June, 2001

Volume 3,Issue 6

We're going to miss you, Herb

Inside this issue:

How do we acknowledge an employee whose service is measured in decades?  For over forty years Herbert has worn many hats around Metairie Small Animal Hospital.  He has seen the practice grow from only two doctors to our current level. 

Over the past several decades, Herbert has been responsible for the literally thousands of coat trims performed at the hospital.  He was also a very familiar face with our pick up and delivery service customers. 

It is with mixed emotions that we report Herbert's retirement from MSAH.  While we are happy that his life is shifting gears, he will certainly be missed.  Herbert and his wife of 38 years, Sylvia, will be spending more time with their children and grandchildren. 

We can only express our deepest gratitude and for the coming days will be filled with joy and stable health.  Best wishes and God bless.

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Volume 3,Issue 6

--If you plan on boarding your pets with us during the summer months, especially around holidays, you may wish to make reservations in advance.  Call Julie at 835-4266.

--When traveling by car, make sure your pets remain well-hydrated.  Make appropriate "pit stops" for exercise, eliminations and water consumption.  A familiar pet carrier, blanket or pillow is great for putting a pet at ease when you arrive at your destination.

--When making travel plans involving your pets, do not assume that ALL hotels/motels accept pets.  You should do a little research and insure that pets are welcome at the establishment you've chosen.  A listing of "pet friendly" lodgings is available by calling 1-800-496-2665.

--Heat stress is very common and may progress to a serious and often fatal condition called heat stroke.  Limit activity during the hottest parts of the day.  Always have water, shade and access to the indoors available.

--When planning cookouts this summer, keep in mind that crawfish shells, corn cobs and lava rocks from BBQ pits often find their way into dogs stomachs.  Make sure to properly dispose of food items.  Never underestimate your pets ability to get into trouble!

--Hurricane season is quickly approaching.  Make contingency plans for boarding or evacuation.  A list of pet necessities should include:  bedding, food and medications.  Doing these things now will facilitate a calmer, more rational attitude during a potential crisis.

--Mosquitoes are back with a vengeance after a couple of dry years.  Make sure your pets are maintained on heartworm preventatives, as this disease is transmitted by the mosquito.  We are also seeing facial, ear and skin problems related to mosquito bites.

--Fleas and ticks are also being seen in increasing numbers.  Prescription products are very effective and economical for controlling these external parasites.  Ask us which product would be best for your pet.

--Make sure your pets are up to date on their Rabies inoculations.  Summertime brings increased interaction between pets and people. You should always keep dogs leased when walking.

Volume 3,Issue 6

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Our congratulations to Tara DeCorte (B.S. Biology) and Marlin Torres (B.S. Biology/B.A. Psychology).  They recently completed their degree requirements at Loyola University while continuing to work here.  Their academic and work ethic are exemplary.

Many thanks to everyone who signed the petition to Senator Henkel.  As previously reported, the building plans are completed and we are in the process of securing bids.  There are, however, several unsettled issues with the state that must be resolved before construction can begin.  We appreciate your patience and support.

Drs. Pam Young (LSU) and Wendy Smith (AUB) will begin their tenure with us in June.  We look forward to a long relationship with them.  More information will be posted on our website in the coming months.

Did you happen to see our assistants, Eric and Stephen, on a local news broadcast about 2 weeks ago?  They were involved in a house fire rescue.  Thanks to their courage and commitment to the welfare of animals, two beautiful cats were spared a certain fate.  We are very proud of our heros!

Metairie Small Animal Hospital
101 Metairie Rd             (835-4266)
5040 West Esplanade     (455-2345)
4041 Williams Blvd.       (443-4400)

Phone: 555-555-5555
Fax: 555-555-5555
Email: xyz@microsoft.com

        Case of the Month

make.  Given the dire circumstances, should one pursue treatment or consider euthanasia?

Buster did leave the hospital, and again lead himself out of the exam room.  In the coming months he gained his strength back and became "the old Buster."  He maintained a good quality of life.  With monthly physical exams and blood work, we were able to significantly slow his physical digression. Buster's mom faithfully administered appropriate medications and nutritional support.  Miraculously, Buster was never re-hospitalized until the day he passed away.  Buster managed to cheat his certain fate for seven months.  On a calendar that may not seem like a lot of time, but it was like a whole new lifetime for everyone who loved and interacted with Buster.

Volumes of information have been written on the subject of euthanasia.  Although the decision to euthanize ultimately lies with the pet owner, the options are delivered by the veterinarian.  The ultimate role of the veterinarian is that of a pet advocate.  Our overwhelming desire is to do what is in the best interest of the patient.  In Buster's case, conventional logic certainly justified euthanasia.  However, the prospect of maintaining a good quality of life, without pain, opened the door of opportunity for continued life. 

It is extremely important that pet lovers recognize quality of life issues.  It is commonly expected that older pets may not move around as well as in their younger days, that they may have diminished hearing or eyesight, they may sleep more often and more deeply, and possibly show signs of dementia (increased barking, inappropriate elimination, etc.).  Old age, however, does not cause death.  In actuality, death is caused by organ failure, which may be totally unrelated to age.

Buster certainly demonstrated that even with a terminal illness it is possible to maintain a good quality of life.  When appropriate, chemotherapy and/or surgery is indicated to attack the source of specific cancers.  Organ failure (heart, liver, kidney) can be supported for variable periods of time with appropriate treatment regimens.  Home care capabilities have been vastly expanded.  Cutting edge medicine of a decade ago is now common place.  Nutritional advances also enhance longevity and health, even through terminal disease courses.  Pain medications, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs may be utilized long term, as indicated, to maintain a good quality of life for your pet.

Pet owners must balance many factors when considering options for their loved ones.  Always feel free to communicate your questions and concerns to your veterinarian.  Buster reminded me of a lesson already learned.  It is not how one dies that is most important, rather it is how one lives.