Firestarter Logs Are Dangerous For Pets

With the return of cold weather, stores are stocking firestarter logs again. Although this product is great for the fireplace, it can be dangerous for pets. Firestarter logs are not toxic per se, in that they do not directly poison an animal who ingests it. (Please note that logs that burn with special colors may …

5-fluorouracil and Pets

5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is an anti-cancer medication commonly prescribed by dermatologists to treat basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis on the skin of humans. Unfortunately, this medicine is highly toxic to animals. Pets develop gastrointestinal and neurologic symptoms. Gastrointestinal signs include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, intense abdominal pain and sometimes, sloughing of the intestinal lining. The neurologic …

National Veterinary Technician Week

I am privileged to work alongside two terrific young women who deeply love animals.  They are also outstanding medical professionals.  So during this National Veterinary Technician Week (October 11th-17th) I thank and celebrate Abbey Santos, CVT and Michelle Thomson for the gift they are to animals and to me.  Thanks as well to all who serve …

Dog With Mast Cell Tumor Responding To Masitinib Mesylate

Last week, I wrote about a dog named Molly suffering from Mast Cell cancer. The cancer spread all over her body making surgical removal impossible. She had large tumors in her chest that made it difficult for her to breathe. The cancer spread to multiple locations on her skin including one large tumor under her right …

Our First Anniversary At Arizona Skies Animal Hospital

A year ago today, I purchased Arizona Skies Animal Hospital located in Cave Creek, Arizona. I remember walking into the clinic on the first day wondering what the future would hold?  It has been an outstanding year filled with great animals and clients.   With tremendous hard work by Abbey Santos and Michelle Thomson, the clinic has …