Dancing at the Inauguration, and Icy Weather Travails
There is an almost reliable rumor that retired Danville veterinarian George Leighow danced at an inaugural bowl–a bit of area veterinary history! And, of course, the same rumor mill relates that retired veterinarian Don Kamsler attended an inauguration as a member of VMAT to care for our four-legged security.
This icy weather brings out the neighborhood. I recently received a call about a horse that wanders because the owner thinks it is too cold to fix its fence. So far the 34-year-old horse has been fed water-soaked bagels by compassionate neighbors. They expect to see him on their decks next at the bird feeders. But, before that happens Elmer Golla heard about the Catawissa bagel-eating horse and dropped off hay. Then there is the Newfoundland kennel, which is another sad story. I asked Sally Grottini if Newfoundlands are prone to bark a great deal and she said, “only if people throw things at them and yell at them”. So what kind of neighbors complain about noisy Newfies? In these difficult economic times we need more than ever to look after our neighbors, both two- and four- legged. Other parts of the country have set up pet food banks so people do not have to make choices. Like all “free-to a good home” situations, rules and an interview might slow a rush to bad judgment on the part of those of us who perhaps are apt to be too “animal-kind” . Do call me if I can get you references from groups who are now deeply involved in these ventures.
The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association recently included an article on the effects of dog-appeasing pheromones on anxiety and fear in puppies during training, and on long-term socialization. Dog-appeasing pheromones are abbreviated in the scientific literature as DAP. The group of puppies wearing DAP collars showed an effective and significant difference in learning. The authors theorized that this was due to a reduction in anxiety and fear in the training situation. Fear was defined as any display of avoidance or retreat, submissive urination, or physical posture of fear in response to new stimuli, environments, dogs or people. A behavior problem was defined as anything the owner perceived of as such. This could be an actual behavior problem (e.g., aggression, separation anxiety, fear or phobia) or other behavior that was unacceptable to the owner (e.g., barking, house soiling or unruly behavior). Although the DAP collars worked to lessen excitability and fear, the authors agreed that attending puppy classes and training with positive reinforcement was important to maintaining and improving the bond.
It is important to remember that this study’s subjects consisted only of puppies. Would–will–DAP be an effective aid in older dogs with behavior problems? Defining the population is important. I would venture that most older dogs are spayed and neutered. Intact dogs could give different responses. For instance, how would DAP effect a cycling bitch or an intact male?
In the next BLOG–Marley should not be welcome in our area!!
Jan 26, 2009 | | Uncategorized