Meet Dr. Ali Guidry

We'd like to introduce you to Lafayette Veterinary Care Center's newest addition to our team, Dr. Ali Guidry from Cecilia, LA. Growing up, she spent most of her time at her family's restaurant, Robin's in Henderson. But as someone who has always loved animals, she was driven to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. 

After graduating from Teurlings Catholic High School in 2008, Dr. Guidry continued on to LSU in Baton Rouge where she received her bachelor's degree in Animal Science in 2012 and then graduated from LSU School of Veterinary Medicine in 2017.  She went further on to receive her CVA in small animal acupuncture in 2017 from the Chi Institute in Reddick Florida.  

Dr. Ali Guidry is married to Blake Guidry and together they have two adorable dogs, Abigail- a corgi mix, and Moose- a chocolate lab. They are members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cecilia, LA and the Petroleum Club in Lafayette. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, eating good food, and spending time with her family, friends, and pets. 

She comes to us from a mixed animal practice and is excited to join the LVCC team. We look forward to you meeting her and know that you will love the patience, time, and attention that she gives each and every pet family!
SUMMER SAFETY FOR DOGS AT THE BEACH
The south is outlined with beautiful beaches, many of which welcome dogs given owners abide by their rules and regulations. This can be a great bonding experience and seriously fun for dogs…who enjoy it….if done in a safe way.

BENEFITS OF THE BEACH
Exercise on sand and in the water can be great physical therapy for increasing strength, mobility, and endurance while helping overweight pets shed extra pounds. The beach also provides excellent socialization opportunities to interact with other dogs, people, kids, and nature. Best of all, a plan to walk on the beach with your pet can be a great motivator for owners to get outside and moving for their own well-being.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
  • Summer in the south can be scorching. Beach play is best limited to mornings/evenings outside the most intense heat of the day.
  • Always bring fresh water for your dog to drink and monitor their consumption of sea water. Ingestion of salty ocean water can lead to a condition called hypernatremia causing vomiting, diarrhea, ataxia (staggering/stumbling), altered mentation (confusion), seizures, coma, or death. In a 40 pound dog, less than 2 cups of salt water is toxic.
  • Play fetch in the waves with caution. Inhalation of sea water can lead to aspiration pneumonia indicated by lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, and labored breathing.
  • Watch out for oysters and fish hooks! These sharp objects harbor bacteria and can do a number on paw pads and cheek flaps. Cuts should be flushed promptly and may require a visit to the vet for sutures and antibiotics.
  • Bring and keep your dog on a secure (slip proof) leash and collar until you know how they’ll react.

Click here for a directory of dog friendly beaches in the U.S.
We are pleased to now offer destination suites for our boarding guests. From the shores of Lake Tahoe to the canals of Venice, each suite offers a one-of-a kind stay-cation. Click here t o reserve your pet's suite or call 337-984-7611.
Employee Of The Month

Our June Employee of the Month was Brooke of our nursing and now grooming team. Whether nursing a patient in our hospital or bathing a guest in our mobile grooming van, she puts her heart into all she does. Thank you for always going above and beyond for our patients and co-workers. It is always noticed and we appreciate you!!!
Don't forget your pet's flea and heartworm prevention!
Kitty Colds

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are common in cats. Like colds in people, most "kitty colds" are mild and will run their course with some rest, proper nutrition, and hydration. But there are some important differences between colds in us versus those in our cats.

First, your cat can't blow their nose, so you'll need to help keep it clear. You can do this by gently wiping with warm, moist cotton balls throughout the day. Second, cats with URI can also get painful ulcers in their eyes or mouth. Third, cats should NEVER be given human pain relievers for their "general achiness." Acetaminophen in particular is absolutely devastating to cats. It damages the hemoglobin in a cat's red blood cells, preventing normal oxygen transport within their body.

If your cat is ever squinting or pawing at their eye, or if their energy level and appetite aren't perking up within 24 hours, don't wait any longer. It's time for a trip to your vet!
Litter Box
Tip of the Month

  Disinfect your cat's litter box twice a month and replace with fresh litter, which should always be at a level of about three to four inches. We love the Urine-Off products we carry in our office for this!
Think Before They Drink

Come summertime, "community" water bowls abound outside of pet-friendly businesses and dog parks. While these readily available water sources can be a great idea to keep out and about dogs hydrated and cool, if a sick dog drinks from them and it's not cleaned properly, communal water bowls can actually increase your dog's risk of illness. Help your pup beat the heat and stay safe and healthy at the same time by always bringing their own water supply or a bowl that you can fill yourself.
L afayette Veterinary Care Center
337-984-7611
info@LafayetteVets.com