird before the problem gets worse. 


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January 18, 2019 DogsPet Care

It doesn’t rain often in California, but when it does, it pours! While staying inside with hot chocolate under the covers may be ideal for you, it probably won’t be for your dog. Certain canine breeds have too much energy to lie around all day, so they need to be stimulated even when they’re indoors. Dogs also don’t wear clothes to stay warm like humans, so unless you have a cold weather breed, it’s important to find a way to keep them nice and toasty. Because dogs can’t speak, it can be difficult to understand what they need to stay safe and healthy when the weather changes. Check out the guide below to learn how to handle rainy days with your furry friends!

Staying inside

Outdoor pets should be brought indoors on rainy days. No matter how rambunctious your dog is, it’s too cold and dangerous to leave pets outside during a storm. To keep your home clean, give your pets a bath before they romp around the house. You’ll also want to lock cabinets, hide valuables, and put fluffy, chewable pillows in a safe place.

Unlike cats, dogs don’t normally use the restroom inside. It’s doubtful that you’ll be able to train your dog to use a litter box in just a day. If it’s just drizzling, your pets can probably still go outside to do their business, but if it’s a torrential downpour, we recommend setting up a doggie station in the bathroom. Place a wee pad on some newspapers or in a box in the bathroom. These are incredible absorbent but disposable. When your dog signals they need to go, direct them to their new doggie station!

Dogs can get sick just like humans. Their fur may provide enough warmth for a cloudy day, but it may not be sufficient on a cold, rainy day. Turn on the heat in your home until the temperature is at a comfortable 68-78 degrees. If that’s not an option, you may have to bundle your furry friend in a doggie sweater and provide plenty of warm blankets on their sleeping mat.

Getting exercise

On days when it’s just sprinkling, you can actually still take your dog on a walk outside! Invest in a large umbrella, poncho, and rain booties for your dog to keep them dry in the rain. As you go along your walk, you may want to keep your dog on a tighter leash than usual to avoid getting splashed in puddles or mud!

If you’re having trouble keeping your pet(s) entertained, here are a few activities you can try at home on rainy days:

  • Tug of War: This is a fun game you can play with your dog to help them release some energy. Best part is it doesn’t require much space and all you need is a sturdy object to grab between the two of you.
  • Sniff and Search: Have your pet sniff some treats or objects and hide them around the house. It’ll be a physical and mental workout.
  • Puzzle Balls: These little balls have treats stuffed inside them, but it’ll definitely take a lot of work for your dog to get them out. It’ll give your pet a gaol
  • Obedience Training: A rainy day is the perfect time to treat your dog new tricks! You’ve got all the time in the world to show them how to roll over, stay, jump, or shake your hand.
  • Shopping Trip: There are plenty of stores and malls that are pet-friendly these days. Walk your pet up and down the aisles of an indoor shopping center for some much needed exercise.
  • Spa Day: Who doesn’t love a spa day? Groom your pets to perfection, so they’ll be ready for the outdoors once the sun comes out. You can trim fur, clip nails, and brush them to your heart’s content.
  • Boxes: Giant boxes can be a lot more fun than they seem! If you have some lying around, take them out for your pets to explore inside.
  • Hide and Seek: This game isn’t just for children. It can be fun for dogs as well!
  • Blow Bubbles: Let your pup admire and chase down a few mysterious bubbles indoors. Bubbles float slowly enough that it won’t cause a ruckus to follow them, but they’re just as fun as balls.

Dealing with thunder

Many pets are afraid of thunder because the loud sounds are startling. It can be frightening because they don’t understand what is or where it’s coming from. On the bright side, there are ways to prepare your pup and keep them calm during the storm.

One way to help your pet feel safe and secure is by providing a cozy haven indoors where they can seek shelter. Outfit their usual sleeping arrangements with soft pillows, blankets, and familiar toys. You can also get a crate or igloo, so they feel like they are in a small, safe space. Make sure to close any windows or doors that could be making the sounds more loud and threatening than they need to be.

You can also try to distract your pet during the storm. Stay by their side as you play with new toys, give them treats, or listen to music together. It might get their mind off the scary sounds and help them focus on something else. Plus, your presence is probably comforting!

If none of these work, you can always consult with the veterinarian to train your pet how to behave during thunderstorms. The vet will be able to determine what exactly is triggering your pet and how to treat that. There are also sleeping and anti-anxiety medications available to calm your dog down if worst comes to worst. Our Anaheim veterinarian at Brookhurst Animal can help figure out what’s going on and prescribe medication if needed.

Considering how dry California is, rain is always a blessing, but it can be a little burdensome if you have pets. We hope our guide can help you enjoy these days spent indoors better than before. Give us a call if you have questions or would like to book an appointment with our vet in Anaheim at Brookhurst Animal!


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December 28, 2018 CatsDogs

Pop open the bubbly and string up the tinsel, it’s almost New Year’s Eve! It’s the perfect time to get together with family, friends, and of course, pets. Though most of your human companions will have no trouble rejoicing in the new year, your dogs and cats may not understand what’s going on. To make this holiday fun for all your furry guests, here’s what you should keep in mind before the countdown.

Guests

If you plan on having guests over to celebrate the new year, make sure your pet is ready for them. Some animals can get overly excited or even hostile at the prospect of visitors. Pets who are uncomfortable with humans may bark or hiss loudly and even attack. Keep your pet on a leash or behind a pet barrier to avoid this situation.

Alcohol

Making a toast to the new year with a freshly opened bottle of champagne is a New Year’s tradition, but it’s important to be responsible throughout the night, especially if you have pets. Alcohol can be poisonous for pets, so don’t leave any drinks where your pets can reach them. When pets ingest alcohol, they could vomit, have tremors, or even lose consciousness.

Many beverages are also bottled in glass, which can easily break and cause injuries for your guests and pets. Keep an eye on your pet to make sure they are safe from these dangers at all times.

Fireworks

Though the firework show may be beautiful, your dog or cat may not be able to appreciate it quite as much as you. It’s no surprise that pets can get jumpy when there are loud noises abound, so it’s naturally that many cats and dogs act out when they hear fireworks. Many house pets express their anxiety by howling, crying, hiding, chewing up objects, walking in circles, etc.

Prepare yourself and your pet for the ruckus of the new year by providing them with a safe, comfortable place to stay when the fireworks explode. You can also reward them for staying calm when there’s thunder or airplanes flying overhead throughout the year. Some pet parents have been able to acclimate their pets to the sound of fireworks by playing softer recordings before the big night. If none of these seem to work, you may want to contact your vet for advice.

Decorations

As the holiday season wraps up, you’ll probably need to take down your ornaments, tinsel, ribbons, and other festive decor. Try to keep your pet at a distance when you’re cleaning up because pets will often consume items they’re not supposed to. Plastic, metal, and glass are not digestible and could cause serious problems. Small decorations are also a choking hazard. Make sure to stow everything away in a place that can’t be accessed by your pets and try not to leave any trinkets behind.

With the end of the year, we’d like to thank all our visitors at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center for being great pet owners and friends. If your pet ever needs medical attention, stop by our veterinary clinic. We’re always happy to help!


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December 17, 2018 Pet Care

Having pets requires a lot of sacrifice and commitment, but we find that our furry companions are always worth the time and effort. As many pet owners know, there are certain precautions you need to take with your home if you plan on leaving your pet at home alone or even in another room alone. Chewable cushions need to be hidden, glass has to be stored away, and any bite-sized object cannot be in reach. Recently, plants have become a popular, environmentally-friendly way to furnish your space, but certain plants can be toxic for pets. To avoid any accidents, check out our pet-friendly plant guide!

WORST PLANTS FOR PETS

Like humans, animals are naturally curious and oftentimes, they will consume things that they really shouldn’t. Certain types can be poisonous when eaten, so to keep this from happening, we encourage pet parents to research their plants before purchasing them. Here’s are a few of the most popular (and deadly) plants that pet owners should be aware of:

Flowers

  • Azaleas: While these flowers are beautiful, they are also extremely dangerous. The deciduous plant contains grayanotoxins which can disturb the skeletal and cardiac muscle. If ingested by dogs or cats, it can cause gastrointestinal pain, heart problems, neurological illness.
  • Lilies: Even small ingestions of lilies can cause serious organ failure for cats. If you suspect your cat has consumed a lily, bring them to the veterinarian immediately.
  • Lily of the Valley: This type of lily is less toxic than true lilies, but it is still extremely dangerous to cats and dogs.
  • Cyclamen: Saponins are glycosides that can have life-threatening toxicity. The roots of cyclamen contain these irritating compounds and they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems if consumed by dogs and cats.
  • Crocuses: These plants are highly toxic and they can cause serious organ and intestine failure. Keep species of this plant away from cats and dogs.
  • Daffodils: These sunny flowers may brighten up your room, but they’re not so great for your pets. Daffodils contain a vomit-triggering compound called lycorine that can make your dogs and cats sick.
  • Oleander: The seemingly fragile, inconspicuous flowers on oleanders can actually wreak havoc on your pet’s cardiac system. The plant is full of cardenolides that will interfere with the heart muscle’s electrolyte balance.
  • Tulips: With these flowers, the toxins are concentrated in the bulbs. Dogs and cats who dare to dig up the bulbs as chew toys may experience increased heart rates, change in respiration, and trouble breathing.
  • Hyacinths: Just like tulips, hyacinths have concentrated toxins in their bulbs. Keep them in high places to keep animals from digging them out.
  • Hibiscus: Humans may be able to enjoy hibiscus tea, but animals don’t react well to these tropical blooms. The Rose of Sharon is one specifically harmful species that can cause dehydration and an upset stomach.
  • Birds of Paradise: These avian lookalikes contain gastrointestinal irritants that shouldn’t be eaten by dogs, cats, or horses.
  • Chrysanthemums: The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine has reported chrysanthemums as the plants that most frequently poison pets, so consider giving away your multi-petaled flowers to a friend.

Shrubs & Succulents

  • Dieffenbachia: This leafy shrub contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. It can result in drooling, vomiting, and stomachaches for both dogs and cats.
  • Kalanchoe: Also known as Mother-of-Millions and the Chandelier plant, the Kalanchoe is a popular succulent that should kept out of reach from pets. It contains cardiac toxins that can harm dogs and cats if ingested.
  • Aloe Vera: The gel of aloe vera is known to be incredibly soothing and beneficial, but it definitely shouldn’t be ingested by any means. Cats, dogs, and rabbits can result in stomach problems.
  • Mistletoe: We love getting into the spirit of the holidays, but mistletoe should be kept at a safe distance from any inquisitive pets. The berries are full of unsavory lectins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides that can be fatal in large doses.

Vines

  • English & Boston Ivy: It’s unlikely that you’ll have these sprawling plants in your house, but it’s growing on your walls or near your windows, it could cause a lot of trouble. The vines are toxic to dogs, cats, and humans alike.
  • Morning Glory: Oddly enough, these lovely blossoms are actually vines, not flowers. Regardless, they have hallucinogenic and toxic seeds. Keep them away from dogs and cats to prevent a visit to the animal hospital.

Trees

  • Wisterias: If you have outdoor pets, keep them away from wisterias. The soft, lavender blossoms are anything but gentle on those who consume them. The tree’s seeds are poisonous and they can cause nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, and vomiting.  
  • Oak: It’s no secret that oak tree leaves and acorns can be toxic to animals because of their tannic acid. This acid can cause serious kidney damage and gastroenteritis if consumed.
  • Sago Palm: In California, palm plants of all kinds are easier to breed. The Sago Palm, however, is extremely toxic to animals. If your pet ingests parts of the Sago Palm, they need to be seen by an emergency vet immediately or there may be devastating effects to their central nervous system.
  • Elephant Ears: This is another tropical foliage plant with giant, shady leaves. Though these plants aren’t fatal, they can cause terrible indigestion if cats and dogs consume the leaves or stems.

This isn’t a comprehensive list, but it does cover most popular houseplants. If your shrubs aren’t on the list, check with your local veterinarian if you need to take any precautions with your plants.

If you just can’t part with your greenery, remember to keep your flowers and shrubs in a safe place where your pets won’t be tempted to nibble on them. As plants age, their leaves or petals can also wilt to the ground, becoming accessible to pets. Make sure to sweep these up before your pets can get to them.

BEST PLANTS FOR PETS

Now on to the good news! There are also plenty of plants that are also totally pet-friendly. These greens are a great way to get cleaner air and spruce up your home a little without the risk of poisoning your canine or feline friends. Here are our favorites:

  • Fern: Specifically, Boston and Sword’s ferns are nontoxic and they’ll fit perfectly in the corner of a room. Other species may be highly toxic, so make sure you read the labels before you purchase them!
  • Bamboo: To add some dimension to your room, add a few bamboo plants! They shouldn’t be toxic to dogs and cats.
  • Spider plants: This popular houseplant makes a vibrant addition to any household and it’s nontoxic. However, that doesn’t mean your pet won’t try to play with the long, spindly leaves. Try hanging spider plants from high places to keep your animals from wrecking your plant.
  • Echeveria: Not only is this succulent absolutely adorable, but it also requires little maintenance and it’s safe to keep around cats and dogs. The leaves rarely shed and it’s nontoxic.
  • Haworthia: These spiky little plants are a relative of the aloe that are relatively easy to take care of.
  • Areca palm: Add a tropical vibe to your home with the areca or butterfly palm. With good care, this plant can live up to 10 years without a problem.
  • Orchids: For a beautiful, pet-friendly flower, pick up orchids. This fragrant plant can be a stunning centerpiece.
  • Barberton Daisies: If you have a green thumb, the Barberton daisy is a challenge we recommend taking. Though it’s a sweet plant, it takes a lot of effort to grow and manage. On the bright side, the flower is safe for dogs and cats.
  • Basil: Like most herbs, basil is safe for humans and most pets to consume. Plus, you can add it to your pizza once it’s fully grown!
  • Peppermint: Keep your dog’s breath fresh with home-grown, nontoxic peppermint!
  • Burro’s Tail: This unique succulent is named after a donkey’s tail because it looks just like a fluffy green tail! It’s a nice hanging plant to brighten up a room and it’s completely safe for pets.

There are plenty of other plants you can grow without worry, but make sure to check it out with a veterinarian or botanist first. While you can control your environment at home, we recommend training your pets not to chew on any types of plants at all. They could be easily be exposed to poisonous plants when they’re out and about, so the best way to avoid a pet emergency is by teaching them to avoid foreign plants altogether.

If your pet accidentally consumes a toxic plant, call a veterinarian as soon as possible. At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, our Anaheim veterinarian is trained to quickly diagnose and treat the problem, so it doesn’t cause further damage. Give us a call if you have questions or need to book an appointment with the vet at Brookhurst Animal today!

 


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December 17, 2018 CatsDogs

Your pets are a part of the family, so getting them a gift for the holidays is only fitting! Do they really need a heated bed or a monogrammed sweater? Not necessarily. But during this festive time of the year, your four-legged friends deserve the absolute best! Check out this gift guide to see our favorite gifts for your dog or cat.

Snuggly Heated Pet Bed

If you live somewhere that gets especially cold in the winter, or just want your furry friend to stay warm, this heated bed is perfect for them! This bed is at a comfortable temperature that is suited for your pet’s normal body temperature. It is also designed for 24/7 operation so you can sleep comfortably knowing that your pet is safe and warm. You can get one online or check your local pet store. Just make sure to check on your pet to make sure they don’t get overheated at night!

Dog DNA Test Kit

If you are curious about your mixed dog’s ancestry, there is a perfect solution for you! Similar to the DNA test kits for humans, the Embark test will tell you about your dogs’ ancestry, disease history, and even traits. All this test kit requires is a simple cheek swab from your dog’s mouth! There are a few different companies that provide this service, so you have plenty of options to choose from.

Reversible Hammock

Hammocks are the perfect vessel for the lazy cat that loves to lounge all day! With the adorable reversible pattern of leopard and white, you are sure to love it just as much as your cat. If you’ve got a mischievous feline, keep an eye on your pet, so they don’t get tangled or hurt by the hammock when it’s in use. You can grab these cute, kitten-sized hammocks online.

Santa Suit Cat Sweater

A Santa Claus sweater is perfect for the cat lovers that enjoy dressing their companions up. Handmade on Etsy, your cat is sure to love dressing up like everyone’s favorite Christmas character! You can get one most stores and online. Target offers a few options and there are customizable ones on Etsy, too!

Pet Carrier

Perfect for those pet owners that are always on the go, this affordable and fashion-forward pet carrier is sure to make a statement in your wardrobe (okay, so maybe this is a gift for owners too). Either way, your pet is sure to appreciate you for letting them tag along on all your daily errands!

Sporty Personalized Collar and Leash

A colorful collar with your dog’s name and your phone number on it will ensure your furry friend never gets lost! It’s comfortable material and padding makes your dog enjoy their walks with you even more, while ensuring their safety. And get a matching leash while you’re at it, too!  

All Natural Waterless Cat Shampoo

Burt’s Bees offers this all natural waterless shampoo that contains apple and honey, which acts as a natural cleanser that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. This spray is mild enough for all cats and kittens and is pH balanced. This gift is perfect and affordable, but make sure to check with your veterinarian before you try it on your pet. Buy it here!

Collapsible Dog Bowl

Perfect for dogs on the go, this durable, water repellent dog bowl can travel everywhere with you and easily collapses. Simply throw it in your purse and go! Your dog will definitely thank you when the hot summer months come along.

Personalized Dog Bag Case

For the people that love dog walking, this personalized item is sure to help you enjoy it even more. You can personalize the dog bag holder with either your name or your pups! It’s perfect for bringing little treats, leashes, or doggie bags.

Sushi Cat Toy

Each felt toy is stuffed with organic catnip and made with eco-friendly felt made in the USA. Your cat is sure to go crazy for this fresh sushi! You can choose from tuna, salmon, egg, and shrimp for your cat. Now, you and your pet can enjoy your favorite dish together!

At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, we’re so excited to spend the holidays with our friends, family, and pets this year! If you need to schedule a last minute vet appointment, please give us a call. Health and safety is the best gift all, so our Anaheim vet’s office be open for patients Christmas week (excluding Christmas Day).

 


BUSINESS HOURS

By Appointment Only

Mon 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tue 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thu Closed
Fri 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sun* 10:00 am – 5:00 pm EMERGENCY PLEASE CALL FIRST TO 714-776-7387  NO WALK-INS AT THE MOMENT

CONTACT

1301 S Brookhurst St
Anaheim, CA 92804
714-776-7387

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