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HOT WEATHER SKIN ISSUES
You may think that grooming and clipping dogs with thick hair coats are just for “show” but we have recently seen several “outside” dogs who have developed some unusual and painful skin problems due to hair mats.
Dogs with thick hair coats frequently develop hair mats. If the hair is not combed out and the mats remain, the dog may be uncomfortable and develop “hot spots” and scratch and claw the area, making the skin raw.
If flies or other insects come in contact with the dog, they lay eggs on the skin sore. The eggs hatch and cause further problems for the animal. We usually see the animals when they have a swollen, ugly hole in the skin which is inhabited by fly maggots. Even with proper treatment, this skin issue may take several weeks to heal.
To prevent summer hair- related problems in dogs with thick hair coats (chows, huskies, and other heavily “winter-coated” dogs), plan to either clip your dog or comb his coat frequently to prevent the formation of mats. Your dog will feel cooler in hot weather and less prone to developing skin problems if you groom him. If you would like to make an appointment to have your dog clipped or groomed, you can contact our grooming staff (Monroe Pet Supply and Grooming) at 770 266-7387.
How Fit is your Pet?
Obesity is a national problem for humans and their pets as well. Most pets are taking in more calories from their food, treats and tidbits than their bodies can use. A small weight gain on a pet's small body will make a big difference in the way they move and feel.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Hill’s Pet Nutrition are working together on a special Pet Fitness program designed to fight the growing pet obesity epidemic through education. We are working to help pet owners understand that obesity is about more than appearance. Scientific evidence shows that obesity is a condition that can lead to serious disease. The AVMA and Hill’s are focused on raising awareness about the right way to achieve and maintain healthy weight:
 Proper nutrition
Increased physical activity
Regular veterinary visits
The Pet Fit Tour came to the Monroe Veterinary Clinic in April. Many clients dropped by for free evaluations and received pet food samples and free coupons.
How Fit is Your Dog?
How Fit is Your Cat?
Improving Your Pet's Fitness
A change in diet and perhaps a change in your pet's exercise level may be needed to improve fitness and health. There are several types of pet food that are helpful for controlling your pet's weight. As a part of the AVMA and Hill's pet health program, they have developed a great website (www.PetFit.com) with exercise videos showing fun things to do with your pets. There are also contests for the "Fittest Pets" and information of types of food and exercise for your pet. See the Pet Training Room. The exercises are lots of fun for children as well as adults and their pets.
PARVO
We have seen a lot of sick puppies at our Clinic this summer that were infected with canine parvovirus. It is a very dangerous virus that attacks the intestinal tract of dogs. It causes vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances which can lead to death. Parvo is extremely contagious and can be carried by any animal, person, or object that comes in contact with an infected dog's feces.
 How could my dog come in contact with the parvovirus?
Parvovirus is spread through the feces of an infected dog. Even trace amounts of feces containing parvovirus may serve as a source of infection. It is very resistant to changes in environment (hot, cold, wet, dry,) and can survive for long periods of time. It is easily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or contaminated shoes, cages, etc. If your puppy is an outdoor dog, has access to other dogs in public places like parks, puppy day care, etc. he may come in contact with the virus. It is very important that you keep your puppy away from the fecal wastes of other dogs while walking or playing outdoors.
What are the symptoms of parvo infection?
The symptoms of parvovirus are loss of appetite; fever; lack of energy; vomiting; and severe, often bloody diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration and most deaths from parvo occur within 48 -72 hours following the early signs of sickness. If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should call your veterinarian as soon as possible.
What is the treatment for parvo?
When a puppy has parvo, he will be treated to combat the dehydration by replacing electrolytes and fluid losses. This will control the vomiting and diarrhea and prevent secondary infections. There is no specific drug available that will kill the virus in infected dogs, but early treatment can save the life of the dog. As a part of their hospital care, they will be kept warm, receive good nursing care and will be separated from other dogs. The cages and living areas of the dog must be thoroughly cleaned to control the spread of parvovirus. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you how to clean the area at your home where your dog was sick. This is a very important step to help prevent the spread of parvo to other dogs.
How can I protect my puppy from parvo?
The good news about parvo is that you can protect your dog from the virus through a series of vaccinations which can be started after a puppy has been weaned and is six weeks old. A series of vaccinations is given every 3 weeks until the puppy is 4 months old. He will need a booster shot in a year. Whether your dog will need additional vaccinations will be determined by his lifestyle and how often he comes in contact with other dogs. This is something that you should discuss with your veterinarian. (This is very different from rabies vaccinations. Rabies vaccinations must be given to all pets, regardless of the pet's lifestyle. Georgia law requires that all pets be current on rabies vaccinations.)
Pet Week Pet Show video
The annual Pet week Pet Show will be Sunday, May 4 at the McDaniel-Tichenor House in Monroe. It is a free, "fun" pet show that anyone can enter, simply by coming by with their pet (s) between 2:30 and 3 pm for registration on the grounds of the McDaniel-Tichenor House on McDaniel Street. For directions to the house, visit their website at http://www.mcdaniel-tichenor.org
This pet show is jointly sponsored by the Monroe Veterinary Clinic, Monroe Junior Service League and the McDaniel-Tichenor House. There will be ribbons and gifts for all participants. Lauren Hayes from Hills Pet Food Products will be there with Pet Fit information and coupons for Science Diet pet foods. There will also be an animal adoption sponsored by the Walton Animal Guild - (WAG). Visit their web site at http://www.wagwalton.com
Bring your favorite people and pets and enjoy an afternoon of fun with us. For the safety of all participants, please bring your pets on leashes or in carriers, etc. There is no rain date for the Pet Show, so in case of rain, the show will be canceled until next year.
TRAVELING WITH YOUR PET
Does your pet race you to the door when you pick up your car keys? They recognize the sound and are ready to go! There are a lot of pets who love to go for rides with their owners and really enjoy traveling. If you enjoy having your pet travel with you, you owe it to your pet to prepare them for even a short journey!
One very important thing to consider is the identification of your pet. If you have an accident or your vehicle stalls or your pet simply jumps out when the vehicle door opens, how could your pet be identified? Having a pet “ID” tag on their collar is an easy way for someone to contact you to help you reconnect with your pet. If you are vacationing with your pet, you may want to list your cell phone number on your pet's tag to make it easy to get in touch with you while you are away from home. Your pet's rabies tag can even be used as identification, since the state rabies vaccination number is on the tag. But--what if your animal does not have a tag or has lost the collar? A pet microchip is the most reliable form of identification. The Monroe Veterinary Clinic offers the Avid microchip system which can be used to easily identify your animal. Most veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, rescue groups, etc. have the equipment needed to read a microchip and identify your pet. It is a very simple procedure to have your pet micro chipped and can be done during a regular office visit.
Planning your Vacation with Fido or Felix
Once you have decided to take your pet on a trip with you, you need to do some planning. If your pet is not used to riding in your car, take them for a few short rides before you begin your long trip. This will help prevent anxiety and nervousness as well as lessen the possible effects of motion sickness. One in six dogs will suffer from motion sickness which can cause problems for you as well as your dog! Motion sickness can be caused by anxiety or problems with balance and motion. There is a new medication for the prevention of motion sickness in dogs. If your dog is at least 16 weeks old, your veterinarian can prescribe Cerenia to help prevent motion sickness. For more information on this medication, you can go to this website- http://cerenia.com or call us at 770 267 3690.
Pet Carriers and other Travel Accessories
Your pet may feel more secure in a pet carrier while you are traveling. The carrier should be big enough for the animal to be able to move around comfortably. It should also be well ventilated and have a handle to make it easy to carry. A carrier will give the animal a secure environment and the driver is less likely to be distracted by an animal who might jump around in the car. When you are packing for the trip, plan to take some of the pet's favorite toys, pillow or bedding. You will need to carry food and water bowls, a leash (or harness) and any medicines that your pet needs. You may want to consider a harness for your pet since that gives you a little more control than a leash and collar. Be sure to put the leash on your pet before the vehicle door is opened. If your pet requires a special therapeutic diet, be sure to take plenty with you since you might not be able to find it easily in a different city. Make sure that you carry an adequate supply of prescription medications that your pet is currently taking.
Current Health Information for Your Pet
If your pet needs updates on any vaccinations or is due for a physical, it would be a good idea to make a trip to the Clinic before you begin your vacation. When you are driving for more than two hours, you need to plan a stretch break for you and your dog. When your dog takes a "potty break," the chances are good that he will locate a spot that has been frequented by other dogs. Since the canine parvovirus (see the article on Parvo in this month's Tribone) is carried in the feces of infected dogs, it is possible that your unvaccinated puppy or dog might pick up the virus. By updating their needed vaccinations, you might be able to prevent an illness for your pet. You can also get a copy of your pet's shot/health record to carry with you as you travel. If you find that you need to board your pet while you are traveling, you may need to have their health information and vaccination records with you. If you are driving into Canada or Mexico with your pet, you must have their health information with you. For more information on traveling with your pet, click on the American Animal Hospital Association's Pet Care Library www.healthypet.com/library and read the articles on “Traveling by Car with Your Pet.”
Pet Friendly Motels and Campgrounds
Your dog may be very well-behaved, but not all public lodging places (or even the homes of friends and relatives) welcome pets. Click on this website for a listing of pet-friendly hotels, motels, etc. The site also includes pet travel information, listing of pet parks in other cities, etc. www.dogfriendly.com.
Don't leave your Pets in Vehicles in Hot Weather!
It seems that there are weekly stories in the news concerning children or pets who get too hot because they were left in a vehicle. If you have to leave your pet unattended in a hot vehicle, your best option is to leave your pet at home. If you must leave your pet in the vehicle, you must be very careful. Simply leaving a window slightly open and parking in the shade is not enough to prevent heat build up in a car. Even on a warm (not hot!) day, a car with “cracked” windows can reach temperatures of 120 degrees in a few minutes. Even opening the window a few inches, will not provide enough ventilation for cooling and it leaves your animal and vehicle vulnerable to vandals or thieves.
Many states and municipalities are now issuing tickets and citations to pet owners who leave their animals in hot, parked vehicles.
When you are traveling with your pet, plan to have a picnic or eat outdoors so that you can carry the pet outside with you. Don't leave them in a hot car while you go inside for your meal. Offer the pet cool water to drink while you are taking your meal break. It is best to feed the pet at the end of the day's traveling, instead of during the day.
If you think that your dog has gotten too hot, you should be aware of the symptoms of over-heating or heat stroke. Extreme panting, breathing difficulty, an anxious expression, a staggering gait, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, fever, warm dry skin, glazed eyes, staring or stupor are signs that you should not ignore. If you see these symptoms, get the dog out of the heat and call a veterinarian immediately. You can begin cooling the dog with wet towels on the belly and legs. If the dog is able to drink, offer it cool water and get the dog into the veterinary clinic for emergency treatment.
Seat belts for dogs??????
Even if your dog loves to ride with his head poking out of the vehicle window or in the back of a truck, it is not the safest place for your dog to travel. We have all seen the TV commercials showing crash test dummies and the things that happen to people in accidents. Just think about the dogs who are riding “shotgun” in the front seat or in the back of a pick up truck. One sharp turn can send them flying out of the truck or into the windshield. Dogs who are “facing the wind” can pick up debris, flying rocks, etc. in their faces.
Believe it or not, there are several types of seat belts, truck bed belts and even car seats for small dogs. Even if you are not ready to "buckle up" your pets, you might consider having them in the back seat of the car or riding in a kennel, crate or carrier.
Good Planning for a Good Trip with your Pet
Planning your car trip with your pet is just the first part of your vacation planning. The real part of the vacation begins when you arrive at your location. Consider where your pet will be while you are visiting friends or sight-seeing. Allow time for walking or playing with your pet. (If you do not have time to interact with your pet, they may not need to make this trip with you). Your pet may be anxious in a new location without you and may appreciate having an old t-shirt of yours added to their sleeping area. Traveling with your pet requires some planning on your part, but it can be a great experience for both your pet and your family!
GEORGIA ANIMAL OF THE YEAR
Do you know an animal that should be nominated as Georgia Animal of the Year? The Georgia Veterinary Medical Association selects a special animal (dog, cat or other animal) as Georgia Animal of the Year in each of 4 categories. The winning animals will be inducted into the Georgia Animal Hall of Fame.
Hero - Animals who have saved or preserved human life.
Companion - Animals who have provided a benefit to their human companion or to their community.
Professional - Specially-trained assistance animals.
Therapy - Animals certified in animal assisted therapy or activities.
Anyone can nominate an animal for consideration. The deadline for nominations is September 30, 2008. For more information, click on to the GVMA website:
http://www.gvma.net/3245f637-b9b4-4ee7-80ff-dee63d8eebed.aspx
The Monroe Veterinary Clinic has had two winning clients in previous years. Help us identify another animal that should receive special recognition. We will be happy to help you with the nomination forms. Just call our office at 770 267-3690.
Food Drive for Animal Foster Homes
We all love our pets and want the best of shelter and care for them. Not all animals have people to love them and provide homes for them. We have some very compassionate people in our county who provide foster homes for family-less animals through the Walton County Animal Guild (WAG). We are helping WAG provide food and necessary items for the foster families. If you would like to contribute food for cats or dogs, kitty litter, etc. you can drop these items off at the Monroe Veterinary Clinic or Monroe Pet Supply and Grooming. We will be glad to see that WAG receives these much needed items. If you have any questions about the food drive, call 770 267 3690.
Staff News
You will be missing some familiar faces at the clinic, but we are proud of and happy for the staff members we are missing. Michelle Wiley, one of our Vet Techs, has moved to the Atlanta area to attend Georgia State College and University for an additional degree. Leigh Fincher, another Vet Tech has enlisted in the US Air Force and just completed her basic training in Texas. We are very proud of her and her service to our country! Both Andrew Durden and Jacob Baird are enrolled at the University of Georgia. Andrew is also working at the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine. Kim Hall, a familiar face in the office and in Monroe Pet Supply and Grooming, has a new baby girl.
Janice Lowe, Monroe Pet Supply and Grooming has been working for the Monroe Veterinary Clinic for 20 years and was recently recognized for her service.
Mars Petcare US Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall
Mars Petcare US announced a voluntary recall of products manufactured at its Everson, Pennsylvania facility. The pet food is being voluntarily recalled because of potential contamination with Salmonella serotype Schwarzengrund. These products are not sold at the Monroe Veterinary Clinic so none of our pet food products are included in this recall.
Some of the brand names included in this recall are:
Natural Cat Food (Sam's club) Pedigree
Natural Dog Food (Sam's club) Old Roy
Members Mark Red Flannel
Country Acres Wegman's
Retriever
Pet owners who have questions about the recall should call 1-877-568-4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.
SEPTEMBER - SENIOR HEALTH CARE MONTH
SENIOR PET CARE
Would you describe your pet as a “teenager” or a “senior” ? It may surprise you to know that most pets who are seven years or older are considered “seniors”. Age is just a number, but the factors that determine the aging process of your pet include genetics, nutrition, and environment. Small dogs and cats tend to have a longer life expectancy than medium to large breeds of dogs. Since dogs and cats age more rapidly than people, dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6 months. Most of us don't wait seven years between visits to our doctor or dentist. If your senior pet only has an exam every couple of years, it would be like waiting 14 years to see your doctor!
Like their human counterparts, older pets begin to develop diseases such as diabetes, heart, kidney and liver disease, arthritis, hormonal problems, endocrine disease, cancer and even loss of their senses. These diseases can go unnoticed and untreated in their early stages and progress to much more dangerous stages before recognition and treatment. You know your pet better than anyone else and will be able to recognize changes in their normal health and physical appearance, but if you wait for disease symptoms to show, many conditions may go unnoticed and the condition may be difficult and costly to treat and diagnose. Senior Wellness Exams by your veterinarian are important tools for detecting early health problems. The exam will also give your veterinarian a benchmark to measure future test results should your pet become ill.
It will usually include a complete blood count (CBC), a serum chemistry panel, thyroid test function, urinalysis, and a parasite exam. These are important tools for the early detection of health problems. These tests give us a peek into internal health issues that we cannot pick up on a comprehensive physical exam. A Senior Wellness exam should be done at least every six months and can tell you a lot about your pet's health.
Complete Blood Count
This common test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in a given sample of blood. The numbers and types of cells give the veterinarian information needed to help diagnose anemia, infection, inflammation and leukemia. It also evaluates the number and type of cells in circulation.
Blood-Chemistry Panel
This test measures the electrolytes, enzymes and chemical elements such as calcium and phosphorous. This information helps your veterinarian determine how various organs like the kidneys, pancreas, and liver are functioning. The results of these tests help your veterinarian formulate an accurate diagnosis, prescribe proper treatment and monitor the response to the treatment.
Thyroid Function Test
This test is useful in diagnosing malfunctions of the thyroid gland. Too little thyroid hormone is common in dogs, but too much thyroid hormone is common in older cats. Since there is no single thyroid test that can diagnose all thyroid diseases in animals, a panel of several different thyroid tests may be used to ensure diagnosis.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is used to detect substances which are not normal in the urine. The test may show protein, sugar, white blood cells or blood in the urine. A measurement of the concentration of urine is also helpful in diagnosing disease. The test can also assist the veterinarian in the diagnosis of other urinary tract infections, diabetes, dehydration, kidney problems and other conditions, as well as assess the health and function of the urinary system. It is especially important in older animals to help in early detection of kidney disease.
Parasite Exam
The parasite exam may include both blood and fecal exams. The fecal exam can show hookworms, whipworms, roundworms, coccidia, Giradia and other intestinal parasites. The blood serum test is used to determine the presence of heartworms.
You can increase the quality of your pet's life by working with your veterinarian. A Senior Wellness Exam will give you and the veterinarian the information needed to develop a health plan to make your pet's "senior years" as happy and as healthy as possible.
WATCH FOR THESE SIGNS IN OLDER PETS
Keep track of these signs and report them to us quickly, before they become serious problems.
My pet is:
Just not acting like himself/herself
Interacting less often with family
Responding less often or less enthusiastically
Showing changes in behavior/activity level
Having difficulty climbing stairs
Having difficulty jumping
Exhibiting increased stiffness or limping
Drinking more often
Urinating more often or blood in urine
Changing eating patterns- Failure to eat for more than 2 days
Noticeably gaining or losing weight
Losing housetraining habits
Changing sleeping patterns or increased vocalizing at night
(not just a dog barking at noises, but something abnormal)
Becoming confused or disoriented
Changing hair coat, skin, or new lumps or bumps
Scratching more often
Exhibiting bad breath/red or swollen gums or foul mouth
odor or drooling for more than 2 days
Showing tremors or shaking
Diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days
Repeated vomiting
Lameness lasting more than 5 days or lameness in more than
one leg
Breathing heavily or rapidly at rest
Increased size of abdomen
Blood in stool or urine
These can all be signs of both minor and significant problems. Please let us know when you see a problem with your pet and we will help you address the problem before it becomes a major health issue.
COMMON MEDICAL CONDITIONS IN SENIOR PETS
Dental Problems– Over 85% of dogs and cats over 6 years old have dental problems. Some of the diseases associated with dental problems are peridontal disease, gingivitis, and cancer. Some symptoms of dental problems can be bad breath, swollen gums or a mass in their mouth. If left untreated, it can result in heart disease, tooth loss, kidney and liver disorder or systemic infection.
Liver Problems- Common in older dogs, but less common in cats. Some of the diseases associated with liver problems include inflammatory, and cancerous liver disease. You may notice decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased thirst. If left untreated, it may cause lipid metabolism disturbance, liver failure or anemia.
Joint Problems – Over 20% of adult dogs have lameness, reluctance to walk or exercise, decreased appetite or show discomfort/pain. The diseases associated with joint problems include arthritis, hip dysplasia, and back disease. If left untreated, may lead to reduced mobility, pain, or neurologic deficits.
Kidney Problems – Over 10% of all dogs over 12 and 1% of all pets will show increased thirst/urination, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and back pain. Kidney disease is one of the leading causes of illness and death in older cats. The diseases associated with kidney problems include kidney failure, kidney stones, and kidney infection. This may lead to progressive kidney failure, heart disease, electrolyte upsets, fluid balance disturbance, death.
Cancer – Over 50 % of all pets over the age of 10 will show signs of cancer through bleeding, lumps, irritated skin, identified masses, swollen lymph nodes, vomiting or diarrhea. These may show up as cancers of the skin, spleen, liver, lymphoid tissue, etc. If left untreated, can progress to organ failure or death.
Eye Problems – Many ocular diseases are inherited and often develop after 8 years of age. You may notice a gray, bluish hue at the center of the eye, the animal may rub, press their head against objects, may have swelling, redness, irritation, or excessive tearing. These symptoms may be indicative of cataracts, dry eye or glaucoma. If left untreated, the animal may have difficulty seeing, may have corneal ulceration or can progress to blindness or loss of an eye.
There are tests that can be used for your pet to identify and perhaps prevent many of these problems. There have been significant advances in the types of medicines and procedures available to us to treat your pet and help them live a long and comfortable life with you.
SENIOR PAIN CARE
Pets experience pain in the same ways as humans. Your veterinarian can help you recognize, prevent and treat pain for your pets. The different types of pain include acute pain, which comes suddenly as a result of injury, surgery, or an infection; and chronic pain which is long lasting and usually develops slowly from conditions such as arthritis. You will play an important role in pain management for your pet since you know the types of activity or situations that seem to be painful for the pet and can work with your veterinarian to monitor and treat your pet's pain.
NUTRITION AND EXERCISE
Nutrition and exercise are major components of your pet's wellness program. Some pets benefit from specially formulated food that is designed for older bodies. Obesity in pets is often the result of reduced exercise and overfeeding and is a risk factor for problems such as heart disease. Since older pets often have different nutritional requirements, the special foods can help keep your pet's weight under control and reduce the consumption of nutrients that are risk factors for development of disease.
Exercise is a very important part of your pet's health plan. Your pet may not be as frisky as they were, but if they are cooped up or kept lying down, their bodies will deteriorate much more quickly. Walking with your dog may be done at a slower pace, but getting out with your dog for exercise will increase their bone strength and mobility (and you get the same benefits!). Your cat may not be as eager to play, but playfully encouraging your cat may be what is needed to entice them to move around and increase their mobility.
Your pet may love treats and you may want to give them treats, but make sure that you are providing healthy treats that do not increase their caloric intake. If you gain a pound or two, it may be insignificant to your health, but a pound increase in the weight of your dog or cat can be very significant. The extra weight will add additional stress to their joints and diseased organs. Finding ways to keep your pet stimulated – both mentally and physically will go a long way in keeping your pet healthy and happy.
RABIES IN GEORGIA
Rabies is a disease that most people associate with wild animals, but what is it? Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. The virus is secreted in saliva and is usually transmitted to people and animals by a bite from an infected animal. Less commonly, rabies can be transmitted when saliva from a rabid animal comes in contact with an open cut on the skin or the eyes, nose, or mouth of a person or animal. Once the outward signs of the disease appear, rabies is nearly always fatal.
Only mammals can get rabies; birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians do not. Most cases of rabies occur in wild animals - mainly skunks, raccoons, bats, and foxes. In recent years, cats have become the most common domestic animal infected with rabies. This is because many cat owners do not vaccinate their cats before the cats are exposed to rabid wildlife. Cats, unlike dogs, are usually unsupervised when they are outdoors and may be more likely to come in contact with a rabid wild animal. Rabies also occurs in dogs and cattle in significant numbers and, while not as common, has been diagnosed in horses, goats, sheep, swine and ferrets.
Rabies continues to be a problem in Georgia and throughout the world. There were 215 confirmed cases of rabies in Georgia during the first six and one-half months of 2008. This is a 60% increase over 2007. Rabies is easily preventable in domestic animals by vaccination. According to Georgia law, all dogs and cats are required to have a current rabies vaccination. Are your pets current on their rabies vaccinations? Most people are aware of the dangers of rabies for companion animal pets, but did you know that they are a problem for horses and cows as well? Vaccines are also available for these animals.
September 28, 2008 is being recognized as World Rabies Day and is intended to educate people around the globe about the impact of rabies, how it can be prevented and how to eliminate the sources that contribute to the death of humans from rabies. We are very fortunate to have a successful program of rabies vaccinations in our country. However, worldwide, over 50,000 people die each year from rabies.
Food recall update - latest pet products
The salmonella outbreak at a Blakely, Georgia peanut product production facility continues to affect some pet food products.
There is a very comprehensive FDA website that describes all recalled peanut products (human and animal). Listed below is a link to the FDA website.
For more on the recall click here.
How Fit are you and your pet?????
Reilley Robinson shows off his frisbee jumping skills
Most of us spend a lot of our winter "free time" snuggled close to the fireplace. Chances are good that your pets were cuddled up beside you and neither one of you got in your normal amounts of exercise. We make a lot of plans to drop those extra pounds before bathing suit or shorts season, but your pet does not have those same "vanity" issues! The extra pound or two that your pet may gain over the winter does not sound like a lot of weight, but on an animal's small frame, a small weight gain can cause some real health problems for your pet.
It would not be practical to expect your pet to suddenly leap into the air like Reilley, but a steady increase in your pet's exercise level can go a long way in helping your pet (and you) shed those unwanted winter pounds.
There are some excellent pet food products available at our Clinic that can help with your pet's weight issues. Even though our pets enjoy treats, we get a lot of satisfaction from "treating" our pets. Treats can provide more calories than our pets need, so be sure to use treats that are lower in calories and limit the amounts of treats that you give your pet.
Science Diet (Hills Pet Foods) has worked with the American Veterinary Association to develop materials for pet health and fitness. There is an excellent website on caloric intake as well as fitness information for your pets. www.PetFit.com
Antifreeze
Antifreeze poisoning is a problem for both dogs and cats. Antifreeze has a sweet taste and curious or thirsty pets will lap up antifreeze that may have been spilled in your garage or dripped from your vehicle. Just a few licks can be fatal for your pet. If you suspect that your pet has had contact with antifreeze, call the clinic immediately. It is important to get treatment for antifreeze poisoning as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could be deadly. Store antifreeze containers in an area where your pets will not come in contact with them and be sure to wipe up any spilled antifreeze.
New Georgia License Tag supports Spays/Neuters
You can now support Georgia's spay/neuter program by purchasing a Georgia license tag which features a black and white tuxedo cat. Proceeds from sales of the Feline Friend license plate will directly benefit the Dog and Cat Sterilization Program, which provides spay/neuter subsidies to Georgians statewide and performs educational outreach.
Click here to download an informational brochure with all the details.
Which Breed of Dog was number one in Atlanta in 2008?
If you guessed Labrador Retriever, you would be correct. The AKC's listing is based on AKC breed registrations recorded with the Atlanta area zip codes. It should come as no surprise to UGA fans to see Bulldogs listed in the top ten! For more information on each breed, click on the name of the breed.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. Golden Retriever
3. Boxer
4. German Shepherd Dog
5. Yorkshire Terrier
6. Dachshund
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
8. Shih Tzu
9. Doberman Pinscher
10. Bulldog
Staff News
You will be missing some familiar faces at the Clinic, but we are proud of and happy for the staff members we are missing. Michelle Wiley, one of our Vet Techs, has moved to the Atlanta area to attend Georgia State College and University for an additional degree. Leigh Fincher, another Vet Tech has enlisted in the US Air Force and just completed her basic training in Texas. We are very proud of her and her service to our country! Both Andrew Durden and Jacob Baird are enrolled at the University of Georgia. Andrew is also working at the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine.
Brrrrr – Baby - It's Cold Outside!
Roxanne and Charlie Wall in New York snow
Winter temperatures in Georgia can rise and fall quickly! It may be warm and sunny this week, but the weather can quickly change to bitterly cold weather. It can be very difficult for outdoor pets to adapt to extremely cold temperatures. Cold temperatures can be a real problem for “pet babies” of any age, but especially for the very young or old animals. They are at greater risk for developing hypothermia and frostbite, conditions that can be caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures. When temperatures drop below 20 degrees, there is in increase in the risk of tail or ear frostbite. It may be a good idea to bring your pets indoors in extreme weather, but that may not always be possible.
What do you need to do to protect your pets during really cold weather?
Shelter - Always provide good shelter for any outdoor pet. A doghouse should be large enough for the dog to stand in and to stretch out, but it should not be too big. A compact shelter will be warmer and will allow the animal's body heat to help warm the space. It should be draft free and be raised several inches off the ground. Add 4-5 inches of straw or shavings for bedding. Don't use cloth or blankets in a doghouse for bedding. If the animal is wet when he goes into the house, the cloth bedding will become wet and cold. Never use heat lamps or space heaters in a dog house. The doghouse opening should face south or west to allow more winter light and warmth to enter the opening. Provide a flap opening or covering to prevent drafts. Be sure to replace bedding that becomes wet or badly soiled. If you have an pet that does not chew their bedding, you may want to use a heated mat that is designed specifically for animals. Cats who live outdoors can enjoy their own house or cozy box using the same principles for warmth and comfort.
CAUTION- Many cats and other small animals may seek the heat of a car hood or engine. In cold weather, honk your car horn or make a noise on the hood to alert any animal that might be sleeping under the hood. Many cats have been injured or killed in cold weather by auto fans or fan belts.
If your pet sleeps indoors during cold weather, provide them with a warm sleeping area away from drafts. If you bring an outdoor pet inside during extremely cold weather, don't be surprised if they act nervous and unsure of themselves. They may be more comfortable in a crate or carrier while indoors.
Food and Water -To help maintain a good body temperature, your outdoor pet may need more food than normal to fulfill their caloric needs. Indoor pets may need less food in winter, since they are less active. A constant supply of water is as important for your pet's health in winter as it is in summer. If the pet's water is frozen, it should be changed frequently throughout the day so that your pet has access to fresh water, not ice. Don't use a shallow metal bowl for water. A deeper container that is made of heavy plastic will not freeze as quickly. If an animal licks a frozen metal bowl, their tongue may stick to the cold metal. (Remember the movie “A Christmas Story “ where the little boy licks the frozen flagpole????) Chose a dark plastic container since it will absorb heat and thaw more quickly in the sun. Always provide fresh water. Don't rely on your pet's ability to get needed water from licking ice or snow. That can reduce their body heat. A heated water dish may be needed if you are unable to replenish the water as needed.
Winter Coats- Some animals have a thick hair coat and do not suffer from cold temperatures as much as other dogs. The fur of a Huskie or Samoyed provides more protection than the coat of a Doberman, Boxer or Greyhound. Small dogs with a short hair coat will quickly lose body heat in very cold weather. Small breeds such as Chihuahuas, miniature Pinschers, Chinese Crested Hairless, other hairless dogs and miniature Dachshunds are especially vulnerable to cold weather. They should have limited exposure to extremely cold temperatures and should wear a sweater or coat when taken outside. There are multiple options of types of sweaters, coats, etc. available for pets. Choose one that fits your pet well, without being too large or too tight.
If your pet has a thin hair coat, they may become cold when the temperature reaches 40 degrees and below. This is especially true for small dogs with a thin hair coat. If the weather is quite cold or your pet spends most of their time indoors, a coat or sweater will increase your pet's comfort when they are outside. Before you buy a coat or sweater for your pet, you should measure your pet. Measure the pet's length from the base of its neck along the back to the base of the tail. Next, measure the girth (or the depth of the chest, behind the front legs.) The coat or sweater should be fairly easy to put on, but not too tight or too large. If it is too large, your pet may become tangled in it or snag it on a rock or root. If it is too snug, it will be uncomfortable. If you look at a pet sizing chart and your pet falls between two sizes, select the one that will fit the girth of your animal. Select a pet garment that is easy for you to put on and remove from your pet, but not one that will easily come off of your pet when you are walking them. A “quick fastening” system such as velcro or snap tabs may work well. If the garment has sleeves, make sure that they are not too tight. Loose sleeves allow for ease of movement, as well as ease of removal. Always select a coat or sweater that is made of washable fabric. You can even find raincoats for your pet. Be sure to remove any wet garments when you bring your pet indoors. We carry several types of pet garments in the Monroe Pet Supply and Grooming Shop and will be happy to help you find the right one for your pet.
Paw care- Although deep snow is a rarity in Georgia, there may be ice or snow on the ground or sidewalks. De-icing materials or salt may irritate your pet's paws. If you are walking your pet on areas which have been "de-iced", you should wash off your pet's feet with a warm, wet cloth. This will prevent dryness and chapping and will remove any de-icing materials which might be ingested when your pet licks his paws. If your pet walks in snow, they may get ice balls between their foot pads which can cause them to limp. Be sure to keep the pad area of the foot free from ice. If there is a lot of hair between the pads, keep it clipped to help prevent ice ball formation.
Antifreeze - Antifreeze poisoning is a problem for both dogs and cats. Antifreeze has a sweet taste and curious or thirsty pets will lap up antifreeze that may have been spilled in your garage or dripped from your vehicle. Just a few licks can be fatal for your pet. If you suspect that your pet has had contact with antifreeze, call the clinic immediately. It is important to get treatment for antifreeze poisoning as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could be deadly. Store antifreeze containers in an area where your pets will not come in contact with them and be sure to wipe up any spilled antifreeze.
Arthritis - If your pet has arthritis, they may suffer more in cold weather. Keeping them indoors in a warm and well-cushioned area will help them be more comfortable. You may need to make some diet changes for your pet or get pain medication to help them be more comfortable. Talk to your veterinarian about any physical changes that you see in your pet during cold weather.
Because our pets cannot speak, we don't really know what they are thinking.
We must base our interpretations of their emotional state on their behavior -
what they do in certain situations and under specific circumstances.
When a person experiences the death of a human loved one, we may know they
feel grief based on what they say. Very often, however, it is how they react and
what they do that tells us they are suffering. They lose their focus, become
listless and disoriented, don't eat and become disinterested in what is
happening around them. They may cry or go without sleep or they may sleep more.
An animal that is experiencing the loss of another animal companion may react
similarly. "Some animals can actually become depressed when they lose a loved
one," says Monique D. Chretien, MSc, AHT, Animal Behavior Consultant. "They show
symptoms similar to humans such as loss of interest in their favorite activities
and sleeping more than usual. However, sometimes dogs and cats hide and sleep
more than usual when they are ill, so you should consult with your veterinarian
before seeing a behaviorist if your pet exhibits symptoms such as these."
Your pet may lose his appetite, become disoriented, or become more clingy. If
the deceased pet was taken to a veterinarian to be euthanized, the grieving pet
may sit at the window for days watching for her return. Animal behaviorists
commonly call this emotional state separation anxiety. On the surface, the
pet's behavior is similar to that of a person experiencing grief over the loss
of a loved one.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals conducted a
Companion Animal Mourning Project in 1996. The study found that 46% of cats ate
less than usual after the death of another cat companion. In some extreme cases,
the cat actually starved to death. About 70% of cats meowed more than normal or
meowed less. Study respondents indicated that surviving cats changed the
quantity and location of sleep. More than half the surviving pets became more
affectionate and clingy with their caregivers. Overall, the study revealed that
65% of cats exhibited four or more behavioral changes after losing a pet
companion.
If your pet shows signs that she is grieving the loss of an animal or human
family member, provide her with more attention and affection. "Try to take her
mind off it by engaging her in a favorite activity," says Chretien. If she
enjoys human company, invite friends that she likes to visit and spend time with
her. Use environmental enrichment techniques such as balls filled with treats to
help keep her busy. Hide toys at her favorite spots for her to find during the
day.
If your pet is too depressed over the loss, she may not respond to extra
activity right away. The old saying, "Time heals all wounds," has meaning for
your pet, too. "Time is one thing that may help," says Chretien.
If your dog is barking more or whining, distract her. Don't give her treats
to distract her or you might unintentionally reinforce the barking. "Giving
attention during any behavior will help to reinforce it so be sure you are not
reinforcing a behavior that you don't like," says Chretien. "Give attention at a
time when your dog is engaging in behaviors that you do like, such as when she
is resting quietly or watching the birds. As the pain of the loss begins to
subside, so should the vocalizing as long as it is related to the grieving
process."
You may also want to consult with your veterinarian regarding drug therapy to
help decrease your dog's anxiety, advises Chretien.
If you are thinking about adding another pet, wait until you and your
surviving pet have adjusted to the loss. Forcing your pet to get to know a
newcomer will only add stress to her already anxiety-ridden emotional state. And
be patient. Your pet may miss her companion as much as you do.
Content Provided by Petplace.com - Dr. Dawn Ruben - courtesy of Pet
Portal
Canine Influenza
Does your dog need a
flu vaccination?
There is a lot of information and misinformation about the flu shot that is
available for dogs. Our clinic currently recommends this vaccination for dogs
that are exposed to other dogs in activities such as dog shows, dog parks,
doggie day care, commercial pet stores where dogs "shop" with their owners,
vacationing dogs (especially for travel into FL where the canine flu is more
wide spread) or dogs that are involved with field trials and competitions. If
your dog spends most of the time in your home, they may not need the
vaccination. We have the vaccine available at our office and would be happy to
talk to you about it. For more information, call 770-267-3690.
More information on canine influenza is available from the
CDC.
Pet Poisons-Toxic Plants and
Antifreeze
Antifreeze
poisoning is deadly for pets and requires immediate veterinary care! If you
think that you pet has ingested even a small amount of antifreeze, you need to
get emergency care immediately. If they receive treatment, their chances of
survival are increased. Don't wait until you see unusual behavior in your pet
to seek treatment.
 You probably know that
antifreeze, mistletoe, poinsettia leaves and some lilies can be poisonous if
your pets eat or lick them, but do you know why? Did you know that grapes,
raisins and chocolate can be fatal for dogs? This
video from the
American Veterinary Medical Association can explain some of these dangers for
your pets.
Cocoa Mulch and Pet Safety
You may have received an email
about the safety of cocoa hull mulch. It is true that chocolate contains theobromine,
which is dangerous to dogs. Theobromine is found in the cocoa hull mulch. There
is not as much theobromine in the mulch as there is in chocolate. If you have
pets that would come in contact with mulch in your landscape, why take a chance
on their safety? Most pets won't be interested in eating mulch, but inquisitive
puppies might decide to take a bite! You might be interested in reading more
comments at the
Snopes
website.
The American Veterinary Medical
Association (AVMA) does not recommend using cocoa hull mulch in the landscape.
Thunderstorm Phobia
Does your pet hide at the first
noise of a thunderstorm or act strangely as a storm approaches? Some pets react
quite strongly to storms. Even though we may have storms throughout the year in
Georgia, most of our storms occur in the spring and summer. If your pet suffers
from storm anxiety, you are probably dreading the spring storms. There are
things that you can do to help your "storm phobic" pet. Understanding their
problem is the first step toward helping them.
Causes
Storm phobias are one of the most common behavioral problems dog owners face,
but their cause is not entirely clear. Behaviorists are not yet sure what part
of the storm frightens dogs most, whether they're reacting to lightning flashes,
the sound of thunder, wind blowing around the house, or the sound of rain on the
roof. Some dogs even start to pace and whine half an hour or more before a
storm. They may be reacting to a sudden drop in air pressure or the electrical
charge of the air.
Nature or
nurture?
An article in the July/August 2001 issue of the Journal of the American
Animal Hospital Association describes an Internet survey of the owners of
storm-phobic dogs. The authors discovered that some breeds may be predisposed to
a fear of storms. Herding dogs, such as collies and German shepherds, and
hounds, such as beagles and basset hounds, seem to be more likely to develop a
storm phobia than other dogs. The phobia is also common in sporting and working
breeds. The study suggests that this tendency may be explained in terms of the
dogs' genetics. For example, herding dogs have been bred to react quickly to
stimuli, such as a calf wandering away from the herd, but not to be aggressive.
It could be that herding dogs have a strong reaction to the startling noises and
flashes of a storm, but they repress any aggressive response to it, causing
anxiety.
The JAAHA study also
showed that rescued dogs--dogs adopted from shelters or rescue
organizations--may also be more likely to develop storm phobias. The article
suggested that these dogs are more likely to have had unpleasant, scary
experiences prior to being adopted. They may have been abused or abandoned by a
former owner, or they may not have been well socialized or exposed to a wide
variety of sights and sounds. These kinds of early-life experiences can make
dogs more anxious and prone to all kinds of phobias.
What to
do
The American Animal Hospital
Association recommends that you work with your veterinarian to help your pet
overcome his thunderstorm fears. He or she can help you develop a program to
gradually retrain your scaredy dog by gradually, gently helping him adjust to
storms through behavior modification. Technically called "systematic
desensitization," this involves exposing the storm-phobic dog to some gentle
reminders of a thunderstorm, such as a very soft tape recording of thunder or a
flashing light, and rewarding the dog with lots of treats, attention, and other
positive reinforcement only if there's no evidence of anxiety. Over time, the
intensity of the stimulus is increased, and only calm behavior rewarded. You
should get professional guidance, either from a veterinarian or a veterinary
behavior specialist, before you begin this process, however. If you introduce
frightening stimuli too quickly or don't see signs of fear your dog may be
showing, you could possibly end up making the phobia worse.
If gentle, patient retraining
doesn't help your pooch, there are some prescriptions that can. Your
veterinarian can prescribe one of several anti-anxiety or antidepressant
medications to help your dog remain calm during storms. You can also make sure
your dog has a warm, safe "den" to retreat to when the weather gets too scary.
You can try padding a crate with blankets or clearing a space underneath your
bed. Just make sure that it's somewhere your pup can get out of whenever he
wants. A panicked dog can do a lot of damage to his crate and himself if he's
confined.
Most important, though, is that
your treat your dog gently and kindly when he is afraid. Don't cuddle and
reassure him, because that will reward his scaredy-dog behavior, but definitely
don't punish him for it either. Instead, just be calm and provide him with a
safe, familiar place where he can feel secure and ride out the storm.
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