Tips to create a Pet-Friendly Home

Tips to create a Pet-Friendly Home
Having a pet home adds love and companionship but also challenges in keeping a clean, safe space. These maintenance tips may help pet owners balance between a pet-friendly and pristine home.

Opt for Pet-Safe Cleaning Solutions
Avoid harmful chemicals like ammonia and bleach, which can harm pets. Use “pet-safe” products or create your own with ingredients like baking soda and vinegar. (These substances can pose severe health risks to pets.)

Pet-Proof Your Home Office
Secure small office supplies and toxic materials to prevent hazards for pets. Fasten cords, cover outlets, and secure cabinets to keep your workspace safe for pets. (Discover more here: home safety hazards.)

Use Natural Repellents for Pest Control
Essential oils like lavender or chamomile repel pests and provide a pleasant scent. Use with caution – dilute properly and check with your primary vet to ensure pet safety. (Discover more here about essential oils as natural repellents.)

Select Furniture with Pet-Safe Fabrics
Choose durable, stain-resistant fabrics like microfiber, leather, or synthetic materials. These are easier to clean and withstand pet wear and tear better. (Discover more here about for pet-friendly fabrics.)

Optimize HVAC Systems for Pet Comfort
Maintain your HVAC system with regular filter changes, as pet hair and dander can clog them. Ensure system efficiency for a comfortable home for pets and family. (Learn more about air conditioner warranty options worth considering.)

Choose Flooring to Withstand Pet Wear and Tear
Opt for durable, low-maintenance flooring like tile, vinyl, or laminate, which resist scratches and stains, making them ideal for homes with pets. (Discover more here about, low-maintenance options for flooring.)

Minimize Shedding by Grooming
Regular grooming and bathing reduce shedding and dander. Brush pets frequently and bathe them every 6-10 weeks with pet-specific shampoos. (Discover more about brushing your pets.)

Ward Off Outdoor Pests
Mow your lawn regularly to minimize flea and tick hiding places. Keeping grass short also promotes lawn health and reduces pest risks for pets.

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Disclaimer: The products featured on this blog post are for informational purposes only. ACCESS – Palm Beach County does not endorse or specifically recommend any of the products advertised. Any purchases or decisions made are solely at the reader’s discretion.

Halloween Treats are for Humans, Not Pets!

As we get ready for spooky fun, let’s make sure our pets stay safe! 🎃 Those delicious candies we love – like chocolate, sugar-free treats, and anything with raisins – can be a big no-no for pets. 🐕🍫 Here’s why:

  • Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and can lead to vomiting, seizures, or worse.
  • Xylitol (found in sugar-free candies) can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures or liver failure.
  • Raisins in candies or baked goods can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
  • Candy wrappers may be swallowed, causing digestive blockages that might require surgery.
  • High-sugar treats can upset your pet’s stomach and lead to long-term issues like obesity and dental problems.
  • Additionally, hard candy, candy corn, licorice, macadamia nuts, butterscotch, and peanut butter with xylitol can be harmful to pets, causing issues like choking, digestive blockages, upset stomachs, elevated blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, pancreatitis, or even organ failure.

To learn more, click the image below to download our Pet Food Safety Tips handout.

So, be sure to keep those spooky sweets out of paw’s reach and treat your pets to something safe instead! 🎉🦴And in case of a pet emergency, we’re here for them 24/7.

Boo!!

Hyperthyroidism in Cats: What to Watch For and How We Can Help

Has your cat been restless at night, losing weight, acting aggressive, or vomiting? These could be signs of hyperthyroidism. Thyroid health is incredibly important for your cat, especially as they age. Unfortunately, older cats are more prone to hyperthyroidism, which happens when their thyroid glands produce too much hormone. This is often caused by a benign thyroid tumor but can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Organs like the heart, kidneys, and even the brain can be affected. But here’s the good news – hyperthyroidism is very treatable!

Introducing Iodine-131 (I-131) Therapy for Cats

We’re excited to offer a treatment that can make a big difference: Iodine-131 (I-131), a safe, simple, and effective way to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. Here’s how it works: when iodine, the substance that helps the thyroid create vital hormones, is made radioactive (I-131) and injected into the body, it releases just the right amount of radiation to target and destroy the abnormal thyroid cells. And the best part?
  • 95% of cats are permanently cured with just one injection!
  • It’s a quick and painless treatment – no anesthesia required.
  • Healthy thyroid tissue generally stays unharmed, and there’s no risk to other organs.
  • Plus, you generally won’t have to worry about giving daily medication!
After the injection, your cat can relax in our cozy, monitored radiation ward for a few days while their body processes the iodine.

What to Expect During Treatment

After a thorough exam and a recommendation from one of our board-certified internal medicine doctors, your cat’s treatment will begin with a small, under-the-skin injection of I-131. While the procedure is safe for both pets and people, federal laws and radiation safety guidelines require your pet to stay with us in a specially designed radiation ward for a few days. At ACCESS Specialty Animal Hospital – Palm Beach County, we’ve created a calm, comfortable space where your cat can safely eliminate any remaining radioactive material before heading back home. We’ll keep your kitty cozy and well cared for during their stay, with our doctors and skilled veterinary technicians keeping a close eye on them day and night.

At-Home Care After Treatment

Once your cat is ready to go home, we’ll provide you with simple instructions to help minimize radiation exposure to your family and community:
  • Keep your cat indoors with limited human contact for two weeks.
  • Use flushable litter for two weeks.
And don’t worry, we’re always here to answer any questions and support you every step of the way as your cat gets back to feeling their best.

Find out more…

There’s more to know about Iodine-131 treatment, and we’d be happy to chat with you about how it can help your cat. Please feel free to reach out to Dr. Alisa Berg and her team at info@accessvet.com for more information.

*Symptoms may vary from cat to cat.