Sherry’s Corner

New Antibiotics for Pets, Recipes, and Other Points of Interest

The headlines read, “FDA approves Pfizer antibiotic for cats, dogs”.  The story discussed a new single-dose antibiotic from Pfizer that shortens treatment from two weeks to one day!  Yippee!

Now we must patiently wait for the marketing tests to be completed.  Since drug companies claim it is too expensive to test until after a drug is marketed, I usually avoid new drugs until the side- and after-effects are widely known.  And, new drugs are apt to be more expensive.  Although Pfizer claims the drug has been tested successfully in Europe, I will await the hospital trials here in this country–and cost reduction.  However, I am looking forward to the advantages of this new one-day antibiotic–especially for cats.  Just think–the veterinarian can pop the pill into our pet’s mouth right in his hospital and we can take him/her home.  No more searching for the cat in the closet or wrapping the pill in a hot dog or cheese for 14 days.  You might almost call this antibiotic a “wonder drug”.  Let’s hope there are more in the pipeline and they are all safe and effective.

This probably belongs with recipes.  I call it “Mutt Mix”.  Combine 2 cups of cheerios and 2 cups of rice chex and mist with cooking spray.  Sprinkle the damp cereal with a tablespoon of garlic salt and a half cup of grated parmesan cheese and bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees.

Last week I was introduced to the Columbia/Montour Area Agency on Aging pet policy.  It consists of 5 rules to guarantee the safety of the pet owner and pet as well as their representatives.  After reading the rules I wondered why dog organizations were not asked to give a talk and demonstration for these dedicated caregivers?  To summarize the rules: all pets must be secured when an AAA representative enters the home and the representative is not responsible for keeping the pet in house and/or yard.  Pet owners are financially responsible for injuries and damages.  Home-delivered meals have to be left inside the home and have face-to-face contact with the person for whom the meal is intended.  Having had considerable experience with my caregivers and my pets, I wonder if perhaps the pet owner should also take time to make up a pet policy for his/her home.  Rule one might be to make sure the pet is under control before opening a door.  Rule two could be something about proper introductions.  And, there should be limits for interactions.  It might also be a good idea to request a caregiver who likes dogs and/or cats.

I was not aware that there is a CRISIS RESPONSE COALITION and they are looking for members in the NY/PA/CT/NJ area: “This animal-assisted response organization uses therapy dog teams to provide needed comfort and emotional support in times of crisis and traumatic events.”  FMI NCRC 732-381-5838.