before anesthesia to look for problems that may not be detected upon examination. We can not express enough the importance of good dental care. We see a lot of pets that have terrible teeth and gums which could have been prevented. For the months of January and February, if you say that you have read this column we will give you an extra 20% off of a dental. If you have any questions, please call us and ask.

Many people know the story of Jerry Adams and Eirial Stansell, but in case you don'tm this is a story you must read.

Jerry and Eirial have devoted their lives to the care and rescue of all types of animals. Wounded, abandoned, sick, it did not matter. They both opened their hearts and gave the animals food, shelter, and unconditional love.

They were not part of an organization. They used their own money to care for the animals

(and the occasional donation from people that wanted to help).

They built individual kennels for the dogs and three large rooms devoted to the cats. At the moment, Eirial houses about 10 large dogs and more than 40 cats.

This past year Jerry passed away, leaving Eirial alone with the overwhelming job of caring for the animals. Without Jerry, he can not afford the upkeep, food, and utility bills for the animals. Eirial is in

dire need of your help, and must find homes for the animals NOW.

Throughout the years, Jerry and Eirial have been asked to help; now it is time for us to help them. If you know anyone who wants a cat or a dog, or if you know of any no-kill shelters, or agencies that could help, please contact Eirial. Time is running out for them. We must do what we can to help now.

Please contact Eirial at 564-7601 or e-mail him at adasell@txucom.net.

It is nearly February again and you know what that means. It is "National Pet Dental Health Month." During this month, veterinary medical associations help educate dog and cat owners about the importance of dental care.

Many people may ask, "So what is periodontal disease and why is it important that I have my dog or cat's teeth cleaned?" Periodontal disease is caused by plaque. Pleaque builds up on the teeth and gum line, causing the gums to become red, swollen and infected. If left untreated, the infection could cause pockets to be formed under the teeth and cause your pet to lose teeth. Periodontal

disease causes your pet's breath to have a bad odor and may make it very painful for your pet to eat.

Periodontal disease can also affect other organs in the body. Infection in the mouth will spread infectious toxins and bacteria to other parts of the body. Other major organs that may be affected are: the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and brain. The bacteria and toxins spread throughout the body via the blood stream. Periodontal disease not only affects the mouth of your pet, but his health as well.

Every day we examine pets that drastically need to have their teeth cleaned. Owners really don't understand

the importance of good dental care. Every pet should have an annual dental exam (along with vaccinations and a general health check up). Depending upon the breed and on the individual, some pets are recommended to have a teeth cleaning at least yearly (such as smaller dog breeds, i.e., Yorkshire Terrier), while larger breeds may need to have their teeth cleaned every two to three years.

When we explain what a dental involves, many clients get worried when we say the word "anesthesia." Yes, we do have to sedate your pet, but we use the very safest anesthesia possible. Also upon your request, we can perform a blood screen