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Monthly Update
July 2013

Happy 4th!

 

There's lots of exciting news to report as we head into summer... One of our BBVA surgical technicians recently completed a veterinary service trip to the Dominican Republic. Learn more about her adventure in this month's sidebar.

 

We also revamped our BBVA website! Visit the new site to access BBVA services and helpful pet-care links, including extended advice about safe water play for dogs.

 

As always, feel free to call us at 508-759-2521 or send us an email with any pet-related concerns. Your pet's health is our top priority!        

 

All the best,

Kristin Anderson
Hospital Manager
Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates


 www.buzzardsbayvetassociates.com

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Your Dog and the Dangers of Water Play

 

When temperatures rise, playing in the water can be a great way to cool down with your dog. But do your homework before you dive in... Here are four common dangers associated with water play, along with easy tips to protect your pet:  

 

1. Ear Infections

Dogs are prone to getting ear infections after swimming, especially if they have floppy ears. A warm, wet ear canal is the perfect breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. To prevent ear infections, it's always a good idea to dry your dog's ears after swimming and water play. For dogs who have a history of ear infections, it's also advisable to  use an ear cleaner that is recommended by your veterinarian.

 

2. Hot Spots

Wet fur can trap moisture against the skin, causing irritation or infection. Worse, many dogs will follow their natural instincts, repeatedly licking the irritated spots. Excessive licking can lead to pyotraumatic dermatitis: a.k.a. an infected hot spot. These lesions generally require medical care and antibiotics. A good preventative measure involves towel drying of your dog's wet coat and checking for clumps of matted hair. If your dog has a long or dense coat, consider a summer haircut.  

 

3. Drowning

Not all dogs can swim. Swimming requires good instincts and the correct body shape. Several popular breeds-including bulldogs and pugs-are too barrel chested and front-heavy to be good swimmers. Whether your breed is a natural swimmer or not, always supervise pets near the water. If an accident should occur, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical care. Even a brief, near-drowning incident can have severe health consequences.  

 

4. Sunburn

Protecting your dog or cat from sunburn is an essential part of summertime pet care. Any area of a dog or cat covered by thin hair or by white hair is susceptible to sunburn. Pay attention to your pet's face, ear tips, back, and even belly-especially if your pet likes to lounge in the sun. Repeated sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Luckily, sunburns are easily preventable with sunblock. Most formulas made for children are also safe to use on dogs and cats, but check with your veterinarian first. Meanwhile, find more information on pets and sunburns here.


 

Project Samana Protects Dominican Pets      
   

Last month, one of our surgical technicians traveled to the Dominican Republic to participate in the MVMA's Project Samana program. If you've worked with Jess Honeywell at either our Dedham or Buzzards Bay location, you can imagine what an asset she was to the project's small animal team.

 

Project Samana provides veterinary care, spaying and neutering services, plus much-needed supplies and education to Dominican animal owners. As part of her preoperative assignment, Jess prepped dogs and cats - sometimes as many as 40 per day! - for surgery and vaccination. She was also instrumental in saving one unresponsive dog, despite less than ideal surgical conditions.

 

We're proud to welcome Jess home from her adventure! You can learn more about Project Samana and the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association here.

 

 
Love Is in the Onset Air

BBVA is sponsoring the Onset Summer of Love concert series, held at the Onset Band Shell every Wednesday night at 6:30pm. The series will start on Wednesday, June 26th and run through the end of August.  The event is free to all, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash. Visit the program website for additional concert information.