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Many of you with dogs are aware that they can have debilitating anxiety attacks to the fireworks on Independence Day. Even though this holiday comes on the same date every year, it can still catch us off guard. There are numerous ways to help your pet deal with the loud noises of fireworks. Some of the options include desensitization, which unfortunately takes a great deal of time and can make some pets more fearful. Desensitization involves playing a sound track of loud noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks at a low level and gradually over the course of weeks, increasing the volume. An important part of desensitization is to intermittently reward calm behavior with praise or a treat. Again, not all pets respond well to this. Western Washington does not have thunderstorms frequently and they are difficult to predict. However, a pet that has been desensitized would be better able to handle the unpredictable. The most common option is to give pets sedatives during the period around the Fourth of July. Some pets are unable to tolerate certain sedatives due to medical conditions or age. Always ask the advice of your veterinarian before giving a medication. Sedatives are a prescription medication and your veterinarian is REQUIRED by law to examine your pet before prescribing medications. Anti-anxiety medications and sleep aids for humans are more common in many households these days. Dogs and cats are not little humans and some of these human medications can be fatal for your pet. A final option that we as Washingtonians enjoy is the chance to visit our Canadian neighbors on the 4th. July is a nice time to visit British Columbia. Be certain to check with your veterinarian for border requirements when traveling with your pet to Canada. Also make sure you know the requirements for returning to the U.S. Depending on the length of stay, a health certificate and a Rabies Vaccination Certificate may or can be required. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan
A joint consists of articulating bones, a fibrous capsule enclosing the joint, and slippery lubricating joint fluid to facilitate the gliding of the two bones across each other when the joint is flexed. The bones are capped by cushions of cartilage to facilitate frictionless gliding. Cartilage consists of what is called matrix (which makes up 95% of cartilage, the other 5% being chondrocytes, the cells that secrete the matrix). Cartilage matrix consists of collagen (tough structural fibers) and proteoglycans (water absorbent molecules). The function of a proteoglycan is to soak up water thus creating a cushion, sort of like a water bed, to absorb the pressure exerted on the joint as it works. Over years, either through injury or poor conformation, cartilage wears down or is damaged and arthritis results. The body must then make more matrix and will require the raw materials to do so. Polysulfated GAGs may be injected into the body where they will be distributed to any joints currently effecting cartilage repair. It turns out, however, that polysulfated GAGs represent more than just building materials. They have anti-inflammatory properties of their own that help slow down the actual damage to the cartilage. They also promote enzyme systems that facilitate other aspects of joint repair beyond simply making more matrix. They help the joint create more lubricating fluid as well. The active ingredient in Adequan® is polysulfated GAG, which is mostly chondroitin sulfate, extracted from cow tissue (the trachea, to be exact). In treating arthritis, injections are given twice a week for 4 weeks for a maximum of eight injections. Injections are given intramuscularly. Dogs, cats, and horses are the usual patients. Adequan may be combined with NSAIDs and with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. There is another more controversial use for this medication and that is in the treatment of feline lower urinary tract disease. One of the theories of this very complicated syndrome is that the GAGs that line the urinary bladder and help protect the bladder tissue from the irritating urine become depleted. By giving a GAG injection they may be restored, thus helping to resolve the urinary discomfort associated with this syndrome. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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The normal canine eye receives its tear film from two lacrimal (tear-producing) glands. One gland is located above the eye, and the other is fo Fleas are the most common external parasite of companion animals. Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common skin disease of dogs and cats! Flea control has always been a challenge for veterinarians and pet owners because the adult fleas cause the clinical signs, yet the majority of the flea population (eggs, larvae and pupae) are to be found off the pet in and around the home. The ideal flea control program utilizes products that target the various stages of the flea life cycle, not only the adult fleas on the pet. Eggs are laid in the hair coat and are designed to fall off the host. They are resistant to insecticides, but susceptible to various insect growth regulators. Larvae develop in the host’s environment and feed on adult flea feces (blood) that fall out of the hair coat of the pet. Larvae are susceptible to traditional insecticides, borates and insect growth regulators. Larvae eventually spin cocoons (often within carpet fibers) for pupation. Pupae are resistant to freezing, desiccation, and insecticides. Pupae can lie dormant for many months; they are stimulated to expupate as emergent adults by vibration, warming and increased carbon dioxide. Normally, expupation occurs when a host is near and the new flea finds the pet within seconds of emergence. Emergent fleas are fairly mobile and can survive a few days without a host, if in a suitable environment. New fleas begin feeding within hours of finding a dog or cat. Once a blood meal has been taken, the flea can survive only a short time if it is dislodged from the host. New fleas experience very high mortality on healthy adult hosts. Most fleas do not survive 72 hours on an animal that is itching and able to groom itself. Unfortunately, limited egg production does occur even on allergic animals. The entire life cycle of C. felis can be completed in as few as 16 days! For the flea allergic patient, continuous excellent flea control is required to remain symptom free. Even very minimal exposure may be sufficient to perpetuate itching in a hypersensitive patient. In the past, veterinarians and pet owners always had to try to control fleas by treating the environment of the animal for the immature stages of the flea. Today, veterinarians have some great flea control products in our arsenal. There are now several highly efficacious, long lasting and very safe new products to choose amongst: Program® and Sentinel® (Lufenuron), Nylar® (Pyriproxifen), Advantage® (imidacloprid), K9 Advantix® (with permethrin), Advantage Multi® (with moxidectin), Frontline® Spray, Frontline Plus® and Frontline Top Spot® (fipronil), Revolution® (selamectin), Capstar® (nitenpyram), Comfortis ® for Dogs (spinosad), Promeris for Cats® (metaflumizone), Promeris Duo for Dogs® (metaflumizone/ amitraz), Vectra 3-D for Dogs® (dinotefuran, permethrin, pyriproxifen), Vectra for Cats® (dinotefuran, pyriproxifen).
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The normal canine eye receives its tear film from two lacrimal (tear-producing) glands. One gland is located above the eye, and the other is found within the animal's third eyelid. The gland of the third eyelid contributes a significant portion of secretion to the tear film. In the smaller breeds -- especially Boston terriers, Cocker spaniels, bulldogs and beagles -- the gland of the third eyelid is not strongly held in place. The gland prolapses (slips out) to where the owner notices it as a reddened mass. Out of its normal position, the gland does not circulate blood properly and may swell. Historically, the prolapsed gland was treated like a small tumor and was simply removed. That was before the full significance of the gland was realized. If the third eyelid's tear gland is removed, it cannot be put back in place. If the other tear gland (the one above the eye) cannot supply adequate tears, which is not an uncommon phenomenon in older small breed dogs, then the eye becomes dry and uncomfortable. A thick yellow discharge results and the eye develops a blinding pigment covering for protection. This condition is called simply dry eye, or more scientifically keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and daily medical treatment is required to keep the eye both comfortable and visual. Not only is dry eye uncomfortable for the pet, its treatment is often frustrating and time-consuming and there is expense involved. We would like the dog to maintain the greatest amount of tear producing tissue possible, thus removing the gland for cosmetic reasons is not an acceptable treatment method. The only acceptable treatment of cherry eye is replacement of the gland in its proper location. Harmful complications from cherry eye surgery are unusual but recurrence of the cherry eye is common. If a cherry eye recurs, it is important to let your veterinarian know so that a second surgery either with your normal veterinarian or with an ophthalmology specialist can be planned. An owner should expect some postoperative swelling after cherry eye repair but this should resolve and the eye should be comfortable and normal in appearance after about a week. If the eye appears suddenly painful or unusual in appearance, it is important that it be rechecked as soon as possible. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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The adrenal gland is so named because it is located just forward of the kidney (renal means kidney). The center of the gland is called the medulla and the outer area is called the cortex. While both areas produce hormones, Addison's disease concerns the hormones produced by the cortex; these hormones are called corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are the hormones that enable us to adapt physiologically to stress. They gear the metabolism towards the preparation of burning (rather than storing) fuels so as to be ready for a fight or flight situation. The mineralocorticoids influence the electrolytes: sodium and potassium. As a general biological rule, where there's sodium or salt, there's water. When the mineralocorticoids circulate as part of the fight or flight preparation, sodium is conserved in anticipation of blood loss so that there will be extra fluid in the vascular compartment (spare blood). When sodium is conserved, potassium is lost as part of the biological balance. The fight or flight preparation is far more complex than can be reviewed here but the bottom line is: Corticosteroid hormones are needed to adapt to stressful situations and without these hormones, even small stresses could lead to physiologic disaster. In animals with Addison's disease, there is a deficiency of the corticosteroid hormones. Patients are usually young (age 4-5 years) female dogs. At first signs are very vague - listlessness, possibly some vomiting or diarrhea. Ultimately, the disease results in a phenomenon known as the Addisonian crisis. The animal collapses in shock. The patient may not survive this episode. Corticosteroid hormones are needed to adapt to stressful situations and without these hormones, even small stresses could lead to physiologic disaster. Because of the numerous symptoms Addison's disease can be present with, Addison's disease has earned the medical nickname "the Great Imitator." The only definitive test for Addison's disease is the ACTH stimulation test. A lack of response is diagnostic for Addison's disease. The most important aspect of treatment for hypoadrenocorticism is the replacement of the missing mineralocorticoids hormones. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of undetermined cause that affects the spinal cord. It results in a loss of coordination of the hind legs, which progresses to weakness and then to paralysis of the hindquarters. What happens is that the structures within the spinal cord that are responsible for nerve impulses degenerate. In degenerative myelopathy, the myelin (the insulation around the nerve fibers) and the axons (the nerve fibers that carry signals to the muscles) are affected. While these changes can happen anywhere along the spinal cord, they usually happen in the lower back. Typically, degenerative myelopathy isn't seen in dogs under the age of five. The degeneration occurs slowly over a period of several months. Often the first signs noticed are difficulty getting up in the hind quarters. This awkwardness is most noticeable when the dog walks on a smooth surface. However, as the disease progresses, the dog becomes uncoordinated and will scuff or drag its rear feet, causing excessive wearing of the toenails. Sometimes one side is more noticeably uncoordinated than the other. The disease can either wax and wane episodically or progress steadily. It usually takes a few months to a year after onset for a dog to become unable to walk. There is no known cause for this disorder, although a genetic basis is presumed in German shepherds. Genetic, nutritional, and immune factors have been suggested, but none have been scientifically proven. While this is mostly a disease of middle-aged to older German shepherds, German shepherd mixes, Siberian huskies, Collies, and other breeds can also be affected. It is not thought to cause pain or discomfort because the spinal cord axons have no way to feel pain. Usually, affected dogs can still urinate and defecate on their own until the very late stages. Diagnosis is a matter of eliminating other diseases, including spinal cord cancer, osteomyelitis (bone infection), and disk disease/injury. This elimination process usually involves radiographs of the spine, myelograms, or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The disease can be managed, but it can not be cured. Exercise in the form of walking or swimming helps more than anything else as treatment. If the dog is old or has arthritis, be sure to build up to exercise rather than taking a “weekend warrior” approach. The most beneficial schedule is a day with regular exercise, followed by a day of rest. Specific exercise is best, not just running around in the backyard.
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Canine aquatic exercise has become very popular in the past decade. The buoyancy of the water can effectively cancel out up to ninety percent of the weight of a dog. The effect of buoyancy allows for gentler active exercises by decreasing the loads placed on the injured tissues and weight bearing joints compared to exercises performed on land. For this reason, aquatic therapy is a wonderful choice for the treatment of osteoarthritis, spinal pathology, obesity, post-surgical conditions (especially knee and hip surgeries), post-injuries or other disorders in which a dog is reluctant to use the limb or there is lack of strength, range-of-motion (ROM), proprioceptive ability, or weight bearing status. Water exercises are generally less painful than land exercises because of the support that buoyancy provides. Therefore water exercises may result in less discomfort and provide a better sense of security when initiating active movements. This helps maintain ROM and functional movement before the strength gains needed to perform the same movements on land. The hydrostatic pressure of water provides a constant pressure to the body or limb immersed in water providing an improved environment for working with swollen joints or edematous tissues. Also, aquatic exercises may be used as a transition to land based exercises in post-surgery or post-injury rehabilitation. Overall, the potential benefits of aquatic therapy are strengthening, restoration of muscle mass, cardiovascular endurance, speeding recovery time after surgery or injury, increasing blood flow to injured tissues, helping with weight management, providing strong, positive psychological benefits, improving daily function, and relieving pain.
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Despite the highly contagious nature of all the feline upper respiratory agents, most cats are at a very small risk for exposure. Typically infected cats come from the shelter, are outdoor cats, or are housed in closed contact with lots of other cats (experiencing crowding stress). The average housecat, who is not exposed to any rescued kittens, lives with only one or two other cats at most, and never goes outside is unlikely to break with infection. Ninety percent of feline upper respiratory infections are caused by either feline Herpes or feline Calicivirus – therefore, vaccinate your pet! Neither of these infections is transmissible to humans. Most feline colds run a course of 7 to 10 days regardless of treatment but it is important to realize these infections are permanent and that herpesvirus infections are recurring. A cold for a cat is usually just a nuisance but sometimes can be serious, especially if the cat stops eating or drinking. Painful ulcers can form on the eyes, nose, or in the mouth. Dehydration can result from fluid lost in the nasal discharge. Sometimes a fever is high enough to warrant monitoring; or pneumonia may result. Seek veterinary assistance if you think your cat is significantly uncomfortable. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Q: Are bladder infections contagious? A: The bladder is a sterile area of the body, which means that bacteria do not normally reside there. When bacteria gain entry and establish growth in the bladder, infection has occurred and symptoms can result. With pets with bladder infections, we see some of the following signs: ** Excessive water consumption ** Urinating only small amounts at a time ** Urinating frequently and in multiple spots ** Inability to hold urine the normal amount of time/apparent incontinence ** Bloody urine (though an infection must either involve a special organism, a bladder stone, a bladder tumor, or be particularly severe to make urine red to the naked eye) It is especially important to realize that many animals do not show any externally visible signs of their bladder infections and, since they cannot talk, screening tests are the only route to discovering the infection. It is also important to realize that it is the inflammation associated with infection that causes these symptoms. There can be infection without much inflammation (particularly if the patient is on a cortisone-type anti-inflammatory medication) and there can be inflammation without infection (the usual situation in feline lower urinary tract disease). Because bladder infections are localized to the bladder, there are rarely signs of infection in other body systems: no fever, no appetite loss, and no change in the blood tests. The external genital area where urine is expelled is teeming with bacteria. Bladder infection results when bacteria from the lower tract climb into the bladder, defeating the natural defense mechanisms of the system (forward urine flow, the bladder lining, inhospitable urine chemicals, etc.). But bladder infections are not contagious. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY in CATS
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats today. Cats with HCM have thicker than normal heart walls seen with an echocardiogram. The first sign of HCM often will be your veterinarian reporting that your cat has a heart murmur but, most cats with HCM show no signs until the later stages. Or the first sign may be quite distressing: • difficulty breathing (as a result of fluid build up in the chest and/or lungs) • sudden and often very painful hindlimb or forelimb weakness or paralysis (as a result of a clot blocking flow to the limbs) • sudden death (at home, or during an elective procedure involving anesthesia). Young cats (even those less than 6 months of age) can be affected, but the diagnosis is most often made in middle-aged and older cats. HCM tends to run in families, and is seen most often in Maine coon cats, American shorthairs, and Persians. However, it can be seen in any cat. Signs of HCM can be as subtle as a lack of appetite. Observant owners often note an increase in the resting respiratory rate and weight loss. Because cats tend to hide signs of disease until they are very sick, you should check in with your veterinarian when you see subtle signs, such as those that persist for more than a day or two. There is no surgical treatment or definitive medical therapy to cure HCM. Medications are often prescribed for cats with congestive heart failure, rapid heart rates, or clots or high risk of clots to the legs. If there is fluid in the lungs, a diuretic and possibly an ACE inhibitor will be prescribed. If there is fluid in the chest, the veterinarian may have to physically drain the fluid from the chest (prior to beginning treatment and intermittently thereafter). Prognosis is not easy to predict. Many cats can live a long time with HCM and never need medications. Others will die suddenly or progress to develop congestive heart failure. The worst outcome, in terms of discomfort and frustration because of a lack of proven ways to prevent the first or future recurrence, is clots to the limbs or other organs. Your veterinarians, working with a veterinary cardiologist, are your best guide to diagnosis and treatment for your cat. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Q: I have a 10 month old Ragdoll kitten. She was fixed when I purchased her. I noticed she has a unusual somewhat offensive odor coming from her bottom area. It does not smell like stool or urine and her bottom is clean with no signs of stool or urine staining. She keeps herself clean and uses her box regularly which I clean daily. What could this be? - email from Jamie A: Anal sacs (also called anal glands) are two small glands just inside your pet's anus. The material secreted into these glands is thick and foul smelling. Most animals can empty these glands voluntarily for scent marking or in self-defense. Walking around and normal defecation usually serves to empty the glands but some animals become unable to empty their glands on their own at all. The sacs become impacted and uncomfortable. Dogs with impacted anal sacs usually scoot their rear on the ground in an attempt to empty the glands. Some dogs will lick their anal area and other dogs will chase their tails. Cats often lick the fur off just under their tails. If an impacted anal sac does not get emptied an abscess can form and rupture out through the skin. This is a painful, messy, and pretty smelly condition often mistaken for rectal bleeding. If an anal sac abscess forms, it must be properly treated by your veterinarian. The need to empty the anal sacs is a highly individual situation. The best recommendation is to let the pet tell you when the sacs are full. If the pet starts scooting again, it is time to bring him in. To avoid the expense of having the sacs emptied, you can learn to empty them yourself at home but most people feel it is well worth having someone else perform this service. A non-invasive technique that helps some patients is a change to a high fiber diet. This will produce a bulkier stool that may be more effective in emptying the sac as it passes by. If the sacs need to be emptied every few weeks or more, you may opt to have the sacs permanently removed. This procedure is complicated by many local nerves controlling fecal continence, the fact that any change in the local musculature of the anal sphincter area can affect fecal continence, and the fact that with chronic anal sac problems anatomy is distorted. Many people own pets for years without ever learning that anal sacs exist at all, and the wives' tale that worms cause scooting erroneously continues. If you have further questions about anal gland disease, ask your veterinarian. If scooting continues for more than a few days after sac emptying, the sacs should be re-checked. For some individuals, it takes several sac emptyings in a row before the sacs stay emptied. If the sacs are empty and scooting is persisting, another cause (such as itchy skin or lower back pain) should be pursued. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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A portosystemic shunt (PSS) happens when a pet’s venous blood from the intestine bypasses the liver. The pet can be born with the shunt (congenital) or can get it later (acquired). About three-quarters of the cases are congenital, although sometimes a pet can have both types. During pregnancy, the portal blood vessel in the fetus bypasses the liver (i.e., the mother’s liver filters out toxins for the fetus). Normally this shunt closes within three days after birth. In affected animals, the shunt doesn’t close and the blood continues to bypass the liver. Because the liver filters toxins, if the liver is bypassed, the toxins build up in the body. This results in the puppy or kitten having slow or nonexistent growth (failure to thrive). If left untreated, puppies and kittens are not likely to survive. Congenital shunts seem to happen more in purebreds than in mixed breeds. Breeds with increased risk of PSS include Cairn terriers, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Irish Wolfhounds, Himalayans, and Persians. An acquired liver shunt is usually caused by liver problems (due to poisons, hepatitis, and inflammation, etc.) that resulted in the body routing blood through whatever blood vessels are available, even if it means bypassing the liver. As happens with congenital shunts, the liver can’t filter what doesn’t pass through it, so toxins build up in the body. Signs include stunted growth, not gaining weight, losing weight, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, unresponsiveness, temporary blindness, seizures, staring into space, disorientation, circling, poor skin and coat, excessive drinking, excessive urination, etc. Sometimes the pet will just act odd after eating or pace around or press its head against the wall. The signs you will see depend on the location of the shunt and how many toxins have built up in the body. Some pets will only have one sign, while others could have several. Blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging tests can be used for diagnosis. Blood bile acids are elevated after a meal, so the before-meal and after-meal bile acid levels will be compared. Despite the variety of tests available, a confirmed diagnosis may not be available until surgery is done. Some pets with liver shunts can do well with medical and dietary management. Surgical repair of the shunt is common, particularly for congenital shunts, but it seems to be more successful in dogs than in cats. Surgery is usually, but not always, the best option for a normal life span. Affected pets should never be bred because it is too much strain on the body and because this condition runs in families. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Ear mites are tiny infectious organisms resembling microscopic ticks. Since the mite can barely be seen it usually is detected by examination of a sample of ear wax under a microscope. Infection usually produces a characteristic dry black ear discharge. The discharge is composed of ear wax, blood, inflammatory biochemicals, and ear mites themselves. The presence of the mites is inflammatory and can generate very irritating ear infections. Skin disease can also result from infection by the ear mite. The mite lives on the surface of the ear canal skin, though sometimes migrates out onto the face and head of its host. Eggs are laid and hatch after 4 days of incubation. The larva hatches from the egg, feeds on ear wax and skin oils for about a week, and then molts into a protonymph, which in turn molts into a deutonymph. The deutonymph mates with the adult male. After mating, the deutonymph molts into either an adult male or an adult female. If she becomes a female, she will be gravid with eggs as a result of the mating. If he develops into a male, there are no consequences to the mating and he is ready to mate with deutonymphs of his own choosing. The adult mite lives approximately 2 months happily eating ear wax and skin oils. The life cycle (the time it takes for an egg to develop into an adult mite ready for parenthood) requires 3 weeks. Most ear mite cases are found in cats. Dogs can be infected as well but since dogs more commonly get ear infections of other types, ear infections in dogs rarely involve mites. Ear mites readily transmit from host to host by physical contact. Ear mites came from some other animal with whom your pet has been socializing. Because mites are easily transmissible by physical contact, treatment for mites often must include all household pets. Ear cleaning is needed at the beginning of therapy (and possibly at the end) to remove the irritating wax and debris. Be sure to have the ears re-checked according to your vet’s recommendations. Do not make the diagnosis of ear mite infection yourself. If you think your pet has an ear infection, see the vet for proper evaluation rather jumping straight to an over-the-counter remedy. You will need the right diagnosis before an effective treatment can be started. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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There are two species of roundworms affecting dogs and puppies: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. (Cats cannot be infected with Toxocara canis.) In dogs, there are four ways by which infection with Toxocara canis occurs: * Consuming infective worm eggs from soil in the environment (generally through normal grooming).
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Nursing from an infected mother dog. Roundworm infection can have numerous negative effects. It is a common cause of diarrhea in young animals and can cause vomiting as well. Roundworms are long, white and described as looking like spaghetti. The worms consume the host's food and can lead to unthriftiness and a classical pot-bellied appearance. It should also be noted that human infection by this parasite is especially serious. It is important to minimize the contamination of environmental soil with the feces of infected animals so as to reduce the exposure hazard to both humans and other animals. Fecal testing for worm eggs is a must for puppies and a good idea for adult dogs having their annual check up. Obviously, if there are worms present, they must be laying eggs in order to be detected but, by and large, fecal testing is a reliable method of detection. Numerous deworming products are effective. Some are over the counter and some are prescription. Many flea control and/or heartworm prevention products provide a monthly deworming which is especially helpful in minimizing environmental contamination. There are two important concepts to keep in mind about deworming. Medications essentially anesthetize the worm so that it lets go of its grip on the host intestine and passes with the stool. Once it has been passed, it cannot survive in the environment and dies. This means that you will likely see the worms when they pass, so be prepared as they can be quite long and may still be alive and moving when you see them. Larvae in migration cannot be killed by any of these products. After the worms are cleared from the intestine, they will be replaced by new worms completing their migration. This means that a second and sometimes even a third deworming is needed to keep the intestine clear. The follow-up deworming is generally given several weeks following the first deworming to allow for migrating worms to arrive in the intestine where they are vulnerable. Do not forget your follow-up deworming. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Lops, longhairs and miniatures -- rabbits come in a gorgeous variety of body types, fur lengths and coat markings, all united by their potential to be wonderful pets. At this time of year, baby bunnies are everywhere, with many pet stores stocking up on what has been a traditional child's gift for Easter. Contrary to popular belief, rabbits really aren't suitable as a pet for young children. Rabbits are delicate and can be fatally injured if improperly held. If not handled gently and with respect, they can become nippy in self-defense or fear. For older children, though, and especially for adults, these quiet, gentle animals are excellent pets. You'll get a lot more out of a pet rabbit if you bring the animal into your house and your life. Here are some care tips. • Equipment. Your rabbit needs a cage that's at least big enough to stretch out and hop around, and tall enough so he can stand on his hind legs without his ears touching the top. Bigger is better yet! If the floor is wire, at least a portion of the cage should be solid, something that will give the rabbit relief from standing on the wire all the time. • For a food dish, choose a ceramic crock that cannot be chewed or tipped over. A hanging bottle is best for water; make sure the water stays fresh by changing it daily. Rabbits need and love to chew, so be sure there's a chew block available. • Health and nutrition. Commercial rabbit pellets are the basis of a proper rabbit diet, but they're not enough to keep a pet happy and healthy. Feed no more than one-quarter cup of pellets per 5 pounds of body weight daily. Fiber is the key to a healthy diet, which is why grass hays such as timothy and oat are important, along with fresh leafy green vegetables such as kale, collard greens, carrot tops and broccoli leaves. Rabbit-lovers learn to pick through the vegetable bins at the grocery store, or ask the produce manager for leafy pieces removed while trimming vegetables for human consumption. • Exercise and play. Rabbits were meant to run, which is why the life of a caged pet can be both sad and short. Indoor rabbits can roam around the house under your supervision. Outdoor pets need a half-hour of activity daily in a protected area. Supervision is a must, since rabbits can be scared literally to death by cats, dogs and even jays and crows. Cat toys, dog toys and even the cardboard tubes inside toilet paper rolls are fun for rabbits, who like to play. Don't forget to see your veterinarian: Rabbits make better pets if spayed or neutered, and their teeth need regular veterinary attention. Are you ready for a rabbit? If the answer's yes, forget the Easter sales push and adopt one from a rescue group or humane society. You'll find lots of great pets to choose from, and you'll be saving a life. The House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org) is the best site on the Web for anyone looking for information on these sweet-natured pets. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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EXERCISE HIS MIND WHEN YOU CAN’T GO OUTSIDE
Winter weather tends to keep us all indoors, especially those of us who are weather wimps. But, for those dogs who enjoy the outdoors regardless of the temperature and hazardous conditions, they just don’t understand why they can’t go to the dog park. If they are going to exercise, the owners must be involved. How fortunate though that mental exercise can be satisfying to bored, bounce-off-the-wall pups on days when an outing isn't possible. Most breeds were developed to work, and few dogs today are asked to. Giving them a job to do is good for them, and they like it. Every trick, whether useful or just plain fun, was born on a gloomy winter afternoon. Teaching dogs new tricks, such as balancing a dog biscuit on the nose, then flip it into the air and catch it on command, barking on request, shaking hands, or finding their toys and putting them in a basket. Search games, where a toy is hidden and then asked to find it can keep a dog occupied for hours and they just light up with pride at their accomplishment when they find the toy. Such games are to dogs what the daily crossword puzzle or the latest computer game is to us. Dogs have to think, they have to learn, and when they get it right, their sense of accomplishment and joy is palpable and contagious. And as pleasurable as these games are, with plenty of praise for a job done right, they also reinforce a dog's place in the pack structure we humans call "family." Start with a simple game and build on it. If your dog likes to retrieve, begin with simple in-sight fetching and then slowly make things harder. Add a "stay." Then "hide" the toy in an easy-to-find spot, making the game a little trickier as your pet learns you want him to "find," instead of merely "fetch." Just don't let them sit around doing nothing. You'll all enjoy a rainy day better if you find something useful to do. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Good basic handling and training prevent most problems from turning into serious issues as the dog matures. We all want to enjoy our puppies and have them grow into safe dogs that spend long and happy lives in our homes. Puppy kindergarten is a great start to making this happen. Your puppy needs this learning environment during critical development stages. If socialization during these stages is missed, some puppies will never be as successful as they could otherwise have been at fitting into your home. Sadly, when a dog can’t function safely with humans, it can ultimately mean a lost home and a lost life. When Is Your Puppy Ready? - Puppies mature at different rates, but classes typically try to get the pups into class prior to 6 months of age. heading off a lot of potential behavior problems. Consult your veterinarian about the best timing for your puppy to take classes. This will depend on the pup’s health and immune status as well as what illnesses are going around. Discuss when to start your pup in class with the instructor, too. Goals and Benefits of Puppy Kindergarten - Several things can be accomplished through puppy kindergarten classes, especially if you keep these objectives in mind: 1. Your pup can begin a lifelong love of going to dog events and gatherings that include other well-behaved dogs. 2. A good class is an opportunity for a weekly outing with your puppy with the supervision of a skilled instructor to help you. 3. Your puppy can gain a love of learning new things that will last for life. It’s amazing what dogs can learn, once they know how to learn and have the confidence that they can do it. 4. You and your puppy develop a working relationship that enables you to safely take the puppy out for other social experiences and continued training. 5. A puppy that might otherwise have grown up fearful and defensive can gain confidence and overcome early problems with people and other dogs. When your puppy is still little and cute, certain lessons are easily taught that would require much more work if delayed. Puppy kindergarten is enormously helpful to humans and dogs, and provides about the best entertainment possible. For a small fee you get to participate in something that is mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy for you and your dog. Seeing the other puppies and sharing the experience with the other puppy-loving humans adds to the fun. Be sure to take the opportunity to do this with and for your puppy. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Pet owners have long been frustrated by age related behavior problems involving loss of house-training, apparent memory loss or disorientation, sleep disturbances (either waking at the wrong time or sleeping unusually deeply) and loss of interest in social activities with the family. Such behavior changes are often written off as being normal aging. A recent study at the University of Cali AVOID Holiday Food Items that could cause problems for your pet - alcoholic beverages, chocolate, coffee, moldy or spoiled foods, onions and onion powder, fatty foods, salt, yeast dough. AVOID Holiday Plants Lilies could be deadly to your cat. Many types of lily can cause kidney failure in cats. Poinsettias, if ingested, can be irritating to the mouth and stomach, and may cause mild vomiting or nausea. Mistletoe has the potential to cause cardiovascular problems. Mistletoe ingestion usually causes gastrointestinal upset. Holly ingestion could cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and lethargy. HAZARDS Around the Christmas Tree Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers, which, if ingested, can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water can be breeding grounds for bacteria, which can also lead to vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea, if ingested. Electric cords - If cords are chewed, your pet could be electrocuted. Cover up or hide electric cords. Ribbons or tinsel can get caught up in the intestines and cause intestinal obstruction. Batteries contain corrosives. If ingested they can cause ulceration to the mouth, tongue, and gastrointestinal tract. Glass ornaments can cut the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract if ingested. OTHER WINTER HAZARDS Antifreeze has a pleasant taste but a very small amount can be lethal. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a cat; less than four teaspoons can be dangerous to a 10-pound dog. Thoroughly clean up any spills. Store antifreeze in tightly closed containers in secured cabinets. Propylene glycol is a safer form of antifreeze. Low Tox™ brand antifreeze contains propylene glycol and is recommended to use in pet households. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-4-ANI-HELP) right away! Liquid potpourris - Pets are often exposed to liquid potpourri by direct ingestion, by rubbing against leaky bottles, or from spilling the containers upon themselves. Oral exposures result following grooming. Exposure of pets to some types of liquid potpourris can result in severe oral, dermal and ocular damage. Ice melting products can be irritating to skin and mouth. Depending on the actual ingredient and the quantity, signs of ingestion would include excessive drooling, depression, vomiting or even electrolyte imbalances. REMEMBER - You should keep telephone numbers for your veterinarian, a local emergency veterinary service, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-4 ANI-HELP) in a convenient location. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something poisonous, seek medical attention immediately. Always be prepared! Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Pet owners have long been frustrated by age related behavior problems involving loss of house-training, apparent memory loss or disorientation, sleep disturbances (either waking at the wrong time or sleeping unusually deeply) and loss of interest in social activities with the family. Such behavior changes are often written off as being normal aging. A recent study at the University of California School of Veterinary Medicine demonstrates how common these observations are: out of 69 dogs participating, 32% of 11 year old dogs were affected by this syndrome and that 100% of dogs 16 years of age older were affected. Still, the high frequency with which the syndrome is seen in older dogs does not make it normal. Old age is not a disease, and any change needs to be checked. Most things can be helped, at least to the extent of making the dog more comfortable and sometimes a great deal more than that. Some things can be completely cured. Dementia in dogs shows deposition of a protein called amyloid in their brain in patterns very similar to the amyloid plaques found in the brains of humans with Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloid plaques decrease the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine. The medication L-Deprenyl (Anipril®), which is given in tablet form once daily, delays the breakdown of dopamine and allows the message from the brain to be received. Further, dopamine breakdown results in harmful biochemicals known as free radicals. The use of L-Deprenyl also helps reduce amounts of free radicals in the brain. Time is of the essence with diagnosis and treatment since dogs can quickly slip into a zone that is more difficult to treat. Anipril® is only available for dogs although similar symptoms are being recognized in cats.
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People with older dogs with numerous "warts" wonder if their dog's warts will go away as viral warts usually do. The problem is that in older dogs, what looks like a viral wart is probably a sebaceous gland tumor; while there is a 98% chance it is benign, it will not be going away any time soon. Viral warts occur primarily on the face of young adult and adolescent dogs. Sebaceous gland tumors occur on any location, often in large numbers, and usually in older dogs (and occasionally in older cats). There are several types of sebaceous gland tumors: Sebaceous Hyperplasia - About 50% of sebaceous growths are technically not tumorous and fit into the sebaceous hyperplasia group. It is thought that this group ultimately progresses to the actual benign tumors described below. These lesions are round, cauliflower-like, and sometimes secrete material that forms a crust. Occasionally they even bleed. They are particularly common in Cocker spaniels, Beagles, Miniature Schnauzers, Poodles, and Dachshunds. This growth is technically not a tumor but is actually an area of excessive sebaceous cell division. Sebaceous Epithelioma - Another 37% of sebaceous growths fit into this category. These look just the same as sebaceous hyperplasias to the naked eye but tend to occur in larger breeds and usually on the eyelids or head. They often pigment into a black color. They are actual benign tumors and not just areas of excessive sebaceous cell division. Sebaceous Adenoma - These lesions also look the same as the others to the naked eye. These are also actual benign tumors that probably arose from areas of hyperplasia.
Sebaceous Carcinoma - About 2% of sebaceous tumors
are malignant and may be locally invasive but even malignant sebaceous
tumors rarely spread. They have a greater tendency towards ulceration
than do the benign growths. Cocker spaniels seem to be predisposed.
• when the growth has been bleeding These growths are typically small (pea size or smaller) and are thus generally amenable to removal with local anesthetic. This is helpful since often patients are older and not good anesthesia candidates. It is usually not practical to remove all the sebaceous growths but the most troublesome can be selected for removal.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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The normal lens of the eye is a focusing device. It is completely clear and is suspended in position by tissue fibers called zonules just inside the pupil. The lens focuses an image on the retina in the back of the eye in a process called accommodation. The focusing power of the dog's lens is at least three times weaker than that of a human and a cat's lens is at best half the focusing power as a human's. (It is helpful to remember that dogs and cats have a sense of smell at least 1000 times more accurate than ours and this is their primary means of perceiving the world.) Despite its clarity, the lens is in fact made of tissue fibers. As the animal ages, the lens cannot change its size and grow larger; instead, it becomes more compact with fibers. This condition is called nuclear sclerosis and is responsible for the cloudy-eyed appearance of older dogs but these lenses are still clear and the dog can still see through them; these are not cataracts. A cataract is an opacity in the lens. The patient with a cataract is not able to see through the opacity. If the entire lens is involved, the eye will be blind. Many things can cause the lens to develop a cataract. A special cause is diabetes mellitus. In this condition the blood sugar soars, as does the sugar level of the eye fluids. The fluid of the eye's anterior chamber (see illustration above) is the fluid that normally nurtures the lens but in the diabetic pet the lens can only utilize so much sugar. Excess absorbed sugar is transformed into sorbitol within the lens, which unfortunately draws water into the lens causing an irreversible cataract in each eye. Cataracts are unavoidable in diabetic dogs no matter how good the insulin regulation is; diabetic cats have alternative sugar metabolism in the eye and do not get cataracts. Cataract treatment generally involves surgical removal or physical dissolution of the cataract under anesthesia. This is invasive and expensive and is not considered unless it can restore vision. A cataract by itself does not necessarily require treatment. If there is no associated inflammation and no associated glaucoma and the only problem is blindness, it is perfectly reasonable to have a blind pet. Blind animals have good life quality and do well though it is important not to move furniture around or leave any hazardous clutter in the home. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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A hematoma is swelling created by a broken blood vessel after bleeding has occurred inside a tissue. Hematomas within the ear flaps (aural hematomas) occur when head shaking breaks a blood vessel. The ear flap The long days of summer are a great time to have -- or be -- a pet. But this glorious season for outdoor activities is not without its hazards. Knowing what to look out for is half the battle. The hazards of summer include: Heat risks. Cats have enough sense to nap on warm afternoons, but dogs do not. If you let them, they'll go where you do, even if it's too hot. Dogs are not good at keeping themselves cool, and they rely on us to keep them out of trouble. The fastest way to get your dog into trouble is to leave him in the car. Even a few minutes in a car on a warm day can kill a dog, so it's best never to take a chance. Limit exercise to the coolest part of the day, no matter how happy your dog is to participate when it's warmer. Even in the cooler part of the day, watch for signs of trouble: Glassy eyes and frantic panting indicate a dog who needs help. Remember: older, obese or snort-nosed dogs are less heat-tolerant, and that all dogs need constant access to shade and an endless supply of cool, clean water. Gardening risks. Protect your pets from poisonous plants, troublesome garden materials or yard chemicals. Popular mulches made from cocoa hulls can be appealing to dogs, but some of these products have been shown to be hazardous. Again, if you use them, use them in areas off-limits to your pets. Be sure to use any pesticides or fertilizers according to label directions, and let lawn chemicals dry before allowing your pet access to the yard. Snail and rodent bait can kill pets, so do not use it in areas where animals have access. Poison risks. In addition to garden chemicals, other common products can present a grave risk to pets. Automotive coolant is deadly even in small amounts, so be sure to clean up all fluids completely and store all products carefully. Escape risks. With many children home from school and coming in and out of the house with friends, pets have more opportunity to slip out unnoticed and be lost. A collar and ID tag are always a good preventive measure and will help get your pet home if he's lost. Field risks. If your hiking takes you through open fields or wooded areas, be sure to check your dog afterward for foxtails and ticks. With a little bit of awareness, you and your pet will have nothing but enjoyment this summer. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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A hematoma is swelling created by a broken blood vessel after bleeding has occurred inside a tissue. Hematomas within the ear flaps (aural hematomas) occur when head shaking breaks a blood vessel. The ear flap may partially or completely swell with blood. The extra weight of the ear flap may be uncomfortable and may lead to a permanent change in the carriage of the ears. This condition is more common in dogs but can occur in cats as well. There are probably as many ways of correcting ear hematomas as there are veterinarians. The following are some commonly performed procedures. Aspiration. This involves simply using a syringe to remove the fluid contents of the hematoma. The problem is that a space is left behind when the fluid is removed and this space readily refills with more fluid. It is common for only temporary results to be obtained when the aspiration method is employed. Pie-crusting Sutures. An incision is made in the ear flap surgically. The hematoma is drained of fluid and blood clots. To prevent the hematoma from refilling with fluid, multiple sutures are placed in the hematoma space either vertically or horizontally, either partly through or completely through the ear flap, with or without ear cartilage removal. Sutures are generally left in place for 3 weeks to allow good scarring to take place so that refilling will not occur. Teat Cannula Placement. A teat cannula is a small device used in the treatment of udder inflammation in cattle. Teat cannulas can also be placed in a dog’s aural hematoma if the ear flap is large enough to accommodate the device. The hematoma is drained of fluids and allowed to heal over the next several weeks. This method is generally successful but does involve the dog tolerating a gadget in its ear flap for several weeks. Usually there is a reason why a dog has been shaking his or hear head: an ear infection. This means that the ear infection must be treated along with the hematoma. If left alone, an ear hematoma will resolve by itself. The fluid will be re-absorbed back into the body. The problem is that a lot of scarring is associated with this process and the ear is often not cosmetically appealing afterwards – a cauliflower ear. It can also take several months to resolve a large hematoma, which may be uncomfortable for the pet. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Q: What is MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
and where does it come from?
There is growing evidence that MRSA infections affect veterinary
species, although few reports of MRSA infections in domestic species
exist. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Q: Can raisins and grapes really poison dogs? Dogs can exhibit problems ranging from acute gastrointestinal signs to life-threatening renal failure or even death. Vomiting occurs in all dogs and begins within the first few hours of ingestion. Because there are still many unknowns about the toxic potential of grapes and raisins, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center had advised that grapes, raisins, and any food containing grape extracts not be given to pets in any amount. If ingestion should occur, owners should seek veterinary assistance immediately to initiate aggressive medical management. For more information on the toxicity of grapes or raisins, see the ASPCA APCC web site (www.apcc.aspca.org). ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Q: Do indoor cats need to be vaccinated for rabies?
A: Descriptions of rabies go back thousands of years as rabies
has classically been one of the most feared infections of all time. It
is caused by a rhabdovirus which in most cases, is transmitted via a
bite wound from wildlife. The virus ultimately reaches the brain and at
this point, the disease becomes transmissible and symptoms begin. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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ANTIFREEZE: Sweet Taste Belies Toxicity
Every year an estimated 10,000 pets fall victim to antifreeze
poisoning. Many animals are enticed by its semi-sweet taste. A fatal
dose can be as little as one ounce for 15-pound dog or one-third ounce
for a cat. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |
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Canine influenza is most likely related to the influenza viruses that
affect horses which was first discovered in 1956. At some point, the
virus mutated and the new strain made the leap from horses to dogs. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As always, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian for your pet’s immediate health needs and concerns. If you have questions about your pet’s health, care, and well-being, email your question to: NtTAskOurVet@aol.com |