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Canine Parvovirus

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

puppyvetvisit Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus is a serious, highly contagious disease that affects the digestive system. It is most common in puppies.

How Dogs Get Parvovirus
Susceptible dogs are infected by swallowing the virus, which is found in the droppings of infected dogs. The virus is difficult to kill with ordinary disinfectants and can survive in the environment for years. People can inadvertently spread it on their hands, shoes, or inanimate objects.

Not every dog exposed to Parvovirus will get sick. Puppies, especially those that have not completed their vaccine series, are most vulnerable. Those born to mothers that were not vaccinated are at extremely high risk. Other factors that influence susceptibility include stress, genetics, parasite infection, and general health. Some breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers, seem to be more likely to become seriously ill.

What the Disease Does
Parvovirus infects the bone marrow and lymph system, weakening the dogs immunity. It simultaneously destroys the lining of the intestinal tract, preventing absorption of water and nutrients. The damaged intestine can leak bacteria into the body. In newborns the virus also damages the heart. Signs of Parvovirus include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration. Dogs can die from dehydration or from bacteria in the bloodstream.7007054900750518 Canine Parvovirusplay Canine Parvovirus

How Parvovirus is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam but also includes laboratory testing of the feces. Other tests that can help the veterinarian treat the disease more effectively include a blood panel and a fecal test for parasites.

Treatment for Parvovirus
There is no specific treatment that kills the virus, but sick dogs are treated for secondary infections and to reduce the symptoms. Hospitalization is usually required. Treatment may include IV fluids to help with dehydration, IV electrolytes and nutrients, antibiotic injections, medications to control vomiting, and drugs that stimulate immunity. Up to 90% of puppies recover with treatment.

Preventing Canine Parvovirus
The key to preventing Canine Parvovirus is a good vaccination program. Puppies are vaccinated starting at 6-8 weeks of age and boostered every 3-4 weeks until the puppy is at least 16 weeks old. In highly susceptible breeds, boosters are given as old as 22 weeks of age. After that, vaccinations are given every 1-3 years depending on the type of vaccine. Its especially important for female dogs intended for breeding to be vaccinated. This allows them to provide immunity that protects their puppies until they are old enough to receive vaccinations.

puppies Canine Parvovirus

Adult dogs that have never been vaccinated before are given one or two vaccinations initially, followed by re-vaccination every 1-3 years. Ask your veterinarian about the best vaccination protocol for your dog.

Dogs with Parvovirus should be isolated from other dogs since the disease is highly contagious. Contaminated objects should be disinfected with a dilute bleach solution.

Because puppies that have not yet received their entire vaccination series are susceptible to Parvovirus, veterinarians recommend minimizing their likelihood of exposure. Avoid taking them to parks or other public, outdoor areas where soil may harbor the virus. If possible, choose puppy socialization and training classes that require the puppies to have started their vaccines. The classes should be held in places that are disinfected regularly. It is also preferable to avoid boarding very young pups.

Keeping your puppy healthy will reduce his susceptibility to Parvovirus. Be sure he receives regular veterinary checkups, gets all recommended vaccines on time, is treated to control parasites, and enjoys a healthy diet.

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Destructive Behavior in Puppies

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Destructive%20Behavior%20In%20Puppies Destructive Behavior in Puppies

Congratulations on bringing home your new puppy! A new puppy can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, along with the fun, often come some challenges for the new owners. One such challenge is managing and controlling your puppys destructive behaviors. This handout will provide some tips, if your puppy tends to exhibit this type of behavior.

Puppies exhibit destructive behaviors for many different reasons. Most puppies are naturally curious about their surroundings and part of their exploration process is to touch, smell and, yes, taste their new environment. In fact, this exploration is normal and even necessary for proper puppy socialization and development. Problems occur, however, when your puppy takes these natural tendencies to the next level and becomes destructive in his behavior. These destructive behaviors may originate for many different reasons. Some small puppies may be trying to satisfy a natural urge to chew or teethe. Other puppies that tear up items, such as magazines, trash or carpets, may be simply playing. Puppies who become anxious when separated from their family members may also exhibit a wide variety of destructive behaviors.

The first step to eliminating destructive behaviors in your puppy is to determine the main cause of the behavior. If your pet destroys a wide variety of items throughout the house at different times of day, then the dog is probably exhibiting play behaviors. If the dog only destroys items when you are separated from him, then your pet is probably experiencing separation anxiety. If your puppy is between three to six months of age and is exhibiting new destructive chewing behaviors, then he is probably beginning to teethe and looking to soothe his sore teeth and gums. With each of these types of behaviors, it is important to analyze your behavior as well to determine if you are inadvertently rewarding the behavior in a way. For example, you catch your pet chewing on an inappropriate object and in order to distract him from the object you give him a treat. Repeating this action will solidify in your pets mind that chewing equals receiving a treat and, therefore, the pet will chew more frequently.[DFR::5032266-13565-ls|align_right_1]

After determining the cause of your pets destructive behavior, steps may then be taken to eliminate the behavior. The first steps should be ones that re-direct the pets attention to proper and appropriate chewing and play behaviors. For the pet exhibiting destructive play behaviors, this redirection may include more proper play times, exercise, training, and new appropriate toys. These new toys should have a variety of tastes, textures, sounds and odors in order to stimulate your pet and redirect their attention. One such example are the many good puzzle toys on the market today that allow you to stuff the toy with treats and allow your pet to work for its reward. If your pet is exhibiting teething behaviors, redirect its attention to appropriate outlets by providing toys with a variety of textures. It may also be good to offer toys that have been cooled in the freezer or toys that have frozen treats inside to ease the puppys gums. For the puppy that is experiencing separation anxiety it may be necessary to confine the animal in an area where it will not damage items while you are away. If the pup is confined, be sure to provide new and interesting toys and treats to distract the pup from your departure and separation.

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If directing your puppys attention away from destructive chewing and toward appropriate areas has not worked then it may be necessary to discipline your pet. Discipline should be swift, humane and should occur at the time of the offense. If possible, it is recommended to use a punishment that will not be associated with the punisher, for example, a spray bottle, noise gun, citronella spray collar or clap. If you cannot confine your pet away from the area while you are not present to supervise, then it may be necessary to deter your pet by placing a booby trap. One idea is to place items that will make a loud noise and movement on or near the area so that when your pet touches or chews he will be greeted with a loud crash and flourish of movement. This attack will frequently deter your pet from further chewing.

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Parasites on Your Dog

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Fleas%2c%20Ticks%2c%20and%20Other%20Parasites Parasites on Your Dog
Parasites are organisms that live in or on your dog, causing harm. Minimizing parasites is an important part of keeping your pet healthy. Some pet parasites can cause problems for people too, so keeping them out of your home is also good for you and your family.

External parasites are insects or arachnids that live on the skin or in the ears, feeding on blood or cell fluids. Most are large enough to be visible, but its easy to miss them on a furry pet. Your veterinarian can tell you about parasite control products that are safe, convenient, and effective.

Fleas
Fleas are about twice the size of the head of a pin and are brown in color. They scurry rapidly through your dogs hair coat and can jump several feet. Fleas can be detected by combing your pet with a fine-toothed flea comb. The presence of flea droppings is another sign. Flea droppings look like black sand. A good trick for differentiating flea droppings from dirt is to add a drop or two of water. Flea droppings contain partially digested blood, and will produce a red color when wet.

Fleas cause severe skin irritation and allergies. Your dog may scratch so much that he creates raw spots, which can become infected. Severe infestations can cause anemia. Fleas are also the carriers of tapeworms. Although fleas prefer furry creatures, they can cause itchy bites on people.

There are many products available for flea control. The newest, safest, and most effective are available from your veterinarian. These products are also very convenient, requiring only a few drops of liquid applied once a month. You may still notice a few fleas occasionally. Sprays for the home and garden can minimize this problem. Make sure to read and follow label directions on all flea products. Some products can be dangerous to you or your dog if they are used improperly.

Lice
Lice are whitish insects that are smaller than fleas. Their eggs, or nits, can be detected on the hair shafts. In dogs, lice are much less common than fleas. Lice can cause skin irritation and anemia. Insecticidal shampoos and other products can be used to treat lice, but it is very important to treat the bedding as well. Although people get lice, they are a different type, so you dont have to worry about getting lice from your pet.

Ticks
Ticks are arachnids, relatives of spiders. Their size varies tremendously, depending on the type, age, sex, and whether the tick has fed on blood. Larval ticks may be smaller than the head of a pin, whereas some adult ticks are larger than a corn kernel. Ticks are detected by careful examination of your pets skin and ears.

Ehrlichiosis Parasites on Your Dog

Ticks can cause anemia and are carriers of many serious diseases, including Lyme disease and Ehrlichia. They can also bite people.

Some of the topical flea products available from your veterinarian for flea control are also effective for ticks. In addition, powerful tick-specific products may be recommended.

Mites
Mites, like ticks, are arachnids, but they are much smaller. Mites are difficult or impossible to see without magnification. Ear mites can be detected by your veterinarian during a physical examination. Skin mites usually require a skin scraping test. Symptoms vary depending on the type of mite, but can include itching, irritation, and hair loss. Skin mites are the cause of mange. Effective mite treatments are available by presMange%20 %20Demodectic Parasites on Your Dog cription. The treatment often takes several weeks.

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Kidney Disease in Cats

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Renal%20Failure Kidney Disease in Cats

The kidneys normally filter the blood, cleansing it of waste products, toxins, and other substances. They maintain the correct balance of water and electrolytes, help regulate blood pressure, and keep the blood pH at the right level. Unfortunately, failure of the kidneys is one of the most common diseases of cats. In this condition, the functional tissue of the kidneys is damaged, leaving them unable to filter the blood adequately. Toxins build up within the body, a condition known as azotemia.

Acute Renal Failure (ARF)
Acute Renal Failure means that the kidneys are damaged suddenly. This is usually caused by poisoning or a lack of blood flow. Poisons that can cause ARF are ethylene glycol (antifreeze); heavy metals such as zinc and lead; and large doses of certain antibiotics, acetaminophen, and chemotherapy drugs. Inadequate blood flow can be caused by shock, hemorrhage, low blood pressure, or dehydration. Infectious illnesses like Leptospirosis can also cause ARF.

Signs of acute renal failure are not very specific. Loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea or dehydration may be seen. Some pets with ARF urinate excessively while others stop urinating altogether. Information on the pets recent experiences is crucial in diagnosis of ARF. Once the veterinarian suspects kidney disease, blood and urine tests are used to determine the cause and the severity of the condition.

Animals with ARF are treated with IV fluids. Additional medications are used to correct electrolyte and pH imbalances and to reduce symptoms. Specific treatment for the original cause of the kidney damage is given if the cause is known. Healing can occur in tissues that are merely damaged, and viable parts of the kidneys will work harder to compensate. Unfortunately, the portions of the kidneys that have been destroyed will not recover.

Pet owners can do several things to reduce the chance of ARF. Keep antifreeze away from pets, and clean up spills immediately. Follow medication dosage instructions, and never give people medicine to pets without first consulting your veterinarian. Make sure that pets, especially older ones, always have access to fresh water.

 

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Chronic Renal Failure (CRF)
Chronic Renal Failure is seen most often in pets over eight years of age, particularly cats. CRF occurs when the functional structures of the kidneys wear out. The damage happens gradually, so months or years may pass before symptoms appear. As much as 75% of the kidney tissue may be destroyed by that time.

Like ARF, symptoms of CRF can be vague. Early signs include loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and sores in the mouth. As the illness progresses, animals drink more water, urinate more, and may have urinary accidents in the house. Eventually, toxin buildup and electrolyte imbalances can damage the nervous system and the eyes, causing seizures, coma and blindness. Many animals with CRF become anemic, because the kidneys are also responsible for stimulating production of new blood cells. The veterinarian will perform blood and urine tests to confirm a diagnosis of CRF and to assess the severity of symptoms.

CRF is a progressive, irreversible disease. Treatment is aimed at slowing the rate of damage and minimizing symptoms. Diets for pets with CRF usually contain restricted amounts of high quality protein and are low in minerals. Many pets require supplemental fluids given periodically under the skin or intravenously. Medications are given to manage nausea, correct electrolyte and pH imbalances, control high blood pressure, and stimulate blood cell production.

The newest treatments available for pets with CRF are hemodialysis and kidney transplantation. These procedures are very costly and are only available at certain veterinary teaching hospitals and specialty practices. Hemodialysis is used as a temporary, emergency method for cleansing the blood. Transplantation can extend a pets life for two or more years. Kidney transplants are complex surgeries with a success rate of about 80% in cats. Pets that receive transplants must remain on anti-rejection medicine for life. Regardless of the type of treatment, the goal is to maintain the pets quality of life. When this is no longer possible, euthanasia may be considered.

Chronic Renal Failure is not preventable. Although some have suggested that low protein diets might have a protective benefit for animals with healthy kidneys, scientific research does not support this belief

For the Nutritional Management of Cats with Kidney Disease

There are many causes for kidney disease resulting in an variety of uncomfortable and life threateningfeline kd Kidney Disease in Cats symptoms for your cat. Kidney disease can be either sudden (acute) or occur gradually (chronic). Prescription Diet® k/d® Feline cat food has been uniquely formulated to help manage cats with kidney disease. Kidney disease can result from other illness or changes in your cat’s health, breed/hereditary tendencies and even nutritional factors. The signs of kidney disease remain difficult to detect until more than two-thirds of kidney function are lost. The nutritional formulation of Prescription Diet® k/d® Feline may also be useful for pets with a variety of conditions.

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Respiratory Diseases in Cats

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

catwvet Respiratory Diseases in Cats

Cats are prone to many respiratory diseases. The most common are infections of the nose, upper respiratory tract and eyes. The causes of upper respiratory infections (URI) are viruses and bacteria. Less commonly, these organisms invade the lower airways (trachea and lungs). Cats also get non-infectious respiratory diseases like asthma.

Feline Respiratory Virus
Two highly contagious virus is to blame for most respiratory infections in cats. These are Feline Herpesvirus-1, which causes feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV), which causes the disease with the same name. Both organisms are easily transmitted through sneezing and contact between cats. They can also be spread on hands, clothing and lifeless objects.

Signs of FVR are sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, which may be thick and green, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and drooling. Non-vaccinated kittens and cats are often seriously ill and may even die. Signs of FCV is similar but there are differences. The nasal discharge in cats with FCV are wet. FCV can also cause mouth ulcers, diarrhea, and arthritis. Some cases of FCV progress pneumonia, but most cats eventually recover. Although laboratory tests are sometimes used, FVR and FCV is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination.

Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing secondary bacterial infections. Liquids are administered, since dehydration is common, especially if the cat does not eat or drink. Decongestants and antihistamines help with nasal problems. Antibiotics not kill the viruses, but are prescribed to sick cats to avoid getting bacterial infections. Cats with FCV and FVR also benefit from being kept warm, stress-free, and is fed to happen. Heated, are highly recommended tasty food, baby food taste like meat, tuna flavored cat food, or veterinary diets designed for sick cats. Most cats recover within one week or two.

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It is difficult to completely prevent viral respiratory infections, but vaccines are very valuable. Vaccinated cats are less sensitive, and if they get any of these viruses as they usually have only mild symptoms. The combination vaccine given to most cats protects against both FVR and FCV. Keeping cats indoors and to avoid exposure to stray animals is also favorable. If you handle other cats, wash hands and change all contaminated clothing before handling your own cat. The virus can linger in the environment for several days, but cleaning with diluted bleach will remove them.

Bacterial Diseases
Two types of bacteria have been linked to respiratory diseases in cats. Chlamydophila felis (formerly Chlamydia psittaci) causes inflammation of the eyelids and watery eyes. It is spread by direct contact between cats and is treated with antibiotics. There is a vaccine for cats at risk.

Bordetella bronchiseptica causes disease similar to viral disease, with one important difference. Coughing is uncommon with other diseases, but is common in cats infected with Bordetella. Bordetella is highly contagious and can be transmitted between dogs and cats. Bordetella is a serious problem in shelters and other places where many cats are housed. Its significance for individually owned cats are still under research. A vaccine has recently become available for cats Bordetella, but it is especially recommended for cats at high risk, such as those in shelters. Check with your veterinarian to see if your cat would benefit from vaccination against bacterial respiratory diseases.

Other Diseases
Cats, other respiratory diseases as well, but they are uncommon. Feline asthma similar condition in humans. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Emergency treatment may be needed for acute episodes. Asthma isn’t cured but can be controlled with medication.

Cough and breathing difficulties may also be a sign of heartworm in cats. This usually disappears within one to two years, but there is no treatment. It can sometimes be fatal. Cats can be protected against infection with heartworms using a monthly medication. Ask your vet whether your cat needs heartworm preventative medication.

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Seizures in Cats

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Seizurescat Seizures in Cats

Seizures are a neurological aberrations that can occur in some pets. They are caused by a variety of reasons and can vary from animal to animal. Seizures, but often scary for the owners, can often be controlled by medication once properly diagnosed. This handout will provide general information about the description, causes and solutions to epileptic seizures in dogs and cats.

Seizures will manifest itself differently in each animal. It is important to remember that even frightening to the owner, your pet does not feel any pain during the episode. And contrary to popular belief, your pet will not swallow his tongue during a seizure episode. In fact, you’re more likely to be bitten if you try to put something in the pet’s mouth. The only precaution you need to do is make sure that your pet is not in danger of  falling or hitting a leg or his head on something during the incident. After the seizure has finished, take the time to observe and comfort your pet since they can become disoriented.

As seizures may appear in any animal, it is best to look for some of the common symptoms:

1. Sporadic muscle contractions throughout the body
2 Falling to the side with a drawn back position of the head and neck
3. Loss or semi-loss of consciousness
4. Involuntary vomiting, salivation, urination or bowel movements
5; Changes in mental awareness from non-staring or seeming to hallucinate

6. Behavioral changes such as panting, pacing, ,fly-biting, extreme docility, extreme agitation, aggression  or does not recognize family members

During the attack, your pet will experience three different phases. First stage of a seizure is called the pre-ictal or aura phase. In this phase, your pet may exhibit a wide range of behavioral changes. These changes may include hiding, vocalizing, nervousness, tremors, and many others. This stage may continue for a few seconds to a couple of hours. It is important to remember, but that some animals do not experience or manifest any sign of this phase.

 

ANIML070 Seizures in Catsplay Seizures in Cats

The second phase of  a seizure is the  ictal phase. This phase can last from several seconds to five minutes and the period during which the body is tense and gives the typical symptoms of an attack as described above. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, it is known as a prolonged seizure or status epileptics. Status epileptics  is a serious and extreme seizure condition and you should see a veterinarian immediately.

The third phase of the seizure is known as post-ictal phase. This phase may include changes in mental awareness, disorientation, restlessness and temporary blindness. This phase varies in length from pets, symptoms and severity.

Seizures may be caused by numerous factors and are often indicators of other physical problems. The most common cause of seizures in pets is epilepsy. A common form of epilepsy caused by the rapid over-stimulation of neurons in the brain. This over-stimulation can be caused by a head injury or may be genetic and inherited from birth. Can attack but also an indicator of side effect and other physical problems. These problems can include brain tumors, poisoning, hypoglycemia, nerve or muscle problems and organ disease.

Depending on the frequency and severity of your pet seizures, it may be treated with oral medications to help control the seizures. Once started, but these drugs must be monitored  and administered for the rest of the pets life. Therefore, your veterinarian will do careful screening and testing before putting your pet on these drugs. It is important to remember that your pet’s seizures is often a manageable condition and many animals live long, happy and fruitful life with epilepsy.

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Spaying your Cat

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Spaying%20Your%20Dog Spaying your Cat

Spaying or ovariohysterectomy (OHE)  is a major surgical sterilization procedure that can provide health benefits for cats. Here are some key facts you should know before you get your cat spayed.

The Spay Surgery
The ovariohysterectomy is an abdominal surgery performed under general anesthesia. Your cats belly is shaved and cleaned, and an incision will be made a couple of inches below her belly button. Your veterinary surgeon will remove both ovaries and uterus. Multiple layers of sutures closes the incision internally. Your veterinarian can also close the skin with stitches or may use a surgical glue. After sterilization surgery, your cat will not go through heat cycles and be unable to become pregnant.

Although the sterilization surgery is very routine, it’s still a major abdominal surgery. It carries the risk normally associated with general anesthesia and surgery. Your veterinarian takes many steps to ensure  your cat’s safe surgery, including monitoring of her heart and lungs to administer anesthesia and monitor her constantly while she sleeps. Additional safety measures such as pre-anesthetic blood tests and administration of IV fluids during the procedure is recommended.

Benefits
Unspayed female cats tend to go through many heat periods every year. In their heat period, your queen will vocalize, roll and act very strange. She will also make every effort to sneak out to find a partner. As a result, she is at high risk of being hit by a car or contracting a disease from the outdoor cats.

Unspayed female also have a higher incidence of mammary tumors, false pregnancies, uterine infections and cancer of the reproductive organs. Sterilization of your cat greatly reduces the risks of these cancers. It has been said that it may be helpful to allow your cat to have a litter of kittens before she is spayed, but this is not necessary. Most veterinarians now recommend your cat to be spayed before her first heat (around 6 months of age).

The final benefit of spaying is that the best way to help end pet overpopulation. Every year is 3-4 million cats and dogs are killed in  animal shelters. None of us want to contribute to this sad statistic, but we can do it without knowing. By allowing your cat to have kittens and you find homes for them, there were that many kittens in the shelter that couldn’t find a home

AV050 Spaying your Catplay Spaying your Cat


Considerations prior to  surgery
Consult with your veterinarian about when to plan your cats spay surgery. Your vet will recommend when to have your cat spayed and you may also want your cat declawed at the same time, if she is to be an inside only cat. Shelters will often spay the kitten before it leaves the shelter.

The night before the cats surgery, your vet may want you to take away her food and water before going to bed. She should not eat or drink anything during the night or in the morning of her surgery.

Considerations After Surgery
Your cat can go home the same day of surgery her, or stay in hospital overnight. If she is declawed, they will stay in the hospital overnight to have her paw bandages removed in the morning. If she goes home the same day, your cat may  feel a little groggy. Keep her inside in a warm, safe, quiet room away from other pets. Offer small amounts of food and water. If she eats or drinks too much at one time, she may get nauseated and vomit. During the first week after surgery, try to limit their activity level. Slight swelling and pain are common, but let your vet know if you see any discharge or if the swelling is excessive. This is very important to keep the litter box very clean for your cat after surgery.

If the cat was in heat when she was spayed, she will continue to attract males during this time. Keep her away from males during her recovery so she isn’t injured by an aggressive male. Sutures, if present, will need to be removed in about 10-14 days. If you have any questions about your cat after her surgery, please do not hesitate to call your veterinarian

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Crate Training

June 15, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Crate%20Training Crate Training
Crate training your dog is a safe and humane way to contain your pet and eliminate unwanted behaviors while you are unable to watch your pet. When you crate train your pet properly, it will help you with housebreaking and  help to relieve anxiety and reduce barking  by providing a safe place for your pet.  A dog who is crate trained early will also be much more relaxed and calm, if it is necessary to travel or board later in life.

When determining if your dog will be confined to a crate or a room in your home, it is important to determine how long you will be absent. If you will be away for a really long time and you are not able to come home to let your dog out,  it may be advisable to confine your pet to a puppy-proofed room in your home with a convenient place to defecate. If you are away only a short time, it is advisable to confine the animal to a crate. If properly trained, your pet will soon see the cage as a safe haven much like a den.
When choosing to buy a crate, consider the size of your pet, personality, and your travel plans in the future. Your crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lay down comfortably. It should have a place for fresh water and food and adequate ventilation. If your pet is sociable and wants to see the world around them, then a mesh crate or a designer den may be a wonderful choice. However, if travel plans in the future of your family, then maybe a sturdy airline approved plastic crate would be a better option.

 

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The first step in crate training your puppy is to teach your pet that crate is a safe haven for him. To do this you should avoid using the crate as a form of punishment and instead associate it with quiet, relaxing and enjoyable experiences. But it is good to remember that it is not a punishment but can be a  useful tool to eliminate certain destructive behaviors.

Begin by letting your puppy to explore the crate on his own. Make the crate a warm and welcoming place by putting his favorite pet bed inside and placing tasty treats or new toys. After a day of adequate exploration and he’s willing to go in and out of the crate on his own, take the dog out to eliminate and exercise.

After returning indoors, put him in the crate with food, water and some new toys. Shut the door and leave the room. Remain close enough to hear the puppy, but out of sight. If he is tired after the recent exercise, then the short nap in the box.

Vocalization and escape exploration is normal when your pet is first confined to his crate. Wait a few minutes, until the puppy has stopped vocalizing before releasing him. Do not let your puppy out when he barks or cry because it reinforces the behavior and links barking with being out of the cage. If your puppy will not stop barking, then some external behavior modification may be necessary to distract the pup and make it stop. A squirt bottle or shaker can be used for the startle response.

When you let your pet out of the box do not get excited or offer too much praise. To be released from the crate should not be treated as a reward, rather that  going in the cage should be praised and rewarded. Practice leaving your pet in the crate for short periods many times during the next few days. At bedtime, your pet should also be placed in the crate after taken outside for elimination and exercise.

As the puppy becomes more comfortable in her new crate, gradually increase the time the puppy is kept confined. Keep in mind how long your pet can hold his bladder and never let it be kept in a crate for longer than this time. As your pet gets older and the time spent in her new crate can be increased, hopefully he will like his space as a safe haven and a place to find new and exciting treats and toys.
Dr Debra Garrison

debragarrison Crate Training
Dr. Debra Garrison
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Caring for Our Senior Pets

June 14, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Caring%20for%20the%20Older%20Dog Caring for Our Senior Pets

If your dog is seven years or older, he has entered his golden years. In middle and old age, metabolism slows, their digestive system has more difficulty absorbing nutrients and joints and muscles become weaker. Diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, renal failure, hypothyroidism, heart disease and various cancers are more common. The good news is that many diseases respond to treatment if detected early. Here are some simple steps to keep your senior dog healthy and happy.

Routine veterinary visits
Even if the dog seems fine, he should go to the vet at least twice a year. Remember that dogs age the equivalent of seven or more years for each calendar year. Your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical exam and listen to your dogs heart and lungs. He will check for signs of disease, especially conditions that occur commonly in older dogs. Your vet visit is also a great opportunity to ask questions.

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Diagnostic Tests
When people reach middle age, there  are routine tests such as blood tests, cancer screening and evaluation of the heart that doctor’s recommend to maintain good health. Same goes for older dogs. The reason, in both dogs and humans is that some diseases are not visible during a physical examination, but can be detected in other ways. Tests recommended for dogs seven years or older are listed below.

Comprehensive Blood Panel :Each type of blood cells are counted and the chemical components of blood plasma is measured. This gives information about the health of the bone marrow, kidney, liver, pancreas and thyroid, and can help to detect infections.

Complete Urinalysis concentration and chemical constituents of the urine measured. Cells and other solids in the urine examined microscopically. The urinalysis provides information about the health of the kidneys and bladder, and is also useful in the diagnosis of diabetes.

Chest X-ray – radiographs allow visualization of the internal organs of the body. Chest x-rays are recommended to assess the state of the heart and lungs and to detect tumors.

Abdominal X-Rays -  X-ray of the abdomen is useful to detect tumors and to assess the state of the kidneys, bladder, intestines and spleen.

Electrocardiogram -  This test measures electrical impulses in the heart, using sensors placed on the skin. ECG is useful in detecting heart disease.

Vaccinations
As he did when he was younger, your dog will benefit from the protection of regular vaccination against infectious diseases. Your veterinarian will recommend a vaccine program tailored to your dogs age, lifestyle and health.

Nutrition
Healthy older dogs require a diet that is lower in calories, yet rich in important nutrients such as high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Special diets are available to address the more specific requirements in dogs with medical conditions. Your veterinarian is your best guide in choosing a diet that will keep your dogs tail wagging.

Musculoskeletal
Your dog may be slowing, but he needs exercise. Regular exercise can help keep him supple and prevent obesity. Remember to tell your veterinarian if your dog has pain when he stands up, walks or goes up and down stairs. Medications can be available to him more comfortable.

Dental
Keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy are essential to his well being. Dental disease is painful and can cause an infection in internal organs such as kidneys and heart. Your veterinarian should check your dogs teeth regularly. He’ll let you know when your dog needs a professional dental cleaning. Under general anesthesia, all of the plaque, tartar and bacteria are removed from the teeth. Once  your dog’s teeth are clean, it’s your job to keep them healthy. Brushing, dental diets and soft chew toys are very effective.

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Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

June 13, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Chocolate%20Poisoning Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

Like people, most pet dogs find chocolate highly palatable. Unfortunately, chocolate contains stimulants that are toxic in high doses. Small dogs are at highest risk, since a relatively small amount of chocolate may contain more stimulant than they can handle.

How Chocolate is Harmful
Chocolate contains theobromine, a powerful stimulant related to theophylline (a respiratory medication) and caffeine. Chocolate also contains caffeine, but in much smaller quantities. Dark, unsweetened, and bakers chocolate have the highest concentration of theobromine. Milk chocolate, white chocolate, and confections that contain small amount of cocoa (such as cakes, cookies, and chocolate-coated candies) also contain the stimulant in lower levels.

Theobromine stimulates the central nervous system and the heart, increases blood pressure, and causes digestive upset. Signs of chocolate toxicity include excitement, agitation, or nervousness, thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe poisoning can result in loss of coordination, seizures, coma and death.

Diagnosis of Chocolate Poisoning
If you know that your dog has consumed chocolate, tell your veterinarian the quantity and the type of chocolate. The amount required to be toxic depends on the type of chocolate and the size of the dog. If your dog has consumed a dangerous amount, prompt treatment can reduce the likelihood of serious illness. Unfortunately, dogs sometimes get into chocolate and other poisons without their owners knowing. This can make accurate diagnosis much more difficult.

cutepuppy Chocolate Poisoning in Dogsplay Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

 

german shepard Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

Treatment
If your pet can get to the veterinarian within 4-8 hours of eating the chocolate, it may be possible to prevent absorption of the toxin into the bloodstream. Emetics cause vomiting, which is removing the chocolate from the body when administered within four hours of exposure. A special absorbent medicine containing charcoal can be given up to eight hours after exposure. The charcoal binds to the chocolate in the intestine, preventing it from being absorbed and allowing it to be excreted in the feces. There is no specific antidote for theobromine, but animals that have already absorbed the toxin can benefit from IV fluids, heart medications, and anti-seizure drugs.

Preventing Chocolate Toxicity
Be sure to keep chocolate and all other potential poisons well out of reach of pets. Remember that unsweetened bakers chocolate is the most hazardous. Even though one or two M&Ms are not likely to be deadly, avoid the habit of feeding any amount of chocolate to your dog.

debragarrison Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs
Dr. Debra Garrison
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