Fork Union Animal Clinic
6690 James Madison Highway, Fork Union, VA 23055
Make an appointment - (434) 842-8387
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Dr. Sam recently appeared on Channel 29 news. Check out a copy of the TV broadcast on YouTube.
OPEN HOUSE - CLIENT APPRECIATION DAY
We held a special client appreciation day and open house on February 13th. This was a lovely event that was well attended and we really enjoyed showing the hospital and all of its bells and whistles off to our clients. If you would like to see a short video of this event click the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuWNufi5HS4
Stenotic nares is a congenital disorder most likely to affect puppies with normally short or flattened muzzles. Breeds with normally short muzzles are called brachycephalic breeds; these include Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Sealyham Terriers, and similar breeds. These types of breeds have a normally restrictive upper airway system and are prone to inheriting abnormally or severely narrow airways. In the case of stenotic nares, the nostrils are malformed with narrow openings, thus restricting the puppy's ability to intake air. What are the symptoms? The main symptom is difficulty breathing through the nostrils. The affected puppy will be seen breathing through his mouth rather than the nostrils. Many dogs will also have a chronic clear nasal discharge that is often described as "blowing bubbles". Recurring upper airway infections are often seen as well. What are the risks? Most puppies will compensate by mouth breathing rather than nose breathing. It is not uncommon for affected puppies to have other congenital disorders as well as stenotic nares. All affected puppies should be evaluated carefully. Recent studies show that dogs with this condition suffer from a dramatically reduced airflow and have lower blood oxygen levels than normal. The reduced airflow through the nasopharynx causes a vacuum effect that will, over time, elongate and swell tissues in the back of the throat. This has been proven to cause progressive airway restriction that worsens as the patient ages. These recent studies indicate that puppies with this condition should be treated and that they benefit more from treatment early in life. What is the management? Surgery to open the nares is generally successful and will allow most puppies to live relatively normal lives. We are very experienced at this surgery and perform this treatment with a surgical laser. Below is an example of a patient before and after surgery at our hospital.
Education Topic of the Month: MLS Laser Therapy is now AVAILABLE at Fork Union Animal Clinic Fork Union Animal Clinic has been a leader in the use of lasers in veterinary medicine. Our hospital was one of the first in Virginia to use lasers for dog and cat surgery. The use of the surgical laser has benefited our patients due to reduced pain, reduced swelling and reduced bleeding. Fork Union Animal Clinic is excited to announce the availability of MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy for our clients and patients. Some people know this as "cold laser" therapy in human medicine. Therapy laser technology has demonstrated profound beneficial effects in the treatment of joint and muscle pain. These effects can improve the quality of life for patients suffering from all types of degenerative and inflammatory disease and can also be life saving. Some patients will find the relief so dramatic that they no longer need potentially toxic NSAID’s. Treatments are totally painless and can be performed while a client waits for their pet. Many pets will improve after just a few treatments and some clients will notice relief of pain after the very first treatment. The MLS laser is also very beneficial in treating skin wounds due to the amazing effects of laser therapy. The MLS Laser dramatically speeds healing and reduces pain associated with skin wounds including surgical wounds. As part of the doctor’s commitment to optimal pain control for our patients, all surgical patients receive therapy laser treatment after their surgical wounds are closed. MLS Laser therapy has successfully treated the following conditions in companion animals.
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