Herd Health Management - Backyard Veterinarian

01/16/2024

🚨 Toxic Tuesday Alert: Beware of Azaleas! 🌺

Azaleas, with their vibrant blooms, are a common sight in gardens. However, did you know that the entire plant is poisonous to pets like dogs and cats? Let's dive into the dangers and what to do if your furry friend encounters this toxic beauty.

🌿 Azalea Poisoning: The Facts
Azaleas contain a neurotoxin called grayanotoxin, posing a serious threat to pets. Pollen, petals, and leaves all harbor this poison, affecting sodium channels in the heart and muscles. Clinical symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhea to seizures and, in extreme cases, death.

🚨 Clinical Symptoms of Azalea Toxicity:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Uncontrollable drooling
Weakness
Myocardial infarction
Coma
Temporary blindness
Lethargy
Death
🌸 Types of Azaleas:
All Azalea species are toxic to pets. The three native to the United States include:
Rhododendron Occidentale: White with a yellow patch.
Rhododendron Arborescens: White or pale pink.
Rhododendron Calendulaceum (Flame Azalea): Yellow, orange, or red.

🤔 What to Do If Your Pet Eats Azaleas:
Act promptly! Consult your veterinarian immediately. Do not wait, as the consequences can be fatal. Do not attempt to induce vomiting at home. Professional treatment may involve activated charcoal and intravenous fluids to counteract the toxins and support the cardiovascular system.

🐾 Prevention is Key:
Keep azaleas out of reach.
Regularly monitor your pet's surroundings.
If you suspect ingestion, seek help immediately.

👩‍⚕️ Treatment for Azalea Toxicity:
Activated charcoal and intravenous fluids may be administered by your veterinarian. Specific medications might be required to address heart issues and reduce seizures. Always rely on professional guidance for your pet's well-being.

🐶🐱 Will a Dog or Cat Eat Azaleas?
Generally, well-fed and indoor pets are unlikely to consume azaleas. Their innate instincts guide them away from harmful substances. However, outdoor pets might be at risk, and vigilance is crucial.

Spread the word to protect our furry friends! 🐕🐾
🌿

01/13/2024

🌬️ Winter Care for Livestock: Tips for a Cozy Season 🐑

As temperatures drop, ensuring the well-being of your livestock becomes paramount. Here are valuable tips to keep your herds warm and thriving this winter:

🏠 Environment:
Shelter Indoors: In extreme conditions, house animals indoors. Use simple shelters supplemented with windbreaks to enhance protection.
Ample Bedding: Double up on warm bedding using hay or straw. Avoid towels or blankets, as they can trap moisture and freeze.
Wind Protection: Shield animals from the wind with natural barriers, constructed shelters, tarps, and windbreaking materials.

🌾 Food:
Abundant Feed: Ensure accessible and nutrient-rich feed to help animals maintain body temperature.
Nutrient Quality: Check stored winter feed for optimal nutrient quality.
Increased Rations: Adjust hay/forage/feed quantities to meet increased nutritional needs during cold temperatures, especially for gestating and lactating livestock.

💦Water
Clean and Accessible: Animals' water consumption rises during cold weather. Ensure clean, ice-free water is readily available. Use portable watering equipment to prevent ice.

🚨 Staying Vigilant:
Monitor Shivering: Regularly check animals, especially during cold rains or freezing rain. Shivering animals should be brought indoors if possible.
Respiratory Caution: Sudden temperature changes can lead to respiratory issues, including pneumonia.
Blanket Use: Consider blankets for individual animals, ensuring both the coat and the blanket remain dry. Change blankets as needed.

🐇 Small Animals:
Indoor Shelter: Bring small animals inside when possible.
Heat Lamps: For rabbits, poultry, and young/old livestock, use heat lamps cautiously. Hang them out of reach of larger animals and monitor frequently.

Remember, a well-cared-for animal is better equipped to handle winter challenges. Prioritize their health and safety year-round! 🐾
❄️

01/10/2024

Can anyone guess which eye had surgery last week?

We are so happy to see Moothias recovering well and back to his happy, snuggly self.

01/10/2024

01/09/2024

🚨 Toxic Tuesdays: Lambert Crazyw**d🌿

Lambert Crazyw**d, scientifically known as Oxytropis lambertii, is a perennial legume found across various regions in Arizona. Its growth is significantly impacted by moisture and temperature, often thriving in colonies situated within sandy or gravelly soils.

🌱 Toxic Agent & Impact:
The toxic agent in Lambert Crazyw**d is the alkaloid swainsonine, causing enzyme dysfunction affecting the brain, liver, and more in animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and particularly horses. Even a small percentage of their body weight in consumption can lead to severe symptoms and, tragically, can be lethal.

⚠️ Signs of Ingestion:
Livestock ingestion leads to sensory and motor function issues. Cattle may exhibit lowered head carriage, a vacant stare, and difficulties eating or drinking. Horses can display listlessness or excessive excitement, often stumbling unexpectedly. Chronic poisoning in horses can be irreversible, making them unsafe to ride.
Horses, cattle, and sheep are affected differently by Lambert Crazyw**d. Horses seldom recover once poisoned, while cattle may gain weight slowly and experience abortions. Sheep often abort after consumption, and once introduced to the plant, animals may seek it out later.

🛡️ Management & Prevention:
Maintaining good range condition, offering quality forage, and a balanced supplemental feeding program help prevent ingestion. Observing animals eating Lambert Crazyw**d and removing them from the pasture is crucial. Herbicides can be used, but caution must be taken as treated plants become more toxic and palatable until dry.

👨‍⚕️ Our Advice:
Prevention and prompt action are our best defense against Lambert Crazyw**d poisoning. Stay informed, and if you suspect ingestion, seek veterinary advice immediately.

If you have any questions or are worried your animal ingested something toxic - call your veterinarian immediately.

We are available 24/7 at 480-899-5088

01/08/2024

🐮 Moothias: A Tale of Triumph Over Squamous Cell Carcinoma 🌟

Meet Moothias, a gentle soul and beloved member of our farm family. Recently, Moothias faced a challenging adversary: Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SSC) in his left eye. As distressing as it was, this resilient steer's story is one of unwavering hope and triumph.

🔍 Discovery & Urgent Action:
The discovery of SSC in Moothias's eye demanded immediate attention. With a sense of urgency and care, our team, led by Dr. Ritz, swiftly intervened to address this concerning condition.

💉 The Journey to Recovery:
Under Dr. Ritz's expert guidance, Moothias underwent a specialized procedure. The affected area was diligently prepared and meticulously handled to remove the affected eyelid portion. Post-procedure, our team ensured Moothias's comfort and safety, monitoring for any signs of discomfort or bleeding.

💊 Towards Healing:
Post-procedure, Moothias embarked on a healing journey. With prescribed treatments and tender care he is now on the path to a complete recovery.

👨‍⚕️ The Power of Vigilance:
As Moothias continues his healing journey, our vigilant team remains dedicated to monitoring his progress. We prioritize the well-being of our livestock, ensuring each step toward recovery is met with attention and care.

🌟 A Triumph of Hope:
Today, we rejoice! Moothias, our sweet steer, is now cancer-free, thanks to the dedication of Dr. Ritz, his caretakers, and the entire Herd Health Management team. His story embodies resilience, courage, and the triumph of overcoming adversity.

At Herd Health, we're committed to the well-being of your livestock. Should you have any questions or concerns about similar conditions or treatments, please reach out.

Together, we celebrate Moothias's victory and remain devoted to the health of all our cherished animals.

01/06/2024

🐮🐐 Calling All Livestock Owners in Yuma and Imperial Valley! 🐷🐑

Dr. Holmes is hitting the road and heading to Yuma and Imperial Valley on January 11th and 12th.

He is on mission to provide top-tier veterinary care to your goats, cattle, pigs, and sheep.
We know how vital your livestock is to you, and that's why Dr. Holmes is making this special trip. Don't miss this opportunity to ensure the health and well-being of your valuable animals. Dr. Holmes brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to ensure your animals receive the best care; from routine check-ups to addressing specific concerns, your animals are in good hands.

To schedule your appointment or inquire about the services offered during Dr. Holmes' visit, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to assist you and provide the highest level of care for your livestock.
Call us at 480-899-5088 or text 480-452-4974. Let's make your livestock's health a top priority. 📞🐮🐐

01/04/2024

01/04/2024

🐐 Signs of Labor in Goats 🌟

Kidding season is approaching! 🌿 It's a time filled with excitement and can also bring unexpected challenges. To ensure a successful kidding season, here are some key points to remember:

1. Due Date Diligence: Keep those records precise! Knowing the due date is important. Labor without progress for more than 20 minutes is an emergency, so mark those due dates diligently to monitor labor effectively.

2. Post-Kidding Watch: It doesn't end when the kids arrive! Both mom and babies need attention immediately after kidding. Emergencies can arise with kids not feeding, issues with placental passage, or environmental factors affecting survival.

3. Nutritional Support: The first 24 hours are crucial! Does produce vital colostrum that provides nutrition and antibodies for newborns. Ensure nursing within 2-4 hours post-birth for the kids to receive this nourishment. For bottle-fed babies, frequent milk feeding at the right temperature (100°F) is essential.

4. Clean, Warm, Dry: Remember the trifecta! A clean, warm, and dry environment is fundamental. Ensuring these three conditions are met can smoothen the kidding season journey.

🤔 Got concerns or questions? Experienced dystocia? We're here to help! Your friends at Herd Health are just a call away, offering support 24/7. Reach out to us at our office or emergency number:

480-899-5088

Remember, proactive care and prompt attention can make all the difference during this exciting yet critical time for your goat herd. Let's ensure a healthy and successful kidding season together!

01/02/2024

🌿 Alert: Flixw**d and Cattle Health 🐄

Flixw**d, also known as Tansy Mustard, might be a growing concern for our cattle companions. This winter or summer annual/biennial broadleaf w**d thrives in various landscapes, including agricultural land and disturbed areas, and has been making its presence felt in the Mojave Desert.

Plant Profile:
🌱 Flixw**d can reach over 2 feet tall and is often found along roadsides, fields, orchards, and unmanaged areas.
🍃 Its leaves are hairy, sparsely to densely covered with tiny, branched hairs, often finely divided, making it distinct from similar Sisymbrium species.
🌼 Yellow flower clusters bloom from March to August, followed by slender pods with rows of tiny seeds, each becoming sticky when moistened.

Potential Dangers:
🚫 Fatal toxicity to cattle when consumed in quantity, especially during the flowering stage.
⚠️ Neurological signs, such as difficulty swallowing, photosensitization, blindness, and weight loss, indicate poisoning.

Prevention and Treatment:
✅ Removal from grazing areas containing Flixw**d is essential for affected animals to recover.
🛑 Severely affected cattle might require symptomatic treatment and large doses of thiamin for blindness resolution.

Special Considerations:
🌾 Flixw**d's presence in alfalfa fields can reduce the hay's nutritional value and pose health risks to grazing livestock.
🔍 Controlling Flixw**d with appropriate herbicides can help maintain livestock health and hay quality.

Stay vigilant, and ensure your grazing areas are free from Flixw**d to safeguard your cattle's well-being. Reach out to our veterinarians for guidance or if you suspect Flixw**d poisoning in your livestock. Let's keep our animals safe and healthy! 🌿🐮

Remember, proactive monitoring of your pastures and fields can prevent potential harm to your precious livestock. For tailored advice or concerns, contact us at 480-899-5088. Your animal's well-being is our top priority! 📞✨

01/01/2024

🎉🌟 Wishing everyone a fantastic New Year filled with joy and success! 🎆✨

We are closed for the day to celebrate the occasion.
In case of any emergencies, our dedicated vet is on call!
480-899-5088.

Here's to a prosperous and healthy year ahead! Happy New Year! 🥳🐄🐏

12/31/2023

🎆 Help Ensure Your Animals' Safety this New Year's Eve! 🎇

As we gear up for New Year's Eve celebrations, it's vital to consider the safety of our beloved animals, including livestock. Here are some essential tips to ensure their well-being during fireworks displays:

For Horse Owners:
🐴 Connect with neighbors in advance to discuss fireworks plans and request a safe direction for displays away from your animals.
🏡 Keep horses in their familiar environment with companions to provide a sense of security.
🔍 Thoroughly check stables for potential injury hazards like nails or strings if your horse is stabled.
🌳 Ensure field fencing is secure and remove any objects that could cause harm if horses run around.
👀 Supervise your horse during fireworks, or if leaving them in another's care, provide clear instructions and vet contact details.

For Livestock:
🐮🐐 Consider moving livestock to a quieter pasture away from the fireworks' direct line of sight and sound.
🚜 Ensure fencing is secure and remove any potential hazards from the area where livestock are housed or grazing.
👀 Keep an eye on your animals during fireworks displays, and if possible, provide them a quiet and familiar environment to reduce stress.

For Pet Owners:
🐾 Keep pets inside during fireworks displays; they may find comfort in small spaces like a crate or a cozy room.
🚪 Eliminate visual stimulation by closing curtains and covering crates to reduce fireworks' impact.
🏠 Update pet identification and consider microchipping for added security if they get loose.
🎵 Play soothing music or provide distractions like toys or chews to divert their attention from fireworks' noise.

Remember, the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks can distress animals, including livestock. Let's ensure their safety and comfort this New Year's Eve! Share these tips with fellow animal owners to help keep all our furry and farm friends safe and happy. 🐾✨

For more details or specific advice for your livestock, reach out to our veterinarians at 480-899-5088.

🎆Wishing you and your animals a safe celebration!🎆

12/24/2023

Christmas magic arrives in the most unexpected ways—welcoming this precious calf born under the twinkling stars on this enchanting Christmas Eve! ✨🎄

12/15/2023

🐷 Attention Pig Owners! 🐷

As temperatures shift, our pig pals might be at risk of pneumonia. This condition can arise from temperature changes, viruses, bacteria, parasites, or environmental irritation. 🌡️🐖

Pneumonia in pigs often starts with drastic weather changes. Picture this: nights at 40°F and days soaring to over 70°F. These temperature swings stress your pig's lungs, making them vulnerable to respiratory issues. 🌬️😷

Spotting pneumonia in its early stages can be tricky. Watch for these signs:
🐽Coughing (especially when active)
🐽Reduced appetite
🐽Fever over 101°F (usually 104°F to 106°F)
Advanced pneumonia is alarming. Signs include:
🐽Shallow, rapid breathing even when lying down—commonly known as “Thumping.”
🐽Open mouth breathing signals an urgent and severe stage of pneumonia.

🚨 What to Do? 🚨
At the first sign of these symptoms, contact your Herd Health Management veterinarian immediately at 480-899-5088. The sooner pneumonia is detected, the better the chances for a full recovery without complications. 🏥💊

Your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive examination for a proper diagnosis and prescribe the necessary antibiotics or medications for your pig's recovery.

🛡️ Prevention is Key! 🛡️
Ensure your pig’s environment is consistent and sheltered from drastic temperature changes. Keep an eye on their health and contact us at the first sign of trouble! 🌟

Remember, we're here for you 24/7 for emergency veterinary services.
480-899-5088

For more information, visit HerdHealth.com.

12/11/2023

⚠️ Graphic Content Warning: Sensitive Images Attached

Meet Minnie, one of our resilient patients who recently embarked on a bit of a misadventure. Minnie, a proud mother of twin heifers born on Nov 2, experienced an unexpected re**al prolapse. Here's how her story unfolded:

🔍 The Check-Up:
When Minnie came to us, she was Bright, Alert, and Responsive (BAR). Our thorough examination revealed normal vitals: heart rate, respiratory rate, and healthy GI sounds. Minnie's pink and moist mucous membranes and clear eyes, ears, and nose indicated overall good health—except for the concerning re**al prolapse.

🩺 The Treatment Journey:
To address the prolapse, our skilled team sprang into action! Minnie received a lidocaine epidural to help ease discomfort. We gently cleaned the pr*****ed area, removing any necrotic tissue. Applying a bit of sugar might sound sweet, but it's also a secret weapon in reducing the prolapse size! With care, we managed to replace the prolapse without any extensive damage.

🧵 Stitching Solutions:
A pursestring suture came to Minnie's rescue, ensuring the re**um stayed put. We noticed Minnie's vaginal area attempting a similar escape act, but with a Buhner stitch, we prevented any unwarranted surprises. A dose of antibiotics was administered for good measure.

🌟 The Road to Recovery:
For the next two weeks, Minnie's owners have a special mission: keeping her separated and on a soft diet. This plan will keep her stools loose enough to pass through the stitch comfortably. She was also given antibiotics to help reduce any risk of infection.

🤠 Wrangling Lessons Learned:
Minnie's adventure reminds us that even in unexpected moments, a proactive approach and some smart stitches can steer our animal friends back on the path to wellness!

🐾 Stay Updated on Our Veterinary Adventures:
Stay tuned for more tales from the veterinary world! If you have any questions or need support for your furry or feathered friends, give us a shout at 480-899-5088.

12/08/2023

🐐✨ Goat Hoof Health Alert! ✨🐐

Ensuring your goats have healthy hooves is crucial for their overall well-being. Routine hoof trims play a vital role in their health and comfort. Here's why hoof care matters:

👣 The Significance of Routine Trims:
Goats' hooves continuously grow and need regular maintenance. Hoof trims prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort, lameness, and even more severe health issues if neglected.

🕵️‍♂️ Signs Your Goat Needs a Trim:
Keep an eye out for signs indicating it's time for a trim! Overgrown hooves may appear elongated, cause changes in gait, or show signs of cracking. If you notice any of these, it's time for a trim.

⚠️ Health Risks of Untrimmed Hooves:
Neglected hooves pose serious health risks. Overgrowth can lead to infections, hoof rot, and cause undue stress on the animal's legs and joints. Proper trims prevent these issues.

📅 Incorporating Trims with Routine Wellness:
We understand your time is valuable. That's why we offer hoof trimming appointments alongside routine wellness and vaccination visits. Our aim is to ensure your goats are in optimal health, all in a single visit.

🦠🩺 The Health-Trim Connection:
Healthy hooves mean healthier goats! Scheduling regular trims during wellness appointments is a proactive way to maintain their overall health and prevent potential hoof-related ailments.

👨‍⚕️🐐 Let's Keep Those Hooves Happy and Healthy!
Don't hesitate to reach out to schedule a comprehensive wellness checkup and include a much-needed hoof trim. Your goats' comfort and health are our top priorities!

📞 Call us at 480-899-5088 to book an appointment today!

12/05/2023

🚫🌿 Toxic Tuesday: Beware of Mistletoe's Holiday Deception! 🌿🚫

During the holiday season, the sight of mistletoe brings cheer, but this festive plant can pose a risk to our beloved companions. Both American and European mistletoe, staples of holiday decor, can be toxic to pets and livestock.

🐶🐱 For Our Furry Friends:
Ingesting mistletoe can lead to severe reactions in pets. Toxic compounds like lectins and phoratoxins found in mistletoe affect the heart, resulting in low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, upset stomach, weakness, breathing difficulties, and unusual behavior.

🐴 Concerns for Horses:
Horses are also susceptible to mistletoe's toxicity. While not a preferred food, mistletoe ingestion by horses can cause digestive issues, weakness, and other symptoms. Being cautious around areas where mistletoe grows is essential to prevent accidental consumption by our equine friends.

🌟 Conclusion:
This holiday, while enjoying the festivities, let's keep a watchful eye on mistletoe. By taking proactive steps to keep it out of reach, we can ensure a safe and joyful season for our pets and horses. If you suspect ingestion or notice any concerning symptoms, contact us immediately for guidance and assistance.

Remember, safety for our furry companions is a priority! 🐾✨

11/28/2023

🐄 Looking for Expert Cattle Care? 🐮

At Herd Health Management, we provide comprehensive services for your cattle's health and wellness. From routine check-ups to emergency care, we've got you covered. Contact us today for:

✔️ Deworming
✔️ Fall and Spring Vaccinations
✔️ Fecals and Blood Work
✔️ Lameness and Wellness Exams
✔️ Wound and Surgical Management
✔️ Pregnancy and Fertility Exams with Ultrasound
✔️ Breeding Programs and Sync
✔️ Surgical Procedures: Castrations, C-Sections, Dehorning
✔️ Mass Removal and Displaced Abomasum Treatment
✔️ Computer Record Analysis: DC305 and DHi Plus
✔️ Herd Vaccination Protocols and Evaluation Programs
✔️ Mastitis Sample Collection and Milk Handling Training

Book an appointment now! 📞 (480) 899-5088 or email us at [email protected].

Find us at: 170 S William Dillard Dr #114, Gilbert, AZ 85233.

11/28/2023

🚫🌿 Toxic Tuesday Alert: Beware of Desert False Indigo! 🌿🚫

We're here to highlight the potential danger of Desert False Indigo (Amorpha fruticosa), also known as False Indigo-Bush or Bastard Indigobush, commonly found in Arizona's landscapes. This shrub, known for its purple flowers, can pose risks to our beloved pets and livestock if ingested.

🔴 Toxicity: All parts of False Indigo are poisonous to both humans and animals, containing cytisine, an alkaloid responsible for its toxicity. While it's not lethal, ingestion can lead to mild symptoms:
🐾 Gastrointestinal Upset: Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal spasms.
🐾 Mild Discomfort: Stomach upset, blurred vision, vertigo, and discomfort.

🚫 Keep Away: It's crucial to keep small animals, pets, children, livestock, and other animals away from this plant due to its toxicity. No parts of this plant are edible.

🐶🐱 Protect Your Pets: Dogs and cats, if they ingest Desert False Indigo, may experience vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. While they're not typically attracted to its bitter taste, it's best to keep them away to avoid any discomfort.

🐄 Livestock Caution: Most livestock will instinctively avoid False Indigo due to its bitter taste, preferring not to consume this mildly toxic shrub.

Awareness and vigilance are essential! If you suspect ingestion or notice any symptoms after exposure to this plant, contact us immediately. Remember, prevention is key in keeping our furry and farm friends safe! 📞🐾

11/23/2023

Happy Thanksgiving!

We are extremely thankful for all of you!❤🦃🍂

Our office is closed, but there is an emergency vet on call!
480-899-5088

11/21/2023

🌿 Toxic Tuesday Alert: Beware of Arizona's Thorny Menace - Sandbur (Cenchrus spp.) 🌿

It's Toxic Tuesday, and today we're focusing on a native plant that can be a prickly problem for our livestock: Sandbur (Cenchrus spp.). Recognizing and addressing this pesky hazard is vital for the health and safety of our herds.

🔍 Identification: Sandbur is a low-growing grass with distinctive spiky seed heads. The sharp, bristly burrs can easily attach to fur, wool, or skin.

📍 Habitat: You'll often find Sandbur in sandy or well-drained soils throughout Arizona, including pastures, rangelands, and open areas. It's particularly common in arid regions.

🚨 Toxicity: While not directly toxic, Sandbur can pose health risks to livestock. The sharp burrs can cause physical harm by lodging in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as:
Mouth and throat irritation
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Difficulty eating or grazing

Prevention is Key: Vigilance is key when dealing with Sandbur. Regularly inspect grazing areas and take measures to minimize your livestock's exposure, such as mowing or removing infested areas.

If you suspect your animals have ingested Sandbur or are experiencing discomfort, seek advice from your local veterinarian. Let's work together to protect our herds from this thorny menace in Arizona's diverse landscape! 🐮🌾

480-899-5088

11/16/2023

🐴🩺 Understanding Beans in Male Horses' Sheaths: A Medical Insight 🩺🐴

Let's delve into a topic that's crucial for your male horse's well-being: beans in their sheaths. These small, waxy buildups can occur within a horse's sheath and are exclusive to our male equine friends. Understanding their formation, recognizing the signs, and knowing how to address them is vital for their health and comfort.

How Are Beans Formed in Male Horses?
Beans, also known as sm**ma, can naturally accumulate within the sheath of male horses. They develop as a combination of skin cells, urine, and sweat. If left unattended, they can solidify, causing discomfort for your male equine companion.

Signs of Beans in Sheaths in Male Horses:

Irritability or Restlessness: Your horse may become agitated due to discomfort.
Difficulty Urinating: Straining while urinating could be an indicator.
Tail Swishing: Excessive tail swishing may signal discomfort in the ge***al area.

Treatment and Removal for Male Horses:
Regular sheath cleaning is essential to prevent beans. If your male horse develops one, prompt attention from a veterinarian is necessary. Typically, the horse is gently sedated, and the bean is carefully removed to ensure proper care.

We're Here to Help Your Male Equine Companion!
At Herd Health Management, we prioritize your male horse's comfort and well-being. We recommend routine sheath cleanings as part of their comprehensive care plan, ideally performed during a dental checkup. Regular maintenance can prevent beans and ensure your male horse remains content and healthy.

If you have any concerns or need assistance with your male horse's sheath care, please reach out to us. We're always here to provide the support and care your equine companions deserve. 📞🐎

11/14/2023

TOXIC TUESDAY ALERT! 🚨

Attention pet owners in Arizona, especially those with curious animals! Today, we're shedding light on a seemingly innocent yet highly toxic plant prevalent in our local landscaping – Nerium Oleander.

🌿 What Does Oleander Look Like?
Oleander is a lush, evergreen shrub known for its attractive clusters of vibrant flowers ranging from pink to white. Commonly used in landscaping, you'll find these plants adorning yards, public spaces, and roadsides across Arizona.

📍 Where is it Located?
Due to its resilience in poor soil conditions and adaptability to drought, Oleander has become a staple in landscaping throughout the state. You can spot them in residential areas, commercial spaces, and public parks, adding a touch of beauty to the surroundings.

🚨 Why is it Dangerous?
While its aesthetics might be appealing, Oleander harbors cardiac glycosides, making it extremely toxic to various animals, including dogs, cats, goats, cattle, sheep, camelids, pigs, tortoises, rabbits, and horses.

⚠️ Signs to Watch Out For:
Gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhea)
Colic
Hypersalivation (Drooling)
Arrhythmias
Blood pressure changes (hypotension or hypertension)
Neurological signs (lethargy, depression, ataxia, tremors, seizures)
Dehydration
Shock
Death

🚫 Preventive Measures:
If Oleander is present in your vicinity, ensure it is fenced off to protect your furry or hoofed friends. Be cautious during walks and keep a vigilant eye on your pets.
If ingestion is suspected or if any signs are observed, contact us immediately at
480-899-5088.

Remember, even a single leaf can be lethal! Stay informed, stay safe. 🌱🐾