Center Pet Blog

Prepare Your Pets for Hurricane Irene

2011-08-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

Hurricanes can cause a disaster for people and pets. With a major hurricane barreling up the East Coast, prepare for your safety and that of your pets. Please see the following tips to help the entire family "weather" the storm:

If you must evacuate, take your pets if possible.
Have a supply of essential pet medications in a waterproof bag.
Ensure that you have an adequate supply of pet food on hand along with bowls.
If you can have a copy of your pets' vaccination history with you.
Each pet should have a collar with identifying name tags.
Fill bottles with water to ensure that you have enough water for your pets to drink in case the water supply is tainted or not accessible.
If you have cats or small animals, have a carrier readily available for them.
Keep an extra leash on hand for dogs
If you have outdoor animals, be sure they have adequate water supplies, shade and secure shelter and an area that will be above any high water.

We all want everyone to be safe. See you when everything is calm once again.

- Your Friends at Center Pet Pharmacy

Center Pet is Vet-VIPPS Certified!

2011-05-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

Congratulations go out to Center Pet, because they are one of 11 pharmacies in the United States with Vet-VIPPS certification! This is a huge accomplishment, and is very meaningful to have Vet-VIPPS certification. The acronym Vet-VIPPS stands for Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites.

The Vet-VIPPS program recognizes, and certifies online pharmacies that dispense prescription medications, and certain devices for animals. However, the animals that Vet-VIPPS certified pharmacies serve are not food producing animals.

Having the Vet-VIPPS Seal on the Center Pet website means that Center Pet has met the terms that Vet-VIPPS set forward. According to the Vet-VIPPS website, “Pharmacies displaying the Vet-VIPPS Seal comply with Vet-VIPPS criteria, which address a customer’s right to privacy, authentication and security of prescription orders, adherence to a recognized quality assurance policy, and provision of meaningful consultation between customers and pharmacists.”

The Vet-VIPPS accreditation process is a very detailed procedure, and not just any pharmacy gets Vet-VIPPS certified. The process included submitting and application, which includes mandatory documentation. Also included was a reviewing Center Pet’s policies and procedures, and an on-site survey, among many other things!

The Vet-VIPPS Seal on the Center Pet website guarantees customers and potential new customers, that they have the highest pharmacy standards. A big congrats again to Center Pet, who fully deserves this honor!

Photo Credit: nabp.net (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy)

Buying a Rabbit for Easter

2011-04-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

When thinking about Easter, many people think about springtime candy like Peeps and Cadbury Eggs. But numerous people also consider buying a rabbit for their family for the holiday. Why not? They look cute and cuddly, and seem like sweet animals. However, you need to be sure when purchasing a rabbit you are aware that they are not low maintenance animals. Adopting a rabbit is a commitment and, your family needs to be in it 210 percent!

An uncommon fact is rabbits are very coy creatures. When children are too excited, it will scare the rabbit. They like to be left alone, and if it is quiet they might want to play with children—but only if it the atmosphere is very calm! After having a rabbit for a few weeks, children will realize that their new pet is tranquil and is not like having a dog or cat. This might result in losing interest in the animal.

Rabbits do not enjoy being held in people’s arms. Children always want to pick up their very own Peter-Cotton-Tail, but it may kick and scratch when it is picked up. Rabbits also have very brittle bones, and when they are picked up or played with by someone a little bit too rough, then it can result in injuries and broken bones.

Just like having any other kind of pet, rabbits require human attention. They need exercise and some stimulation outside of their cage, and need their litter changed daily. Having a rabbit is a very big responsibility. If your family is not in it for the right reasons, a rabbit may not be the right pet for you. Families do like adopting rabbits for the Easter Holidays, but need to know the right facts on how to take care of it.

Center Pet wishes that you have a wonderful and “Hoppy” Easter!

How do You Feel about Making Your Pets Celebrate Passover?

2011-04-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

It is easy to say that everyone love springtime. The sun is usually shining, and the holidays just keep coming! This week in the Jewish religion is Passover, or also known as “Pesach.” To numerous people, this holiday includes not eating leavened bread for one week. But what does this mean for your pets?

During Passover, people do not eat leavened bread for one week. Matzah is the substitute for humans. Matzah is only made up of flour and water. The other thing about Matzah is, it does not rise like bread, that’s why it is called “unleavened bread.” Matzah is safe for your pets to eat, as well. However, what else can your pets eat that is Kosher for Passover?

Observant pet owners should always check the ingredients of their pet’s food. They should be looking for ingredients such as wheat, rye, oats, and barley. There are some approved dog and cat foods that are Kosher for Passover. Nutro, Evanger’s, Hill’s Science and Prescription Diet, and Friskies are all great companies who have Kosher choices for your pets.

Pet owners could try and make Kosher pet food for their pets with ingredients like vegetables, chicken, Kosher beef, tuna fish, and even rice. Just be sure that there is a lot of protein in the food that you make! Some pets very much enjoy homemade food. Pets also usually like eating some of the scraps from the Passover Sedar, but not too much!
We hope that you and your pets have a lovely Passover week!

Lending a Helping Hand to Japan

2011-03-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

Society outreach and helping animals in need is a very important initiative to Center Pet. Due to the tsunami and earthquake in Japan, many animals of the country are suffering. Center Pet wants to make it a prime incentive to help the animals of the distressed country.

Starting this week, Center Pet will be collecting donations for the Japan-based nonprofit organization, HEART- Tokushima. HEART- Tokushima wants to create and maintain a society where animals can live without suffering or cruelty—especially now with the devastation from the earthquake and tsunami. Center Pet will be collecting many items including, used towels, sheets, blankets, cat and dog toys, leads, and carriers. There will be a large donations box at Center Pet, to collect items. People who cannot come to the Center Pet store can always mail Center Pet their goods, if they want to donate to HEART- Tokushima. For more information on the organization HEART- Tokushima, please see their website.

“Our Company wants to help the animals who were debilitated by the natural disasters,” said Kenny Kramm, CEO of Center Pet. “We send our appreciation and applause to those who have provided a great service to Japan, in helping aid the animals and people who live in the country. Center Pet is extremely glad to jump in and help out.”

Another very important nonprofit organization that Center Pet will also be assisting is the World Vets. The World Vets is dedicated to offering help and veterinary aid to various countries. They work with many other advocacy groups, governments, and veterinary professionals. Center Pet will send medications to the World Vets. Center Pet spoke with the World Vets to figure out what medications are required to send. Center Pet hopes to be sending all of the medications that were requested. To find more information on the World Vets, please see their website.

“Knowing that these animals have no place to go home to anymore, absolutely breaks my heart,” said Sarah Kramm, Director of Social Media and Director of Community Outreach at Center Pet. “The two organizations that we are working with are wonderful, and really give assistance to those needy animals in times like this—and in general.”

Everyone at Center Pet is eager to help supply medications, bring in supplies and collect donations for the two organizations! Please feel free to come to Center Pet and drop off supplies, or if you cannot physically get to Washington, DC— you can send Center Pet your donations (4900 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016.) With these contributions, we are making a difference in the animal’s lives in Japan.

Help the Animals in Japan!

2011-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

The earthquake and tsunami in Japan was extremely devastating to the natives of the country, and even people who have never been to Japan before. People from all over the world want to help the citizens of Japan, and also help the animals in Japan. If you are interested in helping the animals in Japan, there are many ways to do so!

Many American organizations are reaching out to Japan to help the animals who are in need of assistance and are in much danger. The World Vets are providing veterinary aid to animals around the world. In this case, the World Vets have deployed a first responder team to Japan. The World Vets have joined forces with many other foreign groups, and are working with the US Army veterinary associates who are stationed in Japan. They are also working with Japanese animal charities.

Right now, the World Vets are also collecting donations of medications (vaccinations, de-worming medicines, wound treatments, fluid replacements, cages, etc) and supplies. If you are interested in helping, or donating please see their website. You can send supplies and mediations to their headquarters in Fargo, North Dakota.

PETA is asking people to donate to their Animal Emergency Fund, on their website. This imperative fund allows PETA to provide assistance through rescuers, veterinarians, and experts to animals after natural disasters occur. The Animal Emergency Fund also helps PETA establish a way of offering information on how to protect animals before disasters happen.

The Search Dog Foundation has created six Canine Disaster Search Teams who have been deployed to Japan. They are accepting donations on their website, and are also updating everyone what is going on in Japan day-by-day on their website, too. You can also see videos of the search teams who were deployed to Japan.

There are also many organizations in Japan who are trying to aid the animals, like the Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK). ARK wants to house as many animals as they can— who have been displaced, and are now homeless because of the recent earthquake and tsunami. You can also donate to ARK on their webpage.

Helping Japan is crucial at this point—even animals are helping other animals. Take a peek at this video (from lifewithdogs.tv) about one dog that will not leave his injured dog friend. Please help out our furry friends in Japan, because they are most definitely in need! All donations, no matter large or small—count in saving one animals life.

Spring Holidays and Your Pet!

2011-03-09T10:16:00.000-08:00

Plenty of folks have been dressing up their pets to get into the spring holiday spirit for years. With celebrations that are currently going on, Center Pet wants to let everyone know some tips on how to have a safe and fun Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter with their pets.

MARDI GRAS

•When bringing your pets to Mardi Gras parades, be sure that your pet is not suffocated by the amount of people that are around. Check that they have enough room to sit or stand, and are not smothered by other people. At the parade, you could ask and see if there is a designated area for pets and their owners to stand and watch. Or you could find your own sort of safe zone, where you and your pet feel comfortable watching the parade.

•Although beads are great for humans to wear, lots of beads around your pet’s neck could be trouble. Yes, they might look adorable; however it is not a good idea. Your pet could trip over the beads and severely hurt themselves, or the beads could weigh their necks down and hurt them that way.

•Moon Pies and other candy-goodies are delicious to eat for Mardi Gras lovers everywhere, except for your pets! Many of the sweet treats are made out of chocolate, and other types of foods that are not good for your pet and can make them severely sick. The chocolate in some cases can not only cause rigorous illness, but it can also lead to tachycardia—an abnormally fast heartbeat. (There is more important information about chocolate in the "Easter" section of this article!)

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

•Please drink responsibly, and do not feed your pet any alcoholic beverages. It is not funny, or fun for them, and can give them alcohol poisoning—which is extremely serious in pets. Giving your pet alcohol can cause diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, lack of coordination, coma, and more. Pets who consume alcohol also can result in death. If you or a friend happens to spill beer or a mixed drink onto the floor, be sure to clean it up ASAP before your pet gets to it first.

•Make sure your pet is always hydrated. Where ever you go, (party, parade, street fair) please bring some water for them. You can even put a little bit of green food dye into their water, for a festive drink for them!

•We all know that you’d never forget to wear green on St. Patty’s day, so don’t forget to dress your furry friend to impress—in green of course! No one wants their pet to be pinched, so put them in a green shirt or a green collar.

EASTER

•As much as everyone loves opening their Easter baskets and rummaging through the plastic grass and eggs, your pet loves to, too! However, it is not safe for your pet to search through the basket because they could find, and potentially eat candy wrappers and other decorative items like ribbons (which are not edible.) Also, the plastic grass is not digestible for your pets, either. Any of these items (wrappers, ribbons, plastic grass, etc) can get caught in your pet’s digestive system and result in choking or intestinal problems.

•Easter is a holiday that is commonly associated with the Easter Bunny, who brings chocolate! Chocolate is extremely bad for your pet. You can take a look at this wonderful interactive "Chocolate Chart" from National Geographic, to see how many ounces of chocolate your dog can eat and how sick they will get. Scroll to how many pounds your dog weighs to see the effects on your size and type of dog. Just remember, that chocolate is extremely toxic to pets!

•If you are having an Easter egg hunt in your house or in your backyard, please clean up all of the eggs after the hunt is over. If you are using the beautifully dyed, hardboiled eggs, make sure that your pet does not get to them. After finding a rotten, old Easter egg, (days or weeks later) pets still might eat it and become tremendously sick. Try using plastic colorful eggs, but also be cautious of your pet trying to get into those to devour the insides, also!

These springtime holidays are meant for you and your pets to enjoy, and not meant for your pets to get sick. Center Pet hopes that you and your pets have a safe and wonderful Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter!

GDV in Dogs

2011-03-02T11:30:00.000-08:00

Gastric Distillation and Volvulus Syndrome is extremely serious in dogs. It can also be known as twisted stomach, or bloat. GDV is a huge problem, in large dogs and is life-threatening. When GDV occurs, the stomach rolls or twists and closes off the area from the esophagus to the intestines.

When your dog has GDV, torsion (another word to describe twisting) closes off the pylorus—which is the opening from your dog’s stomach to their duodenum. The GDV causes your dog’s stomach to turn and twist a lot, and in some scenarios the spleen and major blood vessels will twist too. This will cause tissue damage and loss of blood flow to the stomach and other vital organs. When organs do not get enough blood, shock can occur.

The twisting and turning of the stomach makes it hard for the dog to vomit. And unsuccessful vomiting along with a hardened stomach are symptoms of GDV. Another symptom of GDV is when your dog isn’t feeling or acting normally and if they seem like they’re really anxious about something. If your dog is hunched over, and if you do not hear any stomach noises- like digestive gurgling sounds, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Within several hours, dogs can die from bloat and GDV. There is treatment for bloat, but with treatments and medication some dogs do still pass away from this syndrome.

Deep-chested dogs are most at risk like German Shepherds, Great Danes, Standard Poodle, and Dobermans. Great Dane come in at number one for being most at risk, followed by Saint Bernard, Weimaraner, and in fourth is the Irish Setter.

To prevent GDV, try and avoid stressful situations for your dog. Exercise with your dog, at least for an hour a day. And make sure that your dog is eating two to three smaller meals a day, instead of one big meal. And do not allow your dog to drink water, or eat fast and excessively, especially after exercising.

If any of these symptoms occur or you believe your dog has GDV, please call your veterinarian immediately.

Rainy Day Precautions for Your Pet!

2011-03-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

With the gorgeous weather that spring brings, it also brings lots of rain showers. As much as your dog loves to jump in the mud after the shower, there are a few things you can do to make sure that your pet doesn’t get wet or frightened during the storm.

Have a Dry Shelter for Your Pet- If your pet likes to roam outside, a rain storm is not the time to do it! And if your pet is outside in a dog house or a shed, during a storm—it is also a good idea to bring them inside. Some pets are scared of the actual storm and need some extra loving through the entirety of the storm.

Spending a Little More Time with Them- Your pet is most likely to run, have fun, and use the bathroom outside. But when they are cooped up inside all day, they need a little bit of extra care, and attention. Your pet probably has no idea what the reason is for being held inside, but they might try and go insane trying to figure it out! You can cuddle, and play with toys with them to keep them from being scared from the storm/thunder or lightening.

Because Lightning and Thunder are Scary- To humans lightning and thunder are scary, but when a pet sees a huge bolt of light or a loud sound—they get even more scared. Certain pets will even develop a phobia of lightning and thunder. If your pet seems that they are extremely scared of the noise or the flashes of light, make sure that they are in an enclosed area. A bathroom or a laundry room is a great place to keep your pet—with the lights on, of course! Also, a lot of pets feel very safe in a crate. You can also hold them when a storm is occurring, and your arms will make them feel safe and at home.

Acclimate Your Pet to the Storm- There are such loud noises associated with storms, you can always try to acclimate your pet to noise. You could play a CD with thunderstorm noises for your pet, on a constant basis. Also, you could tap or hit certain items that make loud noises. Using a drum, clanging metal cans, crumpling up aluminum foil or banging a metal pan to create loud noise continuously throughout the pet’s life is a good idea. These man-made loud noises will accustom your pet to loud, boisterous sound, and will hopefully make your pet feel comfortable when a storm hits.

If none of these tips help your pet and their anxiety or phobia of storms, we recommend seeing a veterinarian to help ease your pet’s problem. Center Pet wants you and your pets to have a safe spring season, rain or shine!

February is Pet Dental Month!

2011-02-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

Along with February being American Heart month for humans, for your furry loved ones it’s also Pet Dental Month. Center Pet agrees with the American Veterinary Medical Association about taking care of your pet’s teeth. The American Veterinary Medical Association encourages pet owners to take care of their dog and cats teeth, because of the bacterial troubles that can occur inside their mouths. And terrible periodontal health is something that can definitely be helped and fixed by pet owners.

An animal’s teeth should be taken care of just like humans. If their teeth and gums are not taken care of, they can develop more serious medical conditions. These small periodontal problems and infections can lead to other more serious health issues. The bigger issues that can come out of poor periodontal health are: kidney disease, diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular problems—like heart attacks. These potential life threatening troubles can be avoided, if pet owners take proper care of their pet’s teeth.

Make sure you have a daily dental routine for your pets, as you do with yourself. The number one effective way to help your pet not have poor oral health and periodontal problems, is brushing your pet’s teeth. Brushing their teeth can deduct tartar and plaque, just like in humans!

Center Pet encourages their clients to schedule dental exams while at the veterinarian. While doing that, Center Pet features C.E.T Home Dental Care products to keep pet’s teeth clean and diseased free. Center Pet carries the Enzymatic Toothpaste, which should be applied to a soft tooth brush and various forms of Hygiene chews for cats and dogs.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, “80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age three.” Center Pet is here to help combat horrific periodontal health in pets and prevent awful diseases, so your pet is happy and healthy!

Spay Day 2011

2011-02-15T13:25:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 22, The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International will hold their official Spay Day. This will be the 17th annual Spay Day to encourage citizens around the globe to save numerous animals’ lives by spaying or neutering pets and feral cats.

Center Pet agrees completely with The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International on their initiative to help save animals through spaying and neutering. Because the Spay Day plan is to connect people around the US, (and also around the world) to come together to battle the major disaster of pet euthanasia through spaying and neutering their pets.

However, you can take part in helping out with Spay Day 2011, too! A very important question to ask yourself on Spay Day is: has your pet been spayed or neutered? If not, it is a great day to go see a vet with your furry friend to help out this cause. While helping the cause, you’re also helping your pet at the same time too!

Many Humane Societies across the world are willing to help your pets and make sure that they can be spayed and neutered at a low cost. If you happen to be in the Montgomery County area of Maryland, stop in to The Montgomery County Humane Society to find out about the three different spay and neuter programs that they have to help the community.

People who want to stand up for this great cause, hands-on can organize an event—which could include a spaying and neutering event, a fundraising event, or an educational event. Volunteering at a Spay Day event is also a great way to help out. You can find an event near you on The Humane Society website.

There are also numerous other ways to help Spay Day 2011. You can look at The Humane Society website to find out more ways for you to help.

How much do you love your pet?

2011-02-14T14:22:00.000-08:00

Would you rather be loved and cherished by your pets, or by your spouse or partner? Center Pet wanted to find out how much people love their pets, during this current season of winter and love! Most people that we polled would rather spend time, and be loved by their pets—rather than by their spouse! In other words, people love their pets and would do anything for them. Some people would even make home cooked pet kibble and treats for their pets, rather than making themselves a home cooked dinner.

Your pets will never usually turn on you. Particularly when you are having a rough day—they’ll always be there for you. They know when something is wrong, and will be there to snuggle up with you to try to make things better. Pets are in this world for people to enjoy, and for them to have around as a special delight in their lives.

During this Valentine’s Day and winter season, find a reason to buy your pet a special present. Make your pet feel loved, because they truly will always love you unconditionally. Pets never pass any judgments; therefore they should be treated great because they are always there for you. And while you’re getting showered with love from your spouse or partner for Valentine’s Day, your pet should feel loved too!

Dogs, cats, amphibians, and birds of all types make people—old and young, smile and bring joy to their hearts. The warmth that a pet brings to your life is a very special feeling. Being around pet lovers, and being pet lovers ourselves, everyone at Center Pet wants to wish our lovely clients and their pets a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Photo Credit: critteristic.com

Got Silence?

2011-02-09T09:11:00.000-08:00

Many people want it, but most don’t have it when they have a dog in their life. What we are talking about is silence! Dogs bark for numerous reasons, but mainly to get their owners attention. Because they can’t speak to tell their owners that they’re bored or something is wrong—they bark instead. When dogs seem to get bored and need some entertainment they bark, also.

Some dogs bark for fun. Although it might not be fun for us humans at 3:00 in the morning, to them it can be a game. Since dogs don’t wear watches or have cell phone with the time on it, any time is game time to them!

When dogs are isolated from society, they seem to bark a lot. They bark because they are left alone and they need to release their pent up energy. Even if you leave your dog outside, they’re still alone and will bark because there is nothing stopping them, controlling them, or telling them not to!

Try and ignore your dog when they are barking nonstop. Yes, it is hard not to feed into the temptation of petting or playing with your dog—but for them to stop barking this is very necessary. Or try and distract them when they are barking with toys and food.

When you say good bye to your dog, and also animatedly come into your house—it will obviously excite your dog. When you practice not saying goodbye and come home nonchalantly, than your dog will get acquainted to it instead of getting so excited that you’re leaving or are home. Before you walk out the door to go to work, school, etc., settle your dog in with a good chew toy or bone. With using the chew toy or bone as a distraction, you can usually sneak out of the house without your dog noticing or getting upset. Also that chew toy or bone will be there for them to play with while you’re gone and hopefully will help calm down all of the barking.

Weight Issues in Dogs

2011-02-02T10:49:00.001-08:00

Until the end of time, humans will have issues with their weight. The dog— man’s best friend has weight issues, too! As silly as it sounds, weight problems are not rare in dogs. As a national initiative, veterinarians across America are trying to fix weight problems occurring in dogs. This plan started in February 2008, and veterinarians everywhere in America participated in the National Canine Weight Check. These vets wanted to teach dog owners what an ideal weight for their dog is, and if their dog is obese what steps they can take to decrease their dog’s total amount of fat.

Not enough exercise, eating patterns and lifestyles, are not the only reasons why your dog can be gaining weight. A slow metabolism is also a key factor. Middle aged dogs mostly have slow metabolisms, and it is harder for them to burn off calories. Also, we all know that neutering is always a great thing— but it may add some weight onto your pup. Neutering makes, dogs gain weight due to the lowering of their metabolic rate.

Health risks are commonly associated with overweight dogs, but canine obesity is a sickness in itself. Not only can your dog have serious heart troubles, breathing issues and even arthritis, but they can develop various skin conditions due to obesity, too!

By treating your dog with love and respect it shows them that you are offering them the right tools for them to lose weight, as well. If you don’t want to see your dog get obese and have other body issues, you should feed them and have them exercise accordingly. There are many diet dog foods, and medications that your vet can prescribe, if obesity is a problem. Also, please have your dog’s veterinarian check your dog’s weight, and explain to you what you can do as the owner to help any weight problems that are occurring.

Take the hog out of your dog, and let’s fight obesity in dogs together!

Dog Park Etiquette

2011-01-27T09:01:00.000-08:00

As the weather gets warmer, your dog is going to want to leave all the snow in your backyard for the sunny dog park. The dog park is where dogs congregate, exercise and play with other dogs—essentially interacting with other playmates for them. With the wide open green space, come some rules that dog owners should know and abide by.

Please follow all of the rules that are posted at the dog park. The rules are there to help you and your dog. The rules keep you and your dog away from harm and state specific laws that are important, too. If you do not follow the rules, it can lead to you or your dog getting injured or other consequences like the dog park actually getting shut down.

Before visiting the dog park, make sure that your dog is healthy. Just like when humans are sick, contagious and go someplace with a lot of people, they can infect them, too. Fleas can jump from one dog to the next and other health risks and issues are the same way.

Also, be sure to clean up after your dog. It is not only rude, but leaving your dogs droppings can spread illnesses and diseases, also. A golden rule for dog park etiquette is to be sure to clean up after your dog. If you do not you might get fined or banned from the dog park. And no one wants to be given a fine or banned for something as easy as picking up your dogs poop!

While at a dog park, always be sure to keep a close eye on your pup. Dog parks are made for dogs to run freely, and have off leash play. Although, always remember that you are responsible for your dog. When saying you are responsible, you are responsible for all of your dog’s actions. Please make sure that your dog can play nicely with other dogs. If your dog cannot, they should not go to the dog park.

If you have a female dog, and they are in season/in heat, please do not bring them to the dog park. It is very important that only spayed and neutered dogs are recommended.

Center Pet hopes that you and your dogs follow the rules, and have a great time next trip to the dog park! don’t forget our handy etiquette tips.

Center Pet Wants to Thank YOU!

2011-01-27T08:05:00.000-08:00

As the Director of Social Media, and a very happy employee at Center Pet, I love to receive feedback from our loyal fans. The other day, I received an email notification that someone rated us on myFOXdc MojoPages. When I went to visit the Center Pet page, I saw a delightful rating from one of our customers, Shirley. She wrote:

“I've had excellent communication from Center Pet Pharmacy. The prices are lower than a lot of other websites, and they'll call you personally to reassure you that the medication will be sent immediately. I've even had them call me after the meds were shipped to make sure that everything arrived. I would recommend them to anyone who needs meds for their dogs or cats.”

We are all very pleased at Center Pet that we have helped Shirley and all of our other customers with all of their pet medication needs. It makes me smile when I know our customers and their pets are happy and healthy. Center Pet provides a great service to pet lovers. We try and make every step of the hassle of buying pet medications easier, and we even help walk our customers through the process of buying medication from us.

This morning I received another notification that someone else rated us on myFOXdc MojoPages. When I opened that email I was like a child at Christmas time unwrapping presents! It was a short, but sweet rating that was titled “They Care!” This rating was from Darlene and it read:

“Center Pet Pharmacy has a reputation not only for providing excellent service but for caring about the customers - both two-legged and four.”

We are glad to make our customers lives a little bit easier when it comes to purchasing their pet medications. Again, everyone at Center Pet is very thankful for everyone’s ratings on us. We look forward to helping more customers and their pets in the near future! Don’t forget, you can always purchase medication on our website—in the purchase medications section!

Does Your Pet Not Like Taking Pills?

2011-01-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

Is your pet not fond of swallowing pills? When you try to give your pet a pill, do they screech and howl to get away from you and the medication? Don’t get upset at the fact that your pet won’t take their medication, because Center Pet has many answers for this and wants to help you and your furry friend!

In most cases, the helpful staff at Center Pet can transform your pet’s pills into a better form for them to take it. We would like to introduce you to Center Pet’s art of compounding. Compounding is the technical and scientific preparation of a custom-made, tailored medication. Center Pet believes that we make your pets medicine better tasting, with our compounding!

Center Pet’s compounders can make the pills into a compounded liquid medication. There are 16 different flavors that can be added to medication for your pet to take it easier and many different forms. A few of those flavors are: tuna, fish chowder, bacon, beef, chicken, and many more!

Center Pet has many other ways to get your pet to take their medicine, too! We can turn medication into tasty chewtabs for your pet’s palatal-pleasure. Or some can even be made into Sterile Ophthalmics and can be put in your pet’s eyes, as eye drops. Last, we make Transdermal Gels, which are medications that are absorbed through the skin into the blood stream.

Center Pet wants to help your pet achieve wellness. Please contact us if we can help your pet to take their medicine by compounding it into something that they love! (888) 260-0801 or email us at customerservice@centerpetpharmacy.com
We are here to help!

What You Shouldn’t Feed Your Cat!

2011-01-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

Keeping cats healthy maybe hard, but you can avoid giving them things to make them sick. If your cat is another child to you, you should definitely avoid giving them these types of foods and drugs!

Let’s Start With Drugs and Alcohol- First thing first: Humans and animals, should never do illegal drugs! And it is not funny to get your pet drunk or high. Because when you are feeding your cat these bad things, it can seriously harm them.

Marijuana- Smoking marijuana around your cat, and ingestion of marijuana from your cat can induce vomiting and changes in your cats heart rate.

Tobacco- Tobacco to cats is no good, either. The nicotine can affect your cat’s nervous system and digestive track. The nicotine can speed up your cats heart rate, coma, collapsing and even death.

Alcohol- Not only can alcohol make your cat drunk, but it could lead to coma and death—so don’t try and slip your cat drinks under the table, they’re good with water!

On to Foods That Humans Love to Give Their Cats- Because some humans think that cats love a good fish bone and washing it down with lots of milk.

Fish Bones- Even though cats love fish, the bones can seriously hurt them. The bones can be sharp and they can cut your cats insides, and tear their digestive track.

Milk- Some fully-grown cats can have diarrhea when given hefty quantities of dairy products.

Sugar- If your cats eat a lot of sugar, or sugary foods, it can lead to obesity. Along with obesity, it can also lead to diabetes and dental issues for your cat.

Garlic and Onions- Garlic keeps away the vampires, and it should be kept away from your cat! Garlic and some forms of onions can cause anemia in cats.

Everyone at Center Pet hopes you treat your cat with love and respect. Please feed your cat the proper dietary items and don’t stray too much off the path, because you don’t know what that food could do to your cat!

Ever Been Bitten?

2011-01-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

Many dog owners love their dogs like their children, and would never expect them to bite people. What is sweet and kind in one person’s eyes, could be horrifying and scary in another’s. Did you know that 4.6 million people are bitten by dogs every year? The majority of those people who are bit by dogs are children.

Some dogs are bigger and more aggressive than others. Some have also been brought up in more harsh conditions. But any dog can get agitated or frantic around a person, although studies show that most house dogs will never bite a person in their entire life span. But, when dogs do bite people they mostly aim for the face and eyes of a person. Serious injury from man’s best friend can be extremely traumatic.

“A study was done with a selection of 88 dog attacks from 2006-2008 in the United States, with results ranging from recoverable injuries to death” according to a study from edgarsnyder.com (a law firm website). “Of those incidents, it was found that: Pit Bulls, Rottweiler’s, and American Bulldogs were responsible for 77% of all deaths. Pit Bulls were responsible for 59% of all deaths. Pit Bulls killed more adults than children.”

To prevent even more scary statistics, we ask all dog owners to make a promise to follow your states Dog Laws, which also include leash laws. Not only is it not safe for dogs to roam around without a leash on (even if their owner is with them), but there are state laws that prohibit you from doing that. Leash laws basically require dogs to be on a leash when they are off their owners’ property. Although, there are exceptions to this law, like specific parks and designated places that say it is okay to let your pup roam without a leash.

Center Pet wants to see everyone happy, and healthy—including the humans in your pet’s life! Please be sure to coach/train and mingle with many different people with your dog, watch your dog around children, and always follow your state dog and leash laws.

Phot Credit: Photo borrowed from legaljuice.com

A Best Friend to All: Without Discrimination

2011-01-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

As dog lovers, we sincerely know that dogs bring many emotions to people. When you are upset about something, your dog will be there to make you happy. Or when you’re celebrating something, they’re there to be joyous with you. Dogs are also very helpful to people for many reasons. And not just for finding a lost turkey bone from Thanksgiving! But for a far better reason, to help people who have disabilities who need assistance.

These loyal companions can help people with disabilities on a daily basis. Kids with autism can benefit hugely from having a dog. Recent studies have shown that families with a child who has autism, who also own a dog, have major positive effects on the family and especially the child with special needs. Dogs can help a child with autism because they can advance social relations with other members of their family, and other members of the neighborhood that they live in.

Dogs sometimes put ease on children with special needs. With children who have autism, it can reduce their anxiety. Dogs can also help in furthering development with motor skills—like walking the dog, talking to the dog, throwing toys and playing catch with the dog. Dogs for Autism (located in the South Carolina) breeds and raises companion and service dogs to help people with Autism. They also have obedience classes for the public’s dogs, too!

Not only can some dogs help with everyday tasks for disabled people like opening doors and turning on lights, but they can even pull a wheelchair, and even can help dress a person. It is truly amazing what dogs can do. Dogs for Disabilities, inc., (located in Illinois) offer aid and assistance with service dogs to physically disabled people. Their main goal for the service dogs is for their owner to achieve independence.

Canine companions can also help and assist veterans who are disabled or have Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. These specially trained dogs make sure that the veteran’s life is made to be how it was before they went into combat. The dogs help the veterans with everyday life. Also, a dog is very helpful for people who just get out of combat because usually when in combat you rarely go anywhere alone—and these doggie companions go everywhere with their owner. If you know a veteran who could benefit from a specially trained dog, please contact Freedom Service dogs, Inc. (located in Colorado)

It’s amazing what one dog can do for humanity. One hundred years ago, people would have never believed that dogs could be so helpful to people with disabilities. We cannot wait to see what technological advances in companionship are to come in the future, in helping and bettering people with disabilities lives forever. "Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." --Roger Caras

-->Photo Credit: A special thanks to Dogs Life Magazine for the touching picture!

Doggie Distress

2011-01-06T08:54:00.001-08:00

Did you know that your dog can have separation anxiety? When your dog is left at home alone, sometimes they have feelings of suffering and misery. Destroying things like furniture, barking, and going to bathroom inside are all signs of doggie distress. But not to worry, because separation anxiety/related behavior is very common in dogs.

To make sure your furry friend is not too distressed or feeling anxious, you should always make your departures very discreet. Do not make a big deal about leaving your dog, and don’t make a huge deal about saying good-bye—especially if you’ll be back in a few minutes.

If you give your dog something to do when you’re gone, they’ll be distracted from thinking about you while you’re gone. Bones that are stuffed with tasty treats are always a good distraction, or you could leave various treats and toys around the house for them. With these goodies, your dog might not chew up your furniture!

Another option would be taking your pup to a doggie-daycare. Or if you want to be more personal about the situation because doggie-daycare just isn’t your thing, you could bring your dog to a friend’s house while you’re gone. Because with your friend being there acting as a replacement your dogs sense of loneliness and missing you would not be that bad.

Although, if your dog is chewing holes through your walls or doors then your dog has serious separation anxiety. If your dog is at the point where they are injuring themselves, you need to take matters into your own hands and get a specialist for them. Going to a vet for this serious anxiety issue will give you and your pup more and better options—through the medicinal route. Your vet will ensure that they will have a good answer to cure your doggy’s problem.

Everyone at Center Pet hopes that if your dog has symptoms of separation anxiety, they get better with time or seeing the vet. Remember: your pets are your family, too!

Exotic Pets are Becoming Extinct

2011-01-04T11:32:00.001-08:00

2011 marked a new year, but it also marked a new law for the people of Oregon. If you live in Oregon, and want to own an exotic pet—it may be too late for that present! Officials from The State Department of Agriculture stated that if you have not owned your exotic pet for at least a year, it could be too late for you too. If your exotic animal does not have a permit, you will not be able to keep them (starting in January 2011).

Once your exotic pet passes away, or you sell it is when the permit is done. Oregon’s exotic animal law entails a permit for: felines that are not native to Oregon—except for domestic cats, nonhuman primates—various forms of monkeys, bears—but not black bears, crocodiles, and non-wolf canines that are natives of Oregon—except for household dogs.

A solution is if you have to give away your exotic friend is to legally sell them to someone not in the state of Oregon. We hope not many people and their pets are affected by this law. The State Department of Agriculture wants to make this change to protect Oregonians from safety and health hazards caused by exotic animals.

Center Pet’s 2011 Resolutions

2011-01-04T08:59:00.001-08:00

Everyone makes resolutions for the New Year, but the staff here at Center Pet has all agreed to make their resolutions count this year! We thought that it would be a great idea to let all of our loyal customers and readers know what some of us are thinking for 2011.

Kenny: CEO- “I can just tell that 2011 will be a great year, not just for Center Pet—but for pets all over the United States. I hope that Center Pet can help even more pets that are in need of medicine and love. I hope that we will hold more events like the Photos with Santa event we just had to benefit the Washington Humane Society. With these bonds we’ve created with great charitable organizations, our community of helping pets will grow bigger and stronger.”

Sarah Caroline: Director of Social Media- “As a 20-something woman in the new year of 2011, I’d like to rescue a pet. I know its cliché but, I want to make an animal’s life better—and there’s no better way to do it than rescue one! I have never had a pet before, so I know now it’ll be for the best to help one grow out of a hard time in their life.”

Stavawn: Customer Service Manager- “For me, 2011 will bring change to the way my family lives and operates. I want my daughter to think of animals as friends, and not be scared of them. I will take her to volunteer at a society in the DC area to show her that animals are sweet and we can make a difference in their lives, just as much as they can make a difference in ours.”

Sam: Pharmacy Technician- "I always grew up having pets and when I moved to DC all the way from California, I had to leave my pets back home. For 2011, I am going to adopt three dogs who need a home and give one to my girlfriend to show how much I love her... But the other two will be mine!

The staff at Center Pet wishes you a wonderful 2011, and hopes that you will make a difference in at least one animal’s life this year!

Make a Pets Day During the Holiday Season!

2010-12-21T12:15:00.000-08:00

Tis’ the season to be merry and jolly, but it’s also the season to give back to the community. When thinking about what to get your pets for the Holidays, you could always opt to the volunteer route. Although it isn’t a “real” present to give your pets, it will make you feel good and thankful about yourself, your family and of course your pets!

During the Holiday season, you can volunteer with the Humane Society. There are Humane Societies across the United States, where you can volunteer. The Humane Society of the United States is located in Washington, DC. On the Humane Society of the United States website, it has a drop down menu to show resources for: Animal Care community, Parents and Educators, Teens and Kids. In the Teens and Kids section it talks about how to get involved and how to help. Volunteers are always needed with your states Humane Society and are very much welcome!

If animal cruelty is something you want to stand up for, volunteering during the holidays with the ASPCA is the way to go. On their website, they have many tips as to make an animal’s life better. The ASPCA urges people to volunteer at their local shelter to help take care of the animals who reside there.

The ultimate gift to make an animal’s life better would be to adopt one. There are many animal rescue societies all over the country. You can even volunteer at the various rescue societies or hold an adoption event. On many different rescue society websites you can see the different dogs that they have ready for adoption, and all you need to do is fill out their applications and follow their directions, and you have already started to bring a better future to your new pet.

We hope that you bring happiness and joy to your furry friends this holiday season!

Flying with Your Pets

2010-12-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

When traveling this holiday season, you want to make sure that your family and pets are safe. And with all of the talk about the harsher TSA scans at airports, pet owners must be worried about their furry friends flying the friendly skies.
TSA has assured their pet owner-friends on their website that it is 100% allowed to bring a pet onto their flights. The person flying may also have to talk to the airlines about having their pet with them, before they get to the airport. And please make sure that your pets crate or carrier is approved by your airline.

During the security briefing at the security check points, you will have to take your pet out of their crates or carriers. Your pet can walk with you through the metal detector with you, and at this time the crate or carrier will be placed through the X-ray machine. The TSA website also guarantees that your pet will never be placed through the X-ray machine.

If you have a service animal, TSA say’s to tell a TSA officer that your animal is there to help and guide you as a service animal, not a pet. Also, always have identification that categorizes your animals as a service animal. Unlike when you bring a pet to security, a service animal will NEVER be taken from your side. A TSA officer will in no way touch your service animal without asking, and would absolutely by no means feed or play with your service animal, too.

The TSA officers are trying to make skies are safe for everyone including your pets, too! And with your cooperation, along with your pet’s cooperation, they can do their jobs accordingly.

Stocking Stuffers for Your Furry Friend!

2010-12-15T09:09:00.000-08:00

At Center Pet we not only care for your pet, we want to make sure that they feel great and look great too! We have many great stocking stuffers for your pet in our store, which is located at 4900 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20016.

Holiday Time Fun

We have many Holiday gifts for your pet that would fit great in their stocking, we even have “Woof” Stockings for your pet! These stockings are red with white polka dots and a big bow with a green “Woof” button. They are adorable and will make any pup happy!

Do you have a pet that would tell Santa, “Sorry Santa! I Ate Your Cookies?” We have pet tee-shirts made by Mudpie that have cute holiday sayings on them. And they look cute on any pet!

For the cat in your life, we have cat nip in the form of a red and green candy cane, which are $6.95 and your cat will go crazy for them! We also have personalization ornaments for your cat that say “CATS make a house a HOME,” and you can write your cats name on it to make it personalized.

Collars Galore

We have the best selection and the right collar for your dogs and cats! If your dog is preppy and likes flair that looks like it could be from Nantucket, try and Up Country collar. Up Country also offers leads and harnesses that are gorgeous, and will make your pup look great!

Yellow Dog Design, Ruffwear and Lupine Collars all have collars that are bright and fun, and also are easy clip adjustable. Your dog will love both of these brands collars because they showcase personality and pizzazz. These fun collars also come in leashes, as well.

For the high-end dog who likes to live in the lap of luxury, we have Claire Thomas dog collars and leashes. These may be pricey; but they are high quality and will make your dog look stunning when wearing. The most popular colors that we carry are silver, pink and blue. But the leashes and collars come in more colors to choose from.

And we have not forgotten about your kitties, out there! We have various collars for them to enjoy, too. Our favorite is the Premier “Twice as Nice” kitty collar, it is safe and made out of elastic—but is very cute with a bell on it and is the ultimate in comfort.

Brrrr it’s Cold Outside

Because the winter season is right around the corner, make sure your dogs are warm when you walk them! We have a very large selection of Zack & Zoe, Barking Baby, New York Dog, and Ruff Ruff Couture sweaters and jackets. The sweaters are perfect for cozying up while watching a movie on a cold day. And you can layer a jacket over a sweater to make sure your pup is extra warm while on an early morning walk. Just because your dog has fur does not mean that they do not get cold!

Obviously we cannot list out all of our merchandise that is housed in our store in DC because the list would be too long. We hope that you’ll come in and see all of our great gifts for your pet, because the loved pets in your life need to be treated sometimes—especially during the holidays!

Holiday Photos at Center Pet was a Huge Success!

2010-12-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

Holiday Photos with Santa was a hit at Center Pet! On December 11th, 2010 from 10 am until 12 pm, the Washington Humane Society came to Center Pet for the Holiday Photos with Santa event. They even brought their adoption RV, which was parked in the lower parking lot. Along with the adoption RV, the Washington Humane Society brought Santa along with them, too!

Old customers and new came to take photos with Santa and their pets. The price for the pictures with Santa was a $20 donation to the Washington Humane Society. Santa put many doggies and kitties on his Nice List, and none on the Naughty List! Hopefully all of them will receive great presents for the Holidays, and no coal!

The event was a huge success. In the two hours that Santa was at Center Pet, we raised over $570 for the Washington Humane Society! Center Pet hopes to work with the Washington Humane Society again in the near future!

Happy holidays and warm wishes from all of the staff at Center Pet :)

In this Photo: Mrs. Wilcox, and Santa Claus are setting up her two dogs to have their Holiday photo shoot!

Photo Credit: Picture taken by Sarah Caroline Kramm

Dress Your Pet: Holiday Edition!

2010-12-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

Who doesn’t think it’s adorable to see your favorite pet in a cute outfit? Especially during the Holidays! Well this edition of “Dress Your Pet” will go over great options for Holiday attire for your furry friends!

Although Hanukkah 2010 is coming to an end, this costume we found is also perfect for any Jewish Holiday, going to Synagogue, and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs! The Gilded Paw has a “Pup Shalom” costume that is adorable! There are various sizes, so even the smallest and biggest dogs can partake in Jewish Holidays!

If you want to be really festive for Christmas, you can dress your pooch up as “Santa Paws.” This adorable costume from Doggie Clothesline comes in sizes extra small to large, and even comes with a little Santa hat. The black belt will make your pup look slim and jolly for Christmas!

Feeling Elf-ish? If you want your little pal to be dressed up as an elf, The Diamond Collar has you covered! This costume looks just like one of Santa’s helpers! This tunic, has a matching hat that stays on your dogs chin thanks to an elastic strap! The cutest part about this elf-tastic outfit is that there are jingle bells attached to the collar. The sizes run from extra, extra small to extra, extra large.

Everyone at Center Pet wishes you and your pets a wonderful, healthy Holiday season! We hope that your winter is not too cold, and your pets stay warm throughout this frosty weather! Don’t forget Holiday Photos with Santa at Center Pet on December 11th, 2010 benefitting the Washington Humane Society!

Santa Paws Photo credit: Doggie Clothesline

Elf Photo credit: The Diamond Collar

Pup Shalom Photo credit: The Gilded Paw

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

2010-12-08T08:46:00.000-08:00

Center Pet received a letter from Santa Claus yesterday, concerning him coming to town early for our Photos with Santa event! We will share with you what our jolly friend wrote us:

“Dear Center Pet,

Ho Ho Ho! I am very excited to meet all of the good kitties and pooches when I come to DC on December 11th, for an early visit. I hope to see all of the pets that are on my 2010 Nice List. Those pets are the ones who don’t scratch up their momma and daddy’s furniture and bite their brothers and sisters!

I wanted to say how thankful I am that we are taking these Holiday Photos with Santa for charity. The proceeds from the photos with me will go to the Washington Humane Society- and those who give, will always be on my Nice List. Also, don’t forget to write me a list of pet goodies that you want, and even something for that special human in your life.

If all you want for the Holidays is to meet me and some real elves, see your family happy, and to help out a great cause, please stop by Center Pet at 10 am until 12 pm for Holiday Photos with Santa.

Sincerely,

Santa Claus”

Everyone at Center Pet welcomes Santa, you and your pets to come out to Holiday Photos with Santa! Center Pet is located at 4900 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington DC 20016, and the event will be on December 11th, 2010 from 10 am until 12 pm. Proceeds go to the Washington Humane Society.

Reasons Why You Should Bring Your Pet to Holiday Photos with Santa

2010-12-06T08:51:00.000-08:00

5. You can meet all the great folks at Center Pet who help you purchase your pet medications.
The Customer Service Representatives will be at the event, lending a hand where it is needed. Also they will be there to answer and pet medication questions you have. Kenny Kramm, the CEO of Center Pet will also be in attendance to meet all of the wonderful customers Center Pet has.

4. It is always fun to put your pet in a sweater that matches you, your husband and your children.
Or maybe, you have those reindeer antlers that you’ve been dying to put on your pet- this is the time to do it!

3. You will have beautiful pictures to remember what a wonderful year you and your pets have had.
You can do many things with these pictures, as well! You can send them around to your family and friends to show them how big your dog has gotten, or how cute your cat is.

2. The Washington Humane Society will be bringing their mobile adoption unit.
After you get your pet’s photo taken with Santa, you and your family can adopt a new pet. You can bring an underprivileged pet into a great, new home at the holidays!

1. It is the Season for giving!
When your pet has their photo taken with Santa, a $20 donation to the Washington Humane Society is asked and greatly appreciated. Why not be of assistance to animals that need loving and a new home? The Washington Humane Society provides comfort and care to almost 30,000 animals every year.

Holiday Photos with Santa at Center Pet Press Release

2010-11-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

                                                                          FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Sarah Caroline Kramm
888-260-0801 ext 106
Sckramm@centerpetpharmacy.com

                             CENTER PET TO HOST HOLIDAY PHOTOS WITH SANTA
                                 BENEFITING THE WASHINGTON HUMANE SOCIETY

Washington, DC- November 18, 2010—Center Pet, located at 4900 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC will host Holiday Photos with Santa, on Saturday, December 11th, 2010, from 10 am-12 pm. This event will include the public going to Center Pet to have their pet’s photos taken with Santa or with a festive background. The Holiday Photo session costs a $20.00 donation, and the proceeds go to the Washington Humane Society (www.Washhumane.org)

“We believe giving back to the community at this time of year is important for all businesses alike,” said Kenny Kramm, CEO of Center Pet. “My family and I are extremely ecstatic to have such a wonderful Holiday event at our store. We are also eager to collaborate with the Washington Humane Society, to host a soon to be annual event at Center Pet.”

Holiday Photos with Santa is open to the public. Each photo will be printed onsite and mounted in a frame. Also the photos will, with Center Pet’s guest’s permission, be downloaded on the Washington Humane Society Flickr page, where they can look and upload more of their photos. This special event is one of numerous events scheduled for the upcoming months.

Center Pet is a family-owned pharmacy which features not only pet medication but pet accessories, as well. Center Pet is located at 4900 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016 and is open Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm and Saturday 11 am-2 pm. For more information, please visit www.centerpetpharmacy.com.

Center Pet Picked a Winner!

2010-11-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

Center Pet wants to congratulate Liz Henderson from Bethesda, Maryland for winning our Adams Morgan Day giveaway! Everyone at Center Pet is very ecstatic to send Liz her $100 check from this giveaway.

There was four easy ways to win this giveaway. To win big, clients could have placed an order online- and received 20% off, registered to be on our email list, refer-a-friend (both of you would have been entered), and friend us on Facebook/or follow us on Twitter.

We hope to have many more promotions like this one, again very soon. We will keep you updated on your way to win big, from Center Pet!

Thanksgiving foods are a No-No for Your Pets

2010-11-24T09:59:00.001-08:00

It is very tempting to give your pet a sampling of the Thanksgiving feast under the table, but before you do, you must know that it is not good for them. If you do not want to go to the animal hospital, do not feed your pet human food during the holidays. And if your food drops off of the table, or your plate, be sure to clean it up right away so your pet doesn’t get to it first. Various foods that your pets are not accustomed to can be hazardous to their digestive track. Some of the consequences are vomiting, and diarrhea.

Humans love holiday chow like turkey and buttery vegetables, but your pet should not like all of the different holiday foods! These foods can cause pancreatitis in pets, which is life-threatening to your furry friend.

And the thing with turkey is, there are always bones! Bones can be extremely harmful to your pet because they can get caught in their throats, or lodged in their intestinal track. The carcass of the cooked turkey may also have bacteria growing in it, and if your pet attempts to eat it—they can get extremely ill.

When throwing away the bones and carcass of the turkey, be sure that you put them into a bag, tie it very tight and make sure you position and arrange it into a trash can where your pet cannot get into.

Make sure this is a holiday season to remember, and hopefully not because your pet got sick due to eating holiday foods!

Holiday Photos with Santa at Center Pet!

2010-11-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

Season’s Greetings!

Everyone here at Center Pet is wishing you a wonderful and healthy beginning to you and your pets’ holiday season! We also want to let you know about a very special event Center Pet is hosting for the Washington Humane Society. We are having Holiday Photos with Santa at our store conveniently located at 4900 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington DC 20016, on December 11th, 2010 from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. There is plenty of free, on-site parking. If you have questions or need additional information, contact Sarah at 202 464 1911 or 1 888 260 0801.

You can choose to have your pet photographed either with Santa or with a seasonal backdrop. A $20.00 donation to the Washington Humane Society is appreciated, and each photo will be printed onsite and mounted in a frame. Also the photos will, with your permission, be downloaded on the Washington Humane Society Flickr page, where all of our guests can look and upload more of their photos there.

Also, don’t forget about the Washington Humane Society’s, “Sugar and Champagne Affair” event on February 1st, 2011. For more information please check out www.washhumane.org/sugar.

The Center Pet staff hopes to see you and your pet at our store for our inaugural Holiday Photos with Santa on December 11th. 2010 at 10am! Happy Holidays and Warm Wishes!

Halloween Hazards for Your Pet!

2010-10-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

Halloween is all about dressing up your pet in a cute costume and parading them around the neighborhood, but there are many things you need to be aware of as a pet owner to make sure your pet does not get hurt.

While walking around the neighborhood beware of candy that has fallen on the ground—for many reasons. Your pet could try and eat the candy and choke on the wrapper because they cannot chew them up and digest them. Also, your pet could try and eat some candy that is harmful to them. All types of chocolate are extremely harmful to pets. The chocolate can poison your pet or cause them to have pancreatic inflammation.

Along with chocolate being very harmful to pets, a natural sweetener called xylitol is dangerous too. Xylitol can be found in numerous popular candies and gums. If a dog ingests candy with xylitol in it, it can result in low-blood sugar—and potential death. In addition to the low blood sugar, xylitol can cause liver failure, which also can lead to potential death.

Everyone at Center Pet hopes that you and your pets have a safe and healthy Halloween! If your pet eats anything candy related that is questionable please call your vet right away.

New Metacam Warning Information: For Cats

2010-10-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

On September 17th, Center Pet received news about the use of Metacam (Meloxicam) in cats. When Metacam was introduced to veterinarians, pharmacies and people everywhere in 2003, it was used safely in animals—and not many side effects were reported. But over time more and more problems have been reported in the use for felines.

There will be a new warning that will now appear on the label for Metacam (solution for injection and oral suspension) that includes feline safety information. The warning will read, “Warning: Repeated use of Meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Do not administer additional doses of injectable or oral Meloxicam to cats. See Contraindications, Warnings and Precautions for detailed information.”

In non-vet lingo: You can give your cat one injection after surgery, but it should not be used for daily maintenance. It should be used once in a blue moon- not all the time!

*Photocredit- http://metacam-meloxicam.appspot.com/

Do You LOVE Center Pet?

2010-09-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

Were you at Adams Morgan Day this year? Did you notice how many people were wearing “I love Center Pet” stickers? Our Prize Patrol was out to find people who wanted to win great prizes because they were supporting Center Pet!

If you were unable to join us at AMD 2010, it’s okay because you can still be entered to win $100! There are four easy ways it is possible for you to win. All you need to know is the promotions code, 91210AMD.

1. Place an order with us online. Go to Centerpetpharmacy.com, click on “Purchase Medications,” use the coupon code: 91210AMD when checking out, you will automatically earn 20% off, when you put in the promotions code. Your name will also be entered into our drawing for $100!

2. Register to be put onto our email list. Go to Centerpetpharmacy.com, click on “Contact,” complete the “Send a Message…” form, and in the message enter the promotions code: 91210AMD, and send your message. Most people dread email lists, but this one is great in many ways. You can get refill reminders for your pet’s prescription every time your pet needs more medicine, and even get more promotional discounts.

3. Refer-a-friend to us. You and your friend will be entered to win the $100! It’s a great deal for both of you! Go to Centerpetpharmacy.com, click on “Contact,” complete the “Send a message…” form, and in the message box enter the promotions code: 91210AMD-with your friend’s full name, email address, phone number, City, State and Zip Code.

4. Friend us on Facebook and/or Twitter. First follow or friend us on either site, then send us a message with your name, email address, phone number, City, State, Zip Code and our promotions code: 91210AMD and you’ll automatically be entered into the contest. You can also tag us in a post on Twitter with the code, and be entered to win!

The drawing will take place on October 20th, 2010. Tell all of your fellow pet lovers to enter to win, because potentially it makes your odds better, too! Good Luck!

Center Pet at the 32nd Annual Adams Morgan Day Festival

2010-09-09T15:31:00.000-07:00

Come stop by the Center Pet booth at the 32nd Annual Adams Morgan Day Street Fair on Sunday, September 12, 2010! Center Pet will be featured in the new Pet Zone, on the tennis courts.

Center Pet is a Washington, DC-based, family-owned pharmacy that has been in business for almost 50 years. Center Pet has the largest variety of specialized veterinary medications, which include compounded medications at competitive prices.

While chatting with many vendors about pet rescues and adoption, doggie day care services and going green with your pet, you can learn about our great services and you can even win up to $150! Learn about our products and meet our friendly staff, too! We hope to see you there!

For more information on the Festival go to http://www.adamsmorgandayfestival.com/

Don't Forget About Fish for Pets!

2010-08-31T10:10:00.001-07:00

When finding the perfect pet for you, don't just think about dogs and cats--think out of the box! If you are allergic to cats or dog dander, you should look into getting a fish as a pet. Although, you cannot physically play with your fish, they're all beautiful to look at, and they do not take up much room in your house.

Finding a great filter for your fish tank is very important. A filter is supposed to keep the tank functioning well, and everything in it living. You want to be sure that the filter you do buy, is the right size for the tank that you have. And don't forget to change the filter when you are supposed to, to make sure that everything in the tank is maintaining to be healthy! The water needs to sit with the filtration system for about a week without any fish, to ensure that everything works correctly. Most fish are accustomed to warmer water, that's around 76 degrees to 84 degrees, unless you have a cold water fish or in some cases a goldfish!

When searching for a fish that is right for you, you should always research different kinds of fish. You should find out the various traits of the fish and see which are compatible with you and also other fish. Some fish cannot be in the same tank with each other, and you definitely need to find that out asap before purchasing two of them! You can always ask a professional at a pet or fish store to help you find the right fish for you, too! Although, you do not want to over crowd your tank with too many fish. It gets confusing for the fish and keeping a good ratio can help eliminate a lot of problems in the tank.

After your new tank is set up, fish and all- you should take your tank to a pet or fish store to get a biological analysis, which will show if more than one fish can be added and many other things. They will also let you know when you first set up your fish tank, do not be too quick to add a lot of fish at once--just buy one at first. Because adding too many fish at once can increase the ammonia levels in the tank--and can be fatal to your new pets.

Center Pet wishes you and your new fish a great start, and you follow our rules to keep them safe and healthy!

Keeping Your Bird Safe When Traveling

2010-08-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

When you like to travel a lot and want to take your pet with you, you want to make sure that your pet is comfortable and likes traveling, too. Traveling with your bird is special because they want to have a great experience with you, and wants to do it safely.

Be sure to have accommodations that allow pets, such as birds, make your reservations and be on your way! Make sure the hotel you are staying at is smoke free because smoking can irritate birds and make them very sick.

While driving or flying to your destination, make sure to have a health certificate from your veterinarian. And talk to the airlines you are flying with to see how they treat pets on their flights.

When traveling with your bird, always make sure to have clean water with you at all times. Dehydration is prevalent in animals and is something that is completely, preventable. And do not over feed your bird before you leave for the trip, you don’t want any accidents while traveling! But bring food cups when traveling to feed your bird at the appropriate times. Or if flying, lodge a food cup into your birds cage so they do not go hungry.

Always stick to your normal habits with your bird and daily routines. If vacation makes you want to just lie around, don’t-it can throw off your bird and cause them to be confused. They’re already going to be in a new place and that’s confusing enough already, don’t make it worse for them.

Above all, have fun traveling with your bird but do it safely!

How to Keep Your Ferret Fit

2010-08-22T10:21:00.001-07:00

Having small pets like ferrets healthy is not hard, but you need to make sure that they get enough nutrients and exercise to survive. They’re very cute animals but if you don’t treat them right, then it could be fatal. Without exercise, ferrets can get obese and turn extremely lazy.

Did you know that ferrets are supposed to be outside of their cage for at least four hours? And two of those hours are supposed to have human interaction involved. Ferrets are very curious animals and like the communication with humans and other ferrets. They like to play tag and follow objects that are on poles, as well.

Some ferrets even enjoy multi-level cage and exercise pens. The multi-level cage allows your pet to go up and down ramps an stairs, and be entertained while inside. It is also a great way for them to exercise, while having a lot of fun-alone. With the exercise pen, you can let your ferret roam around in your house but in a single area, without getting lost or into some trouble. Your ferret will not get into any trouble in this isolated spot that you make for them.

Ferrets are fun animals that enjoy wrestling around and digging holes. But if you take your ferret to a public area, you may want to provide a lead, with a harness so you can keep track of them at all times. You don’t want to lose your cute, yet very entertaining furry friend! Also be sure to use flea and tick medication on your ferret before you go outside and play.

But beware of the heat when it gets extremely hot outside, because ferrets do get heat stroke. And always hydrate your ferret in hot weather! Dehydration is a serious problem, in many animals today.

We hope our handy guide to keeping your ferret healthy and fit, has helped you and your little friends! And remember if your ferrets need any medication, to call us to get it for you!

Dog Blood Donations

2010-08-19T16:09:00.001-07:00

Humans donate blood to help and save other people. Bet you didn’t know that dogs can donate blood to help other dogs, too! They can save another dogs life, and be a hero pup like Lassie. Every day more and more dogs need blood transfusions and life-dependant operations and with the blood donations, more dogs are being able to get help and live a full-long life.

Dog blood donors need to fit a list of requirements to make sure that their blood is good to use. Different blood banks and veterinarians have different requirements. But some common requirements are, they have to be over 50 pounds, be between 1-7 years old, be very healthy and in-shape, cannot be on any medicine, and has to be a universal blood donor. The most common dogs who are universal blood donors are grey hounds and pit bulls.

Also, all blood donors should be happy and calm dogs. Along with that, they should be obedient and have to lie down on their sides or sit for a little while. But if a dog is too hyper and cannot sit still, then they would not be able to give blood. Donors are never forced to give blood, and can donate when they feel the time is right.

The blood is normally taken from the jugular vein in the neck. Donating blood does not take a long time, just about 20-30 minutes in total. And after the process, you should let your pal rest for the day. As they should be rewarded for giving the gift of life to a dog in need.

Dehydration in Cats

2010-08-19T16:08:00.001-07:00

Did you know that most animals are made up of about 60 percent of water? But for cats when that amount of water drops to even about five percent below normal, they become dehydrated. And if it drops anymore past 10 percent below normal, then it can be deadly. Dehydration can have many lasting effects on cats like kidney problems and circulatory problems.

There are many symptoms you can watch out for; like dry mouth and increased heart rate, to make sure your cat is fully hydrated and nowhere near the point of dehydration. Sunken eyes, thick saliva, and fatigue are also symptoms of dehydration. If your cat has diarrhea and is vomiting, call a veterinarian immediately because they can be a cause and lead to dehydration. Although there are many causes of dehydration in cats, some are: having a fever, blood loss, and increased urination (because of medical conditions.)

Treating dehydration for your cats is easy, hydrate them! See your cats veterinarian before doing anything though. Intravenous fluids is a great rehydration method, you can find out more about that and catheters by your veterinarian.

To ensure that your furry friend does not get dehydrated, you should always make sure that there is fresh, water provided for your cat. When you and your cat are playing outside, play in a sheltered place-not just in the sun. And if you put a little bit of water in your cats food, it will keep them more hydrated.

Choosing the Dog Breed That is Right For You

2010-08-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

When looking to buy a dog, it is important to understand the traditional characteristics of the breed of your possible new dog. For example, is your new breed prone to illness, and are you willing to keep up on dog medications? How is your breed around children? Is she prone to running away? The answers to these questions can prove vitally important while making sure you have the right pooch.

Breeds Prone to Illness 

There are many dog breeds that are prone to many different types of illnesses. Take eye problems, for example. Collies, Retrievers and Spaniels all commonly have eye troubles. It’s important to see how different breeds compare in eye problems. And that, of course, is just one type of illness. According to the Morris Animal Foundation, Golden Retrievers are very prone to cancer (60% die of it). As with eye troubles, certain breeds are susceptible to different cancers. These things can cost a lot in dog medications, so it’s good to know how much you should be prepared to spend to keep your breed healthy.

Breeds Good for Children

Certain dog breeds have more temperamental and/or violent tendencies than others–see: Poodles, Pit Bulls–while some tend to be more loyal and nurturing–see: Retrievers, Collies. It’s important to know what kind of temperament the breed you are considering usually has when choosing a family dog. There are lists of the best dogs for children, and these tend to be pretty good. Normally, you want dogs known for loyalty and patience. The Golden Retriever–America’s favorite dog–is one of the best dogs there is for children. The Collie is another great one. In the end, though, all dogs (even those with certain tendencies) are different. Best thing to do is take your children around the new dog you are considering and see how they interact.

Breeds Prone to Running Away

High-energy dogs are always the ones most prone to running away, especially if they are left alone all day. Dogs, especially intelligent dogs, can be a lot like people: they get bored and want something better. Hunting dogs are very prone to running as they evolved from a life of wandering to find their prey. It’s important to know what kind of dog you are getting in these senses. Is your dog from one of the smartest breeds? Did she evolve from a breed who is used to wandering? How much time will you be able to devote to your dog? The less time you can be there, the less intelligent you want your breed to be. Smart dogs will find ways to entertain themselves, which can have disastrous results for your things or can be prone to running away. Remember, though, no matter what your dog’s tendencies, it’s good to implant a microchip in your pet to find her if she does run away.

It’s important to thoroughly research the tendencies that appear in your pet and figure out what is best for you and your family.
Categories: Dogs, Pet Pharmacy

Summer Hazards That Can Harm Your Pet

2010-08-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

As the sun starts to stay out later for the Summer time, your pet will want to bask in the daylight, too! But there are some hazards you need to know before letting your pet roam around outside. Here are some tips to help your pets not get sick or hurt in the spring time!

It is very important for us to know what to do to stay cool in hot weather. It is as equally important for us to keep our pets cool, as well. Always provide your pet with cold, fresh water every day in their favorite bowl. Just like humans need to stay hydrated, so do your pets.

Constantly refill empty or nearly-empty bowls and freshen water often. But never give your pet freezing cold, ice water because it can shock your furry friend’s system.

Another important point dealing with water is swimming with your pets. We all know that cats do not like water, but on the other hand dogs do like to swim. Unfortunately, chlorinated water can irritate their eyes. Do not leave your pet unattended near a pool or a lake. Without help, most dogs cannot get out of a pool and start to panic.
Do not under any circumstance leave your pets in the car for any amount of time. The temperature almost doubles while in an automobile, and your pets cannot handle that. Even leaving windows slightly open does not guard or protect your pet from overheating and/or suffering from heat stroke during hot days. Vital signs of heat stroke often include heavy panting, hyperventilation or deep breathing, increased salivation, weakness, confusion, vomiting and diarrhea.

While playing outside with your pets, remember that concrete or asphalt can get very hot and does not feel good on your pets’ paws. Make sure that there is shelter around so your pet does not over heat.

Also, make sure if you have just fertilized your lawn, to keep your pet inside for about 24 hours after applying the chemicals to your yard. The chemicals will only irritate your pet when they lick their paws. But if your pet steps in a big puddle of pesticides it could be poisonous to them. Be sure to get up any spills and puddles of chemicals before your pets step in them.

Spring time is a great occasion for you and your pets to play and enjoy the longer days and sunshine. At the same time, you must know all of the hazards that come with the spring. Risk and danger for your furry pals is lurking around the corner, or in this instance, creeping in your backyard.
Categories: Cats, Dogs, Healthy Pet Tips, Kittens, Pet Pharmacy

Rescue Pets Need Some Lovin'

2010-08-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Just like humans, animals need families and warm homes, too. For that reason, many families around the world are rescuing animals and bringing them into their loving homes. The animals that are being rescued could be from many different places, including the streets or abusive homes. But these proactive and compassionate people want to better the lives of these animals and help them find the meaning of family, by adopting them or helping them find a good home.

Photo Credit: Photo borrowed from the Animal Rescue Foundation LUXIST

Many different societies and associations have helped create the idea of rescuing pets, and making more people want to do it. Numerous rescue organizations are volunteer operated and help shelters with taking pets. Pounds have seemed to be replaced with various shelters and organizations, where the animals are being taken care of by volunteers who come in and want to help find the animals homes. The volunteers want to help raise understanding and awareness towards rescue animals and the optimistic effects of adoption.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ website is catered to fight animal cruelty and help rescue and adopt dogs and cats. You can adopt animals from their site, and they even have a mobile adoption van! The ASPCA is kicking their goal into high gear and trying to help as many animals as they can.

Another big player in helping families rescue animals is The Humane Society of the United States. Their website is easy to use, and you can find an animal to adopt, train and play with. They are advocates of stopping puppy mills, which is an ongoing problem in the United States. Also, they are believers of ending the killing of animals for fur products.
These neglected animals deserve an excellent family to love them, instead of roaming the streets or living in a bad home. Also, spaying and neutering your pets can help lessen the number of homeless animals. It takes a lot of courage to rescue a pet instead of just buying one at the pet store. It may take more effort to rescue a pet, but in the long run it will make your family and you feel much better about helping a furry friend. Animal friendly people should take any action in helping these rescue animals. If you want to help, you could start with signing petitions and speaking up about the exploitation of animals. But if you want to make a big difference, adopt an animal and make a friend for life.
Categories: Animal Rescues, Birds, Cats, Dogs, Kittens

Heal Your Horse: Horse Medication From Center Pet

2010-07-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Horses are majestic creatures, but any horse owner will tell you that they can also be extremely stubborn and headstrong. Trying to give a horse its medicine is sometimes akin to chasing a six-year-old around the house with a teaspoon full of cough medicine. Except your six-year-old doesn’t weigh half a ton and have teeth that could easily take off a finger.

If you’ve ever seen a novice try to give a horse medication, you understand the importance of knowing how to properly administer medicine to a sick horse. Your veterinarian will likely give your horse an injection, but for home medicating, the method is most often pills. There are several different ways to easily administer pills to your horse, though no single method is fool proof or works for everyone. The best way to figure out which method is going to work for you is simple trial and error.

If you have a particularly cooperative horse you may want to try the whole-pill method, which may involve putting the pill as far back as you can in your horse’s mouth and holding his head in the air until you’re sure he’s swallowed it. This method works well with dogs, who have tiny heads and are easily overpowered, but it may not go over so well with your horse. You can also try to hide the whole pill in your horse’s food, but it is probable that he will discover and discard it.

The most popular method for administering pills to your equine friend is the “grind and hide” method. Using a mortar and pestle designated specifically for horse medication, grind the pill to a fine powder, making sure not to leave any large chunks. Then hide the powder in one of your horse’s favorite foods, preferably something liquid or sticky so that the medicine doesn’t fly all over the place when your horse exhales.

If your sick horse is appropriately suspicious of your generosity and refuses to eat his medicine-laced treats, there is one more method for administering his pills. Again, grind the pill with a mortar and pestle until it is a fine powder, then mix it with water and put it into a syringe that has an open catheter tip. Then you can open your horse’s mouth and easily squirt the medicine down his throat, holding his head up to make sure he’s swallowed.

Center Pet Pharmacy can help to provide you with the very best horse medications, as well as advice on the best ways to administer those medications so that your pet experiences as little stress as possible. When your pet is happy, we’re happy!

Cushing’s Disease in Canines

2010-07-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

Many of our clients from around the country find us because we are one of very few pharmacies that carry a drug called Trilostane (chemical name) or Vetoryl (trade name) at a very competitive cost. This is one of the most effective and popular drugs for the treatment of Canine Cushing’s disease. Cushing’s disease, or Hyperadrenocorticism, is a fairly common disease in older dogs.

What is Cushings Disease?

Cushing’s Disease, or Hyperadrenocorticism, is an overproduction of the adrenal hormone, cortisol. It can occur naturally, or because of overdosing of corticosteroids. The latter is cured when the cortisteroids are tapered off.

What are the Symptoms?

Increase in thirst, causing massive consumption of water and therefore highly increased urination (and accidents inside). There is an increase in appetite, panting, high blood pressure, an evenly distributed thinning of the hair/fur, thinning of the skin, calcified lumps in the skin, heightened susceptibility to skin infections and diabetes, and weakening of the muscles, heart and nervous system. Since cortisol is an immunosupressant, it’s overproduction can have a very negative effect on your dog’s health. Many owners reach a point where the water consumption and urination become annoying and overwhelming, and they have the dog euthanized.

Trilostane or Vetoryl work amazingly well in the majority of dogs. In most cases, the drug rapidly reverses these symptoms and improves the health of the dog. You can work with your vet and visit our prescriptions page to obtain Trilostane from our pet pharmacy.

The Art and Science of Pharmacy Compounding & Pet Medications

2010-07-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

Pharmacy compounding is the art of creating customized medications for patients, and the concept of medical compounding goes all the way back to the roots of pharmaceutical science. The basic idea is simple - for instance, cats don’t like pills, but they do like tuna. So why not flavor their medicine to make it taste like tuna? Of course, during the evolution of compounding, pharmacists have discovered that not every medication can be compounded and customized for your pet - however, our pet pharmacy’s staff works to ensure that nearly every type of pet medication is available in our tasty flavors.

First of all, for medicine to be compounded, it has to be extremely stable; after all, medication only works when all of its ingredients work. Our process ensures that the active ingredients of the compounded medications maintain their integrity and that the inactive ingredients still have a positive effect on your pet’s health.

Turning a medication into a flavored liquid from pill or capsule form is one approach to the pharmacy compounding process, because animals are much more likely to enjoy a tasty drink than most other forms of delivery. Chewable tabs in appetizing flavors like Crisp Bacon and Cheesie Cheddar are other options - your dog or cat will think they are getting a special treat, and you can sleep easy knowing that your pet is getting the medication they need to be healthy.

Our pet pharmacy’s staff includes experts in the art of compounding who work to find the best solution to your pet’s health problems and help you medicate your cat, dog, or other pet in way that they will love.
Categories: Pet Medication, Pet Pharmacy

Tips for Buying Online Pet Medications

2010-07-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Your pet is your best friend, so be careful when buying online pet medications in order to keep him/her safe.

All pet medications are passed through a division of the Food and Drug Administration, where they go through intense testing and trials, according to The Tennessean. In fact, there are often open trials for experimental drugs to help sick animals, much like there are for human beings.

But all this testing is useless if you fall into an Internet scam for online pet medications, which is unfortunately fairly common. There are certain signs and tip-offs that a site is not a legitimate as it might claim.

Be careful when buying online pet medications for your best friend!

According to the FDA, keep an eye out for the following:

Web sites that allow you to buy prescription drugs without a prescription.

Web sites that make fantastic (and probably fraudulent) claims about either the product or the price.

Web sites that offer foreign prescription drugs that are available to U.S. citizens without a prescription.

“A foreign or domestic pharmacy may claim that one of its veterinarians on staff will ‘evaluate’ the pet after looking over a form filled out by the pet owner, and then prescribe the drug”.

Be leery of any website that fails to have an address that is easily found. These could be sites from other countries that do not want you to know this. So they have only a phone number but no physical building in which the company occupies.

Be especially aware when purchasing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and heartworm preventives, as these can be dangerous for your pet taken incorrectly. Read and follow the directions on over the counter medications, making sure not to exceed the maximum daily allowances and check for any interactions with any prescription medications your pet is taking.

If your pet is ill it should be noted that enrolling your pet in a pet medication trials is a good idea when there are no alternatives, but make sure that the test is approved and/or administered by the FDA. In the same vein, make sure that your pharmacy sells only FDA-approved drugs or components made in the USA to make compounded medications.

We are proud to uphold these standards with our pet medications. We want to do our part in ensuring your pet’s speedy recovery from whatever ails him/her. Falling for these online pet medication scams can not only be hard on your wallet, but it can delay your pet receiving the necessary medications. In some cases, this can be extremely dangerous. So whether you are shopping with us or choosing a different pet pharmacy, make sure there is the correct regulatory approvals.
Categories: Pet Medication

How to Save on Pet Cost

2010-07-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Pet food, pet medications, trips to the veterinarian, chew toys: Let’s be honest, pets can be a little expensive, but they don’t have to be. During tough economic times (and even good ones), there is no reason to be spending unnecessary money on your pets. And it’s not just about buying time-tested toys for your animals over fancy new ones. While online pet medications, such as those from Center Pet Pharmacy, can help keep costs down, some of the easiest ways to save on pet costs are directly related with keeping your animal healthy. Here are a few ideas for pet health:

Quick Cost-Saving Ideas

Help save on pet costs by bringing your pet outdoors and keeping her healthy.
Feed your pet a proper diet
Bring your pet to a vet before the problem gets out of hand
Let your pet outdoors
Buy time-tested toy
Buy online pet medications www.centerpetpharmacy.com
Spend time with your pet

A Proper Diet 
This might seem like a no-brainer, but think of your pet like a human in the sense of her diet. An obese animal will not be as healthy as a fit one. And an unhealthy animal can be an expensive animal. So make sure you feed her a balanced diet. Because, according to Kiplinger mangazine, “Treating diabetes … can cost $50 a month for standard supplies, including insulin and syringes. More-serious diabetic cases could lead to a trip to the ICU, which costs up to $3,000.”

Bring Your Pet to a Vet Before a Problem Gets Out of Hand
 It is important to keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior. If you sense a major shift in her behavior, be it temperament, sleep patterns, eating habits, or anything else, bring her to a veterinarian. While the cost may seem unnecessary for what may not be a problem, if there is a problem, those costs will be exponentially higher.

Let Your Pet Outdoors 
Barring awful weather or strange conditions, it is important for your pet to experience her natural environment as much as possible. If you have a dog, look for a nearby dog park. Dogpark.com is a great place to find the closest one. If you have a cat, let her out for a little while (so long as she’s the type to return!). Even if it’s as simple as your yard, it will be good for your pet to breathe some fresh air (and company)

Spend Time With Your Pet
Often times, your pet needs you to spend time with her. Pets get lonely and anxious, and you can help avoid the costs of certain anxiety and depression-relieving medications by avoiding the problem. Spend time with your pet, and let her know she is safe. This can dramatically cut down on costs.

Of course, everything listed above is simply what goes along with being a good pet owner. Because being a good pet owner will help keep costs low.

So follow these simple rules, and, most importantly, have fun with your pet!