It is Christmas

The Christmas Season is a special time of year for most of us.  It is a time when we reflect on what has occurred during the year and look forward with plans to make life better in the coming New Year.  Over 2000 years ago, Jesus was born in humble surroundings.  He was born in a stable with animals around him and laid in a manger which served as his first bed. 

Animals have served humans for thousands of years.  At the time that Jesus was born animals were the primary mode of transportation over land.  If you didn’t ride a horse or burro or ride a cart pulled by and animal you walked.  We still use animals for food and other products, but many items that used to be made from animals are now made from other materials.  The companionship animals provide is still a part of all our lives.

Animals and our pets become part of the family.  We depend on them for their friendship and companionship.  When I have a frustration day at work, my cat Tigger is happy to see me and accepts me and is affectionate even though I am in a bad mood.  There is a special bond that develops with a dog when it is part of your family.  Dogs are always happy to see you when you come home and let you know that you are number one in their life.  Horses have special personalities and after a good hard ride you and your horse grow to know each other.  You learn what your horse can do and also needs to be taught and your horse learns what you expect from him and after time will anticipate what you want him to do before you ask.

Animals give us all a lot.  In return we are responsible for providing them with the necessary things that they need in their life such as food, water, shelter, and medical care.  It is easy to see when the food or water bowl is empty and fill it.  It is also obvious to us when a dog needs better shelter. However, animals do not talk to us.  They do communicate, but through actions more than words and sometimes and animal can be ill for a long time before their actions speak loud enough to let us know they are sick or have a health problem. 

At this Christmas season when we are all caught up in giving gifts to friends and family, take that time to give your 4 legged family members the gift of good health.  Dogs and Cats and other pets should have a checkup every 6 months.  Routine vaccinations along with parasite control and parasite prevention keep your 4 legged friends happy and healthy and comfortable. In addition to a checkup, older animals should have routine blood tests to check for hidden problems that do not always show up on a physical examination.  Please give the office a call to schedule a gift of health for your 4 legged family members.

Most of all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Dr. Finlayson