May 2007 Newsletter

Lone Mountain Animal Hospital
May 2007 Newsletter

Pet Event
A thank-you goes out to those that helped out at or visited the clinic's booth at the Brinley Community Schools Family Fun Day held earlier this month. Our clinic had an informational booth for kids of all ages that displayed "what goes on in a veterinary hospital," allowed future veterinarians to "dress-up like a vet," and other interesting veterinary items. It was a fun event and we look forward to greater participation next year. To inquire about having one of our veterinarians speak at your school, scouts, or other group, please contact our office manager, Ellen at 645-3116.

Pet of the Month
Congrats to Sneakers, our June 2007 Pet of the Month. He is beloved by all at LMAH and is well known for sporting his spiked hair style.

Female Ferret Health Danger
An alert goes out to female ferret owners that may have purchased their ferret in the recent six months or so. We have diagnosed a few female ferrets with the disorder called ectopic ovarian tissue. This condition is usually quite rare since most ferret breeding establishments have perfected the early spay and neuter surgeries. The recent concern stems from ferrets that arise from lesser known breeders that may be newer to the pet trade.

What is ectopic ovarian tissue?
This is a disorder where ovarian tissue is either present in an abnormal location, or where ovarian tissue is inadvertently left behind during spaying surgery.

Why is this condition dangerous?
Ferrets are induced ovulators- this means that if ovarian tissue is present, they will continue to have estrus (heat) activity until they are bred. A ferret in sustained estrus will continue to having high estrogen levels. High estrogen levels can then become toxic to the bone marrow and can lead to a life-threatening anemia.

What are signs of ectopic ovarian syndrome?
Female ferrets may develop a swollen vaginal area, a greasy strong-smelling hair coat, prominent nipples, and become lethargic. In more severe cases the ferret may have pale gums, bruising on the skin, and dark tarry stools. Untreated the condition is fatal.

How is the condition diagnosed and treated?
The signs of ectopic ovarian tissue resembles that of adrenal disease, so blood tests will need to be performed. A hormone test called HCG test (human chorionic gonadotropin) is often done to help differentiate between ovarian tissue and adrenal disease. If ovarian tissue is suspected, then exploratory surgery is necessary to remove any ovarian tissue. Female ferrets that are already seriously anemic may require blood transfusions before pursuing surgery. If diagnosis and surgery are done early enough then the prognosis is excellent, however ferrets that already have a serious anemia have a more guarded prognosis. If you are concerned and note any of the possible signs, have your ferret examined promptly.

Employee of the Month
This month we honor one of our veterinary assistants, Brian Hyde. Brian has been a valued employed at LMAH for nearly 5 years and excels at his job. Thank you Brian!