Help reopen the Ioka and save money, too
The Exeter Theater Company is working to reopen the historic Ioka Theater in downtown Exeter as a community theater. If 1,000 people become members of the non-profit organization by March 31st, the building's current owner will turn the Ioka over to them for free. If they don't reach the goal, the owner can do whatever he wants with the Ioka. Membership contributions will be held in escrow and returned if the theater doesn’t reopen.
One lucky member will win two tickets to every show in the Ioka's first year!
Between February 1st and March 31st, if you fill out an Exeter Theater Company membership form in our office (we have them at the front desk) and give the organization at least $50, we'll give you $10 off your office visit with us, or a $10 credit on your account to use later.
Offer limited to the first 100 new members who give us an Exeter Theater Company membership form and contribute at least $50 to the organization.
Heartworm becoming resistant to preventives
We are always finding out new things about medications, diseases, and treatments. It can be tricky to sift through all the available information, even without being confused by the clutter and misinformation that crowds the Internet.
Evidence of heartworm resistance to the common heartworm preventives (including Heartgard, Triheart, Interceptor, Sentinel, and Revolution) has been filtering through the veterinary literature for the last couple of years. The bulk of cases have clustered around the Mississippi River Valley, where heartworm disease is rampant. Not all dogs on the preventive develop heartworm infection, but it has become clear that the medications may not always be 100% effective.
The raw food diet controversy
by Dr. Julie Hunt
Recently there has been increased interest in feeding pets a raw food diet. Advocates of raw food diets claim the benefits include longer lifespan, better dental health, and improvement in skin and gastrointestinal conditions. However, most support for feeding raw diets comes from testimonials. No clinical studies have been done comparing long-term feeding of raw diets vs. cooked commercial foods.
Why rabies vaccination is so important, even for indoor pets
We are often asked why indoor only pets must be vaccinated against rabies. For starters, it’s the law. Rabies is a fatal disease that is easily prevented with vaccination.
The virus that causes rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. In our area, the raccoon is the main carrier of the disease. However, any mammal is a potential threat, including foxes, bats, and skunks.
Caring for pets in a tough economy
It has become ever more difficult for many people to care for their pets properly in the current economy. For patients with serious health problems, veterinary bills can be astronomical. Nevertheless, there are some strategies that may make veterinary healthcare costs more manageable.
Attention snow birds — update on canine influenza
Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a “flu” virus. While 30 states have currently reported cases (including New Hampshire), it originated in Florida where it is now considered endemic (well established) in the state.
Humans cannot contract influenza from their pets. This is not H1N1.
We are now accepting CareCredit!
We have recently begun accepting CareCredit as an alternative form of payment. CareCredit transactions are eligible for a no-interest payment plan with a six month repayment schedule and a $250 minimum. For more information or to apply, please visit CareCredit's Web site or give us a call to discuss options.
Keep your pet safe from Lyme disease
With the warmer weather comes the resurgence of the tick and the flea. While bothersome and annoying, they are more than just a nuisance; these insects can transmit disease to our pets. And while no form of prevention is foolproof, there are a few steps we can take to keep our pets as flea and tick free as possible year round.
What is GDV? And is your dog at increased risk?
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is defined as enlargement of the stomach with subsequent clock-wise rotation along its axis causing entrapment of food and air. The exact cause is unknown but is usually related to rapid consumption of large volumes of food or water sometimes followed with exercise. GDV is characterized by retching, abdominal discomfort, and excessive salivation and requires immediate medical attention to stabilize the patient and decompress the stomach. GDV is potentially life-threatening with a mortality rate ranging between 10-25% and essentially fatal if left untreated.
While GDV can occur in any breed, there is an increased incidence in large to giant deep-chested dogs. It is estimated that the risk of disease in these breeds is about 6%; however certain breeds including the Great Dane have a lifetime incidence of over 40%.
Caring for your aging pet
by Dr. Jody Kaufman
Time seems to pass so quickly that it can take us by surprise when our pets show signs of aging. Under even the best circumstances, animals age at an accelerated rate compared to humans. The "seven years for one of ours" rule is a reasonable simplified estimate, but the rate of aging in dogs is based roughly on their size. A seven year-old Great Dane is geriatric, while a little poodle of the same age is only middle aged.
