Washington Park Veterinary Clinic

WPVC News

March 10, 2010

You and your dog are cordially invited to participate in this year's Furry Scurry. If you have never attended, you will be amazed. It is the largest and best walk for animals in the country and Denver Dumb Friends League's  largest fundraiser of the year. On the first Saturday in May, a sea of smiling pet lovers, nearly 5,000 in all, and their canine pals will gather at 9 a.m. to step out for two miles around the perimeter of Denver's beautiful Washington Park. After the walk, they and thousands more will enjoy shopping, eating and dog-watching. This fundraiser helps the DDFL care for more than 25,000 homeless pets every year and provides a valuable service to our community. Register today..!

February 10, 2010

Dr. Metzger's open house retirement party has been pushed forward to Saturday, February 20.  Dr. Dawn has been planning her retirement since August 2008.  She has been gradually reducing her days at the clinic, and is now retiring as of February 20, 2010. Please plan to attend an open house retirement party for Dr. Dawn on Saturday February 20, 2010 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.  Hors d’oeuvers and beverages will be served.  If you cannot attend, please send any correspondence to Washington Park Veterinary Clinic and we will forward it to Dr. Dawn.

February, 2010

Keep pets' choppers in tip-top shape to protect their health

 http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/02/01/pet.teeth.care/index.html

January, 2010

National Pet Dental Health Month is rapidly approaching! In February 2010, we will be offering a 10% discount on dental procedures.  Procedures include anesthesia, ultrasonic dental cleaning and polishing, any necessary extractions or gingival (gum) surgery, dental x-rays, antibiotic and hospitalization for the day.  Please ask for an explanation of recommended procedures and labwork.  You may request an estimate for any charges involved.  Call today to schedule your pre-anesthetic bloodwork and exam. We will be as safe with your loved ones as possible.

January, 2010

As many of you are aware, Dr. Dawn Metzger sold Washington Park Veterinary Clinic to Dr. Karen Jones-Diller in August 2008.  Dr. Dawn has been planning her retirement since the sale.  She has been gradually reducing her days at the clinic, and is now retiring as of February 20, 2010.  This is an exciting new phase of her life.  While we are sad to see her go, we look forward to hearing of her new adventures.  Please plan to attend an open house retirement party for Dr. Dawn on Saturday February 27, 2010 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.  Hors d’oeuvers and beverages will be served.  If you cannot attend, please send any correspondence to Washington Park Veterinary Clinic and we will forward it to Dr. Dawn.  On another sad note, our technician, Renee Haynes will be moving to Utah to care for her brother and his family.  We are sad to lose her, but recognize her need to be with her family. 

January, 2010

Canine Influenza is similar to “flu” in humans.  Fever, cough, runny nose and lethargy are common symptoms.  Dogs at highest risk for “flu” are dogs that go to daycare routinely, board or go to dog shows or agility trials frequently.  Recent media attention is focused on the new Canine Influenza vaccine.  WPVC along with AAHA & AVMA consider this vaccine a “non-core” vaccine. This means that not all dogs need this vaccine.  The vaccine may reduce the risks associated with influenza, but may not stop your dog from getting the flu altogether.  Some boarding kennels are requiring this vaccine in order to have dogs stay in their facilities.  Please visit our website or call us for more information on whether your dog should have the influenza vaccine.  If your  kennel requires the vaccine,  please contact us for an appointment.

January, 2010

“Swine flu” (H1N1) has been contracted by a few cats, ferrets and dogs in the United States and Colorado.  If anyone in your household has  the “swine flu”, treat your pets as you would any unaffected person in your household.  Isolate your pets from the sick person in your household.  Keep your clothing and hands clean when petting, feeding or watering animals. Wash your pet’s bedding and dishes frequently.  If  your pets exhibit flu symptoms, please call us to schedule an appointment.

January, 2010

Vetsulin PZI Insulin recall.  Vetsulin may cause unregulated blood glucose and hypoglycemia in some pets.  Production of  Vetsulin has slowed while the company  investigates the problem.  The manufacture of Vetsulin may be discontinued.  We have a number of patients that have been using Vetsulin for some time.  We are transitioning cats to a new PZI insulin or to Lantus  (Glargine insulin).  There is no new PZI product labeled for use in dogs, so we are transitioning to NPH insulin, which is a human product.  If you have questions regarding Vetsulin or transitioning your pet to another insulin product,  please call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones or Dr. Lin.

January, 2010

Early Detection Labwork packages are being offered in 2010.  Antech Laboratory is bundling many of the laboratory procedures that we have always recommended such as complete blood counts, chemistry profiles, heartworm blood test and fecal parasite screens.  These packages are offered at special pricing to benefit your pets.  Please ask any staff member or veterinarian to explain which package is best for your pet.