Pruyn Veterinary Hospital

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a re-emerging disease. This bacterial disease most commonly causes liver and kidney problems in dogs, but can also cause lung, pancreas, and eye symptoms. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transferred from animals to people, in fact, it is the most common zoonotic disease in the world. Drinking contaminated water is a common mode of transmission for humans and animals. It is present in the urine of infected animals, so bodies of water, food (for instance, if rodents have access), soil, or even the beach (California sea lions carry leptospirosis) can easily be contaminated.

Decades ago, veterinarians routinely vaccinated for this disease in a combination vaccine with distemper, hepatitis, and parvo, until problems with the Lepto part of the vaccine developed. The older vaccine protected against only two types of Lepto, the immunity lasted only about six months, and it was the Lepto portion of the vaccine that was most likely to cause an allergic reaction. More recently, when it became apparent that the disease was becoming more prevalent, a new and better vaccine was developed. The newer vaccines protect against four different types of lepto, the immunity lasts for a year, and allergic reactions are not likely.

Many veterinarians are now recommending that dogs be vaccinated for Leptospirosis if they are at risk due to their lifestyle. So dogs that go on hikes, go to the beach, go to lakes, streams or rivers, or have access to wildlife should be vaccinated. If you have a rodent problem at your house, you should have your dog vaccinated. Discuss your dog’s risk with your veterinarian. There are even some urban areas that have a problem with Lepto.

The first year your dog is vaccinated, it will receive a set of two vaccines, given three weeks apart. The vaccine is given annually there after. Ask your veterinarian if you have any questions.

Mealtime

Puppies

Feed a high quality diet designed for puppies. A wide variety of diets and formulations are available and your veterinarian should be your primary source of information as to the best choice for your puppy. The amount fed will vary with the type of food and the individual dog, but in general, should only be as much as the puppy can consume in 5 to 10 minutes at a given meal. Puppies are usually fed 3 times daily when between 6 and 12 weeks old, 2 times daily when 12 weeks to 6 months old, and may be fed 1 or 2 times daily when older than 6 months. For certain large breeds of dogs, your veterinarian may recommend that several smaller meals be fed rather than 1 large meal (even when your dog becomes an adult) because an association has been suggested between the consumption of large meals and a serious medical condition called gastric dilatation/volvulus or "bloat."

Kittens

Feed a high quality diet designed for kittens. Your veterinarian is your best source for information regarding an appropriate diet for your kitten. Dry foods are usually most economical and have the advantage of providing a rough surface that will help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your kitten's teeth, but canned foods can be fed/supplemented if desired. Amount fed will depend on the diet, as well as the age, size, and activity level of your kitten. Kittens can be fed free-choice or at set mealtimes; however, many veterinarians recommend feeding all pets at set mealtimes because intake can be more easily monitored. Canned foods should always be fed at set times, because if left unrefrigerated, they can spoil. I recommend use of stainless steel bowls because plastic and ceramic bowls can scratch, leaving crevices for bacteria to hide. The latter types of bowls (and resultant resident bacteria) have been associated with feline "acne" and skin irritation.

What We Do

Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Surgeons are medical professionals whose primary responsibility is protecting the health and welfare of animals and people. The term "Veterinarian" comes from veterinae, which means "working animals." Every veterinarian has gone through extensive medical training for animals and has received a license to practice veterinary medicine.

Veterinarians diagnose and control animal diseases, treat sick and injured animals, prevent the transmission of animal diseases to people, and advise owners on proper care of pets and livestock. They ensure a safe food supply by maintaining the health of food animals. Veterinarians are also involved in wildlife preservation and conservation and public health of the human population.

You are probably most familiar with veterinarians who specialize in pet medicine in a clinical setting such as an animal hospital or veterinary clinic. During each visit, this type of veterinarian will be able to guide you in all aspects of pet maintenance, including food requirements, daily care, and any special needs. They will also be able to provide vaccinations, complete surgery, and even prescribe medicines as needed.

Meet our Vets

Dr. Minott Pruyn received his DVM degree from Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in 1975. He has been practicing at the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital since that time. The practice was started by his father, Dr. Earl Pruyn, in 1949. Dr. Pruyn is a member of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology (AAVD). He is credentialed for Stem Cell Orthopedic Therapy from Vet-Stem Regenerative Veterinary Medicine. An active member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), Dr. Pruyn currently serves as a member of the AAHA's Accreditation Awareness Committee. Locally, Dr. Pruyn was voted "Best Veterinarian" by the Missoula Independent in 2008, 2009, and 2010. Dr. Pruyn and his wife Jan, have three children and one grandchild.

Dr. Shoni Card received her DVM degree from Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in 1988. She has been with the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital since that time. Dr. Card is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) from the University of Tennessee's College of Veterinary Medicine. Her veterinary interests include avian and exotic medicine, rehabilitation, and chemotherapy cancer treatment.

Dr. Paul Schaumberg received his DVM degree from Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in 1977. Dr. Schaumberg has been at the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital since 2003. Prior to that time, he was the sole proprietor of the Kootenai Veterinary Hospital in Libby, Montana, for 23 years. He also practiced for two years in Pocatello, Idaho. Dr. Schaumberg is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Montana Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA). He also is a member of Rotary International. Doctor Schaumberg enjoys a variety of outdoor recreation. He and his wife Cindy, have two daughters, two dogs, and one cat.

Dr. Jenny Elwell-Gerken received her DVM degree from Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. She has been with the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital since 2010. Prior to that time, she practiced in a mixed animal practice in North Dakota. Dr. Jenny is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the North Dakota Veterinary Medical Association (NDVMA). She enjoys outdoor activities, such as camping, kayaking and hiking, as well as reading and watching movies. Dr. Jenny and her husband have one son, as well as 3 dogs, 6 cats, and 7 ferrets.

Dr. Stephanie Blackstone received her DVM degree from Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. She has been with the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital since 2011. Dr. Blackstone is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Her veterinary interests include rehabilitation, internal medicine and surgery. She enjoys skiing, hiking, running and yoga.

The Veterinary Approach

Veterinarians in private clinical practice work to prevent disease and other health problems in their patients. They examine animal patients, vaccinate them against diseases, prevent the transmission of animal disease to people and advise owners on ways to keep pets and livestock well nourished and healthy.

When health problems develop, practitioners must diagnose the problem and treat the patients. Accurate diagnosis frequently requires the use of laboratory tests, radiography or x-rays, and specialized equipment. Treatments may involve a number of procedures including: emergency lifesaving measures, prescribing medication, setting a fracture, delivering a calf, performing surgery, or advising the owner on feeding and care of the patient.

As the pet owner you must communicate your pet's health care needs to your veterinarian. Nobody knows your pet like you. Many signs of illness are subtle. Your veterinarian will rely on your awareness of small changes in your pet's behavior or habits.

Take the time to choose the right veterinarian for your special pet. It is a good idea to start thinking about selecting a veterinarian before a new pet becomes a member of your family. In fact, a veterinarian can assist you in selecting a pet that complements your personality, work schedule and home life.

If you've just moved, you will want to locate a veterinarian soon. Don't wait until your pet becomes ill; you want to establish a relationship right away. Your veterinarian can give you with information on special climate concerns for your pet. In addition, since traveling can be a stressful experience for a pet, an early check-up may be in order.

Veterinarians diagnose and control animal diseases, treat sick and injured animals, prevent the transmission of animal diseases to people, and advise owners on proper care of pets and livestock. They ensure a safe food supply by maintaining the health of food animals. Veterinarians are also involved in wildlife preservation and conservation and public health of the human population.

You are probably most familiar with veterinarians who specialize in pet medicine in a clinical setting such as an animal hospital or veterinary clinic. During each visit, this type of veterinarian will be able to guide you in all aspects of pet maintenance, including food requirements, daily care, and any special needs. They will also be able to provide vaccinations, complete surgery, and even prescribe medicines as needed.

The Pruyn Veterinary Hospital is proud to be a member of the American Animal Hospital Association. Choosing an AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital for your pet's medical care ensures that the hospital you have selected has the facilities, equipment, staff and medical protocols that AAHA believes are important for the delivery of high-quality care. We are committed to being continually evaluated against the most rigorous standards in veterinary medicine.

Missoula veterinarian, Dr. Minott Pruyn at the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital is one of the leading veterinarians in the Missoula area and is committed to your pet's health and well being. Pruyn Veterinary Hospital excels in pet care and the science of veterinary medicine.

The staff at Pruyn Veterinary Hospital has providedMissoula compassionate veterinary care and pet services year after year since 1949, making us the animal hospital of choice for pet owners in and around the Missoula community.

Pruyn Veterinary Hospital is a full-service small animal hospital whose mission is to provide the highest standard of veterinary care for pets. We genuinely care about your pets and all animals! Our staff is passionate about veterinary medicine and is extremely well trained. We strive to provide professional, affordable, and advanced veterinary services. At Pruyn Veterinary Hospital, you will walk into a welcoming, and friendly environment every visit, so that the experience is as comfortable as possible for you and your pet.

Missoula veterinarian, Dr. Minott Pruyn at the Pruyn Veterinary Hospital is one of the leading veterinarians in the Missoula area and is committed to your pet's health and well being. Pruyn Veterinary Hospital excels in pet care and the science of veterinary medicine.

The staff at Pruyn Veterinary Hospital has provided Missoula compassionate veterinary care and pet services year after year since 1949, making us the animal hospital of choice for pet owners in and around the Missoula community.

Pruyn Veterinary Hospital offers the Missoula community emergency veterinary care, as well as medical, surgical, and dental services. We also have an in-house pharmacy with access to specialists, making our veterinary facility a one stop shop for your pet's health and medical needs. If you are new to our website, please browse around to learn about our facility and to read interesting pet articles and watch groundbreaking pet videos.

Functions of whiskers
Have you ever wondered why cats have whiskers? The long hairs, which are flexible and about three times thicker than the rest of a cat's hair, have several purposes. Whiskers work as motion detectors and help cats find their way around. Whiskers are also indicative of a cat's mood, so be sure to pay attention to your kitty's whiskers. The less relaxed the whiskers are, the more likely your cat is to be frustrated or angry.
Largest and smallest cats
Many people may already know that tigers are the largest cat. However, here are some interesting animal facts that you may not know. Tigers can weigh up to 800 pounds, about eight times the size of a very large dog. The singapura, which is a domestic breed, is the smallest type of cat. On average, these cats weigh about 5 pounds, which is no more than a teacup dog. The ragdoll, which can weigh up to 20 pounds, is the largest domestic cat breed.
Cats have their own 'fingerprints'
Humans are not the only ones with personally unique features. One of the most interesting animal facts about both domestic and wild felines is that they all have something which is uniquely their own. It is their nose, which is made up of a pattern of different ridges. Believe it or not, no two cats have the same exact nose.
More bones and sleep than humans
Did you know that a cat has more bones than you do? Humans have 204 bones, whereas cats have 230. On average, cats sleep 16 hours a day, which is double the daily recommended amount of sleep for humans.
Cats and their senses
Kittens are born deaf. Their sense of hearing does not develop for a few weeks. Cats also have a very strong sense of smell, so keep in mind that the litter box smells stronger to them than it does to you.
Overpopulation of cats
A cat has the potential to give birth to 100 kittens in her lifetime. Litters usually consist of anywhere between one to eight kittens and may occur two to three times a year. Cats are twice as likely to end up in an animal shelter than dogs are. Be sure to have your cat spayed or neutered to prevent adding to overpopulation.

Interesting Animal Facts About Mammals
1.The tallest and largest animals on land are mammals: the giraffe is the tallest; the African bull elephant the largest.
2. Although elephants typically weigh more than 5 tons and have enormous, sponge-like feet, they spread their weight out so perfectly they barely leave footprints.
3. A female pacific gray whale delivers a baby with an average weight of 2,000 pounds, can migrate over 10,000 miles, and can produce 6 tons of breast milk without ever eating a bite of food.
4. Eucalyptus is a key ingredient in cough drops. Koala bears consume so much eucalyptus, they give off a similar aroma to cough drops -- a smell that keeps fleas off the bears.
5. Shrews have very little body fat and, therefore, cannot go more than a couple of hours without eating. Missing a meal surely leads to death, and even a good night's sleep can be fatal.
6. Hooded seals go from infancy to adulthood in a mere four days. This is the shortest childhood of any mammal.
7. Bats can live 20-30 years, a rare and long lifeline for such a small animal.
8. There's a reason bats hang upside-down -- they can't stand right-side up. Their leg bones are too thin and weak to support the weight of their bodies.
9. A polar bear's skin is black, not white. Its hairs are long, colorless and hollow.
10. Despite the fact that nearly all of the hippopotamus' predators live in the water, they still give birth and breastfeed there.

There's so much to learn about the world around us. Sharing interesting animal facts for kids with those who enjoy the zoo or love nature is a great activity for all ages.