Fall 2024 Newsletter

Fall 2024 Newsletter

What is C-Reactive Protein?

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is a type of acute-phase protein that increases in the blood when there is inflammation or infection in the body.

Why is CRP Important?

CRP is an important marker for veterinarians because it helps to diagnose and monitor various conditions. Elevated CRP levels can indicate:

• Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
• Inflammatory diseases (like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Trauma or surgery recovery
• Certain cancers

CRP in Dogs:

CRP levels can rise significantly in response to inflammation in dogs, although the normal ranges and specific responses can differ between species.

How is CRP Measured?

CRP is measured through a blood test. Your veterinarian will draw a small blood sample from your pet for analysis. The results can help in the diagnosis and management of your pet’s health condition.

When is CRP Testing Recommended?

Your veterinarian may recommend CRP testing if your pet is showing signs of illness, such as:

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Pain or swelling
• Vomiting or diarrhea

CRP testing can also be useful in monitoring the progress of treatment for known conditions.

Interpreting CRP Levels

• Normal CRP: Indicates no significant inflammation or infection.
• Mild Elevation: May suggest early or mild inflammation.
• Moderate to High Elevation: Suggests significant inflammation, infection, or other serious conditions.
• Decreasing Levels: Indicates that treatment is effective, and inflammation is resolving.

What to Do if Your Dog’s CRP is Elevated?

If your dog’s CRP levels are elevated, your veterinarian will likely recommend additional tests to pinpoint the cause of the inflammation. Treatment will depend on the underlying condition.

CRP is a valuable tool in veterinary medicine for detecting and monitoring inflammation in dogs. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can help manage your dog’s health more effectively. If you have any questions about CRP testing or your dog’s health, please call the office.

Please reach out to us if you believe your dog is afflicted with the above symptoms. 

-Dr. Hailee Cotter

Well wishes for Dr. Gruenwald

                        Dr. Gruenwald (or as we lovingly call her Dr. G) has decided to focus her career on an exotic specialty practice.  We will say goodbye to Dr G at the end of September as she leaves our practice and moves out of the area.   After that, Dr. Cotter will continue to provide care for our exotic patients Tuesday - Friday

                        We wish Dr. G well in her future endeavors & encourage her to keep growing her knowledge to further serve exotics & wildlife. Thank you for your time spent with us!

- Dr. Bethany Steele

Updated Online Pharmacy

On September 11, 2024, we are going to start using a different company to fill our online orders. The new company “Koala” is like VetSource but has many additional features we hope will make life easier!

Here are some of the exciting changes:

• Shipping is ALWAYS free!
• Standard shipping is 2-4 days.
• At no additional charge, they will package your pet’s different medications together in pouches marked with the time the medications should be given, making it easier for you to keep track of multiple medications.
• They take medication returns!!!

 If you have an auto ship set up with VetSource for your pet’s medication, supplements, or food you should have already received an email detailing how your future orders will be handled. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns about this new pharmacy.

- Maggie Smith, LVT, CVPM

Animal & Owner Safety

We want to remind our clients that we require all cats and exotics be brought into the clinic in a travel cage. We have 2 different sized cardboard carriers for purchase if needed. Dogs must be brought into the clinic on a leash that is 6 feet long or shorter. *We do not allow pets to be lead inside the hospital with retractible leashes.* If your dog is brought in on a retractible leash, a slip lead to using while in the clinic will be provided for you at no charge. Feel free to take this lead with you to use at your next visit! These requirements are in place to keep yourself, your pet, and other pets safe while on our property. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation!

Caring Animal Hospital - Happy Pets. Caring People. Quality Medicine. - www.caringanimalhospital.net