Vacation

Sorry I haven't written much lately! We're making preparations to enter the National Veterinary Hospital Design contest and there's been a lot to do. Now we're taking off to the great Northeast with the family. See you when we get back!
PS--Congratulations to Partners 4 Pets on their grand opening today. You guys are incredible with all you do for the animals, and we look forward to helping your mission for years to come!

Fear of Flying!

Here's a news flash for those of you who fly with your pets. A recent review of US Dept. of Transportation data revealed that 122 dogs died on commercial flights in the US between 2005 and 2009. About half of these dogs were short-nosed breeds such as Pugs and English Bulldogs. The majority of all dog deaths in-flight occurred when the dogs were in cargo holds. Another study, published a few years ago, demonstrated an increase in pet deaths on airplanes if the pets were given a tranquilizer for the flight. The reason for this is unknown, but could be due to differences in the effects of tranquilizers at high altitudes, or possibly a decreased ability of tranquilized pets to thermoregulate.

The bottom line is that while it is generally safe for pets to fly, there is a risk! Ways to make flying safer include having your pet fly in the passenger cabin, do not tranquilize pets for flights, and avoid flying short-faced breeds if possible. FYI, I have heard of an airline(?) called Animal Airways that offers in-flight veterinary services on its pet flights. Might be worth investigating!