Archive for category: Health

We were asked today what a ‘trace’ value on the leukocyte reading could mean when all the other parameters on the test are negative.  Generally, trace values on any of the parameters of the urine test strip should be repeated within the week.

If an infection is present, the leukocyte value will usually be higher (you will get a ‘moderate’ or ‘large’ reading) and the nitrite value will also be positive.

A trace value in this case means that the body is having an immune response to something.  It could be one of many things and also very short-lived.

This is good information to know. Record the reading on the results chart so you will have this information to refer to and also to report to your veterinarian during any future visits.

The best method I have found for collecting a urine sample from a cat is to cover the top of the litter box with a plastic bag.  Just lay the un-opened bag over the top. Those white garbage bags work great.  Your cat may wonder what is going on at first, but they willwuickly feel the litter under their paws and proceed.

When they are finished, just use the dropper and take a few dropperfulls for the test…remember you only need 10 drops for ThePetCheckup test.

Let me know how this works for you.  Tomorrow I’ll have a suggestion if you  want to use non-absorb cat “litter”.

But I have done many tests with the plastic bag method (actually Chloe and Kate are so used to it now, that I just hold some plastic under their butts when they are peeing) and have found it to be quite simple.  Remember to have a calm, matter of fact attitude when collecting urine for the test.  Your cats will pick up if you are feeling anxious about it.

Another hint in the beginning it to collect the sample right after you have changed the cat pan.  Kitties love fresh litter and will often use the pan as soon as it is full of clean litter.

There have been several black bear sightings on Cape Cod this past week. Most recently I read that they think the bear swam across the Cape Cod canal.  Right now they are advising anyone who spots him to keep their distance and “treat him like a 200 pound skunk”.

My friend Sue went to see what her cat Feather was staring at so intently through the window and there was the bear in the back yard. (Would love to know what Feather was thinking).

You can follow the story on capecodonline.com

I am hoping for a happy ending for the bear and everyone involved.

I just read some interesting statistics regarding the importance of practicing some form of early detection with our pets.

It is estimated that as many as 4 in 10 animals may be experiencing an illness that requires veterinary attention without showing any outward signs of illness.

I am currently taking a series of classes in Social Marketing.

We were asked to profile our customers.

I consider our customers to be wonderful caregivers.  It is always a pleasure to speak with people who love their animals, treat them like family and provide such good care for them.

Two qualities I chose to describe our “typical” customer are:

1. They are proactive with their dog and cat’s health care.

2. They understand the importance of early detection in preventing and treating diseases.