08.23.08

Olympic Dreams

Posted in Health Topics, Its A Vet's Life at 5:55 pm by Nancy Hayes, DVM

Jazzy Living Large

Well, it is truly the dog days of summer now.  While watching the Olympics (particularly the swimming events), it occurred to me that many times I hear from clients that their dogs don’t like to swim.  While some pets (cats) are naturally going to avoid the water, some dogs, even the ones bred to swim don’t always enjoy the experience.

Some of this is due to the lack of exposure, and some is due to the wrong exposure.  Sink or swim is not a good idea for anyone, but dogs sometimes jump into pools only to find out it is very cold and deep!  Never fear, even dogs with bad past experiences can be helped to enjoy water safely.

It is best to ease them into it by walking along the edge of shallow water.  Ocassionally toss a toy in a little deeper (not too deep) and let your dog grab it to play.  Gradully their confidence will build and they will probably try a little floating.  Some dogs splash alot when they first encounter deeper water.  The are trying to get on the surface and cannot, so they panick and start to sink.  Shallow water will help as they can touch the bottom if they sink a few inches relieving the anxiety they feel.

In some cases a floation vest will be best.  For dogs that haven’t learned to swim or for dogs that are older and arthritic and need some help swimming, this is a great idea.  I have one of these fitted to my oldest companion, Jazz.  She is 12 1/2 years old now and has arthritis.  Swimming is great therapy, but she tires easily.  With the life vest she can be in the water longer (which she loves) and I worry less (which I love).  Life vests can be found in a variety of sizes and styles and pet stores and on line. 

Swimming has wonderful benifits in both calorie burning and helping keep them limber and in shape.  A safe start can pay off big when you and your dog can enjoy the water together.

Jazzy

05.08.08

Why I became a Veterinarian

Posted in Its A Vet's Life at 2:34 pm by Nancy Hayes, DVM

I get asked often why I chose to be a veterinarian.  I think the simple answer is I really do love animals, but the answer is really more complex than that.  I really do enjoy pets, but I really like people too.  I have always wanted to help people with their pets, so it really is more than just the love of animals.  For me, I enjoy helping people find that truly deep relationship they have with their dog or cat.  I love to help the animals feel better of course, but I also want to help the families help their pets have better health and quality of life.

 I’ve been asked a number of times when I decided on veterinary medicine, and I can truly say that its all I’ve ever wanted to do.  I did study other fields in college to be sure I wasn’t missing out on some other area of interest, but I always came back to the idea of medicine and surgery.  We all chose our favorite things as we go through life.  I feel very blessed and grateful to be allowed to do what I love every day. 

Truthfully, most veterinarians I know have found this career path in a similar fashion, and most can say they always wanted to have this job.  As a group, we enjoy the human animal bond.  New potential veterinarians come in often, and as they start their path through the schooling and experiences that bring them to the practice of medicine, I am delighted to be able to give them the help they need to continue on.  Not all days are easy, and some are down right heartbreaking, but in the end,  every day is worth the journey.