Spotlight on Our Staff | Heather Thomas has been a technician at Cornerstone for 4 years. She lives in Garland with her husband, daughter, son, and 3 dogs. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, and reading.
Christi Binley has been a receptionist at Cornerstone for 4 years. She lives in Carrollton with her husband, daughter, and 3 dogs. In her spare time she enjoys going camping, jetskiing at the lake, and anything outdoors.
Next time you visit Cornerstone, be sure to say Hello to them! |
|  | Heatstroke | Heatstroke is a summer danger for pets that can be prevented. Unlike humans, dogs and cats do not cool off by sweating. Instead, they cool themselves by panting. Panting, however is not as efficient as sweating and therefore pets have a more difficult time coping with summer heat than humans do. The major cause of heatstroke in pets is owners leaving their pets in a parked car. In as little as 5 minutes, your pet's life can be in danger.
Certain animals are particularly sensitive to heatstroke such as young, old, and overweight animals, animals with shortened muzzles (i.e. bulldogs, pugs, and persian cats), animals with heart and/or respiratory problems, and animals with thick, heavy coats.
Early symptoms of heatstroke are labored breathing, warm dry skin, an anxious attitude, and profuse salivation. If you notice any of these signs, call your veterinarian immediately.
The best way to avoid heatstroke in your pet is common sense and prevention. If you must take your pet in the heat, be sure to take water and a bowl, and be near shaded areas, giving your pet many breaks in the shade. It has already reached the high 90's in our area this year, so keep your pet protected during the scorching summer months! |
| | Ear Infections in Dogs | Ear infections occur frequently in dogs and take place mostly in the outer ear canal. The most common causes of infection are bacteria, yeast, and ear mites. Chronic ear infections are usually associated with an underlying cause like allergies.
Dogs with large, floppy ears, or excessive hair growth in their ears are more susceptible to ear infections because this prevents normal air flow, thus producing a warm, dark, and moist environment which is perfect for the growth of bacteria and yeast.
Your dog may have some or all of the following symptoms if they have an ear infection: a terrible odor from the ear(s), scratching or rubbing of the ears or head, discharge from the ears, redness or swelling of the ear canal, shaking of the head (which can lead to an aural hematoma--a blood vessel rupturing within the ear flap itself, which requires surgical repair), and painful ears.
If you think that your dog has an ear infection, call us make an appointment! |
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