NUPEPA KAUKA HOLOHOLONA

“VETERINARY NEWSPAPER”

2012 SPRING/SUMMER EDITION

Aloha Kakou, Valued Clients,

Haiku Veterinary Clinic is 35 years old this year! How did we get here so quickly?

We advocate for the wellness of pets as they have become an integral part of our lives. The Clinic is now three doctors strong serving our community of responsible pet owners. Dr. Dale and Dr. Jeter have been most helpful in providing the majority of services as I transition toward my studies and practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine for dogs, cats, and horses. Along these lines of change, I have moved toward the administrative side of the practice as our staff is now comprised of over 20 members. I am sure many of you can still remember when there were only a handful of us at the clinic just 10 years ago.

Whether we have 4 or 20 staff members it is still our goal to provide you all with comprehensive personal service that would translate to caring for your pets in the most ethical, progressive, and effective manner. As I have come to know so many of you through the years, we have appreciated your candor in helping us keep on track. With the many new programs we are introducing, we look forward to having you share your thoughts in how we can serve you best.

In addition to the doctors on staff, we have probably the most trained crew of animal technicians and assistants we have ever had at the clinic. Our technical nursing staff includes graduates of universities from around the country and the University of Hawaii, college students, graduates of specialized two year animal technician programs, and members with in-clinic training. Our administrative and reception staff, likewise, comprise of a mixture of educational and training levels. The common factor in all is their passion to use their skills for the betterment of our beloved animals.

It has been a fulfilling 35 year journey and we are committed to serving you. Please be assured that the wellness of your pet is our goal. We are here to treat, guide, and promote the physical, mental, and behavioral health of your animal family member.

Enclosed are highlighted programs and services available as we celebrate 35 years. Join us as we kick up our heels, get out in the sun, and enjoy the company of our pets.

Sincerely,

Dr. Elison President, HVC

HIGHLIGHTED CLINIC PROGRAMS, SPRING AND SUMMER, 2012

1. PET GROOMING: Celebrating one year of renewed service: Long or short haired, small or large dogs, Mindi loves to work with them all.

2. PREMIUM SPAY AND NEUTER PROGRAM: A program for cats and dogs that have completed our Pediatric Wellness Program is now available. Basically, the program offers a 40% courtesy discount of fees for these procedures if completed prior to 8 months of age. We recognize the limitation of funds from the City and County’s program.

3. DIGITAL RADIOLOGY: Our digital x-ray machine has been serving us very well over the last 5 years. We easily consult with radiology specialists via the internet.

4. GERIATRIC MONITORING: We are also proud to provide glaucoma eye pressure testing, blood pressure and ECG readings especially for our older patients.

5. DIAGNOSTIC REFERRALS AND CONSULTATIONS: We are now blessed with specialists who have recently moved to Hawaii and who are readily available to evaluate the more complex cases using state of the art diagnostic techniques. Our doctors also consult via telephone with nationally recognized facilities with specialists of all disciplines- including, cardiology, infectious diseases, dermatology, and oncology.

6. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE: Emergency care after clinic hours is now at its best with the opening of designated emergency facilities on the Windward side and in downtown Honolulu. As Haiku Veterinary Clinic is primarily an outpatient facility, we have developed very good working relationships with our neighboring clinics. A list is available in our clinic handout and on our website at www.haikuvet.com.

7. PET INSURANCE IS FOR REAL! Providing extended care for our pets is realistic and affordable pet insurance may be purchased to augment the cost of more complex services. Insurance policies cover emergency care, but they also cover routine health care procedures including some vaccinations, dental cleaning and blood work. Investigate these options ASAP.

8. CARECREDIT: We have recently subscribed to provide CareCredit as a source of financing for pet health expenses when needed. Preparation for emergencies is most highly recommended of all households. Information is available at our reception desk.

9. TCVM (TRADITIONAL CHINESE VETERINARY MEDICINE): Acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment is most helpful after Western medicine or surgical options are established. A complimentary evaluation can be scheduled with Dr. Elison within a month of any office visit at Haiku Veterinary Clinic. These Chinese modalities work well for problems such as arthritis, liver and kidney disease, age related conditions, gastrointestinal problems, cancers, and for pain management.

10. COMING SOON, “WISE KITTY PROGRAM FOR THE MATURE CAT” (Specially formulated for cats, 9 years and older)

NUPEPA KAUKA HOLOHOLONA

“VETERINARY NEWSPAPER”

2010 WINTER EDITION

WELCOME, to a new year with Haiku Veterinary Clinic. As with all beginnings, we are committed to providing you with comprehensive veterinary services your pets deserve and require. We thank you for giving us the opportunity to share your journey of responsible living with your pet and feel honored to have your trust in providing our services.

Among the numerous services we provide, our Staff members love to share their knowledge with you through our successful Pediatric Program. We are always rewarded in working with healthy and playful puppies and kittens. We also, believe in advocating for the mental and physical well being of your pet throughout their lives. Be assured that even in the twilight years, we join you in the journey with your long time companion. During those in between years, we are present to work with you through “Dis – eases”, and in alerting you of ways to optimize healthy choices.

In addition to a fabulous support Staff, Dr. Fanning and Dr. Dale have joined me with the same commitment to be part of your family in the “crazy” world of animal lovers. Mahalo, Dr. Elison

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL DENTAL MONTH

THE NEED FOR PROFESSIONAL DENTAL CLEANING IN DOGS AND CATS

Typically, we can keep dog and cat dental care under control until they are about 4 years of age. The many options of using dental pastes, cleansing solutions, and edible chewies help to decrease plaque buildup, but often by age four, veterinary intervention is needed.

The progression of dental disease includes the buildup of plaque that leads to gingivitis or inflamed gums. Calculus accumulates to the point of tartar build up, all the while the gums start to recede from the teeth and the boney socket that holds the teeth in place starts to erode.

Although slow in developing, bad breath ensues, loose teeth are noticed, and pain is finally evident. Unfortunately, the major problem becomes that of bacteria making their way into the blood stream and affecting internal organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys.

Regular examinations can prevent these advance stages of dental disease and your veterinarian can advise you to the appropriate times to pursue professional dental cleaning.

A pre-anesthetic examination includes collecting blood as well as urine in some cases to assess any risks prior to the procedure. Due to age or other risk factors, additional diagnostics may also be necessary. Dental radiographs are recommended for some and especially those that may require surgical extraction of teeth. At the onset of the procedure each tooth is charted and noted with their health condition. All teeth are scaled and polished under general anesthesia. The final sealants are applied and antibiotics and pain medication may go home with the patient.

Progress examinations at least 10 days after the procedure assure that healing is on schedule and that continual home care is possible. THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A PEARLY WHITE SMILE!