Thursday, June 11, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Canine Fitness Buddy
Canine Fitness Buddy
Your perfect workout partner has four legs
Looking for the perfect fitness buddy? Your best friend may not always be available, but man's best friend never says no to a little exercise—and that's not just because dogs can't talk.
After a tough day of scavenging the kitchen floor for breakfast scraps and dozing on the couch, your canine companion will be more than happy to take a little stroll with you. Most dogs enjoy (and need) exercise and look forward to it as part of their otherwise leisurely daily routine.
Plus, exercising with your dog, even if it doesn't feel like exercise, can be beneficial to your health. A recent study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that having a pet can encourage owners to be more active. Research participants walked with a dog on a regular, graduated schedule for a year until they were up to walking 20 minutes a day, five days a week. By the end, the weight loss was nothing to bark at—a solid average of 14 pounds per person.
Puppy Love
Don't forget, Fido needs to stay fit, too. According to Grisha Stewart, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer who was voted Seattle's Top Dog Trainer in 2006 by readers of CityDog magazine, dogs need about 45 minutes to an hour and a half of exercise each day, depending on the breed. "It's much better for the dog to be jogging along or walking along than just fetching. Running can calm them down more," Stewart says. And those exercise benefits don't just extend to your pup. "If you're walking along briskly, it definitely can help you stay in shape," Stewart adds.
The idea of a fit dog leading to a fit owner has been supported by research. A study from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Wellness Institute found that obese people who tried losing weight with their overweight dogs lost an average of 11 pounds in one year, while the dogs lost about 16 percent of their body weight. The study cited the companionship, motivation, and social support dogs provide as key in helping owners slim down.
"Dogs need to be exercised, and so you make a commitment to that dog, which also creates a commitment to yourself," says Nancy Clark, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. "It's a have-to. You have to get out and exercise that dog; therefore, you get the exercise yourself."
Rover gets to rove, you burn calories
So if your workout needs a little pick-me-up, consider picking up a dog. Need some suggestions? Almost any dog will be a good walking companion, but if you're looking to spice things up a little, here are a few different activities to try, along with recommendations of some good breeds to take with you. And don't worry if you don't have a pooch of your own—loaner dogs can be found in cities ranging from Maui, Hawaii, to Beaver Creek, Colorado. Check with your local animal shelter to see if they offer a "borrowing" program for the day—a win-win for you and the lucky dog.
Running: Australian shepherd
This high-energy dog needs vigorous exercise to stay in shape, so running with an Australian shepherd is good for you and your pet. These dogs are easy to train and have been bred to feel most fulfilled when they have a job to perform (like herding livestock or protecting children), so they'll love to be your official jogging partner. Other large dogs that need lots of exercise to remain healthy are great to take for a run or even rollerblading; small dogs are usually better suited to short walks. And remember—if you get a dog that likes to run, you should like to run. "A prospective owner's main concern would be to get a dog that wants the same amount of exercise that they want," says Stewart, who also recommends using a front-attachment harness to better keep control of your pet while jogging.
Other good choices: Dalmatians, greyhounds
Swimming: Newfoundland
With a water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and a natural instinct for water rescue, the giant, shaggy-haired Newfoundland makes a great swimming buddy. Whatever dog you have, though, make sure he likes water and never force him to swim—every dog is different, even those that are considered born swimmers. For extra safety precautions in case a dog panics in deep water, invest in a doggy life jacket. They look much like the life vest humans wear, and they can be purchased for around $20 to $50.
Other good choices: Labrador retrievers, poodles
Yoga: Beagle
Believe it or not, dogs can do yoga — called "doga" for the canine set. Gyms in cities across the country, including New York and Los Angeles, offer classes for flexible pets and their owners. According to Brenda Bryan, who teaches a class in Seattle called Yoga with Your Dog, yogis and dogis love stretching alongside one another. "For dogs, it's a really nice opportunity to spend time with their person," she says. "For the people, yoga is, in general, a nice way to get to know your own body." And in the same way that yoga is relaxing for humans, canines also take time to calm down and de-stress. "Almost all the dogs mellow out, even the dogs that seem to be a little bit more rowdy," Bryan says. Still not convinced that doga is for you? Clark calls it "a really good bonding experience" and Bryan says, "For anyone, dog or human, you're relaxing for an hour; you're spending time in a positive environment. It certainly can't hurt."
Other good choices: Jack Russell terriers, bloodhounds
Hiking: Golden retriever
Practically any dog will enjoy a good hike in the great outdoors, but the ideal ones to take along will easily be able to maneuver obstacles and will have enough stamina to keep up. Clark recommends "bigger dogs that aren't running on short little legs, struggling to keep up with you." Not everyone is a fan of Fido on the trails, though, so make sure your dog is well-behaved and always on a leash—and yes, you will have to pick up and hike out any droppings your prized pooch leaves behind.
Other good choices: Doberman pinschers, German shepherds
Skijoring: Siberian husky
Strap on your skis and get ready to glide across the snow with your dog as the lead. Sound intimidating? It's actually a relatively easy sport to pick up. "All you need are some cross-country skis and a harness, and you're good to go," says Tren Long, president of the Bogus Skijoring Club in Boise, Idaho. Skijoring has been popular in Alaska for years, and it's recently had a surge in popularity in the Lower 48. Participants in this sport say the dogs love it. "My dog goes nuts," Long attests. "In the winter, if I leave the house without taking her, she'll give me that pouty face." And you can make the workout as easy or as challenging as you like. Start with flat ground and a short distance. If you really want to get your blood pumping, try hills and breaking your own trail. Northern breeds such as huskies like to pull and can handle the cold, but many dogs—as long as they're at least 35 pounds and are able to comfortably pull you—can be trained for this sport on an amateur level.
Other good choices: Alaskan malamutes, German shorthaired pointers
Your perfect workout partner has four legs
Looking for the perfect fitness buddy? Your best friend may not always be available, but man's best friend never says no to a little exercise—and that's not just because dogs can't talk.
After a tough day of scavenging the kitchen floor for breakfast scraps and dozing on the couch, your canine companion will be more than happy to take a little stroll with you. Most dogs enjoy (and need) exercise and look forward to it as part of their otherwise leisurely daily routine.
Plus, exercising with your dog, even if it doesn't feel like exercise, can be beneficial to your health. A recent study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that having a pet can encourage owners to be more active. Research participants walked with a dog on a regular, graduated schedule for a year until they were up to walking 20 minutes a day, five days a week. By the end, the weight loss was nothing to bark at—a solid average of 14 pounds per person.
Puppy Love
Don't forget, Fido needs to stay fit, too. According to Grisha Stewart, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer who was voted Seattle's Top Dog Trainer in 2006 by readers of CityDog magazine, dogs need about 45 minutes to an hour and a half of exercise each day, depending on the breed. "It's much better for the dog to be jogging along or walking along than just fetching. Running can calm them down more," Stewart says. And those exercise benefits don't just extend to your pup. "If you're walking along briskly, it definitely can help you stay in shape," Stewart adds.
The idea of a fit dog leading to a fit owner has been supported by research. A study from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Wellness Institute found that obese people who tried losing weight with their overweight dogs lost an average of 11 pounds in one year, while the dogs lost about 16 percent of their body weight. The study cited the companionship, motivation, and social support dogs provide as key in helping owners slim down.
"Dogs need to be exercised, and so you make a commitment to that dog, which also creates a commitment to yourself," says Nancy Clark, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. "It's a have-to. You have to get out and exercise that dog; therefore, you get the exercise yourself."
Rover gets to rove, you burn calories
So if your workout needs a little pick-me-up, consider picking up a dog. Need some suggestions? Almost any dog will be a good walking companion, but if you're looking to spice things up a little, here are a few different activities to try, along with recommendations of some good breeds to take with you. And don't worry if you don't have a pooch of your own—loaner dogs can be found in cities ranging from Maui, Hawaii, to Beaver Creek, Colorado. Check with your local animal shelter to see if they offer a "borrowing" program for the day—a win-win for you and the lucky dog.
Running: Australian shepherd
This high-energy dog needs vigorous exercise to stay in shape, so running with an Australian shepherd is good for you and your pet. These dogs are easy to train and have been bred to feel most fulfilled when they have a job to perform (like herding livestock or protecting children), so they'll love to be your official jogging partner. Other large dogs that need lots of exercise to remain healthy are great to take for a run or even rollerblading; small dogs are usually better suited to short walks. And remember—if you get a dog that likes to run, you should like to run. "A prospective owner's main concern would be to get a dog that wants the same amount of exercise that they want," says Stewart, who also recommends using a front-attachment harness to better keep control of your pet while jogging.
Other good choices: Dalmatians, greyhounds
Swimming: Newfoundland
With a water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and a natural instinct for water rescue, the giant, shaggy-haired Newfoundland makes a great swimming buddy. Whatever dog you have, though, make sure he likes water and never force him to swim—every dog is different, even those that are considered born swimmers. For extra safety precautions in case a dog panics in deep water, invest in a doggy life jacket. They look much like the life vest humans wear, and they can be purchased for around $20 to $50.
Other good choices: Labrador retrievers, poodles
Yoga: Beagle
Believe it or not, dogs can do yoga — called "doga" for the canine set. Gyms in cities across the country, including New York and Los Angeles, offer classes for flexible pets and their owners. According to Brenda Bryan, who teaches a class in Seattle called Yoga with Your Dog, yogis and dogis love stretching alongside one another. "For dogs, it's a really nice opportunity to spend time with their person," she says. "For the people, yoga is, in general, a nice way to get to know your own body." And in the same way that yoga is relaxing for humans, canines also take time to calm down and de-stress. "Almost all the dogs mellow out, even the dogs that seem to be a little bit more rowdy," Bryan says. Still not convinced that doga is for you? Clark calls it "a really good bonding experience" and Bryan says, "For anyone, dog or human, you're relaxing for an hour; you're spending time in a positive environment. It certainly can't hurt."
Other good choices: Jack Russell terriers, bloodhounds
Hiking: Golden retriever
Practically any dog will enjoy a good hike in the great outdoors, but the ideal ones to take along will easily be able to maneuver obstacles and will have enough stamina to keep up. Clark recommends "bigger dogs that aren't running on short little legs, struggling to keep up with you." Not everyone is a fan of Fido on the trails, though, so make sure your dog is well-behaved and always on a leash—and yes, you will have to pick up and hike out any droppings your prized pooch leaves behind.
Other good choices: Doberman pinschers, German shepherds
Skijoring: Siberian husky
Strap on your skis and get ready to glide across the snow with your dog as the lead. Sound intimidating? It's actually a relatively easy sport to pick up. "All you need are some cross-country skis and a harness, and you're good to go," says Tren Long, president of the Bogus Skijoring Club in Boise, Idaho. Skijoring has been popular in Alaska for years, and it's recently had a surge in popularity in the Lower 48. Participants in this sport say the dogs love it. "My dog goes nuts," Long attests. "In the winter, if I leave the house without taking her, she'll give me that pouty face." And you can make the workout as easy or as challenging as you like. Start with flat ground and a short distance. If you really want to get your blood pumping, try hills and breaking your own trail. Northern breeds such as huskies like to pull and can handle the cold, but many dogs—as long as they're at least 35 pounds and are able to comfortably pull you—can be trained for this sport on an amateur level.
Other good choices: Alaskan malamutes, German shorthaired pointers
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Food Allergy/Intolerance
Food Allergies
(Only some of the captioned signs are usually present in a given animal, not necessarily all.)Allergic dog
The classical canine food allergy lesion distribution includes signs of facial itching, foot or limb chewing, belly itching, and recurrent ear infections.
Your Pet's Itchy Skin
Itchy skin in the small animal is often more than just a minor annoyance. Red, oozing bald patches, rashes, and large expanses of hair loss are unfortunate markers of very real discomfort for which a cause should be sought and specificAllergic cat
In cats, food allergy usually produces scabs and other signs of itching around the face or neck.
ally dealt with.
The food allergy is one of the itchiest conditions known to cat and dog. Animals eat a variety of processed food proteins, fillers, and colorings which are further processed inside their bodies. Proteins may be combined or changed into substances recognized by the immune system as foreign invaders to be attacked. The resulting inflammation may target the GI tract or other organ systems but, in dogs and cats, it is the skin that most often suffers from this immunologic activity.
Many people erroneously assume itching due to food allergy requires a recent diet change of some sort. In fact, the opposite is true.
Food allergy requires time to develop; most animals have been eating the offending food for years with no trouble.
What Kind of Allergy?
Sarcoptic mange and inhalant allergy (also known as atopy) are the two conditions which must be distinguished from food allergy as the treatment approach to each is markedly different. Much time and money can be wasted pursuing the wrong the problem.
Please consider the following clues which contribute to pointing us towards the food allergy as a diagnosis. Your pet demonstrates:
Your pet has been treated for sarcoptic mange without any positive change.
Your pet's itchiness is not and has never been a seasonal problem.
Your pet has responded poorly or only partially to cortisone-type medications.
Your pet has had a skin biopsy demonstrating changes often associated with allergy or, more specifically, food allergy.
A lesion distribution pattern which is common for food allergy (see illustration at top of page)
Please note that three of the above four criteria relate to what you, the owner, observe at home. Trouble results when the veterinarian must speak to different family members about the pet and there is disagreement in their observation of the pet at home. It is best to have one person, preferably the one who has the most contact with the pet, be the spokesperson and make the relevant judgments.
The Flea Factor
Some animals have many allergies. It would not be particularly unusual for an animal with a food or inhalant allergyFlea
to also be allergic to flea bites, especially considering that flea bite allergy is an extremely common allergy among pets. Because allergies add to each other, it is possible that a food allergic dog will not itch if its fleas are controlled. Since new technology has made flea control safe and convenient, it is especially important (and no longer difficult) to see that fleas are not complicating a pet's itching problem.
Ensure immaculate flea control for any itchy pet!
For more information on flea biology and flea control, visit the special site prepared by the Iowa State Veterinary College: http://www.vetmed.iastate.edu/services/vth/clinical/derm/flea/
How to Deal with the Food Allergy Suspect: The Hypoallergenic Diet Trial
The Basic Principle
To determine whether or not a food allergy or intolerance is causing the skin problem, a hypoallergenic diet is fed for a set period of time. If the pet recovers, the original diet is fed for up to two weeks to see if itching resumes. If we see recovery with the test diet and itch with the original diet, then food allergy is diagnosed and the pet is returned to either the test diet or another appropriate commercial food indefinitely.
What Is a Good Hypoallergenic Diet?
There are two approaches to this question. Obviously, the test diet must be of a food source that the patient could not possibly be allergic to. The traditional method is the use of a novel protein and carbohydrate source; that is, something the pet has never eaten before. In the past, lamb has been the protein source of choice as American pet food companies had traditionally failed to produce lamb-based pet foods. Unfortunately, recent production of lamb and rice-based foods has removed lamb from the acceptable hypoallergenic diet list.
Fortunately, many pet food companies have discerned the need for diets using unusual protein and carbohydrate sources with a minimum of additives. Foods can be obtained based on venison and potato, fish and potato, egg and rice, duck and pea, and even kangaroo. Our hospital generally recommends duck and potato based foods for dogs and duck and pea based foods for cats. We have chosen these products because they are available both as canned as well as dry formulas. (Most pet owners prefer to feed a combination of dry and canned food.)
It is important that during the diet trial no unnecessary medications be given. No edible chew toys (such as rawhides or bones) should be given. Treats must be based on the same food sources as the test diet. (Beware of rice cakes, though, as wheat is commonly used as a filler.) Chewable heartworm preventives should be replaced with tablets.
Home cooking was originally the only option felt to be appropriately free of allergens but for most animals these special commercial foods are adequate. Occasionally home cooking ends up being necessary after all.
The Hydrolyzed Protein Method
Recently a new approach has been introduced using therapeutic diets made from hydrolyzed proteins. This means that a conventional protein source is used but the protein is broken down into molecules too small to excite the immune system.
How Long to Feed the Trial Diet
In the past, 4 weeks was thought to represent a complete trial period. More recent work has shown that some food allergic animals require 8 to 10 weeks to respond. This may be an extremely inconvenient period of time for home cooking. Our current recommendation calls for a recheck appointment or phone call after four weeks of diet trial and then again after eight weeks of trial. Eighty percent of food allergic dogs will have responded to diet trial at least partially by six weeks. The Labrador retriever and cocker spaniel appear to require up 10 weeks of trial diet before showing a response. Some animals may even require a longer period.
All commercial diets mentioned have a 100% guarantee. This means that if your pet doesn't like the food, the food can be returned for a complete refund (even if the bag is opened). This is especially helpful for feline patients, as cats are famous for being choosy about what they are willing to eat.
What to Do if the Diet is Successful?
To confirm food allergy, return to the original food; itching resumes within 14 days generally if food allergy was truly the reason for the itchy skin. Many people do not want to take a chance of returning to itching if the patient is doing well; it is not unreasonable to simply stay with the test diet if the pet remains free of symptoms.
It is possible to more specifically determine the identity of the offending foods after the pet is well. To do this, a pure protein source (such as cooked chicken, tofu, wheat flour or any other single food) is added to the test diet with each feeding. If the pet begins to itch within 2 weeks, then that protein source represents one of the pet's allergens. Return to the test diet until the itching stops and try another pure protein source. If no itching results after two weeks of feeding a test protein, the pet is not allergic to this protein.
What to Do if the Diet is Unsuccessful?
Generally, an unsuccessful food trial is strongly suggestive that an inhalant allergy is really the primary problem but there are some other considerations that should at least be mentioned: Are you certain that the dog received no other food or substances orally during the trial? Was sarcoptic mange ruled out? Your pet may require a longer diet trial. Are you certain regarding the factor that pointed us toward the food allergy? If your pet has not been biopsied, now may be a good time. If an inhalant allergy has risen to the top of the list, symptomatic relief either via medication, special baths, or allergy shots will likely be necessary. Chronic itchiness can be extremely uncomfortable and prompt relief is the goal.
(Only some of the captioned signs are usually present in a given animal, not necessarily all.)Allergic dog
The classical canine food allergy lesion distribution includes signs of facial itching, foot or limb chewing, belly itching, and recurrent ear infections.
Your Pet's Itchy Skin
Itchy skin in the small animal is often more than just a minor annoyance. Red, oozing bald patches, rashes, and large expanses of hair loss are unfortunate markers of very real discomfort for which a cause should be sought and specificAllergic cat
In cats, food allergy usually produces scabs and other signs of itching around the face or neck.
ally dealt with.
The food allergy is one of the itchiest conditions known to cat and dog. Animals eat a variety of processed food proteins, fillers, and colorings which are further processed inside their bodies. Proteins may be combined or changed into substances recognized by the immune system as foreign invaders to be attacked. The resulting inflammation may target the GI tract or other organ systems but, in dogs and cats, it is the skin that most often suffers from this immunologic activity.
Many people erroneously assume itching due to food allergy requires a recent diet change of some sort. In fact, the opposite is true.
Food allergy requires time to develop; most animals have been eating the offending food for years with no trouble.
What Kind of Allergy?
Sarcoptic mange and inhalant allergy (also known as atopy) are the two conditions which must be distinguished from food allergy as the treatment approach to each is markedly different. Much time and money can be wasted pursuing the wrong the problem.
Please consider the following clues which contribute to pointing us towards the food allergy as a diagnosis. Your pet demonstrates:
Your pet has been treated for sarcoptic mange without any positive change.
Your pet's itchiness is not and has never been a seasonal problem.
Your pet has responded poorly or only partially to cortisone-type medications.
Your pet has had a skin biopsy demonstrating changes often associated with allergy or, more specifically, food allergy.
A lesion distribution pattern which is common for food allergy (see illustration at top of page)
Please note that three of the above four criteria relate to what you, the owner, observe at home. Trouble results when the veterinarian must speak to different family members about the pet and there is disagreement in their observation of the pet at home. It is best to have one person, preferably the one who has the most contact with the pet, be the spokesperson and make the relevant judgments.
The Flea Factor
Some animals have many allergies. It would not be particularly unusual for an animal with a food or inhalant allergyFlea
to also be allergic to flea bites, especially considering that flea bite allergy is an extremely common allergy among pets. Because allergies add to each other, it is possible that a food allergic dog will not itch if its fleas are controlled. Since new technology has made flea control safe and convenient, it is especially important (and no longer difficult) to see that fleas are not complicating a pet's itching problem.
Ensure immaculate flea control for any itchy pet!
For more information on flea biology and flea control, visit the special site prepared by the Iowa State Veterinary College: http://www.vetmed.iastate.edu/services/vth/clinical/derm/flea/
How to Deal with the Food Allergy Suspect: The Hypoallergenic Diet Trial
The Basic Principle
To determine whether or not a food allergy or intolerance is causing the skin problem, a hypoallergenic diet is fed for a set period of time. If the pet recovers, the original diet is fed for up to two weeks to see if itching resumes. If we see recovery with the test diet and itch with the original diet, then food allergy is diagnosed and the pet is returned to either the test diet or another appropriate commercial food indefinitely.
What Is a Good Hypoallergenic Diet?
There are two approaches to this question. Obviously, the test diet must be of a food source that the patient could not possibly be allergic to. The traditional method is the use of a novel protein and carbohydrate source; that is, something the pet has never eaten before. In the past, lamb has been the protein source of choice as American pet food companies had traditionally failed to produce lamb-based pet foods. Unfortunately, recent production of lamb and rice-based foods has removed lamb from the acceptable hypoallergenic diet list.
Fortunately, many pet food companies have discerned the need for diets using unusual protein and carbohydrate sources with a minimum of additives. Foods can be obtained based on venison and potato, fish and potato, egg and rice, duck and pea, and even kangaroo. Our hospital generally recommends duck and potato based foods for dogs and duck and pea based foods for cats. We have chosen these products because they are available both as canned as well as dry formulas. (Most pet owners prefer to feed a combination of dry and canned food.)
It is important that during the diet trial no unnecessary medications be given. No edible chew toys (such as rawhides or bones) should be given. Treats must be based on the same food sources as the test diet. (Beware of rice cakes, though, as wheat is commonly used as a filler.) Chewable heartworm preventives should be replaced with tablets.
Home cooking was originally the only option felt to be appropriately free of allergens but for most animals these special commercial foods are adequate. Occasionally home cooking ends up being necessary after all.
The Hydrolyzed Protein Method
Recently a new approach has been introduced using therapeutic diets made from hydrolyzed proteins. This means that a conventional protein source is used but the protein is broken down into molecules too small to excite the immune system.
How Long to Feed the Trial Diet
In the past, 4 weeks was thought to represent a complete trial period. More recent work has shown that some food allergic animals require 8 to 10 weeks to respond. This may be an extremely inconvenient period of time for home cooking. Our current recommendation calls for a recheck appointment or phone call after four weeks of diet trial and then again after eight weeks of trial. Eighty percent of food allergic dogs will have responded to diet trial at least partially by six weeks. The Labrador retriever and cocker spaniel appear to require up 10 weeks of trial diet before showing a response. Some animals may even require a longer period.
All commercial diets mentioned have a 100% guarantee. This means that if your pet doesn't like the food, the food can be returned for a complete refund (even if the bag is opened). This is especially helpful for feline patients, as cats are famous for being choosy about what they are willing to eat.
What to Do if the Diet is Successful?
To confirm food allergy, return to the original food; itching resumes within 14 days generally if food allergy was truly the reason for the itchy skin. Many people do not want to take a chance of returning to itching if the patient is doing well; it is not unreasonable to simply stay with the test diet if the pet remains free of symptoms.
It is possible to more specifically determine the identity of the offending foods after the pet is well. To do this, a pure protein source (such as cooked chicken, tofu, wheat flour or any other single food) is added to the test diet with each feeding. If the pet begins to itch within 2 weeks, then that protein source represents one of the pet's allergens. Return to the test diet until the itching stops and try another pure protein source. If no itching results after two weeks of feeding a test protein, the pet is not allergic to this protein.
What to Do if the Diet is Unsuccessful?
Generally, an unsuccessful food trial is strongly suggestive that an inhalant allergy is really the primary problem but there are some other considerations that should at least be mentioned: Are you certain that the dog received no other food or substances orally during the trial? Was sarcoptic mange ruled out? Your pet may require a longer diet trial. Are you certain regarding the factor that pointed us toward the food allergy? If your pet has not been biopsied, now may be a good time. If an inhalant allergy has risen to the top of the list, symptomatic relief either via medication, special baths, or allergy shots will likely be necessary. Chronic itchiness can be extremely uncomfortable and prompt relief is the goal.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Take your medicine
Take Your Medicine
Too often, pet owners leave veterinary hospitals with prescriptions they don't fully understand for pets who don't want to take their medicine.
As a practicing veterinarian, I can tell you that pets need to get their medicine exactly as prescribed for the best possible outcome. But a recent study confirms what we veterinarians already suspected: Only 10 percent of cat owners and 30 percent of dog owners succeed in medicating their pets correctly.
This means that a lot of prescriptions end up in the cupboard or on the person rather than in the reluctant pet. That's why it's important to ask some basic questions and make sure you understand all the answers before leaving your veterinarian's office with medication in hand.
I've narrowed them down to six questions that must be answered before you head home:
Why has this been prescribed? "Pet owners must understand exactly what condition a pet has and what the prescribed medications are for," says Dr. John Tait of the veterinary school at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. For example, is the medication an antibiotic, a wormer, an anti-inflammatory drug, a pain medication or something to soothe the intestinal tract? Are we fighting a fever by giving an antibiotic, trying to prevent a secondary infection, or stopping diarrhea or vomiting?
How long should I give my pet this medicine? "There is a tendency to discontinue medication when our pets appear 'cured,'" says Dr. Kelly Diehl, an internal medicine specialist at the Veterinary Referral Center of Colorado in Englewood, Colo. "Owners need to follow their pet's medication schedule for the entire time prescribed." Diehl uses the development of bacterial resistance to antibiotics as an example. A pet may seem better, but the bacteria can prepare a second wave of attack if the medication isn't given for the duration prescribed.
How should I give this, and how often? Is the medication oral or topical? Will it be given in response to symptoms or on a regular schedule? "Because of busy schedules, it is easy to overlook a pet's medication," says Diehl. The easiest way to keep on schedule is to write down the doses in your home calendar and check them off when given to your pet. This way, you give all the doses for the proper amount of time. And if you miss a dose, don't double up to catch up. Instead, give the next dose at the prescribed time. Make sure, too, that you know how to get the medicine where it's going, such as by "pilling" an uncooperative pet. Ask for a demonstration or, if you can't handle the task at hand, ask for alternatives.
What about food and water? In a recent study, cats given medications without water were found to have the pills stranded far from the destination in the stomach. That's why medications should be chased with water, which for cats means giving them a syringeful after every pill. And don't forget to keep checking that ample water is available to your pet, since some medications increase thirst. Also, ask if the medication needs to be given with food or on an empty stomach. Different medications are digested and metabolized in different ways. Some medications are given on a full or partially full stomach in order to prevent irritation to the stomach lining.
What side effects should I watch for? "We try to be sure side effects are covered verbally at the time of the prescription and then followed with written information," says Dr. Thomas Carpenter of Newport Harbor Animal Hospital in Costa Mesa, Calif. Some side effects are not harmful, while others -- typically vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, paralysis -- can be quite serious. Ask what to expect, what is routine and what's not, and call your veterinarian if you have the slightest doubt or concern.
Is this safe with other medications? Make sure your veterinarian is aware of all other medications or supplements your pet is on, and don't add any others without checking first. "A great example of this danger is the use of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Many people think of aspirin as a very safe medication, but when combined with an NSAID it is very dangerous," says Carpenter.
The most important lesson all experts stress is to make sure the pet receives the medications. If you can't give the medications as prescribed, don't feel embarrassed or guilty, and do not put the meds away in the cupboard to tick away toward expiration. Call your veterinarian for help.
Too often, pet owners leave veterinary hospitals with prescriptions they don't fully understand for pets who don't want to take their medicine.
As a practicing veterinarian, I can tell you that pets need to get their medicine exactly as prescribed for the best possible outcome. But a recent study confirms what we veterinarians already suspected: Only 10 percent of cat owners and 30 percent of dog owners succeed in medicating their pets correctly.
This means that a lot of prescriptions end up in the cupboard or on the person rather than in the reluctant pet. That's why it's important to ask some basic questions and make sure you understand all the answers before leaving your veterinarian's office with medication in hand.
I've narrowed them down to six questions that must be answered before you head home:
Why has this been prescribed? "Pet owners must understand exactly what condition a pet has and what the prescribed medications are for," says Dr. John Tait of the veterinary school at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. For example, is the medication an antibiotic, a wormer, an anti-inflammatory drug, a pain medication or something to soothe the intestinal tract? Are we fighting a fever by giving an antibiotic, trying to prevent a secondary infection, or stopping diarrhea or vomiting?
How long should I give my pet this medicine? "There is a tendency to discontinue medication when our pets appear 'cured,'" says Dr. Kelly Diehl, an internal medicine specialist at the Veterinary Referral Center of Colorado in Englewood, Colo. "Owners need to follow their pet's medication schedule for the entire time prescribed." Diehl uses the development of bacterial resistance to antibiotics as an example. A pet may seem better, but the bacteria can prepare a second wave of attack if the medication isn't given for the duration prescribed.
How should I give this, and how often? Is the medication oral or topical? Will it be given in response to symptoms or on a regular schedule? "Because of busy schedules, it is easy to overlook a pet's medication," says Diehl. The easiest way to keep on schedule is to write down the doses in your home calendar and check them off when given to your pet. This way, you give all the doses for the proper amount of time. And if you miss a dose, don't double up to catch up. Instead, give the next dose at the prescribed time. Make sure, too, that you know how to get the medicine where it's going, such as by "pilling" an uncooperative pet. Ask for a demonstration or, if you can't handle the task at hand, ask for alternatives.
What about food and water? In a recent study, cats given medications without water were found to have the pills stranded far from the destination in the stomach. That's why medications should be chased with water, which for cats means giving them a syringeful after every pill. And don't forget to keep checking that ample water is available to your pet, since some medications increase thirst. Also, ask if the medication needs to be given with food or on an empty stomach. Different medications are digested and metabolized in different ways. Some medications are given on a full or partially full stomach in order to prevent irritation to the stomach lining.
What side effects should I watch for? "We try to be sure side effects are covered verbally at the time of the prescription and then followed with written information," says Dr. Thomas Carpenter of Newport Harbor Animal Hospital in Costa Mesa, Calif. Some side effects are not harmful, while others -- typically vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, paralysis -- can be quite serious. Ask what to expect, what is routine and what's not, and call your veterinarian if you have the slightest doubt or concern.
Is this safe with other medications? Make sure your veterinarian is aware of all other medications or supplements your pet is on, and don't add any others without checking first. "A great example of this danger is the use of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Many people think of aspirin as a very safe medication, but when combined with an NSAID it is very dangerous," says Carpenter.
The most important lesson all experts stress is to make sure the pet receives the medications. If you can't give the medications as prescribed, don't feel embarrassed or guilty, and do not put the meds away in the cupboard to tick away toward expiration. Call your veterinarian for help.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Can cats and dogs get along?
Harmony at Home
Can cats and dogs get along? While cats and dogs scheming against each other is a comedic staple, millions of real-life cats and dogs live in harmony, and millions of people feel no family would be complete without at least one of each pet.
Getting a dog and cat to accept one another can be difficult, though, as anyone who's tried to introduce them knows. There are some basic steps to getting both pets to at least call an interspecies truce.
Under no circumstances should cat-dog introductions be handled by throwing the animals together and letting them work out things on their own. That method is far too stressful even in the best of circumstances. It's also important to keep in mind that introductions can be dangerous, usually for the cat. Some dogs see cats as prey, and even those dogs who are generally easygoing may react instinctively to a cat on the run, attacking the smaller animal.
Introductions must be supervised and handled with planning, care and patience.
If you have a cat and are planning to bring in a dog, try to find an animal who is known to be accepting of cats. Shelters, rescue groups or private parties looking to place puppies and dogs often know if an animal has successfully lived with a cat, or they will test to see how the pet behaves in the presence of one.
If you have a dog and are planning to bring in a cat, start working on your pet's obedience before you add the new animal. Your dog should be comfortable on a leash and be trained well enough to mind your requests for him to stay in either a "sit" or "down" position while on that leash.
For the cat's comfort, he should be confined during the early stages of introduction to a small area (such as a second bathroom or guest bedroom) where he can feel safe while becoming acclimated to the sounds and smells of the dog. Be sure the room has everything he needs, and make sure he has frequent one-on-one visits with human family members.
After a couple of days with the cat sequestered, put the dog on leash and open the door to the cat's room. Allow the animals to see one another, and do not allow the dog to chase the cat, even in play. Use "sit-stay" or "down-stay" to keep the dog in place while the cat gets used to his calm presence. Don't force the cat to interact with the dog; if the cat wishes to view the dog from the darkest recesses underneath the bed, so be it. Reward the good behavior of both animals with treats and praise.
Keep the dog on leash for a couple of weeks in the cat's presence, and always make sure the cat has a way to escape from the dog, such as putting a baby gate across the door to the safe area. Build up the time the animals spend together, and continue to make the introductions rewarding, with more treats and praise.
When the dog isn't interested in bothering the cat and the cat feels secure enough to come out from under the bed, you can take off the leash and let them get on with their new lives together. How long it will take to get to this step will depend on the animals involved, and you must work at their pace.
It's not uncommon for dogs and cats to become friends and to enjoy each other's company. Take the time to manage your cat-dog introduction properly, and you could be setting up a friendship that will last for the rest of your pets' lives.
Can cats and dogs get along? While cats and dogs scheming against each other is a comedic staple, millions of real-life cats and dogs live in harmony, and millions of people feel no family would be complete without at least one of each pet.
Getting a dog and cat to accept one another can be difficult, though, as anyone who's tried to introduce them knows. There are some basic steps to getting both pets to at least call an interspecies truce.
Under no circumstances should cat-dog introductions be handled by throwing the animals together and letting them work out things on their own. That method is far too stressful even in the best of circumstances. It's also important to keep in mind that introductions can be dangerous, usually for the cat. Some dogs see cats as prey, and even those dogs who are generally easygoing may react instinctively to a cat on the run, attacking the smaller animal.
Introductions must be supervised and handled with planning, care and patience.
If you have a cat and are planning to bring in a dog, try to find an animal who is known to be accepting of cats. Shelters, rescue groups or private parties looking to place puppies and dogs often know if an animal has successfully lived with a cat, or they will test to see how the pet behaves in the presence of one.
If you have a dog and are planning to bring in a cat, start working on your pet's obedience before you add the new animal. Your dog should be comfortable on a leash and be trained well enough to mind your requests for him to stay in either a "sit" or "down" position while on that leash.
For the cat's comfort, he should be confined during the early stages of introduction to a small area (such as a second bathroom or guest bedroom) where he can feel safe while becoming acclimated to the sounds and smells of the dog. Be sure the room has everything he needs, and make sure he has frequent one-on-one visits with human family members.
After a couple of days with the cat sequestered, put the dog on leash and open the door to the cat's room. Allow the animals to see one another, and do not allow the dog to chase the cat, even in play. Use "sit-stay" or "down-stay" to keep the dog in place while the cat gets used to his calm presence. Don't force the cat to interact with the dog; if the cat wishes to view the dog from the darkest recesses underneath the bed, so be it. Reward the good behavior of both animals with treats and praise.
Keep the dog on leash for a couple of weeks in the cat's presence, and always make sure the cat has a way to escape from the dog, such as putting a baby gate across the door to the safe area. Build up the time the animals spend together, and continue to make the introductions rewarding, with more treats and praise.
When the dog isn't interested in bothering the cat and the cat feels secure enough to come out from under the bed, you can take off the leash and let them get on with their new lives together. How long it will take to get to this step will depend on the animals involved, and you must work at their pace.
It's not uncommon for dogs and cats to become friends and to enjoy each other's company. Take the time to manage your cat-dog introduction properly, and you could be setting up a friendship that will last for the rest of your pets' lives.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Stem Cell Therapy is now available for your dog!
Dogs age faster than humans; lucky for them, some areas of medicine are more advanced for veterinary care due to less stringent regulations. I am now certified to use Stem Cell Therapy for the treatment of dogs.
Conditions such as hip-dysplasia and arthritis are being treated with fat cells taken from the patient's own body. Using cells from the dog's own body eliminates the risk of rejection, and the ethical dilemma raised by using embryonic stem cells.The cost is MUCH lower than a canine hip replacement. The procedure seems simple enough; fat cells are removed from the dog, sent to a lab where they go through a concentration process, and then are returned to the Advanced Animal Care Center for insertion within 48 hrs. The cells are injected near the site of the injury, or degeneration. Owners report seeing significant improvement in their dogs within the first month.
I personally am amazed by the stem-cell procedure and I hope that the stiff regulations governing human medicine will either relax somewhat, or embrace this treatment. Imagine if we could help our dysplastic dogs run without pain and our arthritic friends could have pain-free mobility?!
The implications are huge! I know that I'd rather have an injection of my own cells to treat a degenerative joint, rather than an invasive surgery to replace it. I hope that we'll see these medical advancements continue to become more mainstream for our pets and spill over into traditional human medicine - soon!
Conditions such as hip-dysplasia and arthritis are being treated with fat cells taken from the patient's own body. Using cells from the dog's own body eliminates the risk of rejection, and the ethical dilemma raised by using embryonic stem cells.The cost is MUCH lower than a canine hip replacement. The procedure seems simple enough; fat cells are removed from the dog, sent to a lab where they go through a concentration process, and then are returned to the Advanced Animal Care Center for insertion within 48 hrs. The cells are injected near the site of the injury, or degeneration. Owners report seeing significant improvement in their dogs within the first month.
I personally am amazed by the stem-cell procedure and I hope that the stiff regulations governing human medicine will either relax somewhat, or embrace this treatment. Imagine if we could help our dysplastic dogs run without pain and our arthritic friends could have pain-free mobility?!
The implications are huge! I know that I'd rather have an injection of my own cells to treat a degenerative joint, rather than an invasive surgery to replace it. I hope that we'll see these medical advancements continue to become more mainstream for our pets and spill over into traditional human medicine - soon!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Arthritis and Dogs
Arthritis is common in people as nearly 50% of the people over 65 years of age are affected. Our pets, especially older dogs and horses, are also commonly affected with arthritis as they are living longer than ever before. The number of dogs with arthritis doubles after dogs reach 7 years of age. Many people with older dogs believe they are getting around slower just because of normal old age aches and pains, while many of these dogs, probably at least half, are actually suffering from arthritis and are not being treated. Symptoms of arthritis at first are slight stiffness in the morning, reluctance to walk, and difficulty rising. These symptoms should tell you that your dog is having a problem and a veterinary visit is recommended.
If your vet determines arthritis is present, we now have excellent medications specifically designed and approved for canine arthritis. Over the counter drugs used for people such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen should not be used in dogs. These drugs can be toxic in dogs depending on the dose so again aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen should not be used in your dog. Exercise such as walking and swimming are good for arthritis as it helps to decrease weight and improve muscle tone. As far as weight, this is the number one thing you can do to help your pet. At least 50% of the arthritic dogs we see in our practice would not need any arthritis pain medication if they would just lose the extra weight. This can only be done with a veterinary plan of a reduced calorie food as the over the counter foods are not low enough in calories for weight loss to occur and the diet will not be effective.
If your vet determines arthritis is present, we now have excellent medications specifically designed and approved for canine arthritis. Over the counter drugs used for people such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen should not be used in dogs. These drugs can be toxic in dogs depending on the dose so again aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen should not be used in your dog. Exercise such as walking and swimming are good for arthritis as it helps to decrease weight and improve muscle tone. As far as weight, this is the number one thing you can do to help your pet. At least 50% of the arthritic dogs we see in our practice would not need any arthritis pain medication if they would just lose the extra weight. This can only be done with a veterinary plan of a reduced calorie food as the over the counter foods are not low enough in calories for weight loss to occur and the diet will not be effective.
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