Work out with your Dog!

The personal trainer that can make pet owners skinny. The fun workout includes (wo)man's best friend. That's right! Your four legged BFF can also double as the best gym partner money can buy. Bonus: Pet owners live longer, read on...

Not only does your dog live to spend time with you they also require a certain level of physical activity and absolutely LOVE the great outdoors. For example, my Siberian, Rogue and I take long runs around our neighborhood, she keeps me going when I start to lose focus and vice versa. We cheer each other on and get through it together; it is a way for us to bond and on top of that, she makes working out fun!

Further, it is a proven fact that people who own dogs are healthier than those who do not! Why, you ask? The ownership of a dog tends to lead to an increase in physical activity and therefore, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Not much of a fan of running? That's perfectly fine; your furry friend doesn’t mind walking briskly, or simply just walking.

If you're more athletic try some canine interval training. What you will need: one tennis ball. Head outside with your companion, throw the ball and sprint as fast as you can to try and beat your dog to retrieving it. After about the eighth time you will have torched a serious amount of calories and both of you will have gotten a great workout.

Before you run out the door after reading this article there are a few things to consider:

· Wait until your dog is full grown: You want their bones to be fully mature before taking them out for a spin.
· Ease your dog into running: Just because you're an experienced runner doesn’t mean your dog is. Add on the mileage slowly and soon you will see them outrun you!
· Keep them hydrated: Carry enough water with you for both yourself and the dog. Portable water bowls really come in handy here!
· Stick to trails: Pavement is ok, but harsh on both you and your dog's joints. Softer surfaces absorb the shock better.
· Keep your dog on leash: Even if your dog is great off leash, there is no telling what may happen when he sees another dog or animal. If your dog pulls a lot and is hard to control, the Gentle Leader works wonders!
· Don’t forget to bring your poop bag dispenser: C'mon, be honest you wouldn't like it if you stepped in it.
· Be cautious of heat exhaustion: Especially during the dog days of summer (no pun intended). Signs to look for include, panting, slowing down, foaming at the mouth, weakness, inability to stand, uncontrolled movement, agitation and glazed eyes. If you notice this happening to your pup cool them down immediately by wetting him with cool water and getting him into the shade. Kiddie pools work well too! If your dog starts vomiting or doesn't improve within 10 minutes seek a veterinary hospital, like NorthStar VETS, 24 Hour Emergency, Trauma, and Specialty Center at 609.259.8300, http://www.northstarvets.com/ as soon as possible. Hospital location is minutes from Six Flags Great Adventure, NJ and seconds from the Jackson Outlet Mall.

Working out with your dog is a fantastic way to spice up your routine and slim down. Next, time we can chat about canine crunches,pooch ups, and places you can take your dog on the Jersey Shore.

Equine Opthalmology Event

In addition to our fun drive-in, you can also join us for a FREE lecture from Kristina Vygantas, DVM, DACVO on Equine Opthalmology and When you should call your veterinarian? The event will be eld at Rick's Saddle Shop in Cream Ridge, NJ. As always you can expect a great lecture, and we'll even feed you!

Hope you can make it!

Do you have a hot date?

Today, I had several hot dates. When I say hot I mean 90 degrees full of sunshine and making on the road making my rounds. My morning began at 8am with a Brick Chamber of Commerce Networking Event, followed by visiting clients, and running some other marketing related errands. I have finally had a moment to get back to my desk to share the details of my day with you as I catch up on my 2nd life on the glorious internet.

While, I have had several HOT dates today I wanted to invite you to a special "Date Night at the Drive-In" hosted by yours truly....NorthStar VETS! I don't know about you but finding a drive-in in NJ is tough, and finding a FREE one is even tougher. Further, what is a better way to spend a night out with your friends, and family than outdoors on a nice night with popcorn, snacks and nice cold one? So register now right online www.northstarvets.com to guarantee your spot!

We are hosting this on the future home of NorthStar VETS. Thats right, we're moving, dead smack into the center of NJ. BUT, not too far from where we are already located, as a matter of fact only 10 minutes West. But, we are building a State-of-the-Art Veterinary Emergency, Trauma and Specialty Hospital to not only care for your pets, but also to care for you. Check out our latest progress here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QEeGDRu4B8 Get ready for a whole new perspective on client service and stay tuned for the way we plan to revolutionize veterinary medicine!

PS Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @NorthStarVETS or Friend us on Facebook!

Have a great weekend and I look forward to seeing you soon!

-Nicole At NorthStar VETS

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A VET, TO SAVE YOUR PET!

- In honor of National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, the American Red Cross, Jersey Coast Chapter and NorthStar VETS will co-host their first ever Massive Pet First Aid & CPR Training at the Millstone Township Community Center.

There are over 139,949,912 pet owners in America and today they're more than just pets. They're companions…they're family. Like any other member of the family your pets deserve to be cared for and protected. For this reason the American Red Cross has developed an extensive pet first aid program including everything you need to know to keep your companions healthy and safe.

The training program covers everything from basic pet owner responsibilities like spaying, neutering, and administering medications to managing breathing or cardiac emergencies and preparing for disasters. In addition, NorthStar VETS will provide their one of their emergency, and critical care doctors for each session to elaborate further on "In case of emergency situations…"

Courses will be held on May 15^th or 16^th and are offered to pet owners at the discounted price of $20.00 per person, courtesy of NorthStar VETS; normal cost is $40.00. The cost to participate includes one comprehensive guide complete with a first aid DVD and a goodie bag of fun pet giveaways. Individual sessions will be held from 9AM-12L30PM and 1:30PM-5PM each day. Visit www.jerseycoast-redcross.org to register today. Spaces are limited and on a first come first served basis.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A VET, TO SAVE YOUR PET!

NorthStar VETS join forces with the American Red Cross on pet first aid training to pet owners

CLARKSBURG, NJ Monday, April 19, 2010 - In honor of National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, the American Red Cross, Jersey Coast Chapter and NorthStar VETS will co-host their first ever Massive Pet First Aid & CPR Training at the Millstone Township Community Center.

There are over 139,949,912 pet owners in America and today they're more than just pets. They're companions…they're family. Like any other member of the family your pets deserve to be cared for and protected. For this reason the American Red Cross has developed an extensive pet first aid program including everything you need to know to keep your companions healthy and safe.

The training program covers everything from basic pet owner responsibilities like spaying, neutering, and administering medications to managing breathing or cardiac emergencies and preparing for disasters. In addition, NorthStar VETS will provide their one of their emergency, and critical care doctors for each session to elaborate further on "In case of emergency situations…"

Courses will be held on May 15th or 16th and are offered to pet owners at the discounted price of $20.00 per person, courtesy of NorthStar VETS; normal cost is $40.00. The cost to participate includes one comprehensive guide complete with a first aid DVD and a goodie bag of fun pet giveaways. Individual sessions will be held from 9AM-12L30PM and 1:30PM-5PM each day. Visit www.jerseycoast-redcross.org to register today. Spaces are limited and on a first come first served basis.

JOIN THE PAWS! COMPANIES USE TWITTER TO SUPPORT SEARCH AND RESCUE DOGS IN HAITI

Wedgewood Pharmacy, NorthStar VETS, and Broad Ripple Animal Clinic & Wellness Center used social media to raise money for the American Rescue Dog Association (ARDA) in their efforts to search for live victims in Haiti


NATIONWIDE, NJ – January 25, 2010 – Social media gurus, dedicated to the welfare of animals, teamed up on Twitter with a mission to help support several search and rescue canine teams that were deployed to Haiti.

The American Rescue Dog Association (ARDA), as a result of the natural disaster in Haiti, has deployed several canine teams to aid in the recovery of live victims. While many organizations are uniting to raise money for the country and its people, Phillip Barnes, Wedgewood Pharmacy, Nicole Tassinaro, NorthStar VETS, and Brenda Tassava from Broad Ripple Animal Clinic & Wellness Center thought, what about the dogs and their handlers who are selflessly serving the public, and how could they help? “We raised funds locally to support the American Rescue Dog Association during Hurricane Katrina, so we immediately thought of this organization once again.” Tassava said.

By simply posting "We're donating to ARDA to support their work in #Haiti. Please help and RT http://bit.ly/7hgsf7 @BRACpet @NorthStarVETS @WedgewoodPetRx." The campaign began on January 25th and generated over 50 click-throughs in the first hour. A click through is a way to measure the success of an online campaign. "Partnering with prescribers to help people in need is what we do every day, so working with Broad Ripple Animal Clinic and NorthStar VETS on this project came quite naturally. When time was short, Twitter enabled us to collaborate and get out the message to support ARDA in a fraction of the time it might have taken any other way." Barnes said.

The increase in technology and the rise of businesses using various social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Blogger, Linked In etc. has provided people with instant communication. This rise has provided endless opportunities for networking, trade, and commerce amongst business professionals across the nation. "Not only have we reached thousands of people, but we were able to encourage them to support the organization with the click of a mouse," Tassinaro said. "It's amazing that we were able to unite for the same cause and never have actually spoken on the phone." she continued, referencing the ability to organize the campaign and communicate virtually.

The campaign will continue for the next few weeks; however donations to the ARDA can be easily made at www.ardainc.org Follow Wedgewood Pharmacy, NorthStar VETS, and Broad Ripple Animal Clinic (@BRACpet) on Facebook and Twitter.

About Wedgewood Pharmacy:
Established in 1980, Wedgewood Pharmacy is one of the largest compounding pharmacies in the United States, providing more than 25,000 prescribers with compounds for their patients. It is located in Swedesboro NJ and licensed throughout the United States. Learn more about Wedgewood Pharmacy and compounding at www.wedgewoodpetrx.com, and see the online community for veterinarians at www.twitter.com/WedgewoodPetRx and http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wedgewood-Pharmacy/37456839496

About NorthStar VETS: Nestled in a semi-rural New Jersey NorthStar VETS is an imminently respected, superior quality veterinary specialty and referral hospital. NorthStar VETS' strives to provide patients with the finest practitioners, modernized technology, exceptional customer service, and optimal health care. To learn more about NorthStar VETS’ full range of specialty veterinary expertise, please call 609-259-8300 or visit www.northstarvets.com.

About Broad Ripple Animal Clinic: Established in 1981 in the heart of Indianapolis, Broad Ripple Animal Clinic and Wellness Center is a two-location practice. The veterinarians and staff of @BRACpet strive to deliver the highest level of veterinary medical care paired with exceptional client service. To learn more about Broad Ripple Animal Clinic and Wellness Center visit us online at www.bracpet.com or call us at 317-257-5334.

Hope for pets through Stem Cell Therapy!

CLARKSBURG, New Jersey, January 19, 2010 Coco, the two-year old Australian Shepherd had become increasingly hindered by the pain of arthritis in his hips, despite the best efforts of his owner, Deborah Holder.

Since, Coco was a very active pup, Holder enrolled him in obedience and agility training for fun. However, when Coco, began taking smaller leaps Holder became concerned. “After playing outside in the snow we noticed his limping was getting increasingly worse,” she said.
Concerned about her pets discomfort Holder took Coco, to Columbus Central Veterinary Hospital where Dr. Kelly Stephen diagnosed Coco with chronic hip dysplasia and concluded that he was most likely born with it. Just after Christmas, on Stephen’s recommendation Holder brought Coco to NorthStar VETS to find a solution. Upon arrival, she saw Dr. Laura Culbert, a board-certified surgeon who has also received advanced training utilizing adult stem cell therapy. “Dr. Culbert proposed many different options for Coco,” Holder said “However, we both agreed that Stem Cell Therapy would be the best choice.”

Coco’s appointment was booked promptly and he underwent a minor surgery to collect fat from his hips that would later become healing stem cells after being sent to a lab called Vet-Stem. 48 hours later Coco’s fat returned to the hospital as 37 million viable adult stem cells to be injected into Coco to repair and regenerate his damaged joints.
The stem cell therapy process is patented by Vet-Stem; a company located in California and is creating a buzz in the veterinary community. Before stem cell therapy you would take your pet to the veterinarian or go to the doctor and generally get prescribed medication to help them live with the chronic pain and inflammation. Today, more than 1,700 dogs and 3,600 horses in the United States have been treated for tendon, ligament, and joint problems over the last six years with their own stem cells! More than 70 percent of these pets have had significant improvement in their quality of life and can return to running, jumping, swimming, or whatever physical activity their lifestyle might demand.
Adult stem cell therapy can be used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, polyarthritis, tendonitis, fracture repair, etc. Since pets donate their own cells, therapy is extremely safe with less than 1% of patients having an adverse reaction. Your beloved pet can be treated with their own stem cells at NorthStar VETS.

In addition to Dr. Laura Culbert, Joy Weinstein, DVM, DACVS and Garrett Levin, DVM, DACVS have also received advanced training utilizing adult stem cell therapy and are available for consultation regarding treatment. If your dog is suffers in pain from playing in the backyard call 609-259-8300 or visit http://www.northstarvets.com/

To Breed or Not to Breed!

CLARKSBURG, New Jersey, December 17, 2009– Believe it or not there is a branch of veterinary medicine dedicated to the physiology and pathology of the male and female reproductive system and it is called theriogenology (theer-ee-oh-juh-nol-uh-jee) in laymans terms: Small Animal Reproduction. You may be thinking…they have a special doctor for mating animals? And the answer is Yes! Your pet can get in-vitro fertilization, artificially inseminated, and even get a c-section if necessary. The answer is yes at NorthStar VETS the theriogenology department covers all aspects of veterinary obstetrics, gynecology and semenology.

NorthStar VETS is pleased to announce the addition of board certified theriogenologist (veterinary reproductive specialist), Manoel A.M. Tamassia, DVM, DACT. Dr. Tamassia provides a division of veterinary medicine that deals with the physiology and pathology of male and female reproductive systems.

Theriogenology pertains to all phases of breeding consisting of artificial insemination, advanced assisted reproductive techniques, male/female breeding soundness evaluations, obstetrics, management of diseases, complications of the postpartum period, and medical or surgical management of diseases of the male and female reproductive tract.

Theriogenologists have a highly sophisticated post-DVM education and have been evaluated by the American College of Theriogenologists and recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Tamassia joins NorthStar VETS with numerous accreditations and experience including a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Universidade Estadual De Londrina, Londrina, Brazil, a Master of Science in Veterinary Medicine, with emphasis in biotechnology, from the University Of Missouri, Columbia, MO, and a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, from Institute National Agronomique, Paris-Grignon, France.

Is your pet in season? Is your dog ready to breed? Contact our breeding specialist today at 609-259-8300 or visit http://www.northstarvets.com/

NorthStar VETS performs Glaucoma Surgery on Therapeutic Pony

CLARKSBURG, NJ - November 18, 2009 – NorthStar VETS performed glaucoma surgery on a pony that provides therapeutic support to special needs children.

Dr. Kristina Vygantas, our board certified ophthalmologist was called upon by Colts Neck Equine Veterinarian Dr. Paula Miller, to perform laser eye surgery on the 20-year old, pony; Marshall. Marshall stays on the 200 acre equestrian training center named Congress Hill Farm, which is also the home of Special Strides Therapeutic Riding Center in Monroe Township. Marshall’s main responsibilities are to assist with the improvement of the lives of children with developmental disabilities by taking them for rides and providing them with a magical experience.

As of recent, Marshall has developed glaucoma and has been under treatment for the past couple of months. Dr. Vygantas has been working diligently with Marshall to restore his vision and health. “For whatever reason, Marshall tends to be feisty with veterinarians but calm and gentle with the kids,” Dr. Vygantas quipped “He has a keen sense and loving personality perfect for the therapy service he provides.”

While glaucoma affects the degree of vision loss, Marshall’s personality remains unaffected towards the handicapped and still puts smiles on children’s faces. “Earlier in life he broke his elbow and because Special Strides is highly dedicated to their animals health they had it plated,” said Dr. Vygantas “He acts as sort of a Wal-Mart greeter for children, and the kids absolutely adore him.” Marshall’s handicap allows him to establish strong bonds with disabled children because it seems as though he is able to relate to them.

Special Strides is a non-profit organization devoted to improving the lives of children with developmental disabilities. With a unique combination of horses, therapy, and a touch of magic, Special Strides is able to achieve therapeutic goals in an atmosphere that is all about fun. Special Strides strives to be able to provide all children with an opportunity to experience magic, regardless of financial status. If you would like to contribute to their worthy cause, donations to assist with Marshall’s health care can be made by going to their website at http://www.specialstrides.com/

NorthStar VETS, strives to provide patients with the finest practitioners, modernized technology, exceptional customer service, and optimal health care. Dr. Kristina Vygantas, our board certified ophthalmologist is available for appointments at the hospital and is also capable of seeing equine patients off site. To learn more about NorthStar VETS’ full range of specialty veterinary expertise or directions to its centrally located hospital, please call 609-259-8300 or visit http://www.northstarvets.com/.