Reflection Part 4 {Most Memorable Patients}

Reflection Part 4--Most Memorable Patients

Last time I shared Part 3 of the Reflections series (read part 1 and part 2 here) which ended with a photo of the young Bengal tiger I was fortunate enough to work with during my time at UF. He was certainly one of my most memorable cases for just being what he was. How many people get to work with tigers? I consider myself truly lucky to have had so many amazing experiences. I'd like to share a few more from University of FL Vet School:

There was the pet cougar(I do not recommend keeping wild animals as pets!!) who stayed in ICU overnight. She was under a constant sedative IV drip for pain and to keep her from eating us. Apparently she was someone's pet and actually slept in bed with the owner. Due to the fact that she was a cougar she stayed under sedation and closely monitored for her safety (and ours). The coolest thing about working with the big cats (even though this one was sedated and the tiger was essentially a baby and used to human interaction) is that they are exactly like house cats.

They are playful, vindictive, sweet, true hunters, and you really want to stay on their good side! The tongues of tiger and cougar felt just like one from a house cat. They are beautiful and dangerous animals. The slightly frightening part of this case was that the wildlife department at the university came in to transfer her to us and update us on her case also brought a dart gun that we were to use in case the cougar awoke unexpectedly. They explained how to use it, locked the syringe/darts in our controlled substance machine, and left us for the night. It went perfectly--what a cool experience!

I briefly assisted cleaning and medicating a great horned owl's wing injury. I applied the medication as the student gently restrained the owl. A deer was brought in by two young men after they saw her injured on the side of the road. They dropped her off with wildlife emergency and went back to look for her fawn while we examined her. Wildlife department requested help from ICU and I got to go down there to help sedate the doe and place an IV catheter.

We had a wallaby hospitalized in ICU for a few days. That was really interesting as they were using canine plasma and several other infusions. He was pretty sick initially but when he was more aware he was just very shy. We had to do blood work on him frequently and monitor his vitals. He had surgery so we were trying to keep his temperature up which is why he is covered up with blankets and a warm air heater. 

Finally one of the most touching cases was a middle aged couple who were traveling through Florida  saw a large young dog get hit by two different cars (who didn't bother to stop). They stopped and were able to carefully lift him and carry him to their car. He ended up at UF on emergency and have fractured pelvis as well as a few other fractures in addition to head trauma. He needed thousands of dollars in surgery and care. The couple had fallen in love with the sweet pup and decided to pay for his treatment AND adopt him. Such a great ending to a sad beginning! 

It's cases like this one that makes my job so worth all the sad and frustrating times. 

On another note: we got back from Denver, CO last week and had SUCH an amazing time! I definitely want to go back (I'd love to move there!!) to visit--it was amazing to see all my close friends. <3 Next post I will share our trip to Colorado :)

Reflection Part 3

Reflection Part 3

(Catch up by reading Part 1 and Part 2)
We last left off on Reflection Part 2 in 2007 when I left AVS and was accepted into the University of Florida undergraduate program. I took a position at UF's Small Animal Veterinary Medical Center. After working with the amazing staff at AVS I knew that no matter what I couldn't let anyone keep me from my passion--animals, science, veterinary medicine. Since this story is about my career and not the blunders of college (again that can be for another time) I will keep it short and just say my acceptance was conditional but I wasn't informed in time to complete the requirement thus my acceptance was rescinded. At this point I was focused and refused to give up--I stayed in Gainesville with my new job and resumed classes at Santa Fe College.
My job was in the small animal ICU/CC (intensive care unit/critical care). I worked the "swing" shift which was 5 days a week 5pm to 1am. I also went to class during the day. The shift I worked was mostly unsupervised--no doctors--just techs with doctors on call. When I first got up there I had to get blood drawn, physical exam, rabies vaccinations, and training on the day shift. They told me usually new employees train for a week but after 3 days I was put onto my new shift. The rabies vaccinations were administered in a series of a few weeks and they made me feel sick every time--which is supposedly a normal side effect.
I fit in fairly well with the diverse staff and learned many new skills quickly. Most of the time we were monitoring and administering medications and treatments to the patients in our ward. We had many post operative patients as well as critically ill patients. I went in with general nursing skills and came out knowing advanced skills. Despite all the obstacles I've faced everything has made me into the person and professional that I am today. Working in ICU we had our unfortunate fair share of experience in CPR and because of this I am quite comfortable (for lack of a better word) performing the potentially life saving action. My almost two years of employment at UF was a crash course in emergency care/resuscitation, cardiology, surgery, advanced nursing and venipuncture (special IV catheters and blood drawing) and so much more.

I wish I kept journals during so much of this time but I never really wrote about work and when I did write about anything it was sporadic depressive ramblings. Anyway, for about a year I worked that shift and most weekends drove back to orlando to visit David. I never specifically had trouble with management but a few of my coworkers did and I developed a healthy disdain for my employers (or at least the people they put in charge). For whatever reason our department (there was cardiology, radiology, etc--just like human specialists, they had everything) was the only one in small animal that ran 24 hours a day and constantly brought in money but our staff was often the most harassed and we were always an after thought. Upper management purposely misled our direct manager during evaluations (that were supposed to lead to raises) so that most of us did not score high enough despite what our manager reported about us. They created this "career ladder" format of rigorous checklists, signatures, written and verbal testing which was the graded using a mysterious formula that equaled to a dollar amount for an individuals raise. When questioned they were unable to provide said formula or explain their conclusions. Several other little rude, condescending, selfish actions and remarks that aren't even the point of this story. They often forgot about the late shifts when they actually planned something for the staff whether if was educational, fun, or mandatory. We would have to stay hours late after our shifts or come in during the middle of the day just for a meeting. Even though I am still a little bitter about a few things I would do it all over again because it made me just that much better at what I do!
I'm having a difficult time remembering which cases came and what point while I worked at UF so I'm going to go through some photos (thankfully the files has date taken recorded...awesome!) and try to figure out what happened at what time. During my last year there I was suddenly switched from the swing shift to an overnight position (10pm to 8am) which entailed more duties, longer shifts, less help, and I would at one point be the senior technician. I didn't have an option. I asked for an increase in pay and was denied. I had to drop all of my classes as my new schedule was effective within two weeks. I had a really hard time adjusting to the overnight shift but I still have some amazing experiences and became good friends with someone I probably wouldn't have if we didn't work so close together. I'll share this photo of a 10 month of white bengal tiger baby boy. He's quite large as he is almost a year old. The "little" guy injured a bone in his leg and was on cage rest with a cast. Our duty at night was to check on him and make sure he didn't remove his cast. If he did then we would call the zoo med veterinarian. However we did get to pet him through the cage a few times. ;-o He was very sweet and would try to lick your hand through the bars and would place his paw against your palm.




Next week I will share special and interesting cases I experienced during my time there. I hope at the very least to show you some cool photos of animals you wouldn't usually get to see up close and also to show you what I do and have done in my career in veterinary medicine.

It’s nice to have time off!!

I’m taking a break from my series called “Reflection” (See Part 1 and Part 2) which is literally me reflecting on the last 13 years of my career as a veterinary technician (basically the beginning of my career to current). Sometimes remembering certain things can be overwhelming or even tiresome. I try to let go of some of the bitterness I still feel toward some situations but writing about it tends to bring those feelings back. AND since I’ve been dealing with headaches and just general “run down-ness” I decided to give you guys more of an update with the current rather than the next installment of “Reflection.”

Luckily for all of us at the clinic, our boss is taking a few days off—which means we all get a little extra time off also. Our manager scheduled it so we each have at least two days off in a row (or more!). I’m actually watching their pets as I type. <3

We’ve been slowing upgrading our apartment—it feels nice to have our own furniture that we bought. It’s nothing expensive but it all matches and we picked it out. All we’ve ever had was hand-me-downs (and they were all awesome!) but there is something different about picking out and purchasing your own stuff. Now we need a cover for our love sac (giant awesome bean bag couch/bed) and a few shelves to help us organize the rest of our belongings.

As part of my valentines day gifts David arranged to get us park hopper passes for Disney—particularly so we can go to Animal Kingdom. We may go Sunday :) I usually dislike zoo and don’t visit them but Animal Kingdom and Miami Zoo are the absolute shit. Miami Zoo is wicked cheap and an incredible experience—“cage free” zoo!!

We will also be visiting Colorado in three weeks! I’ve never visited anywhere in the US for fun. I’ve always been dragged around by family to visit family. Thanks to David’s family I’ve been able to travel to Cancun, Mexico and The Bahamas. Those are the only places I have traveled—it may be a lot to some but I’ve always wanted to visit places and see their natural beauty and other “must see” sights. I have two best friends out there and their lovely significant others and I am so freaking excited to visit them and explore Denver and Ft. Collins. They will be trying to convince us to move there, hehe. If you live in or near those areas in Colorado hit me up on facebook or twitter and maybe we can all meet up for drinks or coffee while we are wandering around Colorado. I’m so ready to see some mountains and National Park and just the awesomeness that is in the west of the US. I can’t wait to see you guys!! Tanya, Myke, Leashy, Seth, Bryan, Lily, Nette. <3 You guys are my family! <3

Luckily David’s time off was approved so he can come with me and all our pets will be staying at the clinic boarding kennel. That’s the only place I know that can handle all four of them and their behaviors and medical issues. The whole herd is too much for one person unless they are skilled in medicating animals and pet mischief. My fellow techs are professionals and they love my little hooligans.

Upcoming Changes: my blog is suffering because of my lack of routine but with these few extra days off and then vacation coming up I’m planning some slight changes to the design, but nothing big. The other change is my etsy shop—I’m currently researching recycled metals (sterling silver) and acquiring some beach glass and other natural beauties. Maybe some pretty little stones from Rocky Moutain national park! I’ll let you know :)

In the meantime you can check out the new additions to my shop. A few pieces I have made in the past I am re-offering for purchase.

I’m still trying to figure out how to design my own logo, even though I want to support small business I really can’t afford to pay a graphic designer.

 

Reflection—Part 2

I’ve been awful about blogging and writing anything lately. However, I have been keeping a notebook/journal/doodle thing. I jot down ideas, thoughts, drawings, whatever. I date each page when I start a new one. I keep changing up the color pen to keep me feeling creative. Anyway, if you remember the last post I did—about the beginning of my career in veterinary medicine. I will pick up right after Part 1.

2005--2007

There were so many other things that happened, but that was the only death on my watch. My friend Myke and I could make you laugh and cringe in disgust at some of the things we experienced. I heard other stories later from staff that remained after I left—they didn’t stay long. I try not to dwell on it much, its quite upsetting. I was already stressed out from working for Dr. D so when he cut my hours, I handed him my resignation letter—effective immediately. I already was on the job search and had an offer as a personal assistant to a couple of realtors. Just as I was starting the new job my friend and I had a falling out and I moved into a duplex with some friends. I started dating one of my roommates—as I had a crush on him before I moved in. I was on the rebound after dating one guy on and off for several years—and he was there for me. After a long time of searching and applying I finally landed a job at a local veterinary clinic. (I actually had a job interview to work for Dixie Stampede as a rider but I wasn’t able to get a ride out there *sad times*)

I worked at the clinic for about 6 weeks. I was having trouble sleeping and my boyfriend (at the time) had a friend that was over often with a drug problem—he would come and crash at our place after arguing with his fiancé (not that we didn’t get a little wild back then). When I was hired I was told they would teach me to do the things I didn’t know. At my first review I scored a D because I wasn’t excelling as they had expected. I told them I wasn’t being trained. Finally one day I was called by the manager. She stated that she was going to talk to me that day but I wasn’t there (it was my day off). She said I didn’t seem happy and it wasn’t working out so if I could please come by tomorrow to drop off my key and pick up my final check. I was crushed. That’s the first time and only time I’ve ever been fired. I was so devastated—I thought that maybe this wasn’t for me. I took a job at the local publix as cashier. I figured what the hell, might as well earn some money while looking for a better job or just work there while I went to school.

I didn’t last long. I grew tired of staying hours after my scheduled time. Tired of the monotonous scanning of barcodes and weighing vegetables. So very tired of being exhausted every week and paychecks that weren’t worth it. I found a job for the local specialty clinic on careerbuilder.com and literally like 15 minutes after applying I received a call from the hospital manager. After two interviews (one was a working interview) I was hired as Vet Assistant/Treatment Tech. I originally applied for position of tech but after speaking with the manager I told her I wasn’t comfortable doing the job without training—but once trained I knew I could. They hired me with the knowledge that they could use my practically anywhere.  And they did. I was used the most as “cat whisperer”, as I was really good at restraining and calming pets, particularly cats. This was especially important during chemotherapy as movement could cause the injection to come out of the vein. I often helped in chemotherapy with our patients, in ultrasound restraining patients, I was able to encourage sick cats and dogs to eat, I did treatments while the other techs were busy in procedures, I took appointments a few times, but the most interesting part was when they asked me to take over physical therapy once a week.

Every friday I did physical therapy exercises with a few dogs and then the underwater treadmill. It was amazing to watch animals rebuild strength or maintain severe arthritis. The best part was Lucky (I think that was his name). He was a little dachshund that was unable to walk when I started working with him. The most special thing about him was he exclusively saw me. The other patients sometimes came on friday when they couldn’t make their regular visit or at least they had already been evaluated by the physical therapy assistant (all of our instructions came from the orthopedic surgeons, there wasn’t an actual physical therapist). So Lucky came only once a week and it was recommended at least twice a week for results. He came in unable to walk and I watched him go from needing total assistance to being able to support himself and almost walk completely unaided. It was absolutely amazing.

I worked there for almost 2 years and learned so much. We had many joyful times and many heartbreaks. That’s the curse of working with animals. We will almost always outlive our pets. It was so refreshing to finally be somewhere that had the same medical ethics as me and didn’t make me feel uncomfortable. They thanked each of us everyday and I loved working there. I only left because I was finally accepted into University of Florida and my dream of becoming a veterinarian had been delayed too long already (the story of school is also an epic one, I’ve had one hell of a time just trying to work on my bachelors. That will be for another time).

This photo is Lucky and I our last day together. It sucked because he didn’t care for the person taking over my job. I have several other photos from my last day. Special patients that were still hanging in there, goofy coworkers, and all the doctors. I remember him the most because he was MY patient. I used to have video of him walking without support for several steps. Just amazing.

The next step of my journey was that of acceptance into the school I had been dreaming/planning to attend since I was a little girl. Once I was accepted and knew I would be moving up there I informed the doctors at the specialty hospital and they told me to apply to the vet school. I wasn’t sure if I was qualified but I was assured that I could do it and I would be great. I applied for any veterinary technician position within the small animal hospital but I would work in large animal if trained. I went up for my interview and to apartment search. The interview was a success and I was offered a job working the middle shift (without veterinarian supervision—except by phone call or if they came in) in the small animal ICU and critical care. The job was a huge promotion for me and came with a nice raise from my current salary. I decided to room with a friend for a few months before deciding on my own place up there. A month or so before the move my boyfriend and I broke up and I ended up moving in with friends for those few weeks—I also dated a few people and found the guy I’m dating now (and have been for almost 6 years).

This is the Spring of 2007 and I am about 22 years old. I have been in veterinary medicine for approximately 8 years. The fun has just begun.

Reflection-- Part 1

Last week Jen was down in St. Pete visiting with family and she invited me to come out to a local bar for a mini meet up. David and I drove down from Orlando area after I got off work. It was awesome finally meeting and getting to chat. Jen, myself, my boyfriend David, a reader Tom, and Anwar (he was working there) got to meet. She asked me a few questions about my career as a vet tech and it inspired me to reflect on some of the things I’ve experienced so far in veterinary medicine.

Please know that my situation isn’t typical. I’m 27 years old (my birthday is in July) and I have been working in veterinary medicine for almost 14 years. I started volunteering at my family pet’s veterinary clinic when I was about 12 years old. My family told me that I always wanted to be a vet since I knew what one was. My mom wanted me to get some experience so I would have an advantage over other students so she asked if I could volunteer. I was always mature for my age so at 12 they let me walk the dogs in the kennel and even watch surgery. I volunteered every summer after that.

1999--2003

I remember when I was 14 and got the call from Doc (Dr. S)—she asked me if I would like to have a job! I was ecstatic. I had already been working for a year on the weekends with the company that offered clowns, face painting, balloons, pony, and horse rides. For an animal lover I was in heaven. I also loved being able to be out of the house weekday and weekends as it was a more legitimate reason than hanging out with friends or boyfriends. I worked a few hours every afternoon after school and in the summer I worked more. When I was old enough to work full time I did.  I worked there until the summer after I graduated from high school.  I started in the kennel, began assisting in surgery, and then began educating clients about pet care, vaccinations, preventatives. I learned to draw blood, place catheters, clean teeth, take radiographs and so much more. I learned a strong sense of medical ethics and standards—Dr. S was an amazing and passionate vet who clearly loved her profession. I learned that we are in this for the animals and people who love them. I experienced life and death, shared happiness and sadness with clients. I loved spending time at the little clinic. The vet had several dogs that I got to take care of as if there were my own. One dog named Bob was my favorite—when I was 17 my parents went to NJ to visit family and I stayed home because I needed to work, Bob came and stayed with me for the week so I had some protection. He slept on my bed with me and I was sad when I had to return him but I would see him at work everyday. The year I left for college Bob was sick and even though I no longer worked there Dr. S called me. He ended up having stomach cancer and treatment would have only prolonged the inevitable and would have been tough for him. Dr. S decided it was kindest to euthanize him and asked if I would like to be there. I drove out to her home and hugged him and kissed  his nose. He was one of the best dogs I’ve ever known. He had been there with me through break ups, issues at home, happy times, and it I could have taken him with me to college I would have. I held his paw as we cried and gave him the injection. He fell asleep and just didn’t wake up. I had a mixed CD in the car that afternoon and now anytime I hear Hands Down by Dashboard Confessional or the theme song from Donnie Darko I relive those feelings to a minor degree. Even now there’s a knot in my throat and I’m beginning to feel sad.

2003--2005

When I moved to UCF area for college I thought I would just get a job at a restaurant but I hated the food industry and missed working with animals. I searched for a job at a vet clinic but at only 18 no one wanted to hire me. I had almost 5 years of experience but no one would give me a chance because I looked so young. I finally was offered a position bathing dogs at a vet clinic. I ended up taking a big pay cut but I wanted to work with animals.  I should have known from the beginning that this wasn’t a good environment but it was the only place in town that would give me a chance. Within weeks of starting I became head technician as the entire staff quit. The doctor had a horrible bedside manner with clients and didn’t really appear to like animals. He constantly made odd demeaning or vaguely (sometimes not so vaguely) sexual comments to the staff. I was young and determined to make a name for myself in veterinary medicine. I considered it a speed bump in my journey—I knew I wouldn’t be there long. The only saving grace were the few good people that filtered through the clinic for employment and one beautiful but neglected bird. Raspy or Rasputin was a beautiful, sweet, and free spirited Catalina macaw. He was owned by Dr. D but he began  living at the clinic shortly after I started working there. No one liked him. He was loud and aggressive. I was determined that he just needed some love. Seriously that’s all he wanted. I started with a leather glove so in case he did decide to attack me but soon I was able to hold him on my arm without concern and eventually he would sit on shoulder and nuzzle my cheek. I feel such regret to this day that he is still there, but what could I do? He wasn’t mine, I couldn’t very well steal him (as much as I wanted to). He was Dr. D’s only pet (which is so freaking weird) and only became so because his previous owner couldn’t pay the bill and decided to abandon Raspy. I miss him to this day. I have a feather of his that I always kept. He probably wouldn’t know me now, but if there was a way to adopt him I would.

I was only there for about a year and a half but it was long enough. The hospital had such a high turn over rate and the staff that was there when I started warned me. I should have quit after I lost my first patient. I was doing a dental cleaning on a sweet golden retriever whose owner would tip us every time she had a bath and every major holiday she would give us each a gift card to borders. Her name was Sunny. I noticed that her she stopped breathing and her color wasn’t good. I called the doctor and other staff. He didn’t give us any instructions. Thankfully the other tech who had returned (she was there when I first started) to work knew CPR from her assistant classes and told me what to do. We didn’t have an airway because at this particular clinic they did not intubate (my previous clinic we always intubated!)—the only thing Dr. D tried to do was intubate Sunny. When he was unable he just stood there watching us. L gave Sunny chest compressions while I gave her breaths. (Knowing what I know now—Dr. D did not tell us to give her any epinephrine or atropine or anything! I don’t know why.) Sunny’s color began to turn pink—we were getting her back--but suddenly I guess Dr. D had decided that we tried long enough when he heard the front door chime. He told L she needed to go up front and take care of the customers. He told us we needed to stop CPR. That dog should not have died. When I was sure she was gone I went up front and sobbed in L’s arms. I came to that hospital with higher medical and ethical standards than the owner—in 5 years I never lost a patient, but it wasn’t the fact that we lost a life. What bothered me most was that it he didn’t seem to care. What I experienced was awful but what I heard after I left was even worse. If you ever questioned Dr. D he would always counter that we didn’t go to vet school so what did we know. Real mature.

Ha. I stayed there too long.

Next up is my second short hiatus from veterinary medicine. I left the profession three times for just a few weeks or months at a time and kept trying other things but nothing was as satisfying. At this point we are about 6 years into my career—I’m about 20 years old here.

Almost a New Year...

2012 wasn't horrible--certainly better than some previous years but the last few months have been a roller coaster of emotion, exhaustion, and frustration. I didn't meet as many goals as I would have liked to for myself but the fact that I got through everything with my sanity intact (mostly) is truly an accomplishment.

 

I've been juggling a full time job (40 hrs a week) as a vet tech at a local clinic, my pet sitting business, my etsy shop, writing for my blog and Talk Nerdy To Me Lover, as well as whatever personal life I attempt to have--all this for the last year. Whew! I've been fairly successful in all avenues but my main problem is I have no routine at all when it comes to, well, everything. So then juggling everything becomes exhausting. My main goal is to get into a routine. I'm not making a resolution but rather a promise to myself to change my lifestyle to better my life. As we say goodbye to 2012 and hello to 2013 I feel that it would be healing for me to type out the few things that happened this year that caused me distress. I've been meaning to write about all these things but I feel like to get past them I should leave the pain in 2012 and take with me the good memories and lessons into 2013.

 

I guess the crappy stuff started around when our rescue bearded dragon (pet lizard) passed away. His name was Ebeneezer and I adopted him before David and I started dating. When I went to adopt him his back legs didn't work! Turns out he had metabolic bone disease from improper care. I didn't think he would make it that weekend let alone these last almost 7 years. He was about 8 when he passed away. We knew he wasn't feeling well and had made plans to take him to the reptile specialist but Eben made the decision for us and we found him in his enclosure. We took him to my vet clinic and made arrangements for cremation with ashes to be returned. Maybe it's silly but I felt relieved when he was home with us again in his beautiful mahogany box. He was our pet for almost 7 years and he was such an affectionate and friendly guy. It was hard not to smile when he bobbed his head at you--he was such a charmer. Yeah, still talking about a pet lizard.

Then two weeks after I got my new car some asshole backs into it at a pub and drives away! Hit and run on my new car :(. The witness only got a partial plate number and description but it wasn't enough to catch the guy. I will be getting the repairs done soon at the cost of my deductible: $500.

As if that wasn't enough to be upset about one of the dogs I pet sit for passed away in my care a few weeks later. Actually it was far more dramatic than that: I've known Cooper for almost 4 years, he's always been sorta sickly. He has immune mediated disease that causes him to have low white cell counts and therefore be susceptible to infection. Otherwise he was a super happy little guy. We just love him and his sister Lucy to pieces. Anyway a few days before their mom was to come home (she had been on a long trip) Cooper starts to act a little strange. He usually gobbles his food but I had to coax him to finish his breakfast. Then he vomited and acted as if his stomach hurt. I contacted my vet and went to the clinic to take an X-ray. I emailed the radiograph image to him and he called me. He said it didn't look good and he was on his way. I looked over at Cooper and saw I was losing him. David was with me and instead of waiting 20 minutes for my vet we grabbed the oxygen tank and rushed him to the emergency vet right down the road. My vets called ahead for us. I began CPR in my lap as David raced us to the ER. I knew it was no use, I knew I had lost him. I kept trying for a moment, felt for a pulse. Nothing. (Doc texted me his mom would most likely not want resuscitation. But we couldn't reach her, she was out of the country. So I had to try.)

Realizing I was not going to succeed-- I just hugged him close and told him we loved him and how sorry I was. I kissed his little head and cradled him close to me. (I have been avoiding writing this because I'm about to cry right now. Breathe.) We arrived at the ER with moments of leaving my clinic but it only takes a second for the light (life) to leave. The eyes look so different when the light is gone. Peaceful but absent. I see it way too often due to my career as a vet tech.

 

They knew I was coming but I told them he didn't make it and to please just confirm he was gone (listen for heartbeat/check pulses). They confirmed what I already knew. The tech wrapped him up and placed him in a special box to take back to the clinic. I took care of arrangements for his cremation and return--I recently learned just how important this feels for a pet parent. I managed to email his mom and she called me. Tearfully I explained what happened, she knew I did everything I could. He was such an amazing dog.

 

Just a few days after their mom got home I went on my previously scheduled and now desperately needed vacation with David. I wrote Cooper's name in the sand.

After we got back from vacation we scheduled my cats surgical biopsies. I felt like I knew the results but needed it on paper to start treatment. Either way the treatment is the same but lifespan is different. Within a few days we got the results I was dreading and expecting. My cat, Catriana, was diagnosed with small cell indolent lymphoma. Similar to non-hodgkins lymphoma but according to a study cats can live up to 2 years after diagnosis with chemotherapy. We started the same protocol from the study--easy at home oral medication. Also, every 2 weeks she goes to work with me for bloodwork and vitamin B injections. So far she is doing well. It's hard at work sometimes during euthanasia, which is often hard enough but with the added knowledge that one day it will be me making that decision too.

We lost several patients this year that were particularly special to us. Especially Eli, a kitty that I pet sit and do house calls for. He had kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and probably cancer. He was also 16 years old. His mom texted me and I went over to check on him (they are friends, the family). He wasn't doing well and at this point we were just extending life as there wasn't much we could do. My vet met us at the clinic and we let Eli go peacefully with everyone who loved him. My heart aches for this family as they lost the husband/father in February and then 3 pets this year.

It's time to leave 2012 behind and move on to 2013. Take with you the memories and lessons you have learned but try not to dwell on the things you cannot change. Have a safe and happy new year! See ya next year ;)

 

 

Citations, Kittens, and Blogs…

Weird combo, huh? Well that has been my week so far! Getting hassled by the man was probably the worst point of my week despite a few sad times at work. I got out of work super late one night and instead of going all the way back home to wait for like 20 minutes and then leave again for David, I just hung out around downtown, or attempted to. I pulled up to a stop sign, stopped briefly, looked for any other cars/pedestrians, actually saw one crossing where I was going and paused, then made a left into a traffic circle or rotary (or we call them round thingies) where a police vehicle was with its lights on. Across the street another police vehicle had its lights on. I make my circle around and the officer walks over and shines his flashlight at me. I figured he was going to tell me they were looking for someone or something but he demanded my ID. I was rather taken aback and definitely gave him a little attitude. I had a headlight out and he stated I ran the stop sign. 

"No sir, I did not." And I handed him my ID and registration.

I mean seriously, I saw two police vehicles on either side of the street would I really run a stop sign? He proceeded to ask me repeatedly (like 3-4 times) if my license would check out ok, if I had any drugs or weapons, and oh yeah is my license ok? Fucking moron. Literally, he asked me three fucking times. Just run my fucking ID jackass. Ugh. Then he began questioning me as to where I was going, where that location was (honestly if he works downtown he should know where the oldest members club is), and why I was in my current location if I was going there. Seriously??? So I was beginning to feel harassing, badgered, whatever. On top of all that bullshit he kept asking me how you stop at a stop sign. WTF.

"You stop at the stop sign, sir, I not sure what you are asking me. You stop, look, and go."

Apparently that wasn't the correct answer, he kept pestering on how to stop. I kept trying to answer him but he rejected what I said. I knew what he wanted to hear but there is no law stating how long I have to stop or where exactly I have to stop as long as its before the stop sign. I told him what he wanted to hear and then he asked me why I was being "snooty."

ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?

I explained to him that I felt like he was talking down to me and I was beginning to feel harassed. Of course he didn't like that answer, he didn't like any of my answers and continued to be disrespectful throughout our entire encounter. Oddly enough with another officer sitting in his vehicle. He started off with an attitude so what does he expect? You only get respect when you give it, I don't give a flying fuck who you are. So he proceeded to write me two tickets, one for running a stop sign and the second for my headlight. He told me I could take them to court but I won't win. Ha! I have a lawyer you bastard. I spoke to him right after the encounter and we are going to try. I already have him working on something else so he's gonna just charge me a tiny bit more to represent me for this. I told him I'd pay him any amount to keep my money out of the court. I hate cops on a power trip. You are just regular citizens also, no need to treat the rest of us like crap. The officer who was the passenger had my cop write his name on my citation also so they will both get to show up for court. How nice, paying two of them to come to court and lie. Awesome. Thankfully I had a better experience last night with a nice officer so at least I know they aren't all bad. Karma will get those who can't play nice with others. 

Ok, better things....Kittens!!!

Ohhh so cute, these little guys are two of seven that were dumped at my clinic (again...). We have found homes for two (not pictured), the tabby pictured has been adopted by one of our technicians, we have two at Petco as featured adoptables with the help of Faith Hope and Love Rescue, and two are still at our clinic. So a very successful weekend! We only have to find homes for 4 little babies still and hopefully the 2 at Petco will find awesome homes in the next few days. Not sure if I mentioned but we still had a few kittens left a few weeks ago and all five have been adopted. 3 into separate homes and the two that were litter mates were adopted together, we will see them Saturday!

About blogs! It's not that big of a deal but I offered to help the rescue create a webpage using a blog platform because right now all they have is the one you can get with petfinder....it sucks. (http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/FL785.html) Really bad. I'm hoping with my decent amount of experience I will be able to put something simple but highly usable and functional. I will definitely keep you all posted!

Here’s what I’ve been working on (sneak peak for MY readers!)

Black Cats

Yesterday was Friday the 13th.... Wooooo spooky! Nah, not really :)

Did you know that black cats and dogs are less likely to be adopted??

Its true and rather ridiculous. Have we not yet learned color means nothing? Only what is in your heart and soul matter not the color of your skin or fur!!

Even rescue groups discriminate against the animals they are saving. Many groups won't take pets that they don't think they will be able to adopt despite their need for a rescue/shelter. I have experience this first hand as a litter of kittens was abandoned at my clinic. We called a rescue willing to take them but then they asked what they looked like, and began making snide comments about how they were all black and would be very difficult to place.

Response in my head: Shut the hell up, these are babies in need. Take them or not but I don't need your stupid fucking comments. UGH. Needless to say we don't call that rescue anymore since they apparently discriminate based on coat color.

Have we not learned anything from human history? Stop discriminating based on looks. Damnit.

Help Save Cali

While I was on facebook I saw that a friend that I used to work with at University of Florida--Veterinary Medical Center (ICU department) had posted about a patient that she had fallen in love with. Her name was Cali and she was a young (about 3 yrs.) chocolate lab that has been bitten in the face by a Diamondback Rattlesnake in their yard. Her owners had rushed her to the emergency vet but by morning her face was completely swollen. During the drive to University of FL her condition began to worsen. When she finally arrived at UF her swollen face had almost doubled in size. The amazing ICU team immediately began to work on her. Throughout her stay there everyone who met her has fallen in love with her. My friend even wrote that Cali gave her a kiss last night which was impossible when she arrived due to her swelling. Despite her condition and pain this dog has continued to show love and affection to all of her caretakers. Unfortunately her owners at their limit as they have already spent several thousands on her vet care. However, since she is improving they are asking help spreading her story and if anyone is able to donate at least $1 to help defer the cost of her care. She has already received 18 vials of anti-venom. Each vial costs about $300 on top of all the other costs of medications, hospitalization, tests, etc. The update today states that Cali is doing well and shouldn't need more anti-venom but the side effects from the bite will certainly need more treatment and care. Cali now needs surgery to heal her wounds. 

I know all you animal lovers out there understand this family's call for help. If you aren't able to donate at least PLEASE share, repost, tweet, whatever social media outlet you want. But please help us get Cali's story spread across the interwebz. If you can donate, they are only asking $1, if you can do more, awesome. I know this is a real call for help and not a scam because I know one of the veterinary technicians who is taking care of Cali. The plan to use the donations to help with the remaining costs for Cali's care and if there is leftover they will be donating it to the Pet Samaritan Fund which helps families and pets in similar situations to Cali. 

Here is Cali's facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pleasehelpcali

A video her family made: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3ewr8QBUhA&feature=plcp

Cali's Chip-in: http://helpsavecali.chipin.com/cali

And a news story in Orlando about her: http://www.clickorlando.com/news/Family-working-to-save-dog-bit-by-snake/-/1637132/15471734/-/xt2kgxz/-/index.html

From one pet-parent to another, thank you for helping.

<3

Vet Tech Face Palm

This happened to me a few weeks ago at work and I didn't want to share it immediately because I wasn't really sure if it was "post-worthy"-- well now I think it is!!

A client came in to purchase heartworm prevention for her dog but I informed her that the heartworm test was past due and we really needed to do it ASAP. I discussed the prices and several different prevention options with her as she just wanted to get the medication. I assume most pet owners know what heartworms are but if you don't: heartworm larva are transmitted to our pets (not us!) by infected mosquitoes (so even an "inside only" dog can get them because I've been bitten inside my home by one before) and when the larva gets into the bloodstream it travels through the vessels to the heart where it lives and grows into an adult heartworm. These worms can wreak havoc on our poor pets heart and lungs--they can even die from this nasty parasite. Symptoms include: coughing, exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, heart disease and even bacterial infections from the adult heartworms. The saving grace with this awful bug is that with an inexpensive once a month medication you can prevent this horrible disease. The medication is used to kill off baby heartworms that mosquitoes inject into our pets--this way they never grow up into adult heartworms and cause all the above problems. Starting prevention at a young age of 8 weeks is the best way to ensure your pet never has to deal with this disease. We recommend using a monthly preventative because 1. there is no cure treatment for cats, you just have to wait for the adult worms to die off and hope the heart (in cats they affect the lungs more) can handle the stress  and 2. the treatment for dogs its extremely expensive and you have to be very careful as it can be harmful if not administered properly and without the proper precautions.

If you've ever been to a vet (a good vet) they should be asking you if your pets are on heartworm and flea medications. If the pets aren't they should be trying to get you to put them on it. Heartworm disease can be fatal and it is just so heartbreaking to lose a pet to this disease since it can so easily be prevented.

That being said, after I discussed all the options and prices with the client, she stopped to think for a moment and then these words came out of her mouth: "Is heartworms really a serious thing or is that something you guys just exaggerate?"

For a second I just looked back at her completely confused and thought, did she really just ask me that? What the hell???

Quickly I collected myself and replied back very politely, "It absolutely is a serious thing! It can also be fatal and that is why we make such a big deal about it." I explained to her we would never exaggerate something just to get her to purchase medication. We pride ourselves on being a very progressive small animal clinic, there are some vaccines we don't recommend depending on the pet/owner lifestyle and risk status...why would we recommend medication that is unnecessary? I discussed the disease with her and gave her a few handouts to read over. I'm pretty sure she still doesn't believe me but she purchased the heartworm and flea combo chewable tablet (trifexis). After she left I looked just like the polar bear in the photo.

Now don't get me wrong, if you don't know about heartworms that's ok. I'm not ragging on her for not knowing that much about them but for thinking we would ever try to get her to do something unnecessary. But the thing that got me was I'm trying to help you protect your pet and you are asking me if I'm exaggerating. I take my job very seriously, especially stuff like this. I hope I wasn't being a jerk, I never said anything negatively to her, just educated her on the information.

However I don't think she believed me either way.

PLEASE!!! Keep your pets on heartworm prevention!!

www.americanheartwormsociety.com

Catching up…

Hmm I knew it had been a while since I posted. You guys know how life sometimes catches up with you and bogs you down for a while. I have no energy to do anything these days. (No, not pregnant, if anyone was thinking that. Oddly {or maybe not oddly?} that is often the conclusion we jump to when womens aren’t feeling well). Oh yeah, I know what it is though. You know when you “suffer” (I say “suffer” because I don’t feel like I’m suffering, but just existing with…currently) from depression and anxiety and you forget to take your medication for a week? Yeah that. I know, I know. How does one forget to take their medication for a whole week? I don’t know…I just know that  I did. Which would explain the random crying fits and emotional-ness all week. Oh bother.
Anyway, I took it. Haha, thanks to David for reminding me. My brain doesn’t always function properly. But that’s cool, its just me. So since I haven’t shared my last few Talk Nerdy posts I’m gonna give you a quick update with that:
The end of May I got to work at 7:30am to find a mother cat tied to our pole and 9 kittens sitting on top of a mesh hamper.

Basically there was two litter of kitten and two mothers were originally left but one was no where to be seen. Our clinic kept them for a few days and we were desperately searching for a rescue to take them as well already had 5 stray kittens in house. 3 from the previous litter of 7 and two more we took in.
To make a long story short, I was able to find a foster home who was actually a rescue volunteer and would be able to trickle them into the non-profit rescue. AWESOME!
The beginning of June my boyfriend was promoted to head server/floor manager of the restaurant. I received a call from the Center of Birds of Prey letting me know that the owl I rescued was well enough to be released, and they wanted to know if I’ve like to attend. SOOO fucking bummed I couldn’t.
Our foster kitten made HUGE strides in socialization progress. She started purring after 5 days in our care. Big change from “pancaking” that she would always do. Also since David became manager he asked me to help market the restaurant through social media. SWEEET!



The last two posts I wrote for www.talknerdytomelover.com are pretty important to me so they will be separate posts on this blog. Look for them tomorrow and the following day. I’m going to schedule them right now :)
But yeah, I’m doing good today, once my meds kicked in. I’ve also found a new skin care product line that is natural, cruelty free, and some of it is organic!
Also, check out the page I’m managing for the restaurant please: https://www.facebook.com/giovanniswinterpark
Annnd my ‘writer’ page on facebook seriously needs some likes and I’m not ashamed to pander for them here <3
LIKE ME! :)   https://www.facebook.com/craftafarian

Success Story

It's always nice to be able to share a sad story that has had a happy ending. About two weeks ago one of our regular clients of the clinic brought a little 5 week old orange and white male kitten because he appeared to have an injured hind paw. (Side note: These people are AMAZING, they are the epitome of "good Samaritans." Although they aren't wealthy by any means they do absolutely everything they can to help the little stray kitties in their neighborhood. They have spent a lot over the last few years on their own cats and strays that eventually become theirs as well.) She reported that the day before the little guy was running around apparently normal. Then this morning she found  him in her yard limping. He was one of three kittens that suddenly showed up in their yard a few days prior. The mom was nowhere to be seen. Upon examination of his paw we discovered that he had a partial amputation of his leg by unknown trauma. Poor little boo. I assume many people would think euthanizing him would be in the best interest of their checkbook (he was a stray after all) and the kitten. My vet exchanges a look with me and before we could say anything the foster mom asks "What can we do to fix him?" The doctor and I both smile. We were all glad to give the little guy a fair shot at life. We named him Hercules.

After determining that we should amputate--rather than leaving a partial limb that he may hobble on and accumulate pressure sores/arthritis--we discussed with the foster mom and she gave us the go ahead. The concern was that he was 4-5 weeks old and less than 2lbs. He was 1.4 pounds to be exact. We weren't sure if we would be able to intubate him with an endotracheal tube that would administer oxygen and isofluorane anesthetic gas. The plan was if we could intubate him do a complete amputation of the limb at the hip joint. Since he was so young we knew he would do extremely well and likely not even realize he was missing anything. If he was too small we would clean up the wound and bandage it until he was big enough to do surgery. In the meantime we put him on some pain medication and antibiotics it was Saturday so we would do surgery Monday after making sure he was ok otherwise. Blood work was normal. Surgery day came around and the little tube we had fit perfectly! Proceed to surgery!

Since he was the youngest and smallest patient I have ever anesthetized I spent several hours the night before reading articles about neonatal/pediatric veterinary anesthesia, drug dosages, after care, special recovery instructions. There were a few things we had to do different. Usually you fast for about 12 hours prior to surgery but with so young and small patients you worry about their blood sugar (blood glucose) getting too low, we had to feed him about 4 hours prior to surgery and then fast. I read their heart rate is generally a good deal higher than older (but still young pets) under anesthesia. We had to stay on top of his temperature, they get so cold so quickly when they are so little. It was a very high anxiety hour for me but he did extremely well with no problems and the doctor did an amazing job on the surgery. I had one hand on his little chest for a lot of the procedure (under the drape) just making sure his little heart was beating (even though my monitors said so, you have to check manually!). He woke up a little freaked out but we all took turns cradling him in warmies (warm water bottle thingies) and towels. He finally fell asleep and once he fully woke up from anesthesia he was a happy camper. The next day his foster mom reported that he was attempting to RUN around the house on three legs and was chasing a ping pong ball as well as the other cats. 

The greatest news is that Hercules has found his forever home. He new mom and dad came by the clinic today to meet him and his foster parents. And of course it was love at first site and they took him home.

What a happy boy! Also he may have a new name, Roosevelt, with a Roo. I think that's cute, but I'm just glad that we found someone to love him.

Edit: His new mom posted on facebook that his name has been decided—Franklin. Cute!

Complete Pet Food Recall Update as of 5/8/2012*

FYI—this post has not been updated since 5/8/12 please for the most recent information regarding recalls refer to: http://efoodalert.net/diamond-pet-foods-etc-recalls-2012/ 

*Updated since my original post date of 5/6/12

The Diamond Pet Food recall has been expanding since it’s start in April. This has been going on for almost one whole month. More and more brands who have their foods manufactured at Diamond Pet Foods in South Carolina are recalling their foods and informing their customers. Thanks to Mollie from Poisoned Pets who tweeted this link yesterday and a HUGE HUGE thanks to Phyllis from eFoodAlert who compiled and is constantly updating this ever growing list of recalled pet foods. The original link is here: http://efoodalert.net/diamond-pet-foods-etc-recalls-2012/
And since some people probably prefer to see the information rather than click a link, below I have copy/pasted this information directly from Phyllis, who I really want to thank again for creating this list as well as letting other bloggers share it.

Again: This information is from Phyllis at eFoodAlert!!

Dry dog food manufactured in Diamond Pet Foods’ Gaston, South Carolina production plant has been linked to at least 14 cases of Salmonella Infantis infections in 9 states, according to a May 3, 2012 report from CDC. Confirmed outbreak cases have been documented in Alabama (1), Connecticut (1), Michigan (1), Missouri (3), North Carolina (3), New Jersey (1), Ohio (2), Pennsylvania (1), and Virginia (1). Five people were hospitalized.

Diamond Pet Foods has recalled nine brands of dry pet food formulas that were manufactured in Gaston. All batches manufactured between December 9, 2011 and April 7, 2012 are affected.

(How to read the Production Code and Best Before Code)

Several other brands, manufactured for third parties, also are in the process of being recalled.

(How to read the Kirkland Signature Production Code and Best Before Code)

(How to read the Canidae Production Code and Best Before Date)

Consolidated list of recalled dry pet food products (as of May 7, 2012)

• Apex Chicken and Rice Dog (20-lb and 40-lb bags; Production code ACD0101B32; Best by date 24-Jan-2013)
• Canidae Dog Dry Dog Food, All Life Stages (All packages sizes; Best before date between December 9, 2011 through January 31, 2012; Production code must have the number “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Canidae Dog Dry Dog Food, Chicken Meal & Rice (All packages sizes; Best before date between December 9, 2011 through January 31, 2012; Production code must have the number “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Canidae Dog Dry Dog Food, Lamb Meal & Rice (All packages sizes; Best before date between December 9, 2011 through January 31, 2012; Production code must have the number “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Canidae Dog Dry Dog Food, Canidae Platinum (All packages sizes; Best before date between December 9, 2011 through January 31, 2012; Production code must have the number “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Country Value (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Diamond (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Diamond Naturals (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Lamb, Rice & Vegetable Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Chicken, Rice & Vegetable Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Mature Dog Chicken, Rice & Egg Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Dog Formulated with Chicken & Vegetables (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Cat Formula(December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Formula for Dogs (December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013; Production codes have a number “3″ in the 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog (5 lb bag; Best by December 12, 2012; December 13, 2012; March 12, 2013)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog (15 lb bag; Best by December 12, 2012; December 13, 2012; December 14, 2012; March 5, 2013; March 6, 2013)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog (28 lb bag; Best by December 12, 2012; December 13, 2012; December 14, 2012; March 5, 2013; March 6, 2013; March 7, 2013; March 8, 2013; March 12, 2013)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog (5 lb, 15 lb, and 28 lb bags; Best by December 10, 2012; December 21, 2012; December 22, 2012)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog (5 lb bag; Best by December 17, 2012; December 18, 2012; December 28, 2012; December 29, 2012)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog (15 lb and 28 lb bags; Best by December 9, 2012; December 17, 2012; December 18, 2012; December 28, 2012; December 29, 2012)
• Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog (5 lb bag; Best by December 9, 2012)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Large Breed Bites (28 lb bag; Best by December 12, 2012; December 20, 2012; December 21, 2012)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Small Breed Bites (5 lb and 12.5 lb bags; Best by December 21, 2012)
• Premium Edge (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Professional (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• 4Health (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Taste of the Wild (All package sizes and formulas; Best before dates between December 9, 2012 and April 7, 2013; Production codes have a number “2″ or “3″ in the 9th or 10th digit and the letter “X” in the 11th digit)
• Wellness Complete Health® Super5Mix® Large Breed Puppy (15 lb. and 30 lb. bags and 5 oz. sample bags; best by dates of JAN 9 2013 through JAN 11 2013)

Product distribution by brand (as of May 7, 2012)
Apex
Distributed in: South Carolina only.
Canidae
Distributed in: Florida, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul 
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Country Value
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Diamond
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Diamond Naturals
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Kirkland Signature
Distributed in: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Natural Balance
Distributed in: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, DC, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming and Canada.
NOT distributed in: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.
Premium Edge
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Professional
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
4Health
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada (Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Taste of the Wild
Distributed in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Canada(Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia).
Information Provided By Retailers (as of May 8, 2012)
Where the information was posted on-line, I have provided a link. Other information was obtained as a result of email correspondence between eFoodAlert and the retailer.

• Best Online Pets Supply.- This retailer is NOT affected by the recalls.
• Costco Wholesale Corporation.- Kirkland Signature is a Costco store brand. The retailer has not specified the locations of Costco stores that were supplied with recalled Kirkland Signature dry pet foods.
• Muttropolis.- The only item on the recall list carried by Muttropolis is the Natural Balance Sweet Potato and Bison. Customers who purchased this product can call 888-688-8799.
• PetSmart.- The only recalled item carried by PetSmart is Wellness Complete Health Super5Mix Large Breed Puppy (15-lb bag with Best before dates of January 9, 2013 and January 10, 2013; 30-lb bag with Best before dates of January 10, 2013 and January 11, 2013).
• West Coast Pet Supply.- Located in California and receives all of its shipments from Diamond Pet Foods’ California plant. West Coast Pet Supply is NOT affected by the recalls.
• Whole Foods Market.- Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food, 5 lbs. UPC 7 23633 80855 2; Lot code NBV1201; Best by Dec 9, 2012. The company did not specify the locations of stores that were supplied with the recalled product.

Recall and Outbreak Investigation Notices

• Diamond Pet Foods – Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice (April 6, 2012)
• Diamond Pet Foods – Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula (April 26, 2012)
• ODA Issues Health Alert, Urges Caution when Handling Pet Food (April 26, 2012)
• Diamond Pet Foods – Diamond Puppy Formula (April 30, 2012)
• Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Infantis Infections Linked to Dry Dog Food (posted May 3, 2012)
• Investigation of a Multi-state Outbreak of Salmonella Infantis Linked to Dry Dog Food (posted May 3, 2012)
• Two Human Illnesses in Ohio Linked to Salmonella in Recalled Dog Food (May 4, 2012)
• Natural Balance Pet Foods – certain dry dog food formulas (May 4, 2012)
• WellPet LLC – Wellness Complete Health® Super5Mix® Large Breed Puppy (May 4, 2012)
• Canidae Pet Foods Recalls Four Dry Pet Food Formulas (May 4, 2012)
• Apex Pet Foods Recalls Dry Pet Food Produced January 24, 2012 (May 4, 2012)

eFoodAlert Articles
Contaminated Kibble Sickens 14 People (posted May 3, 2012)
Diamond Pet Foods Expands Recall (posted May 5, 2012)
Diamond Pet Foods Recalls: Consumers Want Answers (posted May 7, 2012)
Advice to Consumers and Families with Pets
CDC offers this advice to pet owners:

• Consumers should check their homes for recalled dog food products and discard them promptly. Consumers with questions about recalled dog food may contact Diamond Pet Foods at telephone number (800) 442-0402 or visitwww.diamondpetrecall.com.
• Follow the tips listed on Salmonella from Dry Pet Food and Treats to help prevent an infection with Salmonella from handling dry pet food and treats.
• People who think they might have become ill after contact with dry pet food or with an animal that has eaten dry pet food should consult their health care providers. Infants, older adults, and persons with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness.
• People who think their animal might have become ill after eating dry pet food should consult their veterinary-care providers.
• Read Additional Information for Pet Owners to learn the signs and symptoms of salmonellosis in dogs and cats, and to understand how to deal with possible Salmonella illness in your pet.

Also, be aware that dogs may be infected with Salmonella - and may shed the bacteria in their stool - without showing any outward symptoms of illness. If your pet has consumed a Diamond Pet Foods dry dog food, be especially careful to wash your hands after handling it, and supervise closely any interaction between children and your pet.

Information above from Phyllis at eFoodAlert

I recommend that everyone check their food to ensure safety. I will update this list as I get more information from either Mollie or Phyllis.

(This little boys still need homes, they are being fostered by my veterinary clinic.)