Common Flea and Tick Control Products

Perhaps no area of veterinary medicine has grown as rapidly as the field of flea and tick control. Fleas have become resistant to many products and with the explosion in flea numbers, there are huge efforts aimed at controlling them. Ticks can transmit a number of diseases, so tick control is also receiving more attention. Today's insecticides for pets have made great advancements and a wide array of different compounds have been formulated. This table describes the active ingredients, methods of use, and effects of various dips, sprays, powders, topical and oral preparations, foggers, etc.

Product	Active Ingredient	Species & Minimum Age	Dosage & Administration	Effects	Comments
For Use on Pets
Advantage	Imidacloprid	For dogs 7+ weeks, and cats 8+ weeks*	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas and larvae. Does not kill ticks.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals.
Advantage Multi for Cats	Imidacloprid Moxidectin	For cats 9+ weeks and 2+ lbs*	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas and ear mites. Does not kill ticks.	Prevents heartworm; treats and controls roundworms and hookworms. Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals.
Advantage Multi for Dogs	Imidacloprid Moxidectin	For dogs 7+ weeks and 3+ lbs* Do NOT use on cats.	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas. Does not kill ticks.	Prevents heartworm; treats and controls roundworms, whipworms and hookworms. Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals. Do NOT use on cats.
K9 Advantix	Imidacloprid Permethrin	For dogs 7+ weeks Do NOT use on cats.	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas and larvae. Kills and repels ticks and mosquitoes.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing dogs. Do NOT use on cats.
Bio Spot Flea and Tick Spray for Cats and Kittens	Pyrethrin Methoprene	For cats 12+ weeks*	Topical: Once every 2 months	Kills and repels adult fleas and ticks; stops development of flea eggs.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing cats.
Bio Spot Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs and Puppies	Pyrethrin Methoprene	For dogs 12+ weeks*	Topical: Once every 2 months	Kills and repels adult fleas and ticks; stops development of flea eggs.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing dogs. Do NOT use on cats.
Bio Spot-Spot On for Cats and Kittens	Etofenprox Methoprene	For cats 12+ weeks*	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas and ticks; kills and repels mosquitoes; stops development of flea eggs.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing cats.
Bio Spot-Spot On for Dogs	Permethrin Methoprene	For dogs 6 months or older* Do NOT use on cats.	Topical: Once/month	Kills and repels adult fleas, ticks, mosquitoes; stops development of flea eggs.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing dogs. Do NOT use on cats.
Capstar	Nitenpyram	For dogs and cats 4+ weeks, and 2+ lbs	Oral: As needed (can be given daily)	Kills adult fleas. Starts to work in 30 minutes; no residual activity.	Safe to use in pregnant or nursing dogs and cats. Can be used with other flea products.
Comfortis	Spinosad	For dogs 14+ weeks	Oral: Once/month	Kills adult fleas.	Caution in breeding females and those with epilepsy.
De Flea Pet and Bedding Spray	Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, undecyclenic acid		As needed	Controls fleas, ticks, lice, and mites.	Can use on nursing animals.
Frontline Plus	Fipronil Methoprene	For dogs and cats 8+ weeks*	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas and ticks. Prevents flea eggs, larvae and pupae from maturing. Treats and controls chewing lice. Aids in the control of sarcoptic mange (dogs).	Approved for use in breeding, pregnant, or nursing animals. Consult with veterinarian before using on sick or aged animals.
Frontline Top Spot	Fipronil	For dogs and cats 8+ weeks*	Topical: Once/month	Kills adult fleas, ticks, and chewing lice. Aids in the control of sarcoptic mange (dogs).	Approved for use in breeding, pregnant, or nursing animals. Consult with veterinarian before using on sick or aged animals.
Preventic Tick Collar	Amitraz	For dogs 12+ weeks Do NOT use on cats.	Collar: Once/3 months	Kills ticks.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing dogs. Do NOT use on cats.
Program	Lufenuron (IDI)	For dogs 4+ weeks and cats 6+ weeks*	Oral: Once/month Injectable for cats: Once/6 months. Flavored treat form for dogs and cats; liquid form for cats.	Stops the development of flea eggs. Does not kill adult fleas. Does not kill ticks.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals.
Promeris for Cats	Metaflumizone	For cats 8+ weeks*	Topical liquid: Once/4-7 weeks	Kills adult fleas.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals.
Promeris for Dogs	Metaflumizone Amitraz	For dogs 8+ weeks*	Topical liquid: Once/month	Kills adult fleas; kills ticks.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals.
Revolution	Selamectin	For dogs 6+ weeks and cats 8+ weeks*	Topical liquid: Once/month	Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, and American dog tick; treats and controls ear mites, control sarcoptic mites (dogs).	Prevents heartworms; controls roundworms and hookworms (cats). Appears to be safe to use in pregnant or nursing dogs and cats. Use with caution on sick or underweight animals.
Sentinel Flavor Tabs	Lufenuron (IDI), Milbemycin Oxime	For dogs 4+ weeks, and 2+ lbs	Oral tablet: Once/month	Stops development of flea eggs and larvae. Does not kill ticks or adult fleas.	Prevents heartworms; controls roundworms, whipworms and hookworms. Safe to use in pregnant or nursing dogs.
Vectra 3D	Permethrin Dinotefuran	For dogs 7+ weeks Do NOT use on cats	Topical liquid: Once/month	Repels and kills fleas, ticks and mosquitos.	Consult with veterinarian before using on sick, aged, pregnant, or nursing animals. Do NOT use on cats.
* This product comes in different formulations for dogs and cats.

For more information on the mode of action and safety of ingredients in flea and tick control products see Ingredients in Tick & Flea Control Products in Cats and Dogs.


source: Drs. Foster & Smith Veterinary Services Department

Common Behavior Changes in Senior Cats

As cats become older, they may be more apt to change their behavior or develop certain behavioral problems. With the correct diagnosis and treatment, many of these behavioral problems can be resolved. It may take some patience on your part, but your longtime feline friend is worth it!

Inappropriate elimination

Inappropriate elimination (urinating or defecating outside of the litter box, and/or spraying) is the most common behavior problem of older cats. There are numerous causes for this behavior, many of them medical, so a cat who has inappropriate elimination should be examined by a veterinarian. Laboratory tests will need to be performed in most cases.
Medical conditions, which result in an increased frequency of urination or defecation may be the underlying cause for this behavior problem. These conditions include: colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease, and feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Medical conditions, which cause pain urinating or defecating, or make it difficult for the cat to get in and out of the litter box, may also result in inappropriate elimination. Such conditions include arthritis, FLUTD, anal sac disease, loss of vision, and some forms of colitis. Treatment of these medical conditions may help to resolve this behavioral problem. In addition, using litter boxes with lower sides, placing the litter box in the area in which the cat spends the most time, and increasing the number of litter boxes may be helpful.
Stress can be a major cause of inappropriate elimination in cats of all ages. Older cats may not be able to handle stressors as well as younger cats. Stressors such as moving, changes in routine, or changes in the makeup of the family can result in inappropriate elimination. Reducing these stressors or decreasing their impact on the household will benefit your cat (and probably you, too). For instance, when moving, attempt to keep the cat in a quiet portion of the home when packing and during the actual moving day. At the new residence, confine your cat to a quiet room at first (probably a bedroom), placing her food, water, litter box, and favorite sleeping material (bed, sweatshirt, etc.) in the room. Spend time with her in that room and feed her and clean the litter box at the usual time. Gradually let her become accustomed to the rest of the house.
There is a product called 'Feliway,' which was designed to help reduce anxiety in cats, and thus decrease spraying or urinating inappropriately. Feliway contains pheromones from the cat's face. Pheromones are chemicals, which are used to communicate with other members of the same species. You may notice your cat rubs her face and chin on vertical surfaces. She is leaving a scent there, which contains these pheromones. The pheromones from the face have a calming effect on other cats. When Feliway is sprayed onto multiple vertical surfaces which your cat may spray, the cat receives this calming effect and in many cases spraying will be reduced.
Cats of all ages may develop an aversion to the litter box or substrate (material inside of the litter box). Trying different types of litter including clumping litter, sand, newspaper, and no litter are things that could be helpful.

Other tips on controlling inappropriate elimination and spraying include using enzyme cleaners to clean areas, which have been soiled with urine or feces, feeding the cat in the area in which she is inappropriately eliminating, and using upside down carpet runners (the ones with the spikes on the bottom), double-sided tape, motion detectors, pet repellents, or scat mats to limit her access to the area where she inappropriately eliminates.

Aggression

Cats may become aggressive toward people or toward other animals in the household. Again, this aggression may be the result of a medical problem such as one causing pain (arthritis), vision or hearing loss, which results in the cat being easily startled, or diseases having direct effects on the nervous system. As with inappropriate elimination, stresses such as moving can cause irritability and subsequent aggression in some cats. A combination of counter-conditioning (teaching the cat a different response when exposed to a certain stimuli), desensitization (gradually reintroducing the cat to the stimuli), medical therapy, and Feliway may help change the cat's behavior. Consult your veterinarian and an animal behaviorist if your older cat is becoming aggressive.

Fear/anxiety

As with the other behavioral problems discussed above, loss of hearing or vision, stress, pain, and neurologic disease can contribute to fear or anxiety in a cat. Treatment includes determining, if possible, the cause of the fear and reducing it, providing appropriate therapy for any medical condition, and prescribing various antianxiety medications.

Change in activity patterns

For their entire life, some cats tend to be active during the night, keeping us awake, and then they go into sound sleep as soon as we get up. Some older cats will develop this altered sleep-awake cycle, as well. Pain, the need to urinate or defecate more often, the loss of vision or hearing, changes in appetite, and neurologic conditions can contribute to this behavior. Playing or grooming your cat prior to bedtime may help her to sleep. Experiment with changing feeding times to see if that makes a difference. You may not be able to change the cycle, so in those cases, you may want to keep the cat out of the bedrooms.

If in addition to staying awake at night, the cat vocalizes as well, you may need to use something aversive to stop the vocalizing. 'Remote correction,' such as throwing a pop can containing a few coins or pebbles toward the cat (not at the cat!), may startle her and stop her from vocalizing. She should not associate you with the correction or she may increase her vocalization just to get your attention. In some instances, medications may be used in an attempt to change the sleep-awake cycle.

Summary

Many of the behavioral changes we see in older cats can be due to medical conditions. If your cat's behavior is changing, have your cat examined by a veterinarian. Your older cat is more easily stressed, so attempt to reduce stress by making any necessary changes in routine gradual, and decreasing the exposure of your cat to stressors. With patience, understanding, and treatments recommended by your veterinarian, you can help make your cat's older years a quality time for you and her.

Canine Orthopedic Problems

Image by Douglas Brown via Flickr
Here are some orthopedic problems in dogs. They are classified into 3 for your convenience.

Deformity

Achondroplasia
Signs: Unusually short and bent limbs, abnormal gait, decreased agility, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Weight control, properly balanced diet, anti-inflammatory medications.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Signs: Limping, discomfort, swelling, joint looseness in hips, joint tension in elbow, abnormal shape of joint members, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Weight control, properly balanced diet, anti-inflammatory medications.

Patellar Luxation
Signs: Limping, skipping, loose patellar supporting tissues, shallow patellar groove, line of tension
between tibia-patella-quadriceps muscle is off-center, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Surgical correction in moderate to severe cases; otherwise, manage discomfort on an “as needed” basis with anti-inflammatory medications, nutraceuticals and weight control.

Disorder

Hypertrophic psteodystrophy (HOD) (Seldom seen in dogs less than 40 pounds.)
Signs: Large breed, rapidly growing older puppy, limping, pain in all four limbs, fever, lethargy, X-ray evidence of distinctive patterns at and above the growth plates of long bones.

Treatment: Evaluate the diet for imbalance of minerals and for over-supplementation, manage discomfort on an “as needed” basis with anti-inflammatory medications, rest and nutraceuticals in proper amounts. Consider antibiotic and cortisone therapy.

Infection
Signs: Swelling, fever, pain, swollen regional lymph nodes.

Treatment: Antibiotics, surgical drainage, anti-inflammatory medications.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCP), also called aseptic necrosis of femoral head (Seldom seen in dogs more than 40 pounds.)
Signs: Small breeds about 5 to 10 months of age, gradual disuse of a rear leg, pain and stiffness of a hip joint, X-ray evidence of distinctive patterns of degeneration within the femoral head.

Treatment: Usually requires femoral head/neck resection and physical therapy; consider total hip replacement.

Panosteitis (Seldom seen in dogs less than 40 pounds.)
Signs: Mid-sized to large breed, rapidly growing older pup, shifting lameness of all four joints, X-ray
evidence of distinctive patterns within marrow cavity of long bones.

Treatment: Rest and manage discomfort on an “as needed” basis with anti-inflammatory medications and nutraceuticals.

Injury

Bone fracture
Signs: Crack or break in the shaft or end of a bone, sudden pain, swelling, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Surgery or precise splinting.

Dislocation
Signs: Separation of two joint parts that results in tearing and trauma to joint supporting tissues, bleeding, swelling, pain, abnormal location of the anatomical part, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Surgery or manipulation to replace separated parts, immobilization and gradual return to function. May need surgical intervention.

Epiphyseal fracture
Signs: Separation fracture near the end of a bone along a growth plate line, sudden pain, swelling, X-ray evidence.

Treatment: Surgery or precise splinting.

Osteochondritis Dissecans
Signs: Limping on a front leg, discomfort when leg is fully extended or flexed, X-ray evidence of shoulder joint.

Treatment: Surgical correction in most cases; otherwise, manage discomfort on an “as needed” basis with anti-inflammatory medications, nutraceuticals and extended forced rest.

Sprain
Signs: Stretched joint supporting tissues which leads to swelling, bruising, pain and disuse.

Treatment: Rest, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy.

Ringworm in Cats

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Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is a fungal infection that can affect the hair, skin or nails of cats, dogs and humans. It is the most common contagious skin infection in cats. In humans, the infection often causes classic ring-like lesions, but these are seen less commonly in cats and dogs. In most patients, ringworm is self-limiting; that is, it will self cure over time. However, because this infection can be transmitted from cats and dogs to other animals and also to people, every pet owner should be aware of the symptoms, transmission and treatment of ringworm.

Where is the fungus found?

Several different fungi found throughout the world can cause ringworm, however, the vast majority of cases in cats and dogs are caused by Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, or Trichophyton species. The fungus is most commonly found either on an infected animal or in the living quarters of infected animals. Spores from infected animals can be shed into the environment and live for up to 24 months. Humid, warm environments encourage growth of the fungus. Spores can be on brushes, bedding, furniture, or anything that has been in contact with an infected animal or the animal's hair. Cats can be asymptomatic carriers and harbor and shed the organism without showing signs of infection. Animals thought to be chronic carriers can be routinely cultured to determine if they are actual carriers.

How is ringworm transmitted?

Ringworm can be transmitted by direct contact with fungal spores. These spores can be found on a infected animal, on infected grooming equipment or brushes, in a contaminated boarding facility or cattery, or in the environment where an infected animal has visited. Because ringworm spores can survive for long periods in the environment your cat can contract ringworm from just about anywhere other dogs or cats have been. Fortunately, most healthy adult cats have some natural resistance to ringworm and never develop symptoms from the fungus. Young cats under a year old are most often infected. Cats with a suppressed immune system from diseases or overuse of steroids are also more susceptible to contracting the disease. Senior cats, free-roaming cats, and those who are under stress, malnourished or have other diseases such as parasites or viral infections also appear to be at increased risk. In addition, genetic factors may play a role, as Persians appear to be more susceptible to ringworm.

What are the signs of ringworm?

Cats with ringworm may have skin lesions which can appear different depending on where they occur and how long they have been present. The classic symptom is a small round lesion that is devoid of hair. The lesion will often have scaly skin in the center. Small pustules are often found in the lesion. The lesion may start as a small spot and continue to grow in size. The lesion may or may not be irritated and itchy. Lesions are most common on the head, ears, and tail. In some infections, the fungus will not be in a circle and can spread across the face, lips, chin, or nose and look like an autoimmune disease or other generalized skin disease. Occasionally, the infection will occur over the entire body and create a generalized scaly or greasy skin condition. Hair loss may be mild or severe. In some cases the first sign may be excessive shedding, and hairballs may occur when large parts of the body are affected. Scratching at the ears is also common. Ringworm can also occur in the nails, often causing them to grow malformed.

How is ringworm diagnosed?

Ringworm cannot be diagnosed by simply looking at a lesion, but at least one of several testing methods must be used. One method is through the use of a specialized black light called a Wood's lamp. Several species of the ringworm fungus will glow a fluorescent color when exposed to a Wood's lamp. However, it is estimated that up to half of the most common species of M. canis do not fluoresce under a Wood's lamp, and T. mentagrophytes does not fluoresce. Other substances may fluoresce and cause a false positive reading. In addition, a healthy animal may have spores on his coat but may not have an active infection. So, this is not the most accurate method.

Another method for identifying ringworm is to pluck hairs from the periphery of the lesion and examine them under the microscope. Between 40% and 70% of the infections can be diagnosed this way.

The most reliable way to identify a ringworm infection is by collecting scales and crust from the skin and coat and performing a fungal culture. Your veterinarian will commonly use a toothbrush to collect the sample of hair and scales from the cat to culture. There are special culture mediums designed specifically for identifying ringworm infections. Your local veterinarian can easily perform this routine culture.

Cats with ringworm should always be evaluated for underlying disease(s) that may have made them more at risk for this fungal infection.

How is ringworm treated?

In healthy shorthaired kittens and cats with small isolated lesions, the lesion is often treated with a topical cream containing an antifungal such as miconazole or thiabendazole. In addition, it is important to treat any underlying conditions, provide good nutrition, and prevent the spread to other animals and humans.

In more severe cases, a combination of oral and topical treatments is generally used. Often the lesions are clipped so the topical treatment can reach the skin. Many veterinary dermatologists feel that all longhaired cats must be shaved completely to achieve any success with ringworm treatment. Care should be taken not to irritate the skin when clipping, as this may cause the infection to spread. Also, realize that the clipped hair, clippers, and any grooming instruments that come into contact with an infected animal will harbor the spores and must be heat or chemically sterilized before being used on any other animal. The recommended topical treatment is lime sulfur dips. These dips have a bad odor and can temporarily turn the coat a yellowish color, but they are extremely effective and should be used if recommended by your veterinarian. Alternatives to lime sulfur dips include miconazole shampoos and rinses, and enilconazole (available in some countries).

Oral antifungal agents are generally recommended for any cat with severe generalized lesions, for longhaired cats, and in cases where the nails are infected. Oral antifungal agents may also be recommended when there is no response to topical therapy after 2-4 weeks of treatment. Itraconazole is the preferred drug of choice, and terbafine may also be used. Griseofulvin is another alternative, but has a higher risk of adverse effects. Treatment is generally continued until there have been two negative cultures a week apart.
Some veterinarians have recommended using Program^® (the once-a-month flea pill) at a higher dose to treat ringworm in cats, but it has been shown to be ineffective against ringworm.

How can ringworm be controlled in the environment?

Because the ringworm fungus can survive for such long periods in the environment, it is critical that an effective cleaning plan be used in all infections. Spores are very light and are carried in the air, so wherever there is dust and hair, there may be spores. Whenever cleaning, avoid sweeping and other types of cleaning that may actually spread spores through the air. Vacuuming, damp mopping and using a Swifter-type mop are generally recommended. Carpets should be steam cleaned and disinfected. Heating and cooling ducts and furnaces should be professionally vacuumed and filters replaced if a culture from the ducts comes back positive. Furniture and drapes should be vacuumed and the vacuum cleaner bags should be disposed of promptly. Housing units that contain wood or rusty metal should be re-painted. After vacuuming or mopping, clean with water and a detergent solution. Then, use bleach diluted to 1:10 with water and left on for at least 10 minutes to kill most of the organisms. All grooming tools, bedding, kennels, cat carriers, and cages should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with bleach,
as well.

How can ringworm be controlled in catteries?

Some of the most difficult cases of ringworm come from catteries or small breeders, particularly those with Persian or Himalayans. Eliminating ringworm from these units can take months to years of diligent treatment. Remember that it will take a complete commitment to properly eliminate ringworm from a cattery. The owner must be willing to devote a large amount of time and make some difficult decisions if success in treatment is to be achieved.

There are several different approaches to controlling and eliminating ringworm in a cattery. The first approach includes total depopulation of the cattery, decontamination of the facility, and repopulating with only animals that test negative on three consecutive cultures performed at two-week intervals. The second approach is to treat the entire colony and facilities with appropriate topical medications, systemic therapy, and environmental cleanup. The colony is isolated and breeding and showing are interrupted. The third option would be to treat only infected kittens. This third option is only suitable for a breeder that produces kittens for the pet cat market and usually is not recommended for most breeders. Breeders will need to work very closely with their veterinarian to develop the best program for their facility.

Cultures should be performed on new cats coming into the cattery or returning from a show or a breeding. They should be quarantined and dipped once with lime sulfur. Since dogs and humans can carry ringworm into a cattery, both human and canine visitors should be kept at a minimum.

How is ringworm prevented?

Ringworm is a disease where an ounce of prevention is truly worth more than a pound of cure. If you have cats in your home, be very careful about bringing a new kitten into your household. Cat shows, kennels, and grooming facilities can also be a source of infection and caution should be used when exposing your cat to these places. Breeders of Persians and Himalayans need to be especially cautious about bringing any new animal that has not been cultured into their facility. If any sign of ringworm is seen, make sure you isolate the infected cat and seek prompt veterinary attention.

Is ringworm transmissible to people?

Yes. Ringworm can be transmitted between cats and people. Persons with suppressed immune systems, such as those with HIV infections or AIDS, and those undergoing chemotherapy may be especially vulnerable. Persons should wear gloves when handling affected animals and wash hands well afterwards.

Is Canine Influenza Contagious?

Canine Influenza or Dog flu is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs.

What causes dog flu?
Dog flu is caused by the canine influenza virus, known as H3N8. It is a specific Type A influenza virus that causes disease in dogs but not humans. The H3N8 influenza virus was originally a horse influenza virus. The virus spread to dogs and has adapted to cause disease in dogs and be easily transmitted between dogs. There is now what is believed to be a dog-specific H3N8 virus.

When was dog flu first identified?
The H3N8 influenza virus was identified in horses more than 40 years ago. It was not until 2004, however, that it was first reported in dogs. It was originally diagnosed in greyhounds, and has since spread throughout the dog population.

How is dog flu transmitted?
Dog flu is spread through airborne viruses from respiratory secretions, just like human flu is spread between people. The virus can be transmitted to a dog through direct contact with an infected dog, through contact with contaminated items, and by people who may be carrying the virus on their hands or clothing. The virus can remain alive and infective on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.
Dogs have the highest level of virus in their secretions 2-4 days after they are exposed to the virus. Often they are not yet showing clinical signs when they are most at risk of transmitting the virus. Dogs may be able to spread the virus for up to 10 days.

What are the symptoms of dog flu in dogs?
Approximately 20-25% of dogs of exposed dogs will become infected, but show no signs of disease, even though they are able to spread the virus. In 80% of infected dogs who develop dog flu, the signs are mild and may include a persistent cough that does not respond to treatment, sneezing, runny nose and a fever. These signs may be very similar to those of "kennel cough". In the remainder of infected dogs, canine influenza can become very serious, with infected dogs developing pneumonia, with labored breathing and even bleeding into the lungs. Dogs will generally start to show signs of disease 2-4 days after they are exposed to the canine
influenza virus.

How is dog flu diagnosed?
A veterinarian will suspect dog flu if the dog is showing the above signs, but dog flu cannot be diagnosed solely on clinical signs. A specific antibody test is used to diagnose dog flu. It is performed on two blood samples, one taken at the time the dog is first suspected to have dog flu, and the second sample taken 10-14 days later. If the dog is seen very early in the course of the disease (within 72 hours of showing signs), the respiratory secretions can be tested for presence of the virus


How is dog flu treated?
There is no specific treatment for canine influenza, but the dog is given supportive care. This may include fluids to prevent dehydration, good nutrition, and medications to relieve some of the symptoms. If the dog is more seriously ill, he may need supplemental oxygen. Antibiotics are often given to prevent or treat any secondary infection, especially if there is pneumonia or the nasal discharge is very thick or green in color


What is the prognosis for a dog diagnosed with canine influenza?
Most dogs with mild signs recover fully. Death occurs mainly in dogs with the severe form of disease; the mortality rate is thought to be 1-5% or slightly higher.
 
Is there a vaccine for dog flu?
Yes, an approved vaccine is available. It will not treat the disease, and may not entirely prevent it, but it may help decrease the severity of the disease if the dog acquires it. The vaccine will also decrease the amount of virus that is shed into the environment, so vaccinated dogs are less likely to transmit the virus to other dogs.

Veterinarians do not recommend that every dog receive the canine influenza vaccine, but only those who are at higher risk of coming into contact with the virus. This would include dogs who are in a shelter, boarded in a kennel, go to dog shows or dog parks, or otherwise come into contact with a large number of dogs. This is the same group of dogs for whom "kennel cough" vaccine is often given. You should discuss, with your veterinarian, whether the canine influenza vaccine would be appropriate for your dog.

How can I prevent the spread of dog flu?
Any dog who is showing signs of a respiratory infection should be isolated from other dogs for at least 2 weeks. Any clothing, equipment, or surfaces that could be contaminated with respiratory secretions should be cleaned and disinfected. The virus is killed by routine disinfectants, such as a 10% bleach solution. People should wash their hands before and after having contact with a dog showing signs of a respiratory disease.

To prevent dog flu and other infections do not allow your dog to share toys or dishes with other dogs grouped together.

What is the risk to humans from dog flu?
To date, there is no evidence that the canine influenza virus can be transmitted from dogs to people. There is no reported case of human infection with the canine influenza virus. While this virus infects dogs and spreads between dogs, there is no evidence that this virus infects humans. There is also no evidence that influenza in horses can be spread to people.
If my dog is coughing or showing other signs of a respiratory infection, what should I do?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian so your dog can be examined and tested, if indicated, and treated appropriately.

Spay and Neuter your Cat

Neutering Little Tom

Image via WikipediaNeutering is a simple surgery with a very quick recovery period. Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies, neutering a male will help mitigate certain problem behavior found in whole males, and it will help prevent certain medical conditions, too.

* Neutered cats are less likely to spray strong urine
* Neutered cats will lose the urge to fight
* Neutered cats will be less likely to try to escape
* Neutered cats will be less likely to contract diseases such as FeLV and FIV
* Neutered cats will not suffer the abscesses from fighting
* Neutered cats will not likely develop "stud tail," caused by overactive glands in the tail
* Neutered cats have a decreased risk of mammary cancer
* Neutered cats are less allergenic
* Neutered cats will not be subject to testicular cancer

In addition to the information above, neutering will make him be a much more pleasant companion, and will ultimately be happier and healthier.

Spay Your Female Cats

Aside from the very real feline overpopulation problem, there are some valid health reasons for spaying female cats.
* Decreased Risk of Mammary Cancer
Ideally, to give a female cat protection against mammary cancer, she should be spayed prior to her first heat. Each subsequent heat brings a greater chance of mammary cancer at a later time.
* Eliminates Risk of Ovarian or Uterine Cancer
Spaying a cat involves the removal of the uterus and ovaries. No organs: no cancer; simple as that.
* Eliminates Chances of Pyometritis
Pyometra is a virulent bacteria that attacks the uterus of cats, usually a week or so after estrus, and is a potentially fatal infection.

Diarrhea & Vomiting in Dogs: When to Call Your Veterinarian

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At one time or another every dog has a bout of vomiting or diarrhea. Usually they have eaten something disagreeable, eaten too much, too fast or exercised too soon after eating, are overly excited or nervous, or their body is reacting to any of a number of other non-serious conditions.
If your dog is not showing other signs of illness, you can save yourself a trip to the vet if you wait 12 hours and do the following:

• Take away all food and water so that the irritated intestinal tract can settle down. Nothing makes a vomiting dog vomit more than a big drink of water or a large meal. You may allow the dog to drink very small amounts, and in this short time, if your dog is otherwise healthy, you do not have to worry about dehydration. If the diarrhea resolves, after 24 hours, you may give your dog very small amounts of a bland food, such as drained, cooked hamburger mixed with an equal amount of cooked rice.
  
• Observe your dog closely. Is behavior and activity otherwise normal? Think about and try to identify the cause of the problem. Could your dog have eaten something (like grass, garbage, or a dead animal) that upset its digestive system? Has your dog been wormed lately? Watch how your dog vomits or eliminates so you can describe it to your vet if symptoms persist. Examine the stool or vomit. Collect samples if you believe you will need to take your dog in. Monitor the dog's weight for possible weight loss.

When you should call your veterinarian

Vomiting

• blood in vomit
• vomiting accompanied by diarrhea
• vomit looks and smells like stool
• vomiting is projectile
• vomiting is sporadic and there is no relationship to meals
• multiple bouts of vomiting occur over a short period of time
• ingestion of a poison (like antifreeze or fertilizer) is suspected
• vomiting persists more than a day or two
• stomach bloating occurs or your dog tries to vomit but can not
• dog also appears listless
• there is weight loss
• dog is showing other signs of illness such as labored breathing or pain

Diarrhea

• bloody diarrhea
• diarrhea accompanied by vomiting
• multiple bouts of vomiting occur over a short period of time
• ingestion of a poison is suspected
• fever and other signs of toxicity are present
• diarrhea persists more than a day or two
• dog also appears listless
• there is weight loss
• dog is showing other signs of illness such as labored breathing or pain

Dog Emergencies: Contact Your Veterinarian When Your Dog Shows These Signs

Image by Getty Images via @daylife The following information may help you decide which conditions are absolute emergencies, and which ones may let you take a "wait and see" attitude. If your dog is sick or injured and you are unsure of the severity of the condition, it is always best to err on the side of caution, and contact your veterinarian (or emergency clinic) right away.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog has signs of heart or respiratory disease including:

• No pulse or heart beat
• No breathing or severe difficulty breathing
• Bluish or white gums or tongue
• A near drowning

Has been exposed to a toxin or poison or has had trauma including:

• A broken bone, or a cut that exposes a bone
• Heavy bleeding that cannot be stopped
• An eye injury, the eye is out of the socket, or appears enlarged or protruding
• A fight, especially if it was with a cat or a wild, or unvaccinated animal
• A wound from a bullet or arrow
• Being hit by a vehicle or other large fast-moving object
• Puncture wounds to the abdomen or chest
• Any trauma to the head
• A bite from a snake, scorpion, or poisonous spider; or has bitten a toad
• Porcupine quills imbedded in the mouth, face, or body
• A broken tooth, or the loss of a healthy tooth, including the root (keep the tooth in a small jar of milk)
• A severe laceration, or an incision that has opened and the skin is gaping
• Falling or jumping from an open window, balcony, etc.
• Swelling of the face and/or hives

Has had heat or cold related injuries including:

• Chewing on an electrical cord and receiving a shock or burn
• Burns or inhaled smoke
• Heat stroke or a fever over 105°F (normal is less than 102.5°F)
• Frostbite or hypothermia

Has signs of gastrointestinal distress including:

• Straining continually, but unable to produce feces
• Bloat (abdomen appears large or dog attempts to vomit, but cannot bring anything up)
• Choking
• Vomiting blood or uncontrolled vomiting
• Swallowing a foreign body (e.g., toy)
• Diarrhea with blood, a foul smell, or that is uncontrolled
• Black, tarry stool
• A protruded rectum or bleeding from the rectum
• An overdose of medication or suspected poisoning

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Extreme lethargy or depression, unconsciousness, collapse, or coma
• Seizures
• A head tilt, nystagmus (eyes move rapidly from side to side), staggering, walking in circles, knuckling over (walking on the top of the foot), unable to use hind limbs, or other problems moving
• Severe or continuous pain
• Sudden inability to bear weight on one or more limbs

Has signs of urinary or reproductive problems including:

• Difficulty giving birth: no puppy after 24 hours of beginning labor; no puppy after 1 hour of active straining; over 4 hours between deliveries; weak or infrequent contractions once labor has started; failed to start delivery within 24 hours of the temperature dropping below 99°F; crying or licking the genital area excessively; abnormal bleeding or vaginal discharge; weakness
• A male in whom the penis is exposed and cannot be withdrawn back into the sheath (the hair-covered area that usually encloses the penis)
• Straining continually but unable to pass urine, or the urine has blood in it
• Crying while trying to urinate
• Bleeding from the urinary or genital area

Contact your veterinarian the same day if your dog has signs of heart or respiratory disease including:

• Some difficulty breathing, shallow breathing, or breathing at a faster rate (unassociated with physical exercise or environmental temperature)
• Continuous sneezing or coughing

Has signs related to digestion or food and water consumption including:

• Not eating or drinking for 24 hours
• Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours and acting depressed
• Drinking water excessively, unrelated to activity or environmental temperature

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Sudden change in behavior
• Crying when touched or picked up
• Cloudy eyes, squinting, or appears to be unable to see
• Sudden, severe lameness

Has signs of urinary or reproductive problems including:

• A retained afterbirth for over 8 hours
• A female who has had an unwanted breeding
• A female who is pregnant or nursing her young and develops a red, swollen, or painful breast
• A male with swollen testicles or scrotum

Has signs associated with the skin including:

• A rash, excessive shedding, excessive head shaking, or persistent scratching or chewing at spots on the body
• Abnormal lumps or bumps that are painful, red, and/or hot to the touch
• Maggots
• A nosebleed for no apparent reason, bruising easily, or tiny red dots on the skin

Contact your veterinarian in 24 hours if your dog has signs including has signs related to digestion or food and water consumption including:

• Not eating, but no other signs of illness
• A soft stool, but there is no pain, blood, fetid odor, green or black color, mucus, or straining
• Occasional vomiting (2 or 3 times), but no abdominal pain or blood
• Foul breath
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Drooling

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Lameness for more than 24 hours
• Swollen joints
• Lethargy, depression, sleeping more than usual, unwillingness to play or exercise

Has signs associated with the skin including:

• Moderate itching or an unpleasant odor from the coat
• A discharge from the eye, ear, or other body opening

 source: Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

FIV Virus Vaccine-a hope?

Janet Yamamoto and Niels Pedersen first isolated the FIV virus in cats in 1986 at UC Davis. Yamamoto started working on a vaccine for FIV at UC Davis, and later continued her work at the University of Florida, with researchers at Fort Dodge Animal Health. Pedersen, the director of the Center for Companion Animal Health and an expert in the field of retroviruses and immunologic disorders of small animals, has tributed the approval of the FIV vaccine to Dr. Yamamoto, for her decade-long devotion to the project.

When the new vaccine for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus was announced in March 2002, thousands felt hope, not only for its potential value to cats, but also as it was hoped to shed some light toward a vaccine against human AIDS.

The University of California and the University of Florida owned the patents for the FIV vaccine and are licensed to Fort Dodge Animal Health-a division of Wyeth, under the name "Fel-O-Vax FIV."

But, shortly after the announcement of FDA approval for the FIV vaccine, emails began circulating among cat rescue groups because of one fatal flaw - All current methods of testing for the FIV virus will show a "positive" for cats vaccinated with the FIV vaccine. This means if we vaccinate our cats against FIV and one of them is lost, or simply gets picked up by an animal control officer, it will likely be destroyed as an FIV-positive cat. There is simply no way of knowing which "positive" cat is truly infected and which cat has simply been vaccinated against FIV. The reception of this vaccine has been less than enthusiastic among the greater community of cat lovers, especially in the U.S. - where FIV strikes only 2% of the cats "at risk."

The AAFP has issued an FIV Vaccine Brief, but they seem non-commital about recommending it to veterinarians and rescue groups.

"If the client decides, under your counsel, that vaccination is something they want to do, I would certainly make sure to test that cat beforehand." quotes Dr. James Richards - director of the Cornell Feline Health Center and AAFP Board Member.

Below are other cons:

Does Not Provide Full Protection. Although there are five strains (called Clades) of FIV, the vaccine was developed by only using two strains. Clade B, which is common in the U.S., particularly in the east, was not one of those two, nor was the vaccine's efficacy tested against Clade B.

The Vaccine is Adjuvanted. Since Adjuvants are suspect in VAS (vaccine-associated sarcomas), yet another vaccine with an added adjuvant is unlikely to be met with much approval among feline practitioners.

FIV is a dreaded disease that's always ultimately fatal to cats that contract it, though generally, there's low incidence in the U.S. Hopefully, FIV testing will improve enough to eliminate that negative side effect in the future, and that a non-adjuvanted vaccine can be developed.

Diarrhea & Vomiting in Cats: When to Call Your Veterinarian

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

At one time or another every cat has a bout of vomiting or diarrhea. Usually they have eaten something disagreeable, eaten too much or too fast, are overly excited or nervous, have hairballs, or their body is reacting to any of a number of other non-serious conditions.

If your cat is not showing other signs of illness, you can save yourself a trip to the vet if you wait 12 hours and do the following:

• Take away all food and water so that the irritated intestinal tract can settle down. Nothing makes a vomiting cat vomit more than eating a large meal or drinking a large amount of water. You may allow the cat to drink very small amounts, and in this short time, if your cat is otherwise healthy, you don't have to worry about dehydration. If the diarrhea resolves, after 24 hours, you may give your cat very small amounts of a bland food, such as drained, cooked hamburger or chicken mixed with an equal amount of cooked rice.
  
• Observe your cat closely. Is behavior and activity otherwise normal? Think about and try to identify the cause of the problem. Could your cat have eaten something (like grass or a plant, garbage, or a dead animal) that upset her digestive system? Has your cat been wormed lately? Watch how your cat vomits or eliminates so you can describe it to your veterinarian if symptoms persist. Examine the stool or vomit. Collect samples if you believe you will need to take your cat in.

When you should call your veterinarian

 

Vomiting

• blood in vomit
• vomiting accompanied by diarrhea
• vomit looks and smells like stool
• vomiting is projectile
• vomiting is sporadic and there is no relationship to meals
• multiple bouts of vomiting occur over a short period of time
• ingestion of a poison (like antifreeze or fertilizer) is suspected
• vomiting persists more than a day or two
• stomach bloating occurs or your cat tries to vomit but can not
• cat also appears listless
• there is weight loss
• cat is showing other signs of illness such as labored breathing or pain

Diarrhea

• bloody diarrhea
• diarrhea accompanied by vomiting
• multiple bouts of vomiting occur over a short period of time
• ingestion of a poison is suspected
• fever and other signs of toxicity are present
• diarrhea persists more than a day or two
• cat also appears listless
• there is weight loss
• cat is showing other signs of illness such as labored breathing or pain

Contact Your Veterinarian When Your Cat Shows These Symptoms

If your cat is sick or injured and you are unsure of the severity of the condition, it is always best to contact your veterinarian (or emergency clinic) right away.

Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY when the following  symptoms are present:

Has signs of heart or respiratory disease including:

• No pulse or heart beat
• No breathing or severe difficulty breathing
• Bluish or white gums or tongue
• A near drowning

Has been exposed to a toxin or poison or has had trauma including:

• A broken bone, or a cut that exposes a bone
• Heavy bleeding that cannot be stopped
• An eye injury, the eye is out of the socket, or appears enlarged or protruding
• A fight, especially if it was with another cat or a wild, or unvaccinated animal
• A wound from a bullet or arrow
• Being hit by a vehicle or other large or fast-moving object
• Puncture wounds to the abdomen or chest
• Any trauma to the head
• A bite from a snake, scorpion, or poisonous spider; or has bitten a toad
• Porcupine quills imbedded in the mouth, face, or body
• A broken tooth, or the loss of a healthy tooth, including the root (keep the tooth in a small jar of milk)
• A severe laceration, or an incision that has opened and the skin is gaping
• Falling or jumping from an open window, balcony, etc.
• Swelling of the face and/or hives

Has had heat or cold related injuries including:

• Chewing on an electrical cord and receiving a shock or burn
• Burns or inhaled smoke
• Heat stroke or a fever over 105°F (normal is less than 102.5°F)
• Frostbite or hypothermia

Has signs of gastrointestinal distress including:

• Straining continually, but unable to produce feces
• Choking
• Vomiting blood or uncontrolled vomiting
• Swallowing a foreign body (e.g., toy, needle and thread)
• Diarrhea with blood, a foul smell, or that is uncontrolled
• Black, tarry stool
• A protruded rectum or bleeding from the rectum
• An overdose of medication or suspected poisoning

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Extreme lethargy or depression, unconsciousness, collapse, or coma
• Seizures
• A head tilt, nystagmus (eyes move rapidly from side to side), staggering, walking in circles, knuckling over (walking on the top of the foot), unable to use hind limbs, or other problems moving
• Severe or continuous pain
• Sudden inability to bear weight on one or more limbs

Has signs of urinary or reproductive problems including:

• Difficulty giving birth: no kitten after 24 hours of beginning labor; no kitten after 30-60 minutes of active straining; weak or infrequent contractions once labor has started; crying or licking the vulva area excessively; abnormal bleeding or vaginal discharge; weakness
• Straining continually, but unable to pass urine, or the urine has blood in it
• A male who is continually licking his genital area (a sign of urinary obstruction)
• Crying while trying to urinate
• Bleeding from the urinary or genital area

Call your veterinarian the same day if your cat has signs of heart or respiratory disease including:

• Some difficulty breathing, shallow breathing, or breathing at a faster rate (unassociated with physical exercise or environmental temperature)
• Continuous sneezing or coughing

Has signs related to digestion or food and water consumption including:

• Not eating or drinking for 24 hours
• Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours and acts depressed
• Drinking water excessively, unrelated to activity or environmental temperature

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Sudden change in behavior
• Crying when touched or picked up
• Cloudy eyes, squinting, or appears to be unable to see
• Sudden, severe lameness

Has signs of urinary or reproductive problems including:

• A retained afterbirth for over 8 hours
• A female who is pregnant or nursing her young and develops a red, swollen, or painful breast
• A male with swollen testicles or scrotum

Has signs associated with the skin including:

• A rash, excessive shedding, excessive head shaking, or persistent scratching or chewing at spots on the body
• Abnormal lumps or bumps that are painful, red, and/or hot to the touch
• Maggots
• A nosebleed for no apparent reason, bruising easily, or tiny red dots on the skin

Call your veterinarian in 24 hours if your cat has signs including has signs related to digestion or food and water consumption including:

• Not eating, but no other signs of illness
• A soft stool, but there is no pain, blood, fetid odor, green or black color, mucus, or straining
• Occasional vomiting (2 or 3 times), but no abdominal pain or blood
• Foul breath
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Drooling

Has signs of nervous system or muscular disease including:

• Lameness for more than 24 hours
• Swollen joints
• Lethargy, depression, sleeping more than usual, unwillingness to play or exercise

Has signs associated with the skin including:

• Moderate itching or an unpleasant odor from the coat
• A discharge from the eye, ear, or other body opening

Psychological, Emotional, & Social Benefits of Animals

Image by Sebastián-Dario via FlickrIn addition to medical benefits, assisting with daily activities and working with us, animals can help us emotionally, psychologically, and socially. They help us:

Adjust to serious illness and death

Children often turn to their pet for comfort if a friend or family member dies or leaves the family. Grieving adults who did not have a close source of human support were also found to have less depression if they had a pet.

Be less anxious and feel more safe

Pet owners tend to feel less afraid of being a victim of crime when walking with a dog or having a dog in the home.

Relax and reduce everyday stress

Pets can help us relax and focus our attention away from our problems and worries. We do not even need physical contact to appreciate this. Watching fish in an aquarium, or the activity of birds can be very soothing. Of course many of us with dogs and cats find ourselves absent-mindedly petting them, which is relaxing for both us and the pet.

Have physical contact

This ability to have something to touch and pet is very important. More and more studies show how important touch is to our physical and emotional health.

Lift our mood

Pets decrease our feelings of loneliness and isolation by providing companionship to all generations. Certainly for residents of nursing homes this is true, but it is also true for the staff and volunteers there as well. Residents of nursing homes are more apt to smile, talk, reach out to people and objects, be attentive and alert, and experience a greater sense of well-being and less depression if animals are present in the facility.

Feel less lonely

Pets can help ease the sense of loneliness or isolation we feel.

Have something to care for

Everyone needs to feel needed and have something to care for. Many elderly citizens or people living alone will tell you their pet gives them a reason for living.

Keep active

Having a pet can help us remain more active. We may not only get more exercise from walking a dog, but we also increase our activity through feeding, grooming, and otherwise caring for our pet.

Have consistency

Pets provide some consistency to our lives. Caring for a pet can significantly affect our routine and gives us something to do and look forward to each day. People may come and go, but our pets are pretty much with us day in and day out.

Have more and better social interactions
Families surveyed before and after they acquired a pet reported feeling happier after adding a pet to the family.


A study in a Veteran's Hospital showed that the residents had more verbal interactions with each other when a dog was present in the room than when there was no dog present. Dogs were also shown to increase socialization among persons with Alzheimer's disease in a Special Care Unit of a nursing home.

Residents in long-term care facilities were more likely to attend activity sessions when an animal was going to be present.

Physical & Medical Health Benefits of Pet

Image via WikipediaAlthough many pet owners will say their pets make them feel better, there are still some skeptics. Now, research studies have shown that pets do have a very positive impact on various aspects of our health.

Increase longevity after heart attacks
Dog ownership increases the odds for survival in persons who have had a heart attack from 1 in 15 to 1 in 87. Pet ownership also has increased the percent of people who survived at least one year after hospitalization for heart problems. Only 6% of nonpet owners survived versus 28% of people with pets. Pet ownership may be only one of several variables that influenced this improved survival, but even a 2-3% difference is significant. In addition, pets may actually lessen the risk of heart attacks.

Lower cholesterol and triglycerides
People with pets have been found to have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels when compared to people who did not have pets, even when matched for weight, diet, and smoking habits.

Decrease blood pressure and reduce stress

Dogs have been shown to reduce blood pressure in a number of populations. Studies in women undergoing stress tests, have demonstrated that the presence of a dog had more of an effect on lowering blood pressure than the presence of friends. Similarly, children who had a dog present during their physical examination showed lower heart rate, blood pressure, and behavioral distress than when the dog was not present.

Stockbrokers who had dogs or cats in their offices when they had to carry out stressful tasks had smaller increases in blood pressure than those who did not have a pet present.

Increase physical activity and functioning

People who own pets often have better physical health due to the need to exercise and care for their pets.

Reduce medical appointments and minor health problems

The use of prescription drugs and the overall cost of caring for patients in nursing homes dropped in those facilities where companion animals became part of the therapy. A study also found that for persons living at home, those with pets had fewer medical appointments and minor health problems.

Predict seizures

Some people who have periodic seizures have reported that their dogs can sense the onset of a seizure before they can. Now it has been found that dogs can be specially trained to recognize some type of change prior to a seizure, and signal the owner of the imminent seizure. This gives the owner sufficient time to prepare, such as moving away from a hot stove. These dogs are called 'seizure-alert' or 'seizure-response' dogs, and can be trained to signal their owners from 15 to 45 minutes prior to a seizure.

Control 'freezing' in Parkinson's Disease

In addition to the tremors and stiffness that Parkinson's patients experience, they also face a problem called 'freezing.' Their feet freeze in place while the rest of their body keeps moving, causing the person to fall. As a result, some people with Parkinson's may tend to become sedentary, reluctant to move, and reclusive.

Parkinson's helper dogs have been trained to identify when a person with Parkinson's is 'freezing.' If the dog touches the person's foot, it breaks the freeze and the person can continue walking. Medical experts really do not know how or why this works. In addition to breaking the 'freeze,' the dogs are taught to prevent their partners from falling by counterbalancing and helping them regain their footing. If the person would fall, the dog can help the person up.

Diagnose cancer

It may sound stranger than fiction, but a dog in Florida, named George, has been reported to be able to detect a particular smell given off by certain skin tumors called malignant melanomas. George can sniff out this cancer with close to 100% accuracy. Researchers at Cambridge University are studying the use of dogs to detect the smell of prostate cancer in urine from human males.

Alert to hypoglycemia

There are also animals who alert their owners to episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which allows the owner to correct the level before serious symptoms develop.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog

Image via Wikipedia
Some foods which are edible for humans, and even other species of animals, can pose hazards for dogs because of their different metabolism. Some may cause only mild digestive upsets, whereas, others can cause severe illness, and even death. The following common food items should not be fed (intentionally or unintentionally) to dogs. This list is, of course, incomplete because we can not possibly list everything your dog should not eat.

Alcoholic beverages - Can cause intoxication, coma, and death.

Avocado - The leaves, seeds, fruit, and bark contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources - Can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.

Cat food - Generally too high in protein and fats.

Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other caffeine - Contain caffeine, theobromine, or theophylline, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea and be toxic to the heart and nervous systems.

Citrus oil extracts - Can cause vomiting.

Fat trimmings - Can cause pancreatitis.

Fish (raw, canned or cooked) - If fed exclusively or in high amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Grapes, raisins and currants - Contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys. There have been no problems associated with grape seed extract.

Hops - Unknown compound causes panting, increased heart rate, elevated temperature, seizures, and death.

Human vitamin supplements containing iron - Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys.

Macadamia nuts - Contain an unknown toxin, which can affect the digestive and nervous systems and muscle.

Marijuana -  Can depress the nervous system, cause vomiting, and changes in the heart rate.

Milk and other dairy products - Some adult dogs and cats may develop diarrhea if given large amounts of dairy products.

Moldy or spoiled food, garbage - Can contain multiple toxins causing vomiting and diarrhea and can also affect other organs.

Mushrooms - Can contain toxins, which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and result in death.

Onions and garlic (raw, cooked, or powder) - Contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are more susceptible than dogs. Garlic is less toxic than onions.

Persimmons - Seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis.

Pits from peaches and plums - Can cause obstruction of the digestive tract.

Raw eggs - Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella.

Raw meat - May contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Rhubarb leaves - Contain oxalates, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems.

Salt - If eaten in large quantities it may lead to electrolyte imbalances.

String -  Can become trapped in the digestive system; called a "string foreign body."

Sugary foods - Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and possibly diabetes mellitus.

Table scraps (in large amounts) - Table scraps are not nutritionally balanced. They should never be more than 10% of the diet. Fat should be trimmed from meat; bones should not be fed.

Tobacco - Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems. Can result in rapid heart beat, collapse, coma, and death.

Yeast dough - Can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

Xylitol (artificial sweetener) - Can cause very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can result in vomiting, weakness and collapse. In high doses can cause liver failure.

Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Image via WikipediaCushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) in dogs is a condition that results from the chronic overproduction of too much glucocorticoid in the body. In the normal dog, the pituitary gland produces a hormone called ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal gland to produce the glucocorticoid hormones necessary for the function of many systems in the body. If something goes wrong in the pituitary gland or adrenal gland and too much glucocorticoid is produced, then Cushing's disease develops. This is a very complicated disease with a wide range of symptoms and causes. This article will try to give a concise description of the disease, its symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and its treatment.

Who gets Cushing's disease?

Cushing's disease is considered a disease of middle age and older dogs and cats. It is much more common in dogs. This disease is similar in cats except that in cats up to 80% also have concurrent diabetes mellitus. This article will refer to the problem as it occurs in dogs. The usual age of contracting the disease is around six or seven years with a range of two to sixteen years. There is equal distribution between males and females and there does not appear to be an increase of the disease in any one breed.

What are the symptoms of Cushing's disease in dogs?

As a result of the chronically elevated glucocorticoids (steroids), the affected dogs develop a classic combination of dramatic clinical signs and lesions. The disease progresses slowly. A study showed that most dogs had at least one symptom of the disease from one to six years before the disease was diagnosed. Because the symptoms occur so gradually, the owner often attributes the changes to "old age." Some dogs will have only one symptom, while others may have many.

Increased Water Consumption and Urination

The most common symptom is increased consumption of water and the resultant increased urination (polyuria/polydipsia). The dogs drink between two and ten times the normal amount of water and the resultant increase in urination follows. This symptom is present in over 85% of all animals with Cushing's disease. Previously housebroken animals may begin to have accidents because their bladders fill quickly with the overproduction of urine.

Increase in Appetite

Increase in appetite (polyphagia) is another common clinical symptom that shows up in around 80% of the affected animals. Dogs may begin stealing food, getting into the garbage, begging continuously, and become very protective of their food. Despite having other symptoms, the owner may feel that the dog is okay because of his good appetite.

Abdominal Enlargement

Abdominal enlargement is a common symptom in up to 80% of the affected dogs. The potbellied appearance is a result of the shifting of fat to the abdominal area and a weakening and wasting of muscle mass in the abdomen.







Hair Loss and Thin Skin




Hair loss and thinning of the skin are also common symptoms in dogs with Cushing's disease. It is estimated that between 50% and 90% of the affected animals develop these symptoms. Hair loss (alopecia) is one of the most common reasons that owners bring their dog in for evaluation. The hair loss usually starts over the areas of wear such as the elbows and progresses to the flanks and abdomen until eventually only the head and extremities have hair. The skin may also become thin and be easily damaged and slow to heal.

Increased panting, recurrent urinary tract infections, or losses in reproductive ability are other symptoms often noted with this disease. 

Cushing's Disease has two forms

There are two different distinct forms of the disease. There is pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) and there is an adrenal-based disease.

Pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism

PDH involves the oversecretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland. ACTH is a hormone that stimulates the adrenal gland to produce glucocorticoids. The pituitary gland is most likely overproducing ACTH because of a pituitary tumor. The PDH form of the disease is responsible for around 80% of the cases of canine Cushing's disease

Adrenal-based hyperadrenocorticism

The adrenal-based form of the disease is usually a result of an adrenal tumor that causes an oversecretion of glucocorticoids. Adrenal tumors are responsible for around 20% of the cases of Cushing's disease. There is also a form of the disease called "iatrogenic" Cushing's disease that occurs as a result of giving the animal high doses of steroids. In this form of the disease, symptoms of Cushing's disease will go away once the steroids are discontinued.

Diagnosis
Cushing's disease can present with a variety of symptoms and may also be involved with several different disease processes. Therefore, it is recommended that any dog suspected of having Cushing's disease should have a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry panel, and urinalysis performed as a routine part of the evaluation. Common abnormalities in these tests include increases in alkaline phosphatase, and ALT (liver enzymes), increased cholesterol, decreased BUN (a kidney function test), and dilute urine (low specific gravity). There are several different tests that can be performed to get a definitive diagnosis of Cushing's disease. Many times the veterinarian may perform more than one test to help confirm the diagnosis or to determine which form of the disease is present. A diagnosis of Cushing's disease, however, should never be made on the basis of laboratory tests alone. The dog needs to be showing symptoms of the disease, and have a medical history consistent with the diagnosis.
The three most common "screening" tests are the urine cortisol:creatinine ratio, the low dose dexamethasone suppression test, and ultrasound.

Urine Cortisol:Creatinine Ratio

In this test, the owner generally collects a urine sample at home (where the animal is not stressed). The sample is sent by the veterinarian to a special laboratory for testing. Most dogs with Cushing's disease have an abnormal result. However, there are other diseases that can also cause abnormal results. So if this test is abnormal, further diagnostic testing should be performed.

Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test

The low dose dexamethasone suppression test is useful in diagnosing Cushing's disease in dogs. When given low doses of dexamethasone, normal dogs show a marked decrease in blood cortisol levels when tested 8 hours later. Most dogs (more than 90%) with Cushing's disease do not have a decrease in cortisol level after being given dexamethasone. The results can sometimes help determine which type of disease is present.

ACTH Stimulation Test

This is another test that is commonly used in the diagnosis of Cushing's disease today. It will not distinguish between the two types of hyperadrenocorticism, but it may aid in the diagnosis in difficult cases. It is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy

Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasound is helpful in three respects. First, it is a good test to evaluate all of the abdominal organs in the dog. Secondly, it is used to study the size and shape of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands in pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism are usually normal in size or enlarged. If a tumor is present however, one adrenal gland is often abnormally large or of uneven shape. Finally, if a tumor is suspected, ultrasound can help identify any metastasis to other organs.

High Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test

This blood test, which is not used often, may help to is used to distinguish between pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism and adrenal-based hyperadrenocorticism.

Treatment

Treatment consists of several different options. Depending on the type of disease, surgery can be performed. If an adrenal tumor is identified, then surgical removal may be a viable option. There are several different forms of tumors that can invade the adrenal gland and their treatment will be based on the particular tumor type.

Non surgical treatment is the most often used treatment for most cases of canine Cushing's disease. About 80% of the cases of Cushing's disease in the dog are of the pituitary type, and since both the adrenal and the pituitary type will respond effectively to some of the oral treatments, many veterinarians do not perform the diagnostics necessary to distinguish between the two different forms. There are currently several different oral medications being used to treat canine Cushing's disease

Lysodren

Until recently, Lysodren (also known as mitotane, and o,p'-DDD) was the only treatment available for pituitary dependent Cushing's disease. It is convenient to use and is relatively inexpensive and is still probably the most widely used treatment. The downside of this drug is that it can have some serious side effects and regular blood-monitoring needs to be performed. During the initial phases of the therapy, the dog must be very carefully monitored, and there must be close communication between the veterinarian and the owner.

The use of Lysodren is somewhat like chemotherapy. It works by destroying cells of the adrenal gland that produce the corticosteroid hormones. As the number of corticosteroid-producing cells is reduced, even though the pituitary gland continues to produce excess ACTH, the adrenal gland is less able to respond, so the amount of glucocorticoid being produced is reduced. The problems arise when too much of the adrenal cortex is killed off. The animals may then need to be placed on prednisone, either short or long term. The Lysodren is initially given daily while the animal is being monitored for a decrease in the symptoms (water consumption, appetite). On the 8th or 9th day of the initial therapy, the dog needs to be examined and an ACTH stimulation test is performed to determine if the drug is working. If the goal is achieved, maintenance therapy is started. If the goal has not been reached, then the dog generally remains on the daily medication for 3 to 7 additional days and is rechecked until the proper results are achieved. If the dog becomes lethargic, vomits, or has diarrhea, or if the treatment does not work by 30 days, then the treatment plan is reevaluated. If treatment is successful, then symptoms should resolve within 4 to 6 months. A certain percentage of dogs will relapse and need to undergo the daily therapy again at some point in their lives. If a dog ever becomes ill while on Lysodren, the Lysodren should be stopped immediately and the dog should be examined by a veterinarian. If the therapy is successful, the dog will need to be on Lysodren for the rest of his life.

Trilostane

Trilostane is a newer treatment that is used to treat some dogs with Cushing's disease. It is more expensive, but may be an alternative treatment for dogs with adrenal tumors. As with Lysodren, the dog is reexamined repeatedly during the initial phase of treatment, and ACTH stimulation tests are performed. In many cases, after several months of therapy the dose needs to be increased.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole is an oral antifungal agent that has been used extensively since the mid 80s. One of the side effects of ketoconazole is that it interferes with the synthesis of steroid hormones. It therefore gained some popularity as a treatment for Cushing's disease. However, it is rarely used today.

L-deprenyl (Anipryl) 

L-deprenyl (Anipryl) has been advocated for the treatment of Cushing's disease in dogs, but its effectiveness has come into question.

Summary

Cushing's disease is a disease that affects middle age to older dogs. The affected animal has a characteristic presentation including increased water consumption and resulting increased urination, increased appetite, hair loss, and a potbellied appearance. There are several diagnostic tests available, as well as several treatments.