Dr. Orenich talks about summer and pet health
VETERINARY Dr. Alexandra Orenich and her daughter’s albino ring necked dove, Po Po—her grandfather’s—gift.
Dr. Alexandra Orenich, of Larchmont Village Vet, 523 North Larchmont Blvd., took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions about summer and our pets.
Larchmont Chronicle: What are some things to be aware of for our dogs and cats this summer?
Dr. Orenich: Summertime in L.A. is usually really hot. Beware with running your dogs at the dog park in high heat, also hiking in really extreme heat. Be careful with having dogs in the car [never leave them for any length of time alone]. Fleas are always around in L.A, but in the summer heat, their life cycle speeds up, and they multiply faster, so don’t forget your flea prevention.
L.C.: Any interesting advances in the world of pet health?
Dr. Orenich: Medicine is always changing, and new therapies come out every year. Lately there has been a lot of focus on the gut biome, the delicate bacterial balance that is responsible for overall health. We need to be cautious with antibiotic use to protect this delicate balance. There are also new therapies targeting pain that help older animals with arthritis.
L.C.: Why did you become a veterinarian?
Dr. Orenich: I became a vet because of the close relationships I developed growing up with dogs, cats, and exotic animals. These beings are special and deserve care and protection that us as veterinarians are responsible for.
L.C.: Do you have any pets?
Dr. Orenich: At the moment I have pet birds that I love dearly.
L.C.: Any other advice for local pet owners?
Dr. Orenich: My general advice is to catch it early: non-invasive health screening tests don’t always lead to dramatic scary surgeries and chemotherapy. Many times, we make diet changes and monitor and discuss clinical signs to watch out for at home.
Category: People
