Showing posts with label Puppy Care. Show all posts
Thursday, April 27, 2017
17 Ways To Keep KEEP YOUR DOG HEALTHY : Your Pet Doctor
- KEEP YOUR DOG HEALTHY
- Go to the Veterinarian
- Set up a schedule for regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Ask the vet questions about your dog's diet, behavior, activity level or other concerns. Contact the veterinarian at once if your dog seems ill or in pain. As a special registration benefit, the AKC has arranged 30 days of pet insurance coverage from AKC Pet Insurance* for newly registered puppies. Details about this special complimentary benefit will be sent to you shortly after registration.
- Feed a Good Diet
Work with your veterinarian or breeder to find the food that is best for your dog's age, size and activity level. Keep the diet consistent. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water. - Exercise
Dogs need regular exercise to ensure continuing good health. Take your dog for walks, run around in the yard, throw a ball around - anything to get him up and moving. This will benefit his health and could prevent behavior problems. - Vaccinate
Dogs should follow a strict schedule of vaccinations to prevent diseases. Keep your dog current on his vaccinations, following the schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Keep a copy of your dog's vaccination records handy. - Prevent Disease
You can take steps to prevent other diseases not covered by the regular series of vaccinations. Depending on the area of the country you live in, your dog could be at risk for diseases such as heartworm and Lyme disease. Ask your veterinarian for advice on prevention. - Repel Fleas and Ticks
Aside from discomfort, parasites such as fleas and ticks can cause serious diseases. Keep your dog, his bedding, and your home free from parasites by using the method recommended by your veterinarian. - Know Your Dog's Patterns
You should become familiar with your dog's patterns in terms of eating, drinking, sleeping and relieving himself. Any major variations in these patterns could indicate illness and should be reported to your veterinarian. - Provide Chew Toys
Dogs never outgrow the need to chew. Protect your possessions by providing a variety of chew toys to satisfy your dog's urges. - Bathe Your Dog
A clean dog is a healthy dog. Bathe your dog on a regular basis appropriate to his breed and environment. Overbathing can be harmful to a dog's skin. Use a good shampoo and be sure to rinse well. If bathing your dog is more than you can handle, take him to a groomer or veterinarian for help. - Groom Your Dog
All dogs should be groomed regularly for health and best appearance. Some short-coated breeds need just a quick brushing every week, while some longer-coated breeds need daily brushing to prevent matting and to reduce shedding. If your dog requires clipping or sculpting, you may want to consult a professional groomer. - Clip Those Nails
Keeping your dog's nails short will keep him comfortable, prevent injury to his feet, and may save the surface of your floors. If you can hear your dog's nails click on a hard surface, they need to be trimmed. Ask your veterinarian for advice on clipping your dog's nails yourself. - Clean Those Teeth
To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, clean your dog's teeth regularly. Most dogs will accept a "toothbrush" if introduced to it slowly and gently. You can also give your dog products such as hard biscuits, rope bones and nylon chews to keep his teeth clean. - Prevent Obesity
Keep your dog healthy by maintaining him at an appropriate weight. Feed him a well-balanced diet and give him plenty of exercise. Don't give in to begging - "people food" is generally bad for dogs. - Know Your Breed's Health Risks
You should be aware of common health problems in your breed, how to prevent them, and how to recognize their onset. For example, some giant breeds are prone to bloat, while some short-faced breeds are prone to respiratory problems. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for information about any signs or symptoms you should watch for in your pet. - Protect From Poisons
Make sure that your home and yard are free from poisonous substances, such as antifreeze, which tastes good but can cause serious illness or even death. Keep your veterinarian's number handy in case of accidental ingestion. - Be Alert to Changing Needs
As your dog ages, his needs will change. He may require a different diet, need more sleep, and be less active. Do what you can to keep him comfortable. Your dog may not be as "fun" as he once was, but he is the same dog you loved as a puppy. You should do everything you can to pamper him in his final years. - End Suffering
If, due to illness or old age, your dog reaches a point where his quality of life is severely compromised, arrange to end his life humanely. Letting go is sometimes the kindest thing you can do. Don't prolong the suffering because you fear the pain of losing your dog.
Dog Nutrition Facts :Your Pet Doctor
Dog Nutrition Tips
- A balanced diet is critically important to your dog’s cell maintenance and growth and overall health. Barring any special needs, illness-related deficiencies, or instructions from your vet, your pet should be able to get all the nutrients he or she needs from high-quality commercial pet foods, which are specially formulated with these standards in mind.
- But dogs of different ages have different nutritional requirements. So, how much—or how little—should you be feeding your four-legged friend? Read on to learn what your pet’s body needs at the various stages of life.
Nutrients Your Dog Needs
- Nutrients are substances obtained from food and used by an animal as a source of energy and as part of the metabolic machinery necessary for maintenance and growth. There are the six essential classes of nutrients dogs need for optimum healthy living.
- Essential to life, water accounts for between 60 to 70% of an adult pet’s body weight. While food may help meet some of your pet's water needs (dry food has up to 10% moisture, while canned food has up to 78% moisture), pets must have fresh clean water available to them at all times. A deficiency of water may have serious repercussions for pets. A 10% decrease in body water can cause serious illness, while a 15% loss can result in death.
- Proteins
- Proteins are the basic building blocks for cells, tissues, organs, enzymes, hormones and antibodies, and are essential for growth, maintenance, reproduction and repair. Proteins can be obtained from a number of sources including animal-based meats such as chicken, lamb, turkey, beef, fish and eggs (which have complete amino acid profiles) and in vegetables, cereals and soy (but these are considered incomplete proteins).
- Please note: Do not give your pet raw eggs. Raw egg white contains avidin, an anti-vitamin that interferes with the metabolism of fats, glucose, amino acids and energy.
- Fats
- Fats are the most concentrated form of food energy, providing your pet with more than twice the energy of proteins or carbohydrates. Fats are essential in the structure of cells, needed for the production of some hormones, and are required for absorption and utilization of certain vitamins. Fats also provide insulation and protection for internal organs. A deficiency of essential fatty acids (such as linoleic acid) may result in reduced growth or increased skin problems.
- Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates provide energy, play a vital role in the health of the intestine, and are important for reproduction. While there is no minimum carbohydrate requirement, there is a minimum glucose requirement necessary to supply energy to critical organs such as the brain.
- Fibers are kinds of carbohydrates that alter the bacterial population in the small intestine, which can help manage chronic diarrhea in dogs. For dogs to obtain the most benefit from fiber, the fiber source must be moderately fermentable. Moderately fermentable fibers—including beet pulp, which is commonly used in dog foods—are best to promote a healthy gut while avoiding the undesirable side effects of highly fermentable fibers, like flatulence and excess mucus.
- Other examples of moderately fermentable fibers include brans (corn, rice and wheat) and wheat middlings. Foods that are high in fiber are not good for dogs with high energy requirements, and who are young and growing.
- Vitamins
- Tiny amounts of vitamins are necessary in dogs for normal metabolic functioning. Most vitamins cannot be synthesized in the body, and therefore are essential to obtain in the diet.
- Please note that when feeding your dog a complete and balanced diet, it is unnecessary to give a vitamin supplement unless a specific vitamin deficiency is diagnosed by a veterinarian. Due to over supplementation, poisoning due to excess vitamins (hypervitaminosis) is more common these days than vitamin deficiency (hypovitaminosis). Excess vitamin A may result in bone and joint pain, brittle bones and dry skin. Excess vitamin D may result in very dense bones, soft tissue calcification and kidney failure.
- Minerals
- Minerals are nutrients that cannot be synthesized by animals and must be provided in the diet. In general, minerals are most important as structural constituents of bones and teeth, for maintaining fluid balance and for their involvement in many metabolic reactions.
Thursday, April 20, 2017
Bloat in Dogs: Symptoms & Prevention
When a dog’s stomach fills with gas, it bloats. The expansion of the stomach puts pressure on the diaphragm, which in turn makes it hard for the dog to breathe. The stomach will also twist, causing terrible shock and rapid death. Therefore, bloating should always be treated as a dire emergency.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Bloating can happen to any breed of dog at any age. However, large breeds with deep chests, like Great Danes or the large Setters, are more likely to suffer from this type of emergency. In certain instances, bloating is noted when the dog exercises immediately after eating. The most obvious symptom is, of course, an enlarged abdomen. You may also observe labored breathing, excessive drooling, vomiting, a weak pulse, and paleness in the nose and mouth.
PRIMARY CAUSE
Although there are environmental and genetic factors that remain unknown, the chances of bloating are increased by overeating and excessive drinking. Allowing a dog to exercise or especially roll shortly after a meal can also cause problems.
IMMEDIATE CARE
Take the dog to a vet right away. There, she will be stabilized and likely undergo gastric decompression. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to treat the dog for shock on your way to the emergency hospital.
PREVENTION
Providing the dog normal-sized food portions and allowing her time to digest after a meal can help prevent occurrences of bloating, at all ages. Some veterinarians will recommend that breeds more commonly affected with bloating undergo gastropexy, a surgical procedure in which the stomach is attached to the body wall to prevent it from shifting or twisting.
Dehydration in dogs : Your Pet Doctor
Dehydration is a common emergency in which a dog loses the ability to replace lost fluids orally. These fluids are comprised of vital electrolytes and water.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
The most common symptom of dehydration is the loss of elasticity in the skin. When pulled lightly, the skin will not readily come back to its original place. Another alarming symptom is xerostomia, in which the gums lose moistness and become dry and sticky, and the saliva becomes thick. In advanced dehydration, the eyes sink in and the dog may collapse with shock.
PRIMARY CAUSE
In addition to persistent vomiting and diarrhea, illness, fever, heat stroke, and a deficiency in fluid intake can all cause dehydration.
IMMEDIATE CARE
If there is moderate dehydration and the dog is not throwing up, you can treat the dog with Ringer's lactate (“lactated Ringers” with 5% dextrose in water). You can also administer an electrolytic solution at a rate of 2 to 4 ml per pound (1 to 2 ml per kilogram) of the dog's body weight per hour. Electrolyte-enhanced waters may be of assistance as well. If you have questions concerning dosage, contact your veterinarian.
If your dog is suffering from severe dehydration, however, seek immediate medical attention. They will be able to administer intravenous fluids to avoid further loss of fluids and to replace the present loss.
PREVENTION
For a dog with continuous and severe bouts of vomiting and diarrhea, you can prevent dehydration by giving the dog electrolytic solutions until the illness passes. IV fluids, however, may be the only solution in severe cases.
Hypothermia in dogs How to treat : Your Pet Doctor
Despite their thick fur, extreme low temperatures can cause a dog's body temperature to fall, leading to hypothermia. If sustained, low body temperature may lead to several complications and even become fatal. To prevent this, immediate care is paramount.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
The first sign of hypothermia is paleness and strong shivering. This may be followed by listlessness to the point of lethargy and frostbite of certain body parts such as the tail, tips of the ears, scrotum, and foot pads. If left untreated,coma and heart failure may occur.
PRIMARY CAUSE
Hypothermia can occur in any of the following situations:
- Exposure to cold for a long time
- Wet fur and skin
- Submersion in cold water for long time
- Shock
- Anesthesia given for a long duration
IMMEDIATE CARE
- Warm some blankets on a radiator or in the clothes dryer with haste.
- Wrap the dog in the blankets.
- Wrap a hot water bottle in a towel and place it against the dog’s abdomen. Do not use it unwrapped, as this will burn the skin.
- If the dog is conscious, give him warmed fluids to drink.
- Check the dog’s temperature every 10 minutes: if it is below 98°F (36.7°C), get immediate veterinary attention.
- Once the temperature is above 100°F ( 37.8°C), you can remove the hot water bottle to avoid overheating. Keep the dog in a warm room.
PREVENTION
Hypothermia can be prevented by avoiding prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. This is especially important for dogs that are considered to be at-risk. Factors that increase an animal's risk for hypothermia include very young or old age, low body fat, hypothyroidism, and anesthesia. Dog clothes, boots, and other accessories can help breeds with thinner fur and those less used to cold weather.
How To Treat Dog Constipation: Your Pet Doctor
Dog constipation is defined as the inability to defecate normally. Much like humans, older dogs are more prone to this condition, though it can happen to any breed of dog at any age. Constipation in dogs should not be ignored, as extended periods of distress can cause serious health concerns.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
A constipated dog, especially if it is well-trained and evacuates at regular intervals daily, is described as being constipated if it is experiencing difficult bowel movements and physical distress. (In addition, severe diarrhea andcolitis may lead to straining.) Grass particles, matted feces, string, or other objects in or around the anus is also indicative of constipation. The size of the feces will be abnormally small and once the condition has progressed, lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite may develop.
PRIMARY CAUSE
The most common cause of dog constipation is swallowing objects that are not easily digested, if at all, such as a piece of dry bone. However, it can also be caused by:
- Slower intestinal processes
- Enlarged prostates
- Concurrent kidney disease
- Hernias
- Simply swallowing grass or hair
IMMEDIATE CARE
If you can see a thread or string in the anus, do not pull it. This can cause internal damage. Other important things to note:
- Always wear rubber gloves when dealing with feces and related anal problems.
- If you can see grass in the anus, gently ease it out.
- If feces are matted around the anus, trim carefully with scissors. (For long-haired dogs, see below.)
- Wash the anal region with warm, soapy water and apply a soothing, water-soluble jelly (such as K-Y) to the inflamed area.
- Take the dog’s temperature. If it is abnormally high or there is blood on the thermometer or resistance when inserting the thermometer, see your veterinarian immediately (within 24 hours).
Long-haired dogs, especially small ones like Yorkies and Lhasa Apsos, can become frantic with the discomfort caused by matted feces around the anus and the trimming process. You may need to soak the dog’s posterior in warm water before you begin trimming to make it more comfortable.
VETERINARY CARE
Diagnosis
Radiographs, abdominal ultrasound and blood work are some of the more common tests recommended for identifying the underlying cause of the constipated dog.
Treatment
In some cases, a dog may need to be hospitalized and given enemas to remove or pass an obstruction located in the anus. If in doubt, or in the cases noted above, call your vet and have the dog examined. Fluids under the skin may be administered to ensure good hydration to the intestinal tract. In cases of intact males where the prostate is the cause of the constipation, castration will be recommended. And in severe cases of constipation, your veterinarian may administer fluids intravenously.
LIVING AND MANAGEMENT
Some dogs have a history of periodic constipation, especially as they get older. Adding a little mineral oil to the dog's meal can help in these cases. The proper dosage for a dog is 1 tsp for every 11 lbs (5kg). However, you should never administer the oil orally; if it ends up in the lungs, which can occur easily, it can cause pneumonia. Your veterinarian may also recommend stool softeners as well as fiber supplementation to assist in the intestinal transit.
PREVENTION
Although it is natural for a dog to eat grass on occasion, this habit should be controlled as much as possible. Avoid giving your dog bones; substitute a nylon chew toy instead. Use purpose-made laxatives to soften the stool and above all else, provide your dog with water regularly. Neutering your dog at an early age will also prevent growth of the prostate, which can lead to constipation in dogs.
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
The Best Food Options for Your Dog with Allergies : Your Pet Doctor
DOES YOUR DOG REALLY NEED LAMB, BISON, AND OTHER 'HYPOALLERGENIC' DOG FOOD PROTEINS?
By Your Pet Doctor
In order to identify what is the best food for dogs with food allergies you must first understand what are food allergies and what causes them.
Many different terms are used to describe abnormal reactions to food. The terms “allergy” and “hypersensitivity” describe an immunologic reaction to food allergens and requires previous exposure to the allergen to bring about symptoms. In contrast, a food “intolerance” does not involve the immune system and can occur with the first exposure to a certain food. Both reactions produce similar symptoms and may be difficult to tell apart without veterinary guidance.
In fact, according to Dr. Adam Patterson, clinical assistant professor and Chief of Dermatology at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences Small Animal Clinic, “Food allergies in dogs present themselves quite differently than food allergies in humans. For instance, a person who is allergic to shellfish may experience throat swelling and possibly a critical or fatal reaction, but in dogs, the allergy is expressed through the skin and seen most often as itch.”
WHAT ARE THE COMMON SIGNS OF FOOD ALLERGIES IN DOGS?
Symptoms of food allergies in dogs vary, but the most common complaint is non-seasonal itching that may involve the whole body or be focused on the ears and feet. Chronic or recurrent ear and skin infections are also typical. Some dogs may even develop vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gassiness. Symptoms often begin when dogs are young (before one year of age), but may develop at any time.
WHAT CAUSES FOOD ALLERGIES IN DOGS?
Dogs with food allergies are typically allergic to proteins, which come from animal or plant-based ingredients of the diet. The proteins are broken down into molecules that the immune system misidentifies as a potential threat. Beef, dairy, wheat, and chicken are the most common culprits of food allergies in dogs. The development of food allergies, however, takes time. So the dog may have been eating the offending ingredients for quite a long time before symptoms develop.
HOW IS A FOOD ALLERGY DIAGNOSED IN DOGS?
A food trial using a “hypoallergenic” dog food is the only reliable way to diagnose food allergies in dogs. There are two ways to do this – using a novel protein source or hydrolyzed protein.
A “novel” protein source is one that is completely new to the dog, thereby reducing the chance of an immune response. In addition, the diet should contain a novel, single source of carbohydrates since plants also contain protein. Hypoallergenic dog food options include venison and potato, duck and pea, salmon and potato or even kangaroo, as long as the dog hasn’t been exposed to these ingredients in the past. Lamb used to be considered hypoallergenic but is now in so many commercial dog foods that it is no longer novel.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Kennel Coughing in Dogs : Your Pet Doctor
TUSSIS IN DOGS
The act of coughing serves as a protective mechanism for preventing the accumulation of secretions and foreign materials inside of the respiratory tract, but coughing can also serve as an early warning sign for respiratory diseases. Coughing is generally a symptom of an underlying problem, such as a respiratory or cardiovascular system disease.
This automatic and involuntary behavior is one of the most powerful reflexes in the body and is essential for keeping the pharynx and airways free of accumulated secretions and foreign material. This is, therefore, a normal response to any invasion, obstruction, or abnormality of the airways. The medical term for coughing is tussis, and this condition can be found in dogs of all ages and breeds.
SYMPTOMS AND TYPES
- Cough
- Retching
- Vomiting
- Sudden collapse
- Coughing up blood may be seen in certain diseases or with prolonged and violent coughing
CAUSES
- Respiratory tract diseases including tumors, infections (viral, bacterial, and parasitic)
- Aspiration pneumonia (pneumonia due to entrance of stomach contents or ingested food particles in the respiratory tract)
- Foreign bodies in the respiratory tract
- Allergies
- Cardiac diseases
DIAGNOSIS
For your veterinarian to establish an initial diagnosis, you will need to provide a thorough history of your dog's health, recent activities, and onset of symptoms. Sneezing and coughing can often be confused with each other, so your veterinarian will evaluate your dog's cough to determine if it is really a cough or a sneeze. The sounds can be very similar, so closer attention will need to be paid. Obvious outward differences may show the mouth staying closed during the reflexive action, indicative of a sneeze, whereas with cough, the mouth is opened.
The pattern and frequency of the cough are very important in determining the cause of the cough. Your veterinarian will ask you about the duration, timing, pattern, frequency, and characteristics of your dog's cough, so it can be helpful to both you and your doctor if you make notes of your dog's symptoms before you see your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian will need to evaluate whether the cough is productive or non-productive, so a cough will need to be artificially initiated by your doctor. In productive coughs, secretions, fluid, and mucous may be expelled from the airway, whereas with non-productive coughing or dry coughing no such material comes out with the cough. As coughing is associated with a number of diseases, a careful diagnostic workup is essential for establishing the diagnosis.
After the history and initial physical examination have been done, your veterinarian will take a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis to be analyzed in the lab. A complete blood count may suggest the presence of infections or allergies, based on the amount of white blood cells that are present in the blood, and a blood biochemistry test may show abnormally elevated liver enzymes or other abnormalities that are related to the underlying cause.
If your dog is also experiencing nose bleeds or is coughing up blood, tests related to blood clotting will be conducted to determine whether blood clotting mechanisms in the body are working normally. Other diagnostic tools that may be used include radiographic studies, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), all of which can be extremely valuable in determining the cause of the cough.
For a closer and more detailed view of the respiratory tract, your veterinarian may also use a laryngoscope, tracheoscope, or bronchoscope for a direct visualization of the various parts of the upper tract. Fecal testing may also be conducted to check for the presence of respiratory parasites in the body and your dog will be tested for heartworm disease, which can also lead to coughing in affected dogs. Your veterinarian can also take fluid samples from the respiratory system for further evaluation, since some types of parasites will remain on the walls of the respiratory tract.
Saturday, March 25, 2017
How to Stop Diarrhea in Dogs
Diarrhea In Dogs
Diarrhea is a common problem in dogs, often because they will put almost anything in their mouth. But it can also be caused by more serious health problems, some of which require close attention, especially if the diarrhea is severe or occurs frequently.
DOG DIARRHEA: WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Loose stools are, of course, the main indicator of diarrhea. Diarrhea may also be accompanied by vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, lethargy, and other symptoms of disease.
PRIMARY CAUSES OF DIARRHEA IN DOGS
Diarrhea that develops suddenly in an otherwise healthy dog is often due to scavenging behavior, stress, a sudden change in diet, or viral, bacterial or parasitic infections.
More chronic diarrhea can be caused by dietary allergies or intolerances, stress, some types of parasites (e.g., Giardia, hookworms, roundworms and whipworms), bacterial infections, pancreatic disease, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, some types of cancer, and diseases outside of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., liver failure or heart disease).
IMMEDIATE CARE FOR DOG DIARRHEA
If your dog is very young, very old, has a preexisting health condition, call your veterinarian for advice on how to handle the diarrhea. These individuals can become severely debilitated even when suffering from relatively mild diarrhea. Also, call your veterinarian if your dog’s diarrhea is frequent and/or very watery; contains more than just a streak of blood; is dark and tarry; or if your dog is vomiting profusely, lethargic, depressed, and/or is in pain. These can be signs of potentially serious health conditions.
But if your dog is an otherwise healthy adult and, it is reasonable to try some home treatment.
For dogs who just have diarrhea:
- Make sure the dog has access to plenty of clean water to avoid dehydration. Encourage the dog to drink. If needed, offer dilute chicken, beef broth or Pedialyte in addition to the water.
- Give the dog a small meal of boiled white meat chicken (no bones or skin) and white rice. This can be the dog's diet until the stool consistency returns to normal.
- If the diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours or your dog’s condition worsens at any time, call your vet immediately.
For dogs with diarrhea who have vomited only once or twice:
- Remove all food for 12 hours.
- To avoid dehydration, offer the dog small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. If needed, you can also offer some dilute chicken or beef broth or Pedialyte in addition to water.
- When the dog has not vomited for at least six hours, offer a small amount of boiled white meat chicken (no bones or skin) and white rice.
- Wait two hours. If the dog has not vomited then offer another small meal of cooked chicken and rice.
- Continue this treatment, gradually increasing the amount of food offered at each meal and lengthening the time between meals until the stool consistency returns to normal.
- If the diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours or your dog’s condition worsens at any time, call your vet immediately.
DIAGNOSIS FOR DOGS WITH DIARRHEA
If your dog suffers from frequent liquid bowel movements, or the current attack is severe and/or associated with vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain or weight loss, make an appointment with a veterinarian. Diagnosing the cause of dog diarrhea can sometimes be as easy as running a simple fecal exam; at other times it can be challenging and require different procedures such as lab work, abdominal x-rays or ultrasound, endoscopy or exploratory surgery.
PREVENTION OF DIARRHEA IN DOGS
There are several ways to reduce the occurrence of diarrhea in dogs:
- Do not suddenly change a dog’s diet.
- Do not give the dog bones as toys (firm rubber chew toys are a better choice).
- Do not let the dog play with small objects that could be swallowed.
- Do not feed your dog table scraps.
- Do not allow your dog to scavenge.
- Always keep your dog up-to-date with deworming and vaccinations.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Pseudorabies Virus Infection in Dogs 'Mad Itch' : Your Pet Care
SUID HERPESVIRUS IN DOGS
The pseudorabies virus infection is an uncommon but highly fatal disease found in dogs, especially those that come into contact with swine. Unfortunately, many dogs with this virus die suddenly, often without characteristic signs.
When symptoms do occur, they include excessive salivation, intense itching, and neurologic behavioral changes. Because of the extreme itching it causes, pseudorabies is sometimes referred to as “mad itch.”
The virus infects both dogs and cats -- primarily those living on farms -- as well as other domestic animals such as swine, cattle, sheep, and goats. Otherwise, there is no breed, gender, or age predilection for this viral infection.
If you would like to learn more about how this pseudorabies affects cats, please visit this page in the petMD health library.
SYMPTOMS AND TYPES
As previously stated, it is possible a dog suffering from pseudorabies displays no symptoms at all. However, some signs which may be seen include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Excessive salivation
- Rapid and labored breathing
Other symptoms and signs may be neurological in nature, such as:
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Ataxia
- Convulsions
- Reluctance to move
- Lying down excessively
- Intense itching and self-mutilation from scratching
- Coma
CAUSES
Other than direct contact with swine, dogs may contract the pseudorabies virus (or Suid herpesvirus 1) by eating contaminated, uncooked meat or offal from swine, or by ingesting infected rats.
DIAGNOSIS
Your veterinarian will make a diagnosis of the pseudorabies virus infection by comparing it to diseases with similar symptoms. For example, dogs with the regular form of rabies will attack anything that moves, and there is no itching or sudden death. Meanwhile, a dog that has been poisoned displays no signs of itching or personality change. With canine distemper, there is no hypersalivation, sudden death, or personality change, but respiratory and gastrointestinal signs are common.
If your dog does recover from this infection, a blood test will reveal pseudorabies virus antibodies. If sudden death should occur, your veterinarian will examine its brain tissue for confirmation of pseudorabies.
TREATMENT
Unfortunately, there is currently no effective medical or medicinal treatment for the pseudorabies virus.
LIVING AND MANAGEMENT
Expected course and prognosis:
- Classic Form of the Infection -- in 60 percent of cases the condition lasts 24 to 36 hours; it is almost invariably fatal.
- Atypical Form of the Infection -- in 40 percent of cases the condition lasts more than 36 hours; it is almost invariably fatal.
There is a mild potential for human infection. Precautions should be taken when treating infected animals, and when handling infected tissues and fluids. Dog-to-dog transmission does not usually occur.
PREVENTION
- Avoid contact with infected swine, the reservoir host
- Avoid ingestion of contaminated pork
- Avoid ingestion of infected rats.
Saturday, February 25, 2017
New Puppy Checklist: Before You Plan A New Puppy
New Puppy Care:-
New Puppy Supplies:-
There are over 150 breeds of dogs registered with the American Kennel Club in addition to breeds registered with other dog registration agencies; and millions of mixed breed puppies that are not registered. Fortunately, care of a puppy regardless of the breed is essentially the same.
New Puppy Shopping List : What Do We Need ?
Prior to bringing your new puppy home,
purchase the following items to care for
your new pet:
Dishes for food and water
a bed
a collar
a leash
an identification tag
crate with bedding
teething toys
Before New Puppy at Home : Fleas and Ticks
There are many flea and tick products
available that will prevent infestation and
will kill these parasites. Follow the
recommendations of your pet store or
your veterinarian.
Bringing Your Puppy Home :-
Place the bed in a quiet area that is draft free, out of the way of foot traffic and not subject to temperature extremes. Your puppy will require a lot of sleep and naps. If you have children, limit playtime with the puppy, as it will get tired quickly.
Grooming :-
Most puppies enjoy a bath and brushing.
Purchase the shampoo and brush your pet
store or veterinarian recommends for the
breed of the pup you have chosen. The
bath water should be warm. Check
temperature of water with your elbow. If
comfortable for you, it will be
comfortable for your puppy. Rinse and
re-rinse your pet before drying with a
large towel and a hand held hair dryer.
Brushing when almost dry helps fluff up
the hair coat.
Legal Requirements :-
Check with your local government
concerning the legal obligations you will
need to meet regarding your new puppy,
including:
Dog licensing
Proof of rabies vaccination
Microchipping
Mandatory spay/neuter laws
Waste removal and leash laws
Visiting the Vet :-
As soon as possible, take your puppy to a
veterinarian. In addition to a general
health check-up, your puppy will need
vaccinations and a worming analysis.
Spaying or neutering your puppy prevents
overpopulation in an already overcrowded
world. If you do not wish to breed your pet,
spaying or neutering is a good idea. Check
with your local dog-licensing bureau
because it may be required in your area.
Housebreaking :-
There are three keys to success when
housetraining your puppy:
take your puppy outside
immediately after naps and meals;
lavish praise when your puppy is
successful; and
patience.
Using a crate with bedding will encourage
your puppy to wait until he gets to an
approved area to relieve himself.
Your puppy’s muscles grow as they grow,
and frequent urination is natural—which is why you need to take your puppy to an
approved area immediately following naps
and meals.
Your puppy only wants to please you, so
praising your pet when he is successful
ingrains good behavior. If the puppy makes
a “mistake” in the house, do not resort to
hitting. Puppies have short memory spans,
so they will not understand what the
punishment is for. If you see your puppy
relieving himself in the house, take him
outside immediately. If he is caught making
a mess, a firm “no” while clapping your
hands loudly should be his only
punishment.
Setting a feeding and walking schedule will
help your puppy adjust, and make
housebreaking successful. If your puppy
does relieve himself in the house, it should
be cleaned and deodorized as soon as
possible to prevent reoccurrence. And
remember, patience, patience, patience!
There are over 150 breeds of dogs registered with the American Kennel Club in addition to breeds registered with other dog registration agencies; and millions of mixed breed puppies that are not registered. Fortunately, care of a puppy regardless of the breed is essentially the same.
New Puppy Shopping List : What Do We Need ?
Prior to bringing your new puppy home,
purchase the following items to care for
your new pet:
Dishes for food and water
a bed
a collar
a leash
an identification tag
crate with bedding
teething toys
Before New Puppy at Home : Fleas and Ticks
There are many flea and tick products
available that will prevent infestation and
will kill these parasites. Follow the
recommendations of your pet store or
your veterinarian.
Bringing Your Puppy Home :-
Place the bed in a quiet area that is draft free, out of the way of foot traffic and not subject to temperature extremes. Your puppy will require a lot of sleep and naps. If you have children, limit playtime with the puppy, as it will get tired quickly.
Grooming :-
Most puppies enjoy a bath and brushing.
Purchase the shampoo and brush your pet
store or veterinarian recommends for the
breed of the pup you have chosen. The
bath water should be warm. Check
temperature of water with your elbow. If
comfortable for you, it will be
comfortable for your puppy. Rinse and
re-rinse your pet before drying with a
large towel and a hand held hair dryer.
Brushing when almost dry helps fluff up
the hair coat.
Legal Requirements :-
Check with your local government
concerning the legal obligations you will
need to meet regarding your new puppy,
including:
Dog licensing
Proof of rabies vaccination
Microchipping
Mandatory spay/neuter laws
Waste removal and leash laws
Visiting the Vet :-
As soon as possible, take your puppy to a
veterinarian. In addition to a general
health check-up, your puppy will need
vaccinations and a worming analysis.
Spaying or neutering your puppy prevents
overpopulation in an already overcrowded
world. If you do not wish to breed your pet,
spaying or neutering is a good idea. Check
with your local dog-licensing bureau
because it may be required in your area.
Housebreaking :-
There are three keys to success when
housetraining your puppy:
take your puppy outside
immediately after naps and meals;
lavish praise when your puppy is
successful; and
patience.
Using a crate with bedding will encourage
your puppy to wait until he gets to an
approved area to relieve himself.
Your puppy’s muscles grow as they grow,
and frequent urination is natural—which is why you need to take your puppy to an
approved area immediately following naps
and meals.
Your puppy only wants to please you, so
praising your pet when he is successful
ingrains good behavior. If the puppy makes
a “mistake” in the house, do not resort to
hitting. Puppies have short memory spans,
so they will not understand what the
punishment is for. If you see your puppy
relieving himself in the house, take him
outside immediately. If he is caught making
a mess, a firm “no” while clapping your
hands loudly should be his only
punishment.
Setting a feeding and walking schedule will
help your puppy adjust, and make
housebreaking successful. If your puppy
does relieve himself in the house, it should
be cleaned and deodorized as soon as
possible to prevent reoccurrence. And
remember, patience, patience, patience!
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