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562 Springfield Avenue | Westfield, New Jersey 07090 | P: (908) 232-1048 | F: (908) 654-3319 |
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Westfield Veterinary Group & Wellness Center Earns American Animal Hospital Accreditation!
Westfield Veterinary Group & Wellness Center has received accreditation following a comprehensive evaluation by the American Animal Hospital Association. The evaluation includes a quality assessment review of the hospital’s facility, medical equipment, practice methods and pet health care management.
Only 12 percent of all small animal veterinary practices in the U.S. have achieved accreditation by the American Animal Hospital Association. In order to maintain accredited status, Westfield Veterinary Group and Wellness Center must continue to be evaluated regularly by the association’s trained consultants.
“Westfield Veterinary Group & Wellness Center belongs to a select group of practices that are committed to meeting the highest standards in veterinary medicine” says Michael P. Andrews, DVM, AAHA President. “AAHA hospitals pass a stringent evaluation for over 900 standards covering patient care, client service and medical protocols. By attaining accreditation, Westfield Veterinary Group & Wellness Center is demonstrating its dedication to offering the best care to its patients and clients.” |
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Hospital Brochure |
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Summer Tips 2008 |
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Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes are prevalent in our area all year, and are especially active in the spring and summer. These pests carry tapeworm, Lyme disease and heartworm, so we recommend a year-round preventative program for the protection of your pet.
Not all pets know how to swim, and they won’t know how to get out of a pool unless taught. If you have a pool, teach your pet how to exit. Watch them carefully like a toddler when around other pools. And be sure to provide a life preserver when you take them boating. |
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When traveling with your pet, be sure to pack for him or her too! Bring his or her usual food and water from home to avoid stomach upset, bring a first aid kit, and carry your pet’s photo or identification card provided by Westfield Veterinary Group & Wellness Center. Microchipping your pet is another inexpensive way to help identify your pet if he or she becomes lost during travels. Also remember to get the phone numbers and addresses of veterinarians in the areas you are visiting.
Heat stroke is a serious concern for our pets during the warm spring and summer months, so remember to keep them cool and provide plenty of fresh water. Limit their outdoor exercise to the cooler early mornings and late evenings. Never leave your pet in a car unattended; even with the windows open, the temperature can raise to deadly levels in only a few minutes. If you notice any signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy panting, thick ropey saliva, weakness, disorientation or collapse, wet them down with water and bring them in immediately.
Summer fireworks around the Fourth of July can frighten some pets, causing them to panic, run away and possibly get lost or hurt. If loud noises frighten your pet, keep him or her indoors during fireworks, and have some music playing to distract from the sounds and help soothe your pet’s nerves.
Gardening can be a rewarding way to relax. Some of our pets like to garden too. But be aware, some of our favorite plants can be harmful to pets, such as lily of the valley, azalea, and rhododendron which can cause heart problems if ingested. Visit the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control website for a list of plants that are toxic to pets, and also plants that are safe. |
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Chemical lawn treatments can be dangerous to pets. Pets that walk on recently treated lawns can pick up chemicals on their paws, and some pets like to eat grass. Be sure your pet stays off the lawn for the recommended time after your lawn is treated, and also be sure to store lawn care products where your pet can’t get to them.
If you have allergies, you know how uncomfortable they can make you feel. Pets can have allergies too, which start acting up in the spring and summer. Fortunately, most of your pet’s allergies can be easily treated, so if you notice rashes or irritation on your pet’s skin, unusual hair loss, or repeated head shaking, ear scratching, or chewing at legs or paws, be sure to call your veterinarian to help your pet find relief.
Springtime is also bee and wasp time! Some pets are highly allergic to bee stings, so if you notice any swelling on your pet’s face, he or she may have been stung and is having a reaction. Call your veterinarian immediately.
Your pet’s dental health is imperative to his or her overall health, as bacteria from dental disease can travel through the bloodstream to damage internal organs like the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are just as important for pets as they are for us. |