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Pet Sounds (27)
How to Make Your Cat Like, Well, Tolerate Its Carrier
Encourage fondness of the carrier when the cat is young.
If your older cat is currently afraid of its carrier, buy a new carrier that is completely different.
If you have had a dog and trained it to become comfortable in a crate, apply the same tactics to a cat carrier.
· Leave the carrier out at all times for the cat to explore.
· Place a comfortable pad in the carrier that will serve as a bed should your cat choose to take a nap inside.
· If roomy enough, feed your cat inside the carrier. Otherwise, place treats inside so that your cat will have positive association with going into the carrier.
· If your cat is a fan of basking in the sunlight, position the carrier in the sun’s rays to entice your cat inside.
· Place the carrier in other favorite locations around the home where your cat likes to spend time.
Once your cat has become comfortable spending time inside the carrier, slowly begin to practice carrying your cat around the home. This will help your cat adjust to the feeling of movement like that of being in the car. Next, take your cat for a very short car ride. Gradually increase the length of the rides until your cat seems comfortable. If your cat seems unafraid of the carrier, but is stressed in the car, talk to your vet about other options for helping to calm your furry friend.
Have Dog or Cat, Will Travel
There are many products available to take your pet with you on walks, hikes or on the road.
Strollers are not just for babies and toddlers anymore. Many pet parents have adopted using strollers to take their pets for walks. They are great for cats to explore the great outdoors without the dangers of cars, other animals and exposure to parasites. Strollers are wonderful for senior dogs that might not have the stamina for long walks anymore. They are also very convenient for taking pets into stores and are ideal for your pet to “hang out” next to you while you dine outdoors.
In addition to strollers, there are backpacks, sling carrier bags and pooch pouches similar to a Baby Bjorn. All of these are constructed to allow you to walk about while your pet is snuggled close against you.
When it comes to car travel, safety for your pet is a priority. Cats should always be secured in a carrier. Dogs can ride in a crate or they can be secured with a safety harness. There are many varieties of crates available. Make sure that your dog will be comfortable to adjust positions within the crate and line the bottom with comfortable bedding. A crate which provides your dog with visibility may help it to feel more secure and will also provide more visual stimulation for long trips. To help reduce anxiety, provide at least one favorite toy or chew item inside of the crate.
If your dog is not used to being in a crate, provide short periods for adjustment in your home before moving the crate into the car. Begin with brief rides and gradually increase the length to acclimate your dog. Once the crate is ready to be positioned in the vehicle, make sure to secure it so it does not slide. This will prevent your dog from becoming anxious and will also keep it more secure in case of an accident.
Based on your dog and your type of vehicle, a car harness may be preferable to a crate. There are many different harnesses available. Here is a link to some of the top-rated choices.
https://www.thedogclinic.com/dog-harnesses/car
Failure to restrain your dog or cat is not only dangerous to the pet, but can also lead to accidents when the driver becomes distracted.
Preventing Dog Bites
Even Major, the First Dog, can wind up in the “dog house” when biting someone unexpectedly. He is not the first misbehaved White House pet. Polly, James and Dolly Madison’s parrot seriously bit the President and attacked many White House visitors. Pete, Teddy Roosevelt’s Bull Terrier and favorite dog, was notorious for biting the ankles of White House visitors. When Pete ripped the pants of the French Ambassador, he was relocated to Sagamore Hill, the Roosevelt home on Long Island.
Why Do Dogs Bite?
Any dog, no matter how friendly, cute, small or cuddly can bite. It is rare for a dog to bite “out of nowhere” or “all of a sudden.” There is usually an underlying reason that provokes a dog to bite.
• Reaction to stress
• Feeling scared or threatened
• To protect themselves, their owners or puppies
• If disturbed while not feeling well or sleeping “Let sleeping dogs lie.”
• Dogs may nip or bite while playing. Always avoid engaging in rough play games.
Each American child has a 50% chance of being bitten by a dog. 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs in the U.S. each year.
How to Prevent Dog Bites
• Never approach an unfamiliar dog.
• Do not run from a dog, remain calm and quiet.
• If approached by an unfamiliar dog, stand still, avoid eye contact, do not scream.
• Do not disturb a dog while it is sleeping or eating. Use caution when taking away a toy.
• If knocked to the ground by a dog, tuck into a ball, stay still, cover your ears and neck with your arms and avoid eye contact.
• Never encourage aggressive play behavior.
• Never pet a dog without asking the owner permission first.
• Respect a dog and never pull its ears, or tail and never try to “ride” a dog like a horse.
• Never tease a dog by taking away its food, treats or toys.
• If a dog moves to its bed or crate, it is indicating it wants to be left alone.
• If a dog is scared from loud noise and is hiding (under a bed, in a crate, in a closet), do not try to pull the dog out!
Most dog bites involve dogs which are not spayed or neutered, so having your pet spayed and neutered will decrease the likelihood of biting incidents.
Parents must teach children how to appropriately approach a strange dog. Some tips include:
1. Always ask permission from the dog owner before approaching a dog.
2. The child should approach the dog slowly and calmly without making any startling sounds.
3. Be sure to approach the dog from the front, allowing him/her to sniff and see the child
4. The child should present a closed fist for the dog to smell, no open fingers
Children should also be taught how to respond when an unfamiliar dog off leash approaches.
1. Never run away from a dog. Dogs perceive this as a game and are more likely to become excited and bite.
2. Avoid eye contact with a potentially aggressive dog and, if possible, back up slowly.
3. If a dog tries to bite, use a stick or other available item to keep between you and the dog. Tossing an object or food will help to distract the dog. If no distractions are available, stand up straight with arms wrapped around your body or tuck yourself in a ball, cover your face, and stay still.
Dog bites can lead to serious infections. If you or your child is bitten, be sure to seek medical attention.
When it comes to making medical decisions regarding dogs and cats, it is always best to be safe rather than sorry. Although an emergency veterinary hospital examination alone can be costly, it is well worth the peace of mind it can provide and it may in fact save your pet’s life. The following situations warrant immediate medical attention.
Changes in breathing
· rapid or shallow
labored
cats with open mouth breathing
Check your pet’s gums and look for bluish gray coloration which can indicate poor oxygenation or pale/white gums suggestive of an underlying bleeding problem.
Bite Wounds, Cuts and Lacerations
Because of the risk of infection, all wounds should be handled immediately by veterinary staff. Some first aid tips include flushing the site with saline or clean water. Apply firm pressure to stop bleeding. Wrap wounds with bandage material, clean socks or towels. Keep pressure on the bleeding site for a minimum of 3 minutes. Removing gauze or other bandage material too quickly will prevent clot formation.
Limping, Lameness, Fractured Bones
Seek immediate medical attention if your pet has suffered trauma or is suddenly not bearing weight on a leg for unknown reasons. It is important to handle these pets carefully as they are in pain and can inadvertently bite out of fear.
A fractured leg might appear bent at an odd angle, swollen or have a protruding bone. Animals with known or suspected fractures should be transported on boards or supported with blankets.
Bleeding (Internal)
· coughing up blood
bleeding from nose, mouth, rectum
blood in urine or eyes
internal bleeding will often result in pale gums and collapse.
Bites from Insects or Snakes
Insect bites often result in allergic reactions which manifest with:
puffy skin around eyes
swollen ears/face
scratching
hives
vomiting
diarrhea
difficulty breathing (less common)
Burns
Since burns are extremely painful, before handling the pet, apply a muzzle. Immediately flush the site with cool water for several minutes. Apply a cold compress to the area before transporting to a veterinarian. Never apply ice directly to the skin!
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV/Bloat)
This life threatening condition often affects dogs that have deep chests. The stomach becomes dilated and rotates out of its normal position, compromising the blood supply to the spleen and stomach, resulting in shock. Dogs with GDV typically have a distended abdomen and retch without producing anything. As their status worsens, they often collapse and need to be carried into the veterinary office. If you suspect GDV, do not delay transport to a veterinary office!
Choking
Pets cannot signal choking with the universal sign of a paw lifted to the throat. They might exhibit difficulty breathing, coughing, hacking, pawing at the mouth or a blue-tinged tongue. If your pet can still breathe, try to keep it calm and rush it to a veterinarian. If your pet cannot breathe, examine its mouth for a foreign object. Carefully use your fingers or tweezers to clear the airway. Be careful to not push the object further down the throat!
If you are unable to remove the blockage and your pet is not breathing, place both hands on each side of its rib cage and quickly squeeze your hands together. If your pet has collapsed and is laying on its side, apply pressure to the rib cage with the palm of your hand quickly 3-4 times (as if doing CPR). The application of pressure to your pet’s rib cage will hopefully force air out of the lungs and expel the object from the airway.
Eye Injuries/Problems
Eye issues can turn bad very quickly. It is best to have eye problems checked in a timely manner. Seek veterinary care if you notice:
· squinting
pupils of different size
discharge that is greenish-yellow
redness
bulging of the eyes or swelling of the eyes
Seizures
If your pet has been diagnosed with a seizure disorder and it has an episode that lasts for only 1-2 minutes, it does not warrant an emergency visit. However, status epilepticus is characterized by seizures lasting more than 5 minutes and is considered a life threatening condition.
Anytime your pet has a seizure episode, ensure it is safe by keeping it away from stairs or inflicting harm to itself. If your pet is having multiple episodes within an hour, or is having seizures that are different than the typical pattern, seek veterinary care.
Paralysis
If your dog or cat is not able to walk or use its back legs, take it immediately to a veterinarian. Cats which suddenly cannot use their hindlegs are commonly affected by a life threatening blood clot that affects their aorta and blocks the blood supply to the rear legs. For dogs, the sudden inability to walk is often due to the compression of the spinal cord from a prolapsed intervertebral disc. This condition is not only painful, but can have lasting damage to the spinal cord and requires immediate intervention.
Poison/Toxic Substance
Potential signs of exposure:
· vomiting
diarrhea
excessive salivation
seizures
weakness
disorientation
bleeding
If you know what your pet ingested, bring the material or container with you to the veterinary office. If you cannot take your pet to a vet immediately, call ASPCA Poison Control 1-888-426-4435. The sooner you take action following a poison exposure, the better the outcome for your pet.
Vomiting
Not all episodes of vomiting warrant a veterinary visit. However, if your pet is very young or old, it is always best to have it examined. If your pet continues to vomit for more than one day, is trying to vomit, but is not producing anything, or is vomiting multiple times in one day, seek veterinary care. Other reasons to seek veterinary care include blood in the vomit, difficulty breathing, concurrent diarrhea, lethargy and refusal to eat or drink.
Diarrhea
As with vomiting, not all cases of diarrhea warrant veterinary care. Some can be managed with a bland diet at home. However, if diarrhea is persisting for more than one day, contains blood, or is concurrent with vomiting, lethargy and a poor appetite and refusal to drink, seeking veterinary attention is advised.
Urination
Urinary blockages are much more common in male cats and dogs than in females. The inability to pass urine is a life threatening condition. Other reasons to seek veterinary care include blood in the urine and excessive urination. Seeing blood in urine and loss of litter box training and house breaking habits are suggestive of possible bladder stones or infection. A timely, but not emergent veterinary visit is warranted. Excessive urination with no other symptoms can indicate several disease processes, but is not usually indicative of a life threatening problem and is therefore not an emergent situation.
Heat Stroke
· excessive panting
weakness/collapse
brick red gums
seizures
If your dog is showing signs of heat stroke, immediately spray it with a hose to help cool the body’s temperature. Smaller dogs can be placed in a tub. Use cool water, never place a dog in an ice cold bath. After a quick cooling attempt, rush your dog to a vet for immediate medical attention.
Preventing Heat Stroke:
Never leave pets in a car on hot days, especially when also humid. Temperatures in cars rise quickly to deadly levels.
Provide plenty of water and shade on warm days.
Be careful with guinea pigs, they are prone to heat stroke
Certain dog breeds are also prone to heat stroke (bull dogs, pugs, boxers, Boston terriers)
Walk your dog first thing in the morning and after the sun has set. Never exercise your pet from 10 am to 3 pm when it is the hottest.
Fireworks, Water Safety, Traveling
Many people question my patriotism when they hear me say, “I’m dreading the 4th of July.” As a history buff, the day does have sad undertones when you consider that both presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams passed on July 4, 1826 (25 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence). It is, however, the association with fireworks that causes my dread of this American holiday. Fireworks are extremely frightening not just for my dog Jem, but affect nearly half of all dogs. Cats can also be fearful of loud noises such as fireworks, thunderstorms, construction and backfires, but are less affected than dogs.
Thunderstorms are different than other events merely associated with noise. Dogs often become fearful before the storm arrives. Dogs begin to react when they sense a change in the barometric pressure or when they hear and see rain and wind. Both thunder and lightning associated with storms can dramatically affect dogs. Surprisingly, not all dogs with storm phobias are affected by loud noises and not all dogs afraid of loud noises are sensitive to storms.
Noise phobias are not only stressful for the afflicted dog or cat, they can be very unsettling for the pet parent. Watching your pet in emotional distress is heart breaking. Pet owners often feel helpless when it comes to comforting an upset dog or cat. Common symptoms of noise phobia include:
- Shaking/trembling
Panting
Whining/barking/meowing
Drooling
Hiding
Destructive behavior
Some dogs will show subtler signs such as lip licking, yawning, or just remaining stationary out of fear.
If your dog or cat is very fearful of loud noises or storms, consult your pet’s veterinarian. Suggestions can be offered to help minimize your pet’s anxiety. One strategy is avoidance. By avoiding the offensive stimulus, your pet will have nothing to fear. However, since we cannot control the weather, avoid neighbors who light fireworks, or prevent local construction, this is easier said than done.
As pet owners, we can take measures to minimize our pet’s fear. For example, when fireworks or storms are expected, keep your pets inside and play the television or radio at a loud volume to drown out the offending noise. Some dogs can be distracted by providing a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter. Allow your pet to hide wherever it feels comfortable. Never scold a pet or try to make it leave a secure hiding location! Many dogs seek shelter in bathrooms and specifically bathtubs.
During storms or fireworks, try to engage your dog in a playful game or obedience skill to redirect its focus. Nonprescription medications can be tried. There are pheromone products such as Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats that can be helpful. These products mimic the natural chemicals released by a nursing mother dog or cat and provide a sense of calm for pets. “Rescue Remedy” is a natural product that can also create a calming effect for stressed pets. A “Thunder Shirt” is a snuggly fitting coat that “hugs” the pet and gives a sense of security.
If non-medication products do not provide enough stress relief, a veterinarian should be consulted to discuss medications for your anxious pet. There are many different medications that can be tried, but not all can resolve noise phobias. Some pets benefit from a multimodal approach. Finding the solution to a pet’s anxiety requires time and patience and often the best plan is discovered by trial and error.
Summer Vacation Travel with Your Dog
Within recent years, dogs have enjoyed an elevated status as members of the family. It is only natural that they be included on family vacations. If you plan to bring your furry companion on a family trip, there are many considerations.
Before hitting the road:
· Be sure your pet is comfortable in car (not anxious, not prone to car sickness).
· Seat covers protect car fabric and prevent dog from slipping.
· Safety harness or travel carriers help to secure dog in case of sudden stops or accidents.
· Keep cats in carrier for their safety as well as preventing driver from being distracted.
· If feeding ahead of time, provide a very small meal.
· Do not allow dog to stick head out of window - particles can get into eyes, other flying objects could be dangerous
Items to pack:
· regular food, treats, dishes, bed, toys, fresh water
· leash or harness
· medications (heartworm preventative, flea/tick medications, seizure medication, other important daily medicine)
· bland food and medications in case pet has a sensitive stomach (consult your dog’s veterinarian)
· research phone numbers of local vets, emergency clinics in case needed
· Bring number for ASPCA Poison Control 1-888-426-4435
· be sure pet has ID tag with cell phone number, temporary ID tags can be made with address of where you are vacationing
· recent photo of pet (in case it gets lost)
· proof of vaccines and medical records
· grooming supplies (shampoo, brush)
· carpet cleaning product in case of accidents
· poop bags
First Aid Kits are recommended:
bandages, Telfa pads, gauze, triple antibiotic ointment styptic powder for broken nails digital thermometer and lubricating jelly hydrogen peroxide /saline solution for cleaning wounds
TRAVEL WITHOUT PETS
Travel plans can be very exciting and it may be easy to become distracted from making the necessary arrangements for pets prior to your vacation. Be sure to make arrangements for pets to be taken care of in your home, to stay with a friend, or to stay at a boarding facility. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE! BOARDING KENNELS BOOK UP QUICKLY AT HOLIDAY TIMES AND IN THE SUMMER MONTHS. MAKE SURE YOUR PET SITTER WILL BE AVAILABLE WHILE YOU PLAN TO BE ON VACATION.
If leaving a pet at home, be sure to choose a reliable pet sitter.
Make sure he/she is well acquainted with your pets
Leave a written list of instructions for sitter.
- note amount of food to be fed, normal feeding times, number of treats/snacks
- note how often and at what times dog goes out to go to the bathroom
- note any common problems to monitor (cat with urinary problems, pets with seizures, arthritis, diarrhea, etc)
If leaving pets in kennel:
• Get referrals to make sure facility is reputable.
• Make sure that if kennel is not affiliated with vet hospital, they will be able to provide medical care in case of emergency.
• Make a scheduled and surprise visit to kennel to evaluate
• Bring pet’s favorite toys, blankets, and regular food to avoid likelihood of vomiting or diarrhea
Whether leaving pet with sitter or in kennel, ALWAYS LEAVE EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
GIVE PET SITTER CONSENT TO APPROVE MEDICAL TREATMENT IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. You can call vet office to let them know pet sitter has authority to okay any treatment needed. You can even leave credit card number on file.
SOME WEB SITES TO LOOK INTO:
www.bringfido.com
www.travelpets.com
www.petswelcome.com
www.tripswithpets.com
Water Safety
Although many breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Portuguese Water Dogs seem to have a natural affinity for water and the ability to swim, not all dogs like water. Many cannot swim and are at risk for drowning. During the warmer months, extra precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of dogs around pools, lakes and the ocean.
Never assume that your dog can swim, even if it is a breed known for its swimming prowess. Always test your dog first in shallow water. This will enable you to assess both your dog’s comfort and skills in the water. Never force your dog into water if he/she is afraid!
Even if your dog is an experienced swimmer, never let your dog swim unattended. Dogs do not realize when they are becoming tired and might not have enough energy to swim safely out of the water. Always fit your dog with a life vest when taking it on a boat (this includes kayak or canoe).
Pools
All pools should be surrounded by a fence. This will ensure that both dogs and small children cannot fall in when unattended. Be sure your pool cover is secure and does not retain water. Teach your dog where the exit steps are located and practice having your dog exit the pool at the steps. Pool chemicals can be irritating to the skin of some dogs, so rinse these pets off with a hose or in a tub after a swim.
Beach
Discourage your dog from drinking salt water. Bring fresh water to keep your pup well hydrated. If there are warning of strong riptides or sea pests that sting, keep your dog out of the water. While sea glass is an exciting find and is dull and polished, be careful of fresh, sharp glass fragments which can cause cuts to dogs’ paws. Some dogs love to eat smelly, gross things like rotting fish. Keep a close watch on your dog to avoid the ingestion of beach items that will later cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Fleas, Ticks and Heartworm
Fleas
The arrival of spring brings many beautiful flowers and blossoms on the trees. Unfortunately, the warm weather also beckons the emergence of fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. These insects pose health risks to people as well as dogs and cats.
• Fleas suck blood from pets and can cause anemia, a decrease in the body’s red blood cell count.
• When a flea takes a blood meal, flea saliva is transferred into the host’s body. It is the flea saliva that causes an allergic response and severe itchiness experienced by some dogs and cats.
• Fleas can also transmit tapeworms to dogs and cats and cause feline infectious anemia.
Ticks
Ticks also carry several infectious diseases that pose a threat to pets.
• Lyme disease is the most common illness transmitted by ticks.
• Dogs are most commonly affected by Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterial agent that causes Lyme disease, but cats, cattle and horses can also be affected.
• People can become very ill from Lyme disease.
• Lyme disease is very common in our area and the northeastern United States. It is also found in Wisconsin, Minnesota and parts of California. A recently published study has shown the spread of Lyme disease in states previously at lower risk such as Illinois, Iowa, Virginia, Ohio and Michigan. Patterns of Lyme infection in dogs serves as an important warning system for people.
• Animals such as the white footed mouse and white tailed deer carry Borrelia burgdorferi, but do not become ill.
• When a tick feeds on these wildlife, it picks up the bacteria. The tick then bites a dog or person and transmits the bacteria.
• The tick must be attached for at least 24 hours in order to pass the bacteria.
• Dogs cannot pass Lyme disease to people or other dogs; only ticks can transmit the disease.
• If your dog tests positive for Lyme disease, family members should consult their doctors since both the family and dog share the same environment
• Once a dog is bitten by a tick carrying Borrelia burgdorferi, it becomes “Lyme positive.” This does not mean it has Lyme disease, just that there has been exposure indicated by a blood test.
• From the time a dog is exposed to the Lyme agent, it can take several months before any symptoms are seen.
The typical clinical signs of Lyme disease in dogs include:
• Lameness
• Swollen joints
• Fever
• Lethargy/depression
• Decreased appetite
The good news is that most dogs exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi do not develop Lyme disease. It is also favorable that dogs symptomatic for Lyme disease recover very quickly once antibiotics are started. There is a small percentage of dogs, however, that have persistent joint problems or suffer kidney damage related to Lyme disease.
Besides Lyme disease, ticks can also cause diseases such as Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. These diseases cause similar symptoms to Lyme and are also treated with antibiotics.
Heartworm
According to the Companion Animal Parasite Council, the incidence of tick borne disease in dogs is rising. The incidence of heart worm disease in the U.S. is also on the rise with a 21% increase in reported cases in the past 3 years.
Heart worm disease is transmitted by a different vector, the mosquito.
• It can affect both dogs and cats, but it is seen more commonly in dogs.
• Heartworms have also been identified in ferrets, wolves, coyotes, foxes, sea lions, and rarely in people.
• When a mosquito takes a blood meal from a dog, the immature form of the worm enters the dog’s skin.
• Over about 6 months, the worm matures and will then mate and produce more worms.
• The immature offspring called microfilaria circulate in the dog’s blood vessels. When a mosquito takes a blood meal, it will pick up the microfilaria and can infect other animals.
• Like Lyme disease, a dog with heartworm cannot pass it to another dog. It can however serve as a host for mosquitoes to pick up the microfilaria and spread heartworm.
• The adult worms live in the heart and nearby blood vessels. As the number of worms increases, the damage to the heart and lungs becomes worse.
• The common symptoms are coughing, decreased ability or willingness to exercise, decreased appetite and resulting weight loss.
• As the disease progresses, dogs will experience heart failure and another life threatening problem called caval syndrome. Caval syndrome requires immediate medical attention and is treated by literally removing the worms from within the patient’s heart. This is a dangerous procedure with many risks.
• Unlike dogs, cats are atypical hosts for heartworm, so the worms are not as likely to develop into adults.
• Cats do not develop as many worms as dogs, but just a few heartworms in a cat can cause significant health problems.
• Cats will show similar symptoms such as coughing, poor appetite, weight loss and sometimes vomiting.
• Cats can also show signs of heart failure such as difficulty breathing and fluid in the abdomen.
• Heartworm disease is diagnosed with a blood test.
• There is a treatment available for dogs, but this harsh medication is not safe to use in heartworm positive cats.
• Because there is no treatment for cats and the treatment for dogs can have serious side effects, prevention of heartworm disease is best.
• Heartworm can be prevented by giving your pet a medication on a monthly basis. Year round prevention is recommended, even in cold climate areas. Heartworm has been identified in all 50 states.
• Many heartworm preventatives also help to prevent intestinal parasites and fleas, so there are multiple benefits.
The American Heartworm Society recommends giving your pet heartworm preventative 12 months a year and to have a test done every 12 months.
It is a lot cheaper to prevent heartworm disease than to treat it!
For more information on heartworm disease and a cool video, visit
https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-basics
For more information on Lyme disease and a great podcast, visit
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/lyme-disease.aspx
Pets and Vaccines
Pets and Vaccines
What is a vaccine? A substance used to provide immunity against one or several diseases. It essentially teaches your body how to fight off infections. I just had Jem to the vet today for his annual vaccines. Let’s talk about how both kids and pets hate to get “shots” but why they are important. I wanted to address the controversy of parents refusing vaccines for their kids and how vaccines have become questionable in recent years. It is also the case for pets. I want to address the pros and cons of vaccines for pets.
Reasons why pet parents may not want to have their pets vaccinated:
1) Pet does not go outside
• Pet might go to groomer
• Pet might go to pet store
• Pet travels to vet
• Pet can unexpectedly escape from home and be exposed to wildlife outside
• Wild animals such as bats and raccoons which carry rabies can enter home
2) My pet was vaccinated and become sick anyway
Not all vaccines provide 100% immunity. Some will help to minimize the symptoms and shorten the course of the illness.
3) The risk of tumor formation at the vaccine site in cats
• The risk is thought to be 1/10,000
• Veterinarians now administer vaccines in distal limbs so that the problem can be identified and managed.
• When a link was established between a substance added to vaccines called an adjuvant, non-adjuvant containing vaccines were created.
4) Adverse Reactions
An adverse reaction is an undesirable occurrence associated with the use of a medical product. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict which pet might experience an adverse reaction to a vaccine. It is always recommended to schedule your pet for vaccines when you are able to be home and monitor it afterwards.
Reactions can vary from mild to severe. It is best to aware of what can happen and what signs to watch for.
Mild: achiness, sleepiness, local inflammation, pain
Moderate: hives, face swelling
Severe: auto-immune disorders (delayed), collapse, shock (immediate)
Puppies and kittens need to be vaccinated every 2-4 weeks from 6 to 16 weeks of age.
Puppies and kittens receive immunity from their mothers, but over time, it this protection becomes less effective. That is why it is important for young pets to visit the vet often to receive vaccine boosters to ensure proper immunity against infectious diseases.
Not all vaccines are considered mandatory for each pet. The vaccines considered important for all pets are called “core” and those that are optional are called “non-core” vaccines. When deciding what is right for your pet, it is best to discuss this with your veterinarian.
Canine Core Vaccines
• Rabies
• Canine distemper (affects respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems) Can be found in wildlife such as foxes, wolves, coyotes, racoons, skunks, ferrets, seals, lions, and tigers.
• Canine adenovirus (infectious canine hepatitis) also found in foxes, coyotes, wolves
• Canine parvovirus (gastrointestinal tract)
Canine Non-Core Vaccines
• Bordatella (Kennel cough)
• Lyme
• Leptospirosis
• Parainfluenza virus (canine flu)
As to whether your dog should receive these non-core vaccines depends on its lifestyle
Hiking vs. house dog
Pet sitter vs. kennel
Where you live such as city vs. rural area
Feline Core Vaccines
• Rabies
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis (upper respiratory)
• Calicivirus (upper respiratory)
• Panleukopenia, also called feline distemper/parvo – caused by the feline parvovirus, like canine parvo, it attacks rapidly dividing cells such as those in the bone marrow and intestines
Feline Non-Core Vaccines
Feline Leukemia virus – must test cat first to ensure it is negative
Feline immunodeficiency virus – feline AIDS
Feline leukemia virus can be transmitted through close contact. It should be considered for cats going spending time outdoors or cats which test negative for leukemia which are living in homes with cats which have tested positive for the virus.
While other non-core feline vaccines are available, they are not commonly used or highly recommended.
Vaccine Titers
Pet owners who are looking to minimize vaccines for their dogs may opt to have their vet draw blood to measure antibody levels to determine whether they still have protection against a certain disease. Titers are not offered by all veterinary offices and are still considered controversial. Some veterinarians opt to give vaccines every 3 years as opposed to yearly.
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Although Alzheimer’s Disease receives a lot of media attention, its counterpart in animals is relatively unknown. Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in dogs and cats is likened to dementia seen in people. Studies have shown that there are many similarities between the anatomical brain changes in older pets and people.
Understanding the changes that pets undergo is important because many of the behaviors that occur with CDS can be frustrating for pet parents. Knowing that the pet is not at fault will help families to be more patient and sympathetic. If veterinarians fail to discuss the symptoms of CDS with pet parents, the associated problems may be ignored and merely attributed to “old age.” If recognized in the early stages, treatment options are available to slow the progression of decline.
The primary symptoms of CDS are represented by the acronym DISH (Disorientation, Interaction declines, Sleep-wake disturbances, Housetraining lapses). Both cats and dogs can develop CDS.
Disorientation:
· Aimlessly wanders
· Gets stuck in corners, behind furniture
· Stares into space
· Fails to recognize familiar people
· Appears lost or confused in house or yard
· Seems to forget reason for going outside (to pee and poop)
Interaction declines:
· Seeks less attention
· Fails to greet family when they return home
· Decreased interest in petting
· Less interaction with other household pets
· Decreased interest in food/play
Sleep-wake disturbances:
· Sleeping more in a 24 hour day
· Sleeping less, restless at night
· Wandering/pacing throughout day
· Housetraining
· Peeing and pooping indoors
· Decrease or loss of signaling to go out
· Going outside, then returns and eliminates in house
· Pees and/or poops in view of family
Although CDS cannot be cured, there are measures that pet owners can take to help their geriatric dogs and cats. Medications to boost dopamine levels in dogs have been shown to be helpful. For both dogs and cats, antioxidant and neuroprotective agents can be used. It is important to avoid environmental changes that can exacerbate pets’ confusion and anxiety. Try to keep regimented schedules for pets. Provide a safe and comfortable area that allows easy access to litter boxes and food and water.
Most importantly, be patient with your pet. It is easy to become frustrated by your pet’s personality changes and accidents in the house. Bear in mind that they are not at fault and continue to provide them with love and support.
If you notice changes suggestive of CDS in your pet, seek your veterinarian’s advice. A physical exam and tests can help to rule out other underlying problems. Your veterinarian can also make specific recommendations to help your pet cope with CDS.
Halloween Safety Tips
Halloween is a holiday that is meant to be fun whether you are 8 or 80. Although we may enjoy being frightened by ghosts and goblins during this holiday season, dogs and cats do not share this sentiment. Halloween poses many dangers to pets. The two main concerns involve pets becoming lost or injured and toxicity from sweets. The following tips should help ensure a fun and safe holiday:
· Be sure that all candy, especially chocolate is kept safely out of reach. Chocolate is toxic to pets and can cause hyperactivity and seizures.
- Candies containing the artificial sweetener, xylitol, can be deadly to dogs.
- While pumpkins and gourds are not toxic to dogs, if large amounts or pieces are consumed, serious stomach and intestinal upset can occur.
- Electric cords and candles pose the risk of burns and fires.
- If wearing a costume is stressful for your pet, please avoid inflicting this humiliation.
- If your pet does not mind wearing a costume, make sure there are no parts that will constrict blood flow or breathing. Avoid a costume that can impair the pet’s vision or hearing.
- Keep all pets confined before visitors arrive. An open door can be an invitation for a frightened pet to escape. Confinement will also prevent nervous dogs from biting costumed visitors.
- NEVER leave pets in the yard on Halloween.
- To avoid lost pets, be sure they are wearing proper identification tags and maintain current microchip information.
Heat Stroke
- Never leave pets in car on hot and humid days, temperatures rise quickly to deadly levels
- Provide plenty of water and shade for pets on warm days
- Be very careful with guinea pigs, they are prone to heat stroke
- Certain dog breeds are also prone to heat stroke: bull dogs, pugs, boxers, Boston terriers
- Walk your dog first thing in the morning or after the sun has set. Never exercise your dog from 10 am to 3 pm on hot and humid days.
Signs of heat stroke...
- excessive panting
- weakness
- collapse
- brick red mucous membranes (gums)
- seizures
If your dog is showing signs of heat stroke, immediately spray it with a hose to help cool the body’s temperature. Smaller dogs can be placed in a tub. Use cool water, never place a dog in an ice cold bath. After a quick cooling attempt, rush your dog to a veterinarian immediately for medical care.
Sunburn
Pets with light skin, short coats or those which have been shaved to keep cool during the summer months are more prone to damage from the sun’s rays. It is also important to protect pets who may have had areas shaved for surgeries, hotspots etc. Use sunscreen labeled safe for pets. If using human sunscreen, be sure it does not have an ingestion warning as these products can be harmful if licked by dogs and cats. Use products with SPF of 15 or higher and with UVA and UVB protection
Picnic/Party Safety
- Typical picnic food is not particularly healthy for people. It is certainly not meant for dogs!
- High fat foods such as hot dogs and potato chips can cause life-threatening pancreatitis.
- Ribs and chicken bones can be very dangerous if ingested.
- S’mores are a campfire favorite. Be sure to keep chocolate away from dogs.
- Be sure that adults drinking alcoholic beverages do not leave them accessible to dogs
- Keep pets away from bar-b-que flames to avoid dangerous burns
July 4th
- Fireworks can be very scary for dogs!
- DO NOT TAKE DOGS TO FIREWORK DISPLAYS- frightened dogs can break their collars or leashes when panicked and escape.
- If your dog has been fearful in the past when fireworks are heard, take precautions this year.
- Dogs that are a danger to themselves or become panicked might benefit from medication. Talk to your veterinarian about calming options.
- Always test the medication beforehand rather than waiting until the night of July 4th.
- If fireworks are to be displayed near your home, consider moving your dog to a friend’s house that will be quieter.
Car Accidents
- Be sure dogs are kept on a leash at all times to avoid car trauma
- Be sure electric fence collars are working properly and that yards with fences are secure, keep gates latched at all times.
- Keep cats inside, especially when it is dark outside. Use reflective or flashing collars.
- There are more wild animals (squirrels, deer, chipmunks) and scary noises (fireworks, thunder) during the summer months to frighten dogs and cause them to run away from family members.
Thunderstorms
- Dogs can become so panicked, they hurt themselves (chewing on crate to escape, etc)
- Tranquilizers may be needed from a veterinarian to help relax a very stressed dog
- Dogs perceive thunderstorms sooner than people. Be sure to medicate your dog several hours in advance of the storm.
- Some dogs require daily medications in case of unanticipated storms
- Thundershirts are helpful in relaxing stressed dogs.
- Close curtains, turn up television or radio to mask sound of thunder.
- Allow dog to hide in its comfortable spot (under bed, in bathroom, in closet)
Insect Bites
- Mosquitoes – carry heartworm disease which can be deadly in dogs, cats and ferrets
- Fleas – suck blood to survive; pet can lose a lot of blood and become very sick and weak; carry tapeworms and blood parasites
- Ticks – transmit many serious diseases including Lyme disease to both pets and people
- Bees – pets can have an allergic reaction to bites, the pet’s face can become swollen and it may develop hives
Gastrointestinal obstructions
Peach pits and corn cobs are appealing to dogs. If swallowed, these items often become stuck in the dog’s stomach or intestines. Surgery will then be needed to remove the foreign object.
Fishing/Water Safety
- Fishing hooks must be kept in closed containers so dogs and cats cannot reach them
- If your pet is stuck by a fish hook, take it to a veterinarian immediately. Pets often need to be sedated for proper removal
- Dogs in streams can cut their pads on sharp rocks or glass. Monitor your dog to make sure it is not bleeding.
- Life jackets should be worn by all dogs on boats or those swimming in the ocean
- Not all dogs can swim. Always supervise your dog around water. Make sure it cannot fall into a swimming pool.
Outdoor cat dangers
- Chance of being hit by a car
- Exposure to poison such as antifreeze, toxic plants (lilies are very toxic) and fertilizer
- Cat fights and bite wound infections
- Exposure to deadly viruses (feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency, feline infectious peritonitis)
- drowning
Considerations Before Adopting a New Pet
1. Is anyone in the home allergic to animals?
2. Caring for a pet can be expensive. Can the family afford to provide food, supplies and medical care for the pet?
3. Some pets can live to be 15 years or more. Are you ready to commit to the care of a pet for many years?
4. Pets require daily care (feeding, walking, cleaning litter boxes, grooming, etc.) Do you have the time to devote to proper care of the pet?
5. If your family travels a lot, be ready to make arrangements for the pet to have care while you are on vacation. This can be expensive.
6. Some apartment and condominium buildings have rules regarding pet ownership. Be sure that pets are permitted where you live.
7. Behavioral problems are the basis for the majority of pets which are returned to shelters. Are you willing to commit to obedience training for dogs and the investment of time when behavioral problems arise in both dogs and cats?
8. If you already own a pet, how will it react to a new addition to the family? Before you choose a particular dog breed, do your research. An 8 pound puppy may grow up to be over 100 pounds when it is fully grown. Certain breeds are not particularly good with children. Some breeds are prone to a variety of medical problems and could need costly veterinary care. Some dogs such as Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers are very energetic and require hours of exercise each day. Just because reptiles (iguanas, snakes) are kept in cages, does not mean their care is simple and easy. These pets require a lot of special care regarding diet and a specially designed environment. Before getting one of these pets, buy books, or research them at the library or on the internet.
Please give the decision of acquiring a pet a lot of thought. Getting a new pet should never be done on a whim and is something no one should regret. Many people think that giving a pet as a gift is a wonderful idea. Never give an animal as a gift without asking the intended recipient first. Giving someone a surprise gift can be nice, but it should never be a pet.
Thanksgiving Tips
• Ask guests to please avoid feeding table food to pets. Fatty foods are particularly dangerous and can cause a serious condition known as pancreatitis.
• Never leave kitchen trash bags unsupervised! Dogs and cats will become very ill if they eat bones or other items in the trash.
• Keep pets confined while guests arrive and depart to avoid escapes from the house.
• Be sure that all pets have proper identification tags or microchips.
Christmas tree safety
NO TINSEL! - If swallowed by dog or cat, tinsel and ribbons can cause severe damage to intestines and possible death.
• keep tree well watered so needles do not become dry and create a fire hazard
• use safety approved lights
• always turn off lights when leaving home
• tree fertilizer added to water can be toxic if ingested by pets
• be sure that tree ornaments are well secured so they cannot fall onto floor and be consumed (some dogs will even eat glass ornaments)
• do not leave wrapped food items under tree, dogs will be able to smell food and will ravage the package
• exposed electrical cords, if chewed, are very dangerous to puppies, kittens, rabbits
Hanukkah Safety Tips
• Supervise Hanukkah and other holiday candles while they burn.
• Be sure to keep open flames out of cats’ reach.
• Latkes are very greasy and can cause pancreatitis in dogs.
Harmful Foods
• theobromine is the toxic agent found in chocolate, it affects the body similarly to caffeine
• baker’s chocolate (bittersweet) is the most dangerous, “white” chocolate does not contain cocoa powder and is therefore not as dangerous except to cause vomiting and diarrhea
• the onset of effects can be seen from 4-24 hours after ingestion
• signs of chocolate toxicity include: vomiting, tender abdomen, hyperactivity, seizures and death are possible
• If your dog eats chocolate, call your veterinarian immediately!
• Other food items that are unsafe for dogs include raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, onions, and garlic. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in sugarless gum and baked goods can be fatal if ingested by dogs.
Toy Safety
Who can’t resist buying your furry friend a new toy for the holidays? Choose toys wisely! Avoid gifts that can be destroyed and ingested if your dog is prone to dismantling stuffed toys. Stuffing, squeakers and other toy components can lead to obstructions if ingested. Although cats love to play and chase ribbon and string, if ingested, these materials can be very dangerous. Be particularly careful to put away ribbon used for wrapping gifts.
Plant Safety
Holly and mistletoe can both cause severe gastrointestinal upset. If you must hang mistletoe, be sure it is out of pets’ reach and well secured. Poinsettia plants are mildly toxic and can cause vomiting and drooling, so keep these out of reach. If you have cats and receive a holiday bouquet with lilies, do not keep them in the house. A mere nibble on a lily plant can cause severe kidney damage to cats.
If your pet has ingested something toxic, call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Hotline at (855)764-7661. Both have operators available everyday of the year, 24 hours a day. There is a consultation fee, but it is well worth the life of your pet.
Gift Ideas for Pets
The gift of health and a long life are top recommendations for your pet. At least 40 % of dogs and cats in the US are overweight. Health problems related to obesity include diabetes, heart disease, respiratory problems, and arthritis (joint pain). Providing exercise, a nutritious and healthy diet, and healthy treats for dogs and cats is a better way of showing your love compared to feeding table food and fattening snacks. Many dogs enjoy carrots, apples, canned pumpkin and green beans. Indoor cats are at high risk for being overweight since they spend most of the day sleeping and eating. Feeding measured amounts of food is better than continuously filling a food bowl. Provide interactive toys to get your cat moving off the sofa.
• Pawprints ornament – kits are available to create a lasting imprint of your pet’s foot
• New beds for dogs or window sill perches for cats
• Comfortable traveling carriers for small dogs or cats
• Homemade dog treat kits or recipe book
• Toys
• New collar, leash or harness
