Sarno Animal Hospital

Water, water everywhere!

That is one of the reasons we and our pets live in Florida.  A
number of our pets love to be in or drink from any of the 7,700 lakes, 27
springs, 1,191 miles of coastline and 11,000 miles of rivers!  Living in these waters lurks a cross between
a bacteria and a plant called cyanobacteria, also known as pond scum or blue
green algae.  Some of these cyanobacteria species can produce skin, liver, neurological, and cellular toxins.  In the ocean, these creatures are called red
tide and have been known to cause seizures and G.I. symptoms in dogs.  If you suspect the water is contaminated,
i.e. bright green, brown, red, orange, purple or other color, do not let your pet drink or jump in this water.  If they
do, wash them office immediately and if they ingest the water, call your veterinarian as soon as possible for advice.

Michael J. Ponte, DVM

1029 Sarno Road

Melbourne, Fl. 32935

If you have any general questions regarding your pets’
health, contact Dr. Ponte at 321-254-1754.

Tis the season to be jolly and for our pets to get into foods that are unsafe for them. Some foods for humans can even be dangerously toxic to our furry buddies. Foods that have become moldy can lead to neurological toxins that will affect the nervous system causing tremors, convulsions and uncoordination.

Chocolate is also toxic to dogs and cats. Cats, however, usually don’t like sweets! Dark chocolate and bitter chocolate are the most dangerous to your pets, while white chocolate is fairly safe. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity include hyperactivity, tremors and increased heart rate and can lead to death. Inducing vomiting right after ingesting the chocolate can help eliminate the toxins from the body.

Onions have been the cause of severe anemia in dogs and cats. Once again, inducing vomiting as soon as possible after they ingest the onion or onion product is best.

Other toxic foods that should be avoided are Macadamia nuts, rising bread dough, grapes and raisins, tobacco products and sugar free gum containing Xylitol.

Please call your veterinarian for advice if you suspect that your pet has ingested any of these foods.

Happy Holidays.
Michael J. Ponte, DVM
1029 Sarno Road
Melbourne, Fl. 32935

If you have any general questions regarding your pets’ health, call Dr. Ponte at 321-254-1754