The Lackawanna Kennel Club is looking for match show judges for breed, obedience, and rally competition. The All Breed Match is on September 25th and the contact is Peg Setzer at 570-842-9895. This is a friendly club and would be a good event at which to gain some needed experience in the world of judging. Judging is education. Judging gives you a chance to help others–especially newcomers with their dogs–and the process itself teaches you about dogs. The other judges who make up the judging panel become invaluable allies and mentors. And, probably the best teachers–the professors–are the ring stewards. Dottie Davis and Doreen Slaybaugh are among the best and we are indeed fortunate in being able to watch them manage a ring. I can’t begin to count the number of people over the years who have entered a match show just to learn under Dixon and Connie Cuff when they were fortunate to have them as judges. The late great Ann Rogers Clark wrote about how much she learned from an eminent English Setter judge, Virginia Tuck, about grooming that breed when she was judging. By the way, the English Setter is the symbolic logo dog of the Lackawanna Kennel Club and the new logo was just designed by an AKC artist.
Of course before you go to a dog show you bathe and brush your dog to make him look his best and you should think about what to wear. Always wear comfortable and safe shoes. And, of course, pockets are a must for holding bait and toys! As an exhibitor whose footwear betrayed me I once slipped on wet grass when showing a Springer in a ring judged by Ellsworth Howell (Howell Books). I ended up on my back in an adjoining ring filled with Poodles. I will never forget the under-view of parading Poodles! What you wear should be chosen to respect your dog, the judge and the others on the judging panel. At a match show, washable tailored slacks are apparel to build on but a skirt is best if it is of an appropriate length. This is still considered a polite sport with good manners and a match show is the dress rehearsal. I remember the eminent judge, Bill Kendrick, loved the color blue and low-cut blouses so the handlers tried to influence him by wearing blue (low-cut is much harder to pull off and not very comfortable!). There are always fashion mistakes in the world of dogs so be prepared to learn and not become part of the next “worse dressed match show list”.
NEW SPECIALTY RECOGNIZED. Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation have currently been recognized by the AVMA. Although at present there are only 27 members– given the growing demand for pet rehabilitation– membership is expected to reach over 400 in the next two years and will be divided into two areas–equine and canine. It seems just yesterday that veterinarians made house calls on horseback accompanied by a companion dog. Who could have dreamed that this threesome might be considered a future logo!
JAMES HERRIOT. Probably the most famous stories of this early era were written by the Scottish veterinarian, James Herriot. Herriot was invited to visit the U.S. by Dr. Fred Gunther who began his practice in Danville (Leighow Veterinary Hospital); a colleague of Dr. Herriot’s, Brian Sinclair, was later interviewed by Dr. George Leighow, who captured some of these early, early days on tape for WCNR. Readers may re-live these early days of veterinary medicine–before all the specialties–in the books by Herriot,, beginning with All Creatures Great and Small, and in the PBS TV series of the same name.
Jun 07, 2010 | | Uncategorized
To help when help is needed suddenly, the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) has set up the BETTY WHITE Wildlife Rapid Response Fund to help quickly fund research in the care of health emergencies. Betty White, as most of us know, is a dedicated wildlife lover and MAF trustee. She has pledged to match up to $25,000 in donations to the fund. And this brings us to Ellen DeGeneres, to Octo-mom, to Barbara Walters and to Sara Palin. These women have endorsed the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)–an organization viewed negatively by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as well as many, many wildlife and farming organizations. Before playing FOLLOW THE CELEBRITY consider that two of the most exciting MAF research efforts at the University of Florida involve the development of a one-time affordable contraceptive vaccine that at present has been found to be effective for two years in both male and female cats and a drug that has proven to be effective in birth control in dogs. Lesson: in today’s economy we need to be especially careful what groups we support and what they are doing with our money.
Another grain of salt–this time about the popular outcry for mandatory spay-and-neuter legislation. University of Pennsylvania professor James Serpell said, “The thing about mandatory spay-neuter is that those who are most willing to have their pets spayed or neutered tend to be responsible people and their dogs are nice animals. So what are we doing — taking these dogs out of the breeding population?” This results in fewer dogs able to be trained to do search and rescue, detect drugs and roadside bombs; dogs to guide the blind and to help returning veterans, listen and encourage children to read and bring smiles to seniors in nursing homes–as well as sleep in our beds! . As spay/neuter laws spread it is believed that IN TEN YEARS THERE WILL BE NO DOGS. Where will we find a replacements for family dogs?
Sprinkle a little salt on the story on the Bloomsburg group newspaper headlines advocating yoga for dogs. This is a very old idea; in fact, the book, “Yoga for Dogs” by Brilliant and Berloni has been on sale in paperback for $3.00 for many years. May we suggest the newest sport for owners and their dogs is SOCCER! David Beckham and his Bulldog Coco are prominently found in pictures making front pages nationally. Where are these local stories and pictures–will soccer playing dogs be part of the local playground scene?
More grains of salt–but not too much. Did you know that kennel inspectors are being called “building inspectors” since they seem to know more about the shelter than the condition of the dogs being sheltered? And, second, although pistachios are touted as having multiple health benefits for us, they are poisonous for dogs!
Jun 02, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Back in the late 1980s the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) devoted an issue to pet and animal disaster care. Many of the articles have become classics–especially those dealing with nuclear disaster. This topic is ignored today. Even though nuclear proliferation is a hot topic we continue to be complacent when it comes to our pets and animals (as well as ourselves) when it comes to this calamity. We train for floods and fires , chemical spills, hurricanes and tornados. But, according to a recent New Yorker article, “we are still locked into a mind-set that nuclear war preparedness would be futile.”
A flash of light can signal this catastrophe–like a firecracker in the sky. We have 15 seconds to get to the core or center of a building away from windows–basements are best. For people and animals water, air and TRUST are a necessity. A battery-operated radio and nutrition bars, a whistle and gauze pads, collars and leashes and some dry ration are a plus. The ‘80s JAVMA writers advocated placing a plastic wading pool filled with water on top of chairs or a table and getting pets underneath. The water-filled pool absorbs radiation and can be an emergency water supply. Lack of water and air and trust can be fatal.
The service dog that helped his owner out of the Twin Towers on 9/11 had to be calm and trusting. His owner reports that he spent a great deal of time relaxing his dog. It is important in all disasters to keep pets as calm as possible. Canine Good Citizen training is the best preparation. See: Nuclear Disaster, Stephen J. Schulte, DVM, JAVMA March 15, 1987. See also: Radiologic Hazards and Defense, John E. Morrison, DVM, and The NJ Plan for Response to Nuclear Plant Accidents, Sidney R. Nusbaum, DVM. There are also limited copies of a booklet titled: Guidelines for Emergency Pet Care, an Animal-Vues publication : Bloomsburg University.
NO DOG FRIENDLY CANDIDATES. Julian Prager believes there were no dog-friendly candidates in the recent Pennsylvania primary. Advice: By using the write-in option a successful effort was mounted against Rep. Dave Millard who does not vote “dog”. One reason: As a member of the Bloomsburg Fair Board he views dogs as part of agriculture–as dog farming! Perhaps candidates could be invited to club, organization meetings and events? Invite Prager too for an informal debate. Also, write letters to the editor to learn candidates’ views on dog issues. Spotlight the needy incumbents!
GROOM FOR THE GULF. “Matter of Trust” is an environmental San Francisco-based organization that takes pet and people hair and makes oil-absorbent hair mats. The hair is stuffed into recycled nylon stockings. A gallon of oil can be absorbed by a pound of hair in two minutes!!
DOG BITES A FORM OF FAMILY VIOLENCE. Although May 16-22 was National Dog Bite Prevention Week the public service education must continue every week of the year. Be a good journalist/speaker and update your statistics. About 4.5 million Americans are bitten each year, with one in five resulting in injuries requiring medical attention and 31,000 people undergo reconstructive surgery. Children ages five through nine are most at risk. The attacking dog is usually a family member and so you might call dog bites a form of family violence!
May 23, 2010 | | Uncategorized
MOTHER’S DAY HAS PASSED, BUT SHOULD WE STILL CELEBRATE WITH DUCKS IN DIAPERS? Our local paper recently published a story about ducks tested to do therapy–they passed– but had to wear diapers! Not even experienced dogs are allowed this privilege if they are incontinent! The owner is Neil Young (Funny Farm), most famous for owning Timmy the dog who wears a hearing aid. (Funny Farm animals make headlines.) Linda Hendricks, a 4-H educator, tested the ducks and, yes, one duck was named “Daffy”. Cagney’s question: is happiness really a warm duck? And, is this therapy? Personally, I do not believe that livestock and exotic animals should be considered pets! And, even if ducks were considered pets this therapy appears to be more like taking a pet and toy parade or petting zoo into a nursing home! This could be Funny Farm entertainment but it is a stretch to call it therapy or even educational. A state law prevents liability lawsuits attached to pet therapy. It was introduced and passed mainly due to the efforts of former Senator Ed Helfrick. I wonder if either he or the State has or had livestock and exotic animals in mind. Is it time for a legal definition of pet therapy?
Clearly, the ducks did not enjoy the interaction (according to the reporter who wrote the story– so animal rights advocates take heed) . I don’t believe there is any documentation that duck therapy has positive benefits like increased heart health, lower blood pressure, or benefits by “ walking the duck”– although Young claims the ducks are wonderful with autistic children! Laughter, of course, is healing. Ducks in diapers might evoke laughter or at least giggles. But, isn’t it important to respect animals? Respect is vital for kindness. I fail to see lessons of respect and kindness in this therapy. Cagney questions–will any funds gained from duck appearances be sent to help the oil contaminated ducks and other wildlife offshore in the Gulf of Mexico?
THINKING OUT OF THE BOX. My 13-year-old Springer, Cagney, recently contracted pneumonia and we learned two helpful lessons. A pill box can be a great asset in organizing the new medications and a medication schedule. Further, a floor fan on low speed can make breathing easier. And remember to take care of yourself when taking care of a sick pet!
EPA IMPOSES NEW REGULATIONS ON SPOT-ON FLEA AND TICK PESTICIDES. Although the government did not see any reason to ban any of these products it did see a need to require stronger labeling statements to prevent misuse–particularly in the area of weight restrictions. Spot-on products have caused incidents ranging from skin irritations to death, with most adverse reactions occurring in animals less than 3 years old and weighing 10 to 20 pounds. Pet owners are urged to read instructions carefully. (You can and should receive medication information sheets with all drugs prescribed for your pet–even in pill bottles!)
REMEMBER MAY 16 - 22 IS NATIONAL DOG BITE PREVENTION WEEK. A small number of coloring book sets are still available for use in programs; however, the best program today is BLUE DOG, available through the AVMA. Talk to your veterinarian or download materials www. avma.org/dogbiteprevention
May 17, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Headline in the New York Times–A NEW BREED OF GUARD DOG ATTACKS BEDBUGS. Fascinating, I thought. I wonder what they call this new breed–or is it a mixed breed? Is it recognized by the AKC? It turned out that the feature was about a puggle named Cruiser that searches hotels, college dorms, office buildings, etc., looking for bedbugs. Cost for a Cruiser visit is $350 and he can earn over a thousand dollars a day! Entomology researchers at the University of Florida report that well-trained dogs can detect a single live bug or egg with 95% accuracy. A CAGNEY QUESTION– if the entry levels are down in the mixed-breed AKC events, then perhaps these dogs are working for something more than a MACH or a ribbon? Follow the money trail right to the bedbugs!
The first weekend mixed breeds were allowed to compete in AKC rally, agility and obedience trials, a total of 29 clubs hosted 75 events. An agility judge told me the number of mixed breeds in competition was small–as few as one or two dogs in one of the events she judged.
However, the opening of AKC events to mixed breeds has brought a whole new learning experience for many owners. A great well-trained dog is a necessity but there are other things to think about, like water and water dishes, treats, a comfortable and familiar place to rest between and before events. Many states require health certificates. And, it would be a good idea to carry a copy of the rabies certificate and entry. Also, it would be wise to make sure dogs are securely crated/seat belt harnessed, while in transit. Advice: if possible join a local kennel club or training group and travel with members. Today, fortunately many clubs that sponsor these events have organized special hospitality groups to help newcomers.
Since May 8 is NATIONAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS DAY this would be a good time for all of us to check pet evacuation kits and add fresh food and water. This year I added a pet food measuring cup to the kit. This special cup was free from Innova and I got it from Sunlight in Bloomsburg. Also I received a large plastic clip good for keeping open bags closed. Both are items I had not thought of adding. The other new addition was a pill case. They give them away free at senior centers.
THE LATEST ON HIP DYSPLASIA. This debilitating disease can end working dogs’ careers and disable active pets. Up to 50% of dogs in certain large breeds are affected. Dr. George Lust, professor of physiological chemistry at Cornell, is working on ways to understand and control the disease. Dr. Lust is working toward a genetic test that can be used early in a dogs life to tell whether the dog will develop the condition as it gets older. “We want to find a way to diagnose it from a sample of blood or a cheek swab,” he explains. Hip dysplasia is likely caused by a combination of genes, said Lust.
SPECTRUM magazine, an award-winning effort by Bloomsburg University students, is now available. Three articles may be of interest to members. They include THE BUNCHERS, an investigation of class B dealers and animal cruelty, ALZHEIMERS, ARTHRITIS, DIABETES AND DOGS, and AN EXTENSION OF MOTHERHOOD. The latter is about me. It is flattering and parts of it are even true. The bonus is a great picture of Cagney doing her Elizabeth Taylor pose and Hepburn checking out a sculpture of a Springer once owned by Senator John Gordner’s aide, Karen Venditi. SPECTRUM is the brain child of Dr. Walter Brasch with his lovely wife, Rose riding shot gun! And, of course Senator Gordner sponsored the National Day of Prayer resolution in the Senate–the first Thursday in May, a day to recognize the power of prayer. I always include my dogs in my prayers and I hope you do, too.
May 07, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Friends of mine are quite excited about ripping out floors and installing new hardwood and/or laminate flooring in their homes. This wouldn’t work here. I know that Cagney, my 13-year-old, would find this footing difficult and perhaps slippery and so I would need to add firm non-slip scatter rugs. I DECORATE DOG–and I decorate with both health and safety in mind. I decorate in the “animal well-fare style”–good for my pets and good for me.
On April 27 the Canine Health Board will hold a meeting on flooring in kennels–under consideration is HOG PANEL FLOORING. Clearly this isn’t good for dogs although puppy millers may find it cheap to maintain.
Dogs are not livestock. Dogs do not have hooves like swine or pigs. Dogs have soft feet and their puppies have softer feet. Even though the cast iron brightly colored wire hog panels are more attractive than the chicken wire it replaces, it is not suitable for dogs. However, we all understand that wire flooring is easier to clean and not as labor-intensive as other forms of flooring. Still, we dog lovers don’t think of the cost but of the safety of our best friends. Once again–dogs are not livestock. As one shelter manager wrote, “ when you treat dogs like dogs and not like pigs or chickens being fattened for slaughter there is no profit to be made. Will we be eating our older dogs and those who do not reproduce?” Do write your elected representatives. Some are hoping the new U.S. Supreme Court Justice will be a woman or a Protestant or someone who is not part of the legal system. I am hoping for an animal lover–hopefully a dog lover. I want someone who will uphold a law aimed at animal cruelty videos. I happen to agree that videos showing women in high heels stepping on little animals, videos that depict dog-fighting, videos that show people having sex with animals and child pornography are not entitled to constitutional protection. Justice Roberts may have voted against the sale of these videos because they would impact films about hunting but I disagree. I happen to believe that any form of animal cruelty is wrong and that Roberts does hunters a disservice by placing them in the same category as child pornographers and dog fighters. However, since these films are legal it is up to us to be extra vigilant and to report animal abuse and cruelty immediately. Remember–someone’s life may depend on it!
A new FDA brochure addresses ONLINE PET PHARMACIES. Apparently there is no fool proof way to assure a “good pharmacy”; however, the brochure lists guidelines that can help. The best advice is to make sure the pharmacy has the VET-VIPRS seal of approval listed in its literature. These pharmacies have completed a voluntary certification program by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy and, according to the AVMA, can be judged as licensed and legitimate. For more information: www.fda.gov and click on online pharmacies.
“In the day” when I visited a veterinary hospital and drugs were prescribed I often found that when returning to my car there would be a brown paper bag on the seat with extra medications that had been given the hospital as samples. I have also had a veterinarian give me medications with an expired use date–at less than the regular cost. A different time.
PHARMACEUTICAL DISPOSAL–NEVER FLUSH PHARMACEUTICALS INTO THE TOILET OR SQUIRT DOWN THE SINK.
Apr 25, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Is it time for veterinarians to concentrate on managing “distress” in patients as well as pain? Distress–the kind caused by vaccinations, nail trimming and yes, even taking temperatures–distress from a squirmy puppy or a growling cat! Recently, a veterinarian in a “Letter to the editor” published in a veterinary journal noted that it was important to acknowledge an animal’s distress and then develop strategies to help deal with distress. For nail trimming he advised the use of lots of treats throughout the procedure–and, not to expect every pet to accept this as a distraction and show good behavior. Never try to force, he advised. Also, sedation should not just be used with painful procedures, he wrote and can be helpful with distress. Pay attention to timing and move slowly especially when taking a temperature. Consider altering and eliminating a procedure from a routine examination if it is distressful. His advice to his colleagues –”Press on as best you can. Sometimes as we all know we just have to do a procedure and do it now. In these cases, be as quiet, fast and respectful as you can.” His final advice–ACCESS EACH INDIVIDUAL and be prepared to try alternative strategies to reduce distress.
I have found that sometimes if the veterinarian thinks there might be a distressful event which could cause DISTRESS IN THE PET OWNER –he or she takes the animal out of the examining room so the procedure can be done privately on a level field without owner anxiety. However, this makes some owners imagine the worse. But why? If they don’t trust the veterinarian, or staff member or hospital the pet won’t either and neither of them should be there.
One leading Pennsylvania veterinarian says the easiest dogs to examine and treat are those who have passed a Canine Good Citizen evaluation. The “stand for examination” exercise makes the veterinarian’s task quick and easy and he claimed–gives a more accurate pulse and blood pressure reading.
WORLD VETERINARY DAY TO CENTER ON “ONE WORLD, ONE HEALTH”. The theme of WORLD VETERINARY DAY 2010 April 24th is to raise awareness of the links between animal and public health by fostering and encouraging more cooperation between veterinarians and physicians.
CALIFORNIA CONSIDERS ANIMAL ABUSER REGISTRY. California is considering a list of persons convicted of animal cruelty similar to listings of sex offenders and arsonists. The publicly accessible list would be useful to animal shelters, animal sellers as well as law enforcement. Persons listed in the proposed California law would have been convicted of felony animal abuse such as torture, sexual abuse, animal fighting or neglect. Animal abuse can be a sign of domestic violence and other criminal activity. (The Latham Foundation, a California-based humane education organization, has long worked in the field of these “cycles of violence” tracing the connection of animal cruelty and domestic violence particularly with children.) Similar legislation has been introduced in Rhode Island, Louisiana, Colorado and Tennessee.
Apr 20, 2010 | | Uncategorized
As if you weren’t tired of the subject of health insurance let’s look at PET HEALTH INSURANCE which relies on breed profiling. According to multi-award winning veterinarian Nancy Kay, “THOSE OF US IN THE VETERINARY PROFESSION BREED PROFILE ON A REGULAR BASIS PARTICULARLY PERTAINING TO HEALTH ISSUES. Name just about any breed or dog or cat and I can provide you with a laundry list of potentially inherited diseases,” she writes in her Blog, “Spot Speaks”. She cites Patty Khuly a University of Pennsylvania veterinarian who has created a comprehensive list of canine breed-related diseases and provides approximate cost to diagnose and treat. (I wonder if area veterinarians use these costs?)
Since my experience in breed profiling is about as negative as the insurance-driven DANGEROUS DOG list I had my doubts and so checked out the list for English Springer Spaniels. The profile assumed the dog was bred by a responsible breeder–and unfortunately as we know we cannot assume this. With regard to Springers the author cites the differences between Springers bred to hunt and Springers bred to show. Yes, there can be a difference but not always. Recently, I received a copy of a magazine with a Springer on the cover chasing a pheasant. The Springer was the very well-known show dog “Jesse James”. He was a product of artificial insemination and so his sire–now deceased–was a long ago dual champion. Again, the author made an assumption. And I have known Springers who came from shelters and some who were imported. There are as many variables in dogs as there are in us and so while breed profiles may be helpful guides for veterinarians they may also be dangerous–and expensive if a pet health insurance company is using them to set rates.
Will Boxer owners pay a higher premium than people who own a toy Poodle? Too often I wonder if veterinarians treat the disease and don’t see the dog. And since the profiles are under the auspices of a pet health insurance company I AM SUSPICIOUS! www.embracepetinsurance.com/PetHealth/default.aspx.
If pet owners are going to borrow anything from the health insurance industry, why not the medication/diet list? We should prepare a list of medications and foods our pets consume each day to include in his or her health records for veterinary use. Under medications we could include not only the names, but what it’s for, date started, dosage and instructions–the same information on supplements and foods. Then when we have questions (which we should write out beforehand also) ,we are all on the same page! And, importantly, this could yield useful breed information that works–and helps in a positive and useful way.
SHE’S BACK. Remember Tammy Grimes, the founder of “Dogs Deserve Better”, the anti-chaining group? She has been arrested again–this time for trespassing and “rescuing” three dogs. Apparently the dogs were not underfed and were in good shape. Because it isn’t against the law to chain a dog the owners can’t be charged with a crime. Video and pictures can’t be used as evidence because they were obtained illegally. And, yes, Pennsylvania has a new bill coming out to stop the chaining of dogs and Grimes hopes to alert people once again to her cause. Remember–a dog that is chained is not necessarily living with an uncaring owner or worse yet, that he breeds dogs to fight! An occupational therapist who during a home visit placed a chain outside so her patient who was recovering from hip surgery could allow his dog to leave the house and tend to his needs. For this dog owner it was important in caring for his dog to chain him–especially as he recuperates. Clearly, chaining and/or tethering is not a simple problem.
Apr 12, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Each of us has memories of Riley Cuff. We could each write a chapter on what this good friend meant to us. He defined love and generosity. For me, he will always be smiling at his many friends and he will ride in the most grand parade in God’s kingdom!
QUESTION ONE FROM CAGNEY. Why didn’t the 2010 CENSUS ask questions about cats and dogs–companion animals? It would help form pet evacuation plans now mandatory in disasters We could call it –THE KATRINA QUESTION. Why is this important? It has been proven that the evacuation of pets is a necessary factor in the rapid and safe evacuation of people. It is so important that everything be looked at to make pet evacuation safe. For example, studies are currently ongoing on safe carbon dioxide levels in refrigerated carriers used to evacuate pets.
NO HAM FOR EASTER. The FDA is investigating Dynamic Pet Products REAL HAM BONES. Many reported problems and even deaths. At present the company is refusing to recall them or issue warnings.
AS BAYER GOES RETAIL WITH ADVANTAGE AND K9 ADVANTIX– WILL VETERINARIANS TURN TO ADVOCATING VACCINES? In February 2010, Bayer decided to sell Advantage and K9 Advantix directly through pet speciality retailers and Web sites. According to an article in JAVMA veterinarians reacted with a mixture of emotions. Many who had lent their authority and expertise to promoting the Bayer products felt misused. And, perhaps they should. When it comes to using a preventative that is poisonous the best advice logically would come from someone who knows the patient and his health as well as his lifestyle. Cheaper is not always better if misuse could contribute to trauma and or death. Also, this Bayer business move could signal the beginning of a new decision process among veterinarians about which drugs vet practices will dispense in the future. (Advantage is for use on dogs and cats for the control of fleas. Introduced in 1996 the active ingredient is Imidacloprid. K9 Advantix is for use on dogs only and controls fleas, ticks and mosquitos. Introduced in 2002 the active ingredients are Imidacloprid and permethrin. The Bayer products are applied to the skin/coat. )
A new vaccine, available only through veterinary clinics, claims to give dual protection against lyme disease. Intervet/Schering Plough Nobivac Lyme vaccine is given twice 2 to 4 weeks apart with a one-year booster. It appears to be Lyme-specific whereas other preventatives kill not only other insects but parasites. I have no idea about the vaccine’s cost or if it is widely available locally. As more and more diseases are carried by insects, protection of our dogs, cats, ourselves and our environment present many challenges both with regard to cost and side-effects. For example, in addition to Lyme disease where there is a river or a wet season we have the danger of heartworm. And, leshmaniasis, a potentially fatal disease affecting both people and animals, is now found in Montana, carried by sand flies! In short, just because Bayer made a decision based on a poor economy, pet owners should not plan to treat their best friend’s health as an economic decision. Veterinarians must always be part of the human-pet bond. Their oath and ethics do not vary with the economy. Further, we need to remember that state budget cuts affect pet health care. The poor economy leads to higher vet student tuition which down the road will mean higher veterinary expenses for the dog and cat sharing your home.
Apr 05, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Photographers often develop a specialty–scenes and people captured in order to give others understanding of social problems and needs. So it has become in the animal world. Recently I saw photographs of street dogs in Chile–before the earthquake. The photographs were challenging then and they will probably be more so today. One picture showed a dog sound asleep in the middle of a busy sidewalk. It was titled “Does anyone see me?” There was also a photo of a little puppy. He was lost and his tail was tucked in. A sad sight. The title–”Nameless”. The photographer writes, “the dogs are everywhere, so everywhere is a new opportunity to ignore them.”
THE GUPPY LOVE PROGRAM at Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants provides guests with the option of requesting a live goldfish to stay overnight in their room. The hotel staff tends to the fish. The purpose–fish are known to calm nerves, reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure. Betas are the favorite fish. And, in restaurants the fish are table centerpieces for group meetings–helping participants to focus. The hotels have become so famous for these quiet travel companions it is said they “give a whole new meaning to the phrase ’sleeping with the fishes’”.
WATCHING THE WATER DISH. According to one breeder of Welsh Corgis if you have more than one dog it is important to watch the water dish. The drinking order is indicative of the pecking order and points the finger at the alpha dog–at least for that day! Each of my three Springers have their own water pail but there is a community dish also. Usually Cagney, the senior of the group, is first to drink and the others watch, but some days she bows politely to one of her daughters. Their drinking habits always have amazed me but I never dreamed it had anything to do with respect. Recently I added a teaspoon of Oxyfresh to a quart of water and used that to fill the community water dish. So far all have drunk from it. According to the literature on this hydrogen peroxide0based gel product, putting it in the water helps to eliminate stains, tartar and bad breath. We will let you know if they have white teeth by Easter!
BEWARE–ACCIDENTAL OVERDOSE OF JOINT SUPPLEMENTS. According to a recent study, dogs with chronic osteoarthritis receiving carprofen because of signs of pain may experience a reduction in pain and have less need of the carprofen if fed a diet supplemented with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids. GOOD NEWS.
BUT, OVERDOSAGE of any joint supplements ( usually accidental) can lead to hepatic or liver damage, according to the ASPCA Poison Control Center. Chews, powders, and tablets, which are often palatable, can mean accidental ingestion. (It is always wise to use extra care with palatable supplements and medications. Peanut butter-, cheese- and meat-wrapped pilling is really safer!) Clinical signs usually develop between 24 and 48 hours after exposure–vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. VETERINARY TREATMENT IS A MUST. The cause of the damage is unknown at this time but the owner must have his dog treated aggressively and QUICKLY by his veterinarian. Lack of treatment can result in death.
CAGNEY LEASHED. When Cagney was still a puppy with a long series of puppy vaccinations ahead of her, my veterinarian told me that yogurt helped to balance the gastrointestinal tract besieged by the vaccination process. And when she had a litter of puppies their first food was tiny-pink -tongue laps of yogurt. Today nutritionists investigate all kinds of probiotics such as the one in yogurt. Dr. Gail Czarnecki-Mauldin believes probiotics are important during growth, weaning, and training. She cautions that probiotics must be live, safe and stable. She advises looking for dates on the container and a list of ingredients by strain. Since heat and air weaken vitality it is hard to choose probiotics in the grocery store–thus Purina is now advertising a nutritional supplement called FortiFlora–available at veterinary hospitals. Caution: Dr. Czarnecki-Mauldin works for Purina. Another veterinarian I spoke to believes only natural foods (unprocessed) give a dog the necessary probiotics. Two points of view.
APRIL IS PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS MONTH
Mar 28, 2010 | | Uncategorized