Pet Care Chennai

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPCR) in dogs for pet owners

2011-10-08T19:12:00.001+05:30

Cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation (CPCR, formerly abbreviated as CPR) is the treatment required to save an animal (or human) life when suffering cardiopulmonary arrest. The intent of CPCR is to provide sufficient blood flow and oxygen to the brain and vital organs to support life until more advanced medical therapy can be started. Unlike what we see on television, most patients who suffer from cardiac arrest are unable to be saved, even with CPCR. In a study from the University of California at Davis, researchers discovered that long-term survival among feline patients is extremely poor. In this study, only 2.3% of feline patients who received CPCR survived to be discharged from the hospital alive. This closely parallels findings of similar studies in human medicine.

CPCR consists of two parts: Rescue breathing and chest compressions.

These two techniques combine to keep the lungs supplied with oxygen and to keep blood circulating, carrying oxygen to the other parts of the body such as the brain and vital organs.

Basic CPCR is CPCR performed by trained bystanders at the scene of the arrest.

Advanced CPCR is CPCR performed by trained teams of professionals.

Basic CPCR is the most important for pet owners, and is described in this section.

All body tissues require a steady source of oxygen. If the source is interrupted for only a few minutes, irreversible damage may be done. If cardiopulmonary arrest occurs, basic CPCR must be initiated at the scene.

Recent research has shown that using only chest compressions was as effective as chest compressions and rescue breathing together. As long as the airway is open, compression of the chest may cause forward flow of blood and may cause adequate movement of air-at least for the first few minutes of arrest. Therefore, if only one rescuer is available to perform CPCR, it is advisable to perform only chest compressions.

Basic CPCR: Rescue Breathing (If two people are present)

Make Certain the Animal is actually Arrested and Unconscious
Talk to the pet first. Gently touch and attempt to awaken the pet. You could be seriously injured should you attempt to perform CPCR on a pet who was only sleeping heavily and was startled awake.

Ensure an Open Airway

Extend the head and neck and pull the tongue forward.

Look in the mouth and remove any saliva or vomitus. If it is too dark to see into the mouth, sweep your finger deep into the mouth and into the throat to remove any vomit or foreign body. Be aware of a hard, smooth, bone-like structure deep in the throat, which is likely to be the hyoid apparatus (Adam's apple). Serious injury could result if you pull on the hyoid apparatus.

Observe for Effective Breathing
Sometimes an animal will begin to breathe spontaneously when the head is put in the position discussed above (head and neck extended, tongue pulled forward). Watch for the rise and fall of the chest while listening closely for sounds of breathing. If no breathing is evident in 10 seconds, begin rescue breathing.

Begin Rescue Breathing
Rescue breathing is performed by covering the pet’s nose with your mouth and forcefully blowing your breath into the lungs. In cats and small dogs, you must hold the corners of the mouth tightly closed while you force the air in.

In larger dogs, the dog’s tongue should be pulled forward and the mouth and lips held shut using both hands cupped around the muzzle. Force air into the lungs until you see the chest expand. Take your mouth away when the chest has fully expended. The lungs will deflate without help. Air should be forced into the lungs until you see the chest expand.

Give 3 to 5 Full Breaths
After several breaths are given, stop for a few seconds to recheck for breathing and heart function. If the pet is still not breathing, continue rescue breathing 20 to 25 times per minute in cats or small dogs, or 12 to 20 times per minute in medium or large dogs. Push down on the stomach area every few seconds to help expel the air that may have blown into the stomach. If the stomach is allowed to distend with air, the pressure will make the rescue breathing efforts less effective. Try to coordinate breaths with chest compressions for 2-person CPCR.

If Breathing is Shallow or Non-existent
If you find that breathing is either shallow or non-existent and the pet is still unconscious, continue rescue breathing 10 to 15 times per minute and transport the pet to the nearest veterinary facility.

Basic CPCR: Chest Compressions (If one or two people are present)

After Ensuring an Open Airway, Check for a Pulse
If no pulse is detectable, begin chest compressions.

In Small Dogs or Cats

Squeeze the chest using one or both hands around the chest. Depress the rib cage circumferentially (see illustration).

Do this 100 to
150 times per minute.

In Large Dogs
Compress the chest wall with one or both hands, depending on the size of the dog and the size of the rescuer (whatever works best for you). If the dog is on her side, place your hand(s) on the side of the chest wall where it is widest. If she is on her back, place your hand(s) on the breastbone. Depress the rib cage 1.5 to 4 inches, depending on the dog's size. Do this 80 to 120 times per minute.

Coordinate Rescue Breathing and Chest Compressions
If possible, give breaths during the compressions. If it is not possible, give two breaths after every 12 compressions.

Continue CPCR until
• You become exhausted and can't continue.
• You get the animal transported to a veterinary facility and professionals can take over.
• The pulse is palpable or heartbeats are felt and they are strong and regular.

In the vast majority of cases, artificial ventilations will continue to be required for a period of time, even though heart function has returned. This is due to the nervous system depression that occurs as a result of the arrest.

All resuscitated animals should be transported to a veterinary facility for further examination and care!

Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index(CADESI)

2009-03-25T17:50:00.001+05:30

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) severity is difficult to assess as only a few scoring systems have been developed. The most used is the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI), adapted from the human SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Despite wide use of this scoring system in clinical trials, no validation has been carried out to the authors’ knowledge. The aim of this study was to determine the reproducibility of the CADESI in clinical practice.
Initially, a set of 28 photographs taken from dogs diagnosed with CAD was scored by 6investigators for three items: erythema, lichenification and excoriation. Subsequently, 23 dogs with clinical signs compatible with CAD were graded by 2 investigators using the CADESI (erythema, lichenification and excoriation, having been assessed on 39 areas).
With the photographs, significant correlation (rS, p<0.05) was found for each combination of investigators for erythema and lichenification but only in 10/15 combinations for excoriation; interobserver agreement ranged between poor and fair (0.221These results suggest that erythema and lichenification are reproducible whereas excoriation is more difficult to assess. It seems also that assessment of severity varies depending on the area studied.

Oral itraconazole as a pulse therapy

2009-03-25T17:47:00.001+05:30

The aim of this randomised, blinded, controlled study was to evaluate the efficacy of a pulse therapy with itraconazole in dogs suffering from Malassezia dermatitis. Twenty dogs presented with a generalized pruritic skin disease were included. In each case, large numbers of Malassezia spp. were demonstrated on microscopical examination of tape-strips. Dogs were randomly allocated to two groups: group A (ketoconazole 10 mg/kg/day) and group B (itraconazole 5 mg/kg twice a week). Dogs were checked after three weeks. Parameters studied were:pruritus, clinical signs (CADESI) and number of Malassezia on cytological preparations. No significant difference was observed between the two groups for any of the parameters studied. At D21, pruritus decreased by 50% (group A) to 55% (group B). CADESI markedly improved (60% in group A, 61% in group B). The mean number of Malassezia was 4.2 and 3.8 for group A and group B respectively at D0 and 0.2 and 0.1 at D21. A pulse therapy with itraconazole seems to be as effective as the daily administration of ketoconazole. This may be due to the persistence of itraconazole in the stratum corneum for long periods after discontinuation of therapy

Dog Air Travel Tips - Take your Dog Anywhere

2009-02-23T16:47:00.000+05:30

Dog Air Travel - Tips for Traveling by Airplane with your Lovable Dog

Luckily for dog owners, these animals travel by air better than cats. If the dog is accustomed to car travel, then air travel shouldn't be a problem at all. Use the following dog air travel tips for safe and pleasant airpline travel with your best furry friend.

Certify Your Dogs Health before Air Travel

Not only is dog air travel better for your dog if the dog is healthy, but it's actually the law. Federal law requires that a dog has been certified within 10 days of the trip to be healthy, vaccinated, and free from contagious diseases. This is a very important for any pet travel, large or small.

Avoid Excessive Temperatures

Ensure the safety of your dog during air travel by never flying with your dog while temperatures are over 85 degrees or under 35 degrees, on either end of the flight. Many airliners put "heat embargos" and/or "cold embargos" on dog air travel during the summer and winter months respectively. This means that the airliners prohibit dog air travel during these times. This shouldn't be seen as a problem, because the airlines do it to prevent disease or death, and guarantee a safe flight for your dog.

Overseas Dog Air Travel May Involve Quarantine

For international dog air travel, keep in mind that some isolated countries, such as New Zealand and England, quarantine animals arriving by air. Before traveling and booking reservations, familiarize yourself with the laws, requirements, and procedures of your particular destination. Unless your flight is non-stop, remember that you may have to deal with regulations in multiple places.

Don't Tranquilize Your Dog During Air Travel

Although tranquilization may seem like a good idea during canine air travel, it isn't. Tranquilizers are the leading cause of death or sickness of dogs during air travel. A dog can't receive immediate or professional medical care during air travel, so unnecessary medications do more harm than good. In fact, many airliners reject tranquilized pets as a safety precaution.

Obedience During Dog Air Travel

Training your dog before airline travel is the best way to ensure a good flight. Unfortunately, even short air travel means hours of separation between owners and their dogs (except for service dogs). Your medium to large size dog will be confined to a shipping crate for the entire flight.

You can help relinquish the strain and discomfort on your dog by preparing him for dog air travel beforehand. Do this by getting your dog used to being inside a travel crate for extended periods of time. Also, make sure your dog works well with strangers, namely in busy, frantic, or uncomfortable environments. This will do wonders for traveling with your large furry companion.

To read the entire article on dog air travel, please visit us here.

Looking for more information regarding travel with your dog by land or air. Visit our dog air travel section at largedogbreeds.com for more breed specific information on your large canine companion.

Clinical Aspects, Diagnosis and Therapy of Canine Pyoderma

2008-11-04T16:11:00.000+05:30

Clinical Aspects, Diagnosis and Therapy of Canine Pyoderma
D.N. Carlotti, DECVD
Cabinet de Dermatologie Vétérinaire
Bordeaux-Mérignac, France

Introduction

There are a large number of bacterial diseases of the skin in dogs, with different histopathological and clinical aspects. Some are superficial and benign (the basement membrane is not destroyed by the infectious process) and some are deep and severe (the basement membrane is destroyed). Pseudopyodermas are not real pyodermas since infection plays only a secondary role and anti-infectious therapy is not effective. Staphylococcus intermedius is the most common infectious agent cultured in canine pyoderma. It can multiply easily in the dog's skin, due to the thinness of the stratum corneum and the lack of sebum plug in the hair follicles. Inflammation of the skin, particularly due to allergy, is the most common cause of pyoderma, more than real immunodeficiency.

Superficial pyoderma

1. Skin fold pyoderma (intertrigo)

These lesions are seen in anatomical defects where there is an important bacterial colonization: lip, facial, vulvar, caudal, obese and mammary folds. The dermatosis is localized with erythema, exudation, suppuration and bad odour.

2. Impetigo

In juvenile impetigo, subcorneal pustules are present on the ventral side of the body, with crusting. The disease is self-limited. In adult impetigo, large pustules ("bullae") are seen all over the body. In general, adult impetigo is severe and secondary to an underlying disease (hyperadrenocorticism, glucocorticoid therapy...) or multiple traumas (e.g., during hunting).

3. Folliculitis

Juvenile folliculitis: numerous follicular pustules are present on the ventral side of the body. The condition often heals at puberty.

Short-haired dog pyoderma: there are generalized follicular pustules, epidermal collarettes and crusts, with a "moth-eaten" hair. Pruritus disappears when the lesion heal.

Secondary folliculitis: this common disease is characterized by follicular pustules, epidermal collarettes and crusts which are often generalized. Pruritus is still present after lesions healing in case of underlying pruritic dermatosis. The disease may also generate pruritus in a usually nonpruritic dermatosis (in such cases pruritus disappears when lesions heal).

"Bacterial hypersensitivity" and/or superficial spreading pyoderma: bacterial hypersensitivity is an uncommon disease based on a clinical triad: erythematous follicular pustules, target lesions/seborrhoeic plaques, haemorrhagic bullae. There is sometimes a severe pruritus. The existence of a real bacterial allergy is presumed and debatable. In superficial spreading pyoderma, nummular areas of alopecia and erythema are centrifugally expanding, with epidermal collarettes and crusts. These lesions are often associated to intact but transient follicular pustules.

Deep folliculitis: it is the so-called acral lick dermatitis, most often a deep follicular bacterial infection with retrograde hidrosadenitis secondary to a psychogenic and/or an allergic cause.

Pyotraumatic folliculitis: some cases of folliculitis (e.g., in Labradors, Retrievers) appear as oozing suppurative plaque with pain. They are surrounded by satellite pustules of folliculitis or even furunculosis, which help to differentiate them from the "classical" pyotraumatic dermatitis.

Deep pyoderma

1 Furunculosis

Acne: papulo-pustules and pustules are seen on the face, particularly the chin, in young dogs.

Secondary furunculosis: localized or generalized pustules are associated or secondary to a folliculitis and the disease is triggered or aggravated by an excessive therapy (e.g., glucocorticosteroids).

Nasal pyoderma: pustules and crusts are present on the bridge of the nose and eyelids. There may be an unpleasant scaring. This true bacterial nasal pyoderma of unknown cause should be differentiated from the sterile eosinophilic furunculosis possibly due to arthropod bites.

2. Cellulitis

A. Localized cellulitis

Pressure points pyoderma: there are necrotizing lesions of the elbows, the rump, the stifles, the hocks and the lateral digits. They are due to permanent trauma in heavy dogs.

Various localized cellulites: These are other localized necrotizing lesions (e.g., perianal). Their cause is often unknown; they are sometimes secondary to a furunculosis.

B. Generalized cellulitis

Pyodemodicosis: There is an extensive necrotizing skin disease, which is secondary to a generalized demodicosis (an immunodeficiency status).

Various generalized cellulites: necrotizing lesions are extensive and often secondary to other immunodeficiencies.

3. The interdigital pyoderma complex

There are very numerous causes of non infectious pododermatitis with erythema, oedema, oozing and alopecia. The same lesions are present in interdigital pyoderma along with furunculosis, ulcerations, fistulae and necrosis (cellulitis). Interdigital pyoderma is often secondary.

Pseudo-pyoderma

1. Pyotraumatic dermatitis

The typical lesions have an acute onset and are characterized by alopecia, erythema, oozing, suppuration, pruritus and/or pain. These lesions are common, and most often associated to pruritic skin disease. They are poorly understood (sometimes due to vasculitis?). There is a spontaneous healing in a few days, but a short treatment is useful.

2. Juvenile pyodermas

Juvenile pyoderma of new-born puppies: crusty lesions are present on the face, thorax and dorso-lumbar area. They might be due to trauma. No treatment is required since there is a spontaneous healing.

Juvenile cellulitis: The aetiology of this disease is unknown. The typical clinical aspect is a facial oedema and furunculosis, with fistulae, crusting and a suppurative otitis externa. Adenopathy and sterile abscesses (cellulitis) are present. The onset of this uncommon disease occurs before 4 months of age in one or several puppies of a litter. There is a spontaneous healing in a few weeks with scaring but treatment is required.

Diagnosis of canine pyoderma

Diagnosis of canine pyoderma is based on history, physical examination and complementary examinations: cytology, histopathology and bacteriology.

1. Cytology

In intertrigo (skin fold pyoderma), images of "bacterial colonization" are observed, i.e., healthy neutrophils, Cocci and Bacilli in an extracellular position and degenerated neutrophils in a state of phagocytosis. In impetigo and folliculitis, impaired (degenerated) neutrophils are only found. The pictures of Cocci phagocytosis are not particularly numerous. This is an image of "bacterial invasion", i.e., the penetration of pathogenic germs into the skin. The significance of the pictures of phagocytosis differs considerably depending on whether they are observed on the surface or in a cutaneous lesion. In effect, when they are observed inside the skin (epidermis, hair follicles, dermis) one might consider that the phagocytosed germs are pathogenic and that there is a real bacterial pustulosis. In contrast, phagocytosis observed on the surface indicates multiplication of germs which are not necessarily and probably rarely pathogenic. In deep pyoderma cytology is less likely to reveal the germs and pictures of phagocytosis, although they must be looked for. Frequently there are a granulomatous reaction, eosinophils and red blood cells. Bacterial colonization is observed in pyotraumatic dermatitis as in intertrigo but it is not significant and treatment with antibiotic does not result in remission. In juvenile cellulitis, the degenerated neutrophils are very numerous, with a granulomatous reaction. No germs are seen.

2. Histopathology

This will show typical lesions, but is relatively rarely performed for the diagnosis of canine pyoderma, except in case of difficult differential diagnosis.

3. Bacteriology

This can confirm the bacterial infection and allows sensitivity testing.

Treatment of canine pyoderma

Systemic (antibiotic) and topical therapy can be used in canine pyoderma.

1. Selection of antibiotics

The criteria for the choice of an antibiotic are as follows: appropriate kinetics and good cutaneous penetration, activity against Staphylococci, activity in pus and reactive tissues, bactericidal activity rather than bacteriostatic activity particularly in severe cases, easy administration (oral, q12h or q24h), absence of secondary effects, reasonable cost. The choice can be empirical, particularly in superficial pyoderma, after cytological examination of pus from an intact pustule which shows bacterial invasion. Bacteriology and sensitivity testing must be used in case of deep pyoderma, recurrent pyoderma, when cytology shows a complex flora with rods, and in case of empirical antibiotic therapy failure. They can be repeated during therapy.

2. Dosage and duration of treatment

Ideal doses must be used and duration of treatment must be long enough (a few weeks to several months depending of extension and depth of lesions, and always beyond clinical cure). Maintenance pulse treatment (e.g., 2 to 3 days a week) can be used in chronically relapsing pyoderma but it could theoretically select resistant strains as well as the use of subminimal doses. They are both used for economical reasons but the former is preferable.

3. Antibiotics useable in canine pyoderma

Antibiotics useful in canine pyoderma are included in the following table. They all have a good cutaneous diffusion (because of their liposolubility) and can be given orally, which is useful because of long therapeutic courses (ease of administration). They are all bactericidal except macrolides which are bacteriostatic.

Class

Characteristics

Examples

Macrolides

narrow spectrum/Gram+

erythromycin : 30 to 50 mg/kg div. bid or tid
lincomycin : 40 to 50 mg/kg div. bid or tid
clindamycin : 5,5 to 11 mg/kg sid or div. Bid
tylosin : 40 mg/kg div. bid

Penicillins M

resistant to penicillinases
narrow spectrum/Gram+

oxacillin : 30 to 50 mg/kg div. bid

Penicillins A
potentiated by
clavulanic acid

resistant to penicillinases larger spectrum

amoxicillin-clavulanic acid : 25 mg/kg/div. bid

Cephalosporins

resistant to penicillinases
broad spectrum

cephalexin : 30 to 60 mg/kg div. Bid
cefadroxil : 44 to 70 mg/kg div. bid

Cephalosporin P

resistant to penicillinases
narrow spectrum/Gram+
synergy with penicillins
and erythromycin

fusidic acid (the only one of this group) :
60 mg/kg div. tid

Sulfonamides-
Diaminopyrimidines

broad spectrum

trimethoprim-sulfa : 30 mg (i.e., 5 mg
trimethoprim)/kg sid or div. Bid
baquiloprim-sulfadimethoxine : 30 mg (i.e., 5mg
baquiloprim)/kg q.48h
ormetoprim-sulfadimethoxine : 30 mg (i.e., 5mg
ormetoprim)/kg sid after a single double dose
the first day

Fluoroquinolones

broad spectrum
excellent tissue
penetration
(not to be used in puppies of giant breeds)

enrofloxacin : 5mg/kg sid of div. Bid
marbofloxacin : 2 mg/kg sid
difloxacin : 5 mg/kg sid
orbifloxacin : 2.5 mg/kg sid

Penicillin G (which is injectable) and A are sensitive to penicillinases. Aminoglycosides have a low cutaneous diffusion (they are hydrosoluble), are injectable and toxic. Chloramphenicol has a bad reputation in humans and the cat (haematologic toxicity). Tetracyclines have a very low activity against Staphylococci. These antibiotics are never or rarely used in canine pyoderma. Rifampicin is effective against Staphylococci but, as it is still used to treat human tuberculosis, it should be used when there is no other possibility (5 to 10 mg/kg SID). In addition, it should be then associated to a betalactamine to prevent the selection of resistant strains of Staphylococci. Mupirocine, a topically active bactericidal antibiotic, in a polyethylene glycol base is effective against Gram+ Cocci, is not systematically absorbed and is not chemically related to other antibiotics. It can be used in localized pyodermas (acne, pressure point pyoderma, interdigital pyoderma).

4. Associated treatments

Topical therapy is always beneficial in canine pyoderma, particularly in superficial staphylococcal disease. Clipping can be useful and is necessary in deep pyoderma such as cellulitis. The main useful topical products are chlorhexidine (lotion and/or shampoo), povidone-iodine (lotion and/or shampoo), benzoyl-peroxide (shampoo and eventually gel), ethyl-lactate (shampoo). They should be used frequently, e.g., once a day, at the beginning of therapy. Later, frequency of application may decrease. Each shampoo should be followed by the application of an appropriate humectant. Topical or systemic glucocorticoids should never be used in true canine pyoderma, even in case of pruritus, because they cause severe relapses ("rebound effect"). In contrast they can be used and are effective in pseudo-pyoderma (e.g., oral prednisolone: 1 mg/kg/day for pyotraumatic dermatitis and 2 mg/kg/day for juvenile cellulitis).

Conclusion

Canine pyoderma is a group of various skin diseases and an accurate diagnosis is mandatory. An appropriate antibacterial therapy is required in most cases of canine pyoderma, in association with topical therapy. Antibiotics must be selected carefully and used with appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.

The Efficacy of Ibafloxacin Tablets and Gel in the Treatment of Canine Pyoderma

2008-11-04T15:48:00.000+05:30

The Efficacy of Ibafloxacin Tablets and Gel in the Treatment of Canine Pyoderma
*L. J. I. Horspool, R. van den Bos, P. van Laar
*Intervet International bv
Boxmeer, NL
Linda.Horspool@intervet.com

OBJECTIVES

Canine pyoderma is an inflammatory skin disease that is commonly encountered in clinical practice. Staphylococcus intermedius is the primary cause of pyoderma in dogs. However a number of underlying causes (such as seborrhea, parasites, immune incompetence (corticosteroid use), endocrine imbalance) can predispose to the development of canine pyoderma.

In the present study, the efficacy of the tablet formulation of the novel fluoroquinolone ibafloxacin was compared with a new gel formulation containing ibafloxacin in a multicentre, randomised, non-blinded, controlled clinical study on canine pyoderma in The Netherlands, Germany and Italy.

MATERIALS

Dogs with pyoderma were administered ibafloxacin (Ibaflin®, Intervet International bv) orally, at a dose rate of 15 mg/kg bodyweight, as tablets (Group 1, n=94) or gel (Group 2, n=93) for 21-91 days. Clinical examinations were carried out on Days 0, 7 and 21 and then every 14 days until treatment was stopped. Bacterial culture was performed on Day 0. The response to treatment was evaluated using the number of treatment failures (lack of improvement by Day 7 or 21) and the improvement in general condition and pyoderma lesion scores. The overall response to treatment was based on clinical examinations 7 and 28 days after treatment was stopped.

RESULTS

Staphylococcus intermedius was cultured from 82% of Group 1 and 88% of Group 2. The pyoderma was considered to be superficial in 58% and deep in 42% of the dogs in the present study. The mean duration of treatment was 5-6 weeks in both groups. The number of treatment failures and the improvement in general condition or specific disease scores did not differ significantly between the two groups. Seven days after the last treatment, 80% of Group 1 and 84% of Group 2 were classed as having responded to treatment (P>0.05). Mild suspected adverse reactions to treatment (dullness, polydipsia) were reported for 2 dogs in Group 1 (2.1%) and 1 dog in Group 2 ((1.1%).

CONCLUSION

The present study was designed so that all dogs would be treated for at least 3 weeks (suitable for superficial pyoderma). Deep pyoderma requires longer treatment (at least 6 weeks) and is more difficult to manage, thus dogs in the present study could be treated for up to 13 weeks. Fluoroquinolones have a broad spectrum of activity, are widely distributed in the body and can be administered orally once daily, making them ideal for the treatment of canine pyoderma. In the present study, ibafloxacin was equally effective in the treatment of canine pyoderma when formulated as conventional tablets or as gel for oral administration. In addition, suspected adverse reactions to treatment with ibafloxacin tablets or gel occurred at a similar low rate even during prolonged treatment.

The Approach to Canine Recurrent Pyoderma

2008-11-04T15:45:00.000+05:30

The Approach to Canine Recurrent Pyoderma
Richard EW Halliwell, MA VetMB PhD MRCVS DECVD
Professor, University of Edinburgh, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Summerhall
Edinburgh, UK

THE DEVELOPMENT OF PYODERMA

It is believed that staphylococcal pyoderma develops following surface spread from the carrier sites. Factors that ordinarily prevent the development of pyoderma are:

1. The physical barrier of the intact skin. Normal desquamation is extremely important in preventing niches in which pathogenic bacteria could become established.

2. Antibacterial substances present in normal sebum, and secreted onto the skin surface from apocrine secretions. This would include immunoglobulin, and other non-specifically acting substances such as those produced by resident bacteria.

3. The bacterial barrier. If non-pathogenic bacteria occupy all available colonization sites, pathogens will not become established.

There is thus a dynamic balance between the host defenses, the virulence of any potential pathogens and their ability to gain access, and the host defenses that are brought into play in a damage limitation exercise.

FACTORS THAT PREDISPOSE TO RECURRENT PYODERMAS

Pyoderma is likely to prove recurrent in a number of situations

1. Where there is a tendency to surface colonization:

a. Seborrhoea, of whatever cause, is likely to lead to colonization with Staph intermedius.

b. Atopic disease. In this condition it has been shown that Stratum corneum cells of atopics have a greater tendency to adhere to the organism than do cells from normals.

2. Where the integrity of the skin barrier is impaired:This may occur secondarily to any inflammatory skin disease, or one that leads to self-trauma from pruritus. Flea allergy is a rather special case. The secondary infection in such cases is often minor, and does not necessitate antibiotic therapy. However a minority of animals will break with a staphylococcal infection whenever they acquire an infestation. In demodicosis, a recurrence of the infection is often the first sign of recurrence of the mite population.

3. In the immunocompromised animal: This is generally limited to deficiencies in non-specific defenses or in cell-mediated immunity, as antibody response is always evident.

a. Congenital non-specific immune defects. Delayed intracellular killing by neutrophils has been noted in weimaraners and dobermans. Irish setters have been reported with a severe, intracellular killing defect, but this is exceedingly rare. However, absence of the neutrophil complement receptors CD11b and CD18, which aid attachment prior to engulfment, is quite common in Irish setters in the UK and Scandinavia. Such animals would be expected to have difficulties in handling infections of all types.

b. Impaired cell-mediated immunity. It has been documented that atopic dogs have impaired cell-mediated immunity. In animals with impaired cell-mediated immunity from other causes has also been documented. Some animals with recurrent pyoderma have impaired cell-mediated immunity- where their lymphocytes appear to have an inbuilt defect, or where there are serum immunosuppressive factors present. This seems to be an excellent way by which the infection can be potentiated.

4. Food allergy:Typically, affected animals are less pruritic when on antibiotics with their pyoderma controlled, but relapse occurs either immediately on cessation of therapy or within 2-3 weeks. In other cases the pruritus is fully controlled by antibiotic therapy, and the animal appears to be suffering from a food allergy which is sub clinical as far as the pruritus is concerned.

5. In cases of hypersensitivity to staphylococcal antigens:It is well documented in experimental animals that development of hypersensitivity renders the animal much easier to infect. This has been shown also to be true in dogs.

6. Hypothyroidism:This is well recognized as a cause of recurrent staphylococcal infection, but it is not clear whether it results from the accompanying seborrhea, or to impaired defenses that may accompany the condition.

7. Iatrogenic:

a. Improper use of antibiotics. These must be given in full doses for the full length of time.

b. Use of corticosteroids. Although these may appear to produce an improvement, merely from their anti-inflammatory action, in the long term they are working against our best interests as they (a), tend to dry the skin inducing scaling and thus favoring colonization, and (b), they may further impair cell-mediated immunity.

Antibiotic selection

Suitable antibiotics are directed at the Staph. intermedius. Where there is secondary infection with gram-negatives, these will disappear once the Staph. is controlled unless the animal is severely immunodeficient, or there is an overwhelming infection.

1. Macrolides.Erythromycin and lincomycin are good, first choice bacteriostatic antibiotics. Clindamycin does not appear to offer any major advantages over the other, cheaper, products. The vomiting with erythromycin can be obviated by feeding an anti-emetic 30 minutes prior to each dose for the first two days. There is cross-resistance between the two drugs. The dose for erythromycin is 10-15mg/kg TID, and for lincomycin 20mg/kg BID.

2. Potentiated sulphonamides. Trimethoprim-sulphadiazine (or sulphamethoxazole), ormetoprim-sulphadimethoxine and bacquiloprim-sulphadimethoxine are very useful antibiotics for pyodermas. The dose for the first is 30mg/kg given twice daily, although some clinicians are comfortable with SID dosage. The dose for ormetoprim is 55mg/kg for the first day, and then 27.5mg/kg once daily thereafter. Drug reactions are not uncommon with trimethoprim sulphur, and result from the sulphadiazine, which also has the propensity to induce a transient arthropathy, especially in Dobermans. The tendency to induce keratoconjunctivitis sicca must be watched.

3. Cephalosporins. Cephadroxyl and cephalexin are excellent for the treatment of pyodermas. Although they are broader spectrum than is oxacillin, they do not classify as broad-spectrum drugs, and are perfectly acceptable for the routine treatment of canine pyoderma. Drug reactions are seen, but probably with less frequency than with the sulphonamides. They are bactericidal. Doses are 20-25mg/kg BID.

4. Oxacillin. This is an excellent, narrow spectrum bactericidal antibiotic to which resistance is extremely rare. Unfortunately there are no veterinary preparations. The dose is 20mg/kg TID.

5. Amoxacillin/clavulonic acid. This broad-spectrum bactericidal antibiotic is very useful. Doses used range from 15-20mg/kg BID.

6. Fluoroquinolones. These are very broad spectrum, bactericidal antibiotics. It would be indicated where there is a significant involvement of gram negatives. Recommended doses are 2.5mg/kg BID (or 5mg SID) for enrofloxacin, 2.0mg/kg SID for marbofloxacin. 2.5mg/kg SID for orbofloxacin and 5-10 mg/kg BID for difloxacin. They are, however, not indicated for routine use in dermatology, due to the possibility of inducing resistance in Pseudomonas.

Topical therapy

Antibacterial shampoos using products containing benzoyl peroxide (2-3%), clorhexidene (2-4%) or ethyl lactate (10%) form a most valuable supplementary treatment. Chitosanide, which is contained in the new spherulite-based shampoos of Virbac, also has antibacterial properties. Shampoos can be used 1-2 times weekly therapeutically, and are also useful as part of a preventative maintenance strategy.

In the case of deep pyodermas, antibacterial soaks employing povidone iodine are a valuable aid, and can be done twice weekly in the initial stages of treatment. In the case of localised deep pyodermas, benzoyl peroxide gels are of value. Also, where there is evidence of ingrown hairs forming foreign body reactions, these should be gently massaged out in warm water soaks.

THE APPROACH TO THE RECURRENT INFECTION

1. Search for a predisposing cause.

a. Evaluate for seborrhea. If this is evident, look for a cause of the seborrhea.

b. Evaluate for evidence of ectoparasitic disease. Be sure to search repeatedly for demodex in any case of recurrent deep pyoderma, particularly pododermatitis. Biopsies are sometimes necessary to demonstrate mites in such cases.

c. Check for thyroid function, even in animals that are not overtly seborrheic.

d. Skin test, or undertake in vitro tests for atopy, even if animals are not pruritic when their pyoderma is controlled.

e. Do an elimination diet for food allergy, again, even if the animal is not pruritic when the pyoderma is controlled.

f. Unfortunately, work-up for immunological defects is not generally available, but should be pursued if possible if all of the above are negative.

2. Therapy for the recurrent case with no apparent cause.

a. Be sure to use the appropriate antibiotic therapy supported by results of in vitro sensitivity tests. Bactericidal therapy is preferred in recurrent cases.

b. Use good supporting antibacterial shampoos. These may be alternated with antiseborrhoeic shampoos if seborrhoea is evident.

c. Consider using immunotherapy with a staphylococcal product e.g., Staph Phage Lysate (Delmont Labs, Swarthmore, PA, USA).

d. As a last resort some clinicians advocate:

i. Continued antibiotic therapy in normal doses,

ii. Intermittent full courses at full dosage with one month on and one month off.

iii. Intermittent full dose therapy on, say, two consecutive days each week.

iv. Continual low dose therapy, which seems conceptually the least desirable approach.
Speaker Information
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Richard EW Halliwell, MA, VetMB, PhD, MRCVS, DECVD
Professor, University of Edinburgh, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Summerhall
Edinburgh, UK

Canine Recurrent Pyoderma--Finding the Causes & Successful Management

2008-11-04T15:42:00.000+05:30

Introduction and General Information

Pyoderma

Pyoderma is second only to flea allergy dermatitis in North America, among the most common diseases seen in small animal practice worldwide.

Recurrent Pyoderma

Refers to bacterial infections that respond completely to appropriate systemic and topical antibacterial therapy leaving the dog apparently normal between episodes of infection. Many dogs with pyoderma respond appropriately to initial therapy and pyoderma does not reoccur. An unknown percentage of dogs with pyoderma recrudesce after apparent recovery. Recurrent superficial pyoderma is much more common than recurrent deep pyoderma, many apparent cases of recurrent deep pyoderma are cases where complete cure was never achieved. Idiopathic recurrent pyoderma--appropriate diagnostic tests have failed to reveal an underlying cause.

Underlying Causes of Recurrent Pyoderma

DeBoer has produced the most logical subdivisions. This listing has been adapted from his classification:

1. Persistent underlying skin disease

2. Bacterial hypersensitivity

3. Immunodeficiency

4. Resistant strains of Staphylococcus intermedius (or other Staphylococcus--S. schleiferi, S. aureus)

5. Non-staphylococcal pyoderma

Bacterial Hypersensitivity

The concept of 'bacterial hypersensitivity' remains controversial. It is likely that some of the severe, self-perpetuating inflammation and pruritus seen with pyoderma is due to hypersensitivity to bacterial products. Fadok has speculated that hypersensitivity to super-antigens may play a role in severe inflammation seen with some canine pyoderma. Morales, Schultz & DeBoer substantiated an association between anti-staphylococcal antibodies and pyoderma subgroups.

Immunodeficiency

Despite its attractiveness as a concept, immunodeficiency is a rare cause of recurrent pyoderma.

Resistant Strains of Staphylococcus spp.

Multi-resistant strains of S. intermedius are uncommon but over-diagnosed. S. intermedius maintains a propensity not to develop resistance to cephalosporins, beta lactamase-resistant penicillins and fluoroquinolones. There has been little change in antibiotic susceptibility patterns in much of the world over the past two decades until recently.

Newer Data on Staphylococcal Infections

Staphylococcal infections in domestic animals have become more problematic during the past 5 years. For many years, veterinarians concentrated on managing infections caused by S. intermedius in dogs, cats, horses. S. schleiferi (coagulase positive or negative) was viewed as an uncommon pathogen of dogs and humans. S. aureus was relegated to discussions about humans. Currently, S. aureus is being identified with increasing frequency as a pathogen in domestic animals and as a cause of skin disease.

Methicillin resistance (MR) is being recognized with increased frequency in veterinary medicine and will have substantial impact on how we manage staphylococcal skin disease in the future. Methicillin resistance is reported in S. aureus (hospital or community acquired HA-MRSA & CA-MRSA), S. intermedius (MRSI), & S. schleiferi (MRSS).

Empirical treatment of staphylococcal infection has been the norm in dogs. Only refractory cases have been cultured routinely. This may have lead to lack of identification of MR. In human medicine, the use of fluoroquinolones may initiate enhanced MR in S. aureus. In work done in Philadelphia by Morris, MR in S. intermedius is increasing. The most reliable antibiotics against MRSI in this work were chloramphenicol and potentiated sulfonamides.

MR in staphylococci causing skin disease in domestic animals is still uncommon. However, this may be changing. Large urban centers with multiple medical schools may experience more antimicrobial pressure. This may be reflected in the data of Morris in Philadelphia. A similar phenomenon may be occurring in other urban centers globally.

We may be reaching the day when bacterial culture and sensitivity should be recommended for pyoderma that have not responded to appropriate initial empirical therapy.

Why are 'Resistant' Strains Over-diagnosed?

1. Skin perfusion--less than ideal for establishing adequate dosages of antibiotics, in comparison to other body tissues.

2. Dosages of antibiotics--largely empirical until recent years.

3. Deep pyoderma--sequestered foci of infection, foreign body granulomatous response, antibiotic inactivation by inflammatory products compromise effective antibiotic dosing.

4. Antibiotics where dosing can safely be increased in deep pyoderma--cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, oxacillin, clavulanic acid-potentiated amoxicillin.

Non-Staphylococcal Pyoderma

This is uncommon to rare as a primary event. Culture of organisms other than S. intermedius commonly indicates secondary invaders or environmental contamination of the culture. Occasionally, infections are caused by Pseudomonas, Proteus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter.

Post-grooming furunculosis is associated with diluted, contaminated shampoos (self-serve dog washing facilities), follicular trauma? P. aeruginosa may be most common.

Persistent Underlying Skin Disease

This is the most commonly documented cause of canine recurrent pyoderma. Diseases include non-parasitic allergic diseases (topic dermatitis, food allergy), parasitic allergic diseases (flea allergy, scabies, cheyletiellosis), demodicosis, endocrine diseases (hypothyroidism, hyperglucocorticoidism (primary or iatrogenic), diseases of cornification--(seborrhea), other infectious skin diseases, genodermatoses (especially hereditary dermatoses involving defects in hair follicles), occult neoplasia (solar-induced squamous cell carcinoma & other tumors), and immunodeficiency--(congenital, acquired).

Pruritus and Recurrent Pyoderma

The presence or absence of pruritus is a key feature in differentiating persistent underlying skin diseases. Common pruritic, persistent underlying skin diseases are atopic dermatitis, food allergy, flea allergy dermatitis, cheyletiellosis, sarcoptic acariasis, and primary cornification defects.

Approach to Recurrent Pyoderma

1. Aggressively pursue the diagnosis of possible persistent underlying skin diseases.

2. Manage the underlying skin diseases--long-term, consistent (in our clinic, canine atopic dermatitis is the most commonly diagnosed underlying skin disease).

3. Manage the episode of recurrent pyoderma and prevent episodes or diminish frequency of recurrence.

Goals of Long-term Management

1. Establish realistic owner expectations

2. Successfully treat pyoderma, maintaining therapy for long enough to ensure cure:

a. Superficial pyoderma--minimum of 3 weeks, at least 1 week beyond clinical cure.

b. Deep pyoderma--minimum of 6 weeks, at least 2 weeks beyond apparent cure.

Prevent or Diminish Frequency of Recurrence--An Overview

Topical antibacterial shampoo therapy should be used adjunctively in all recurrent pyoderma, continue indefinitely in idiopathic cases.

Immunomodulatory therapy using adjunctive, killed bacterial preparations or non-bacterial immunostimulants is attempted in dogs with confirmed or suspected defects of the immune system or in dogs with idiopathic recurrent pyoderma.

Extended regimens of antibiotic therapy are a last resort.

Topical Antibacterial Shampoo Therapy

Rationale--decrease surface bacteria, limit re-colonization, diminish frequency of recurrence?

Active agents--chlorhexidine, benzoyl peroxide, benzoyl peroxide and sulfur, triclosan, ethyl lactate.

Frequency--2x / week, 15 minutes contact time.

Improvement in patient attitude and owner encouragement.

Immunomodulatory Therapy

Rationale--stimulate immune surveillance, alter response to bacterial allergen, diminish recurrence, (controversial).

Staphage LysateR--SPL--(Delmont Laboratories, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, USA)--S. aureus, serotypes I & III, protein A.

Extended Antibiotic Regimens

Diminish recurrence by preventing re-infection.

Dosing--3 consecutive days/week (full daily dose).

Antibiotic choices--cephalexin, cefpodoxime, enrofloxacin, marbofloxacin, other fluoroquinolones, clavulanate-potentiated amoxicillin, oxacillin.

Extended antibiotic regimens--consider as a last resort.

Extended Antibiotic Regimens--Antibiotic Choices

Underlined antibiotics are viewed as good choices for extended regimens

1. Narrow spectrum antibiotics:

a. Isoxazolyl penicillins--oxacillin, cloxacillin, dicloxacillin, nafcillin

b. Macrolide group--erythromycin, tylosin

c. Lincosamide group--lincomycin, clindamycin

2. Broad spectrum antibiotics:

a. Trimethoprim & ormetoprim-potentiated sulfonamides

b. Aminopenicillin & B-lactamase inhibitor--clavulanic acid-potentiated amoxicillin

3. First generation (group 2) oral cephalosporins--(cephalexin, cefadroxil, cephradine)

4. Third generation (group 5) oral cephalosporins--(cefpodoxime)

5. Fluoroquinolones--enrofloxacin, marbofloxacin

Compliance

Client education increases compliance--extended regimens with once a day dosing may lead to greater compliance.

Treatment Failure in Recurrent Pyoderma

Underlying causes--not identified or cannot be managed.

Inadequate duration of curative antibiotic therapy before switching to extended regimens.

Inadequate owner compliance.

Antibiotic resistance

References

1. DeBoer DJ. Management of chronic and recurrent pyoderma in the dog, in Bonagura JD (ed): Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XII. Philadelphia, WB Saunders, 1995, pp 611-617.

2. Ihrke PJ. Bacterial infections of the skin. In: Greene CE (ed): Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat, Third Edition, Philadelphia, WB Saunders Co, 2006, 807-815.

3. Carlotti DN, Jasmin P, Gardey L, Sanquer A. Evaluation of cephalexin intermittent therapy (weekend therapy) in the control of recurrent idiopathic pyoderma in dogs: a randomized double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Vet Dermatol 2004;15s: 8-9.

4. Gross TL, Ihrke PJ, Walder EJ, Affolter VK. Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat: Clinical and Histopathologic Diagnosis. Blackwell, Oxford, pp 222-225, 4-9, 406-410, 420-435, 2005.

5. Morris DO, Rook KA, Shofer FS, Rankin SC. Screening of S. aureus, S. intermedius, and S. schleiferi isolates obtained from small companion animals for antimicrobial resistance: Vet Dermatol 17: 332-337, 2006.

Speaker Information
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Peter J Ihrke, VMD, DACVD
School of Veterinary Medicine
University of California
Davis, California, USA

Update on Therapy of Canine Pyoderma

2008-11-04T15:40:00.000+05:30

Introduction

Canine pyoderma is a complex of diseases involving bacterial infection at different levels of the skin (Table 1) and requiring different approaches to therapy. These diseases are nearly always secondary and so it is important to identify underlying factors. Commonly these are allergies but endocrinopathy, immunodeficiency, ectoparasitic infestation, follicular dysplasia and breed predisposition may be involved. Diagnosis of underlying conditions may not be easy. Treatment during the diagnostic phase should be designed to advance diagnosis and avoid camouflaging diagnostic clinical signs. Antibiotic therapy is a good diagnostic strategy as it eliminates pyoderma and helps expose underlying conditions.

This presentation assumes that a diagnosis has been made and deals with current approaches to the treatment of the different forms of infection. Treatment of underlying causes is not covered.

Table 1. Classification of canine pyoderma.

Surface pyoderma

Acute moist dermatitis

Skin fold pyoderma

Microbial overgrowth*

Superficial pyoderma

Impetigo ("puppy pyoderma")

Mucocutaneous pyoderma

Superficial spreading pyoderma

Superficial folliculitis

Deep pyoderma

Muzzle folliculitis & furunculosis

Localised deep pyodermas (nasal, pedal & pressure point pyodermas, pyotraumatic folliculitis & furunculosis)

Generalised deep pyoderma

Bacterial granulomas

*Not strictly pyoderma. Commonly both pathogenic staphylococci and Malassezia are present.

Surface Pyoderma

Acute Moist Dermatitis. Prevention of further trauma is essential and will sometimes allow healing without further therapy. Ensure that there is no underlying folliculitis or furunculosis. Because the epidermal damage is a consequence of trauma, healing is rapid. However, lesions are often painful and topical therapy, requiring direct contact with skin, can be hazardous. Topical antibiotic and steroid gels or creams are effective but spraying with a soothing, antimicrobial, astringent preparation has been shown to be as effective1 and is likely to be less hazardous. Lesions should be substantially healed in 7-10 days. Where there is marked pruritus, systemic glucocorticoids may be required.

Skin Fold Pyoderma. Ideally, folds are removed surgically. If surgery is not feasible, measures to render the microenvironment within the fold inhospitable to bacteria and yeasts are required. Cleansing every 2-3 days with an antimicrobial shampoo is effective. Benzoyl peroxide, chlorhexidine, and chlorhexidine and miconazole are effective. Chlorhexidine is quite unstable and so it is advisable to select well-formulated preparations with published efficacy against both bacteria and Malassezia.2 (Lloyd 1999) Benzoyl peroxide must used with care as animals may develop sensitivity and it can be irritant. Ethyl lactate may be effective in milder cases and has low irritancy. Intervals between shampooing may be extended by the use of antimicrobial creams and gels. Spraying with a soothing, antimicrobial, astringent preparation may also be effective.

Superficial Pyoderma

Impetigo normally responds to antimicrobial shampoos. Use on two or three occasions over a period of 7-10 days should be effective in uncomplicated cases. Spontaneous resolution commonly occurs.

Mucocutaneous Pyoderma may respond to treatment with antibacterial shampoos, as described above, followed by the use of antibacterial ointment, such as mupirocin. Daily treatment for two weeks and then once or twice a week may be effective. Following resolution, the disease may remain in abeyance but commonly repeated treatment is required. With deeper or more extensive infection, or if topical treatment is difficult, systemic antibiotic is required. Treatment for 4 weeks or more may be necessary. If not successful, further diagnostic procedures, including biopsy, are required.

Superficial Folliculitis and Superficial Spreading Pyoderma. Normally systemic antibiotic therapy is used. Bacteriostatic antibiotics are effective but bactericides are preferable. Treatment for at least one week beyond clinical cure is advisable. Recovery may be promoted by use of antibacterial shampoos containing chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide, or in milder cases ethyl lactate, which aid removal of crusts and reduce surface bacterial populations.2,3 Mild superficial pyoderma can be treated with such shampoos without systemic antibiotic but this is labour-intensive; shampooing every 2-3 days is required. Once lesion resolution occurs, shampooing can be reduced to once or twice a week; in winter weekly to monthly shampooing may be sufficient to maintain remission.

Where there is recurrent infection and underlying causes cannot be identified or controlled, long-term treatment options need to be considered. Regular shampooing with antibacterial shampoo may give control. Otherwise, the main options are pulse therapy with antibiotics and staphylococcal vaccination. Vaccination is a better choice. Well-prepared autogenous vaccines (bacterins) are effective in about 50% of cases; responding dogs do not need other therapy.4 An American bacterial lysate prepared from S. aureus, has also been shown to reduce the frequency of folliculitis and decrease the need for repeated antibiotic therapy.5 Pulse or continual low dose therapy6 should be a last resort as it may promote development of antibiotic resistance, although recent evidence indicates that this risk may be low.

In view of the fact that the causative pathogen may be harboured on the mucosae, particularly of the upper respiratory tract and anus, some clinicians have used topical antibiotic to treat the nasal and or anal mucosae. Experimental studies have shown that S. intermedius populations can be eliminated by this method using fusidic acid.7 Anecdotally, this has helped in some cases of recurrent pyoderma.

Deep Pyoderma

When deep infection occurs, there are local factors causing skin damage and more serious deficiencies in the immune system of the affected animal. If these can be resolved, recovery should be complete. Determined efforts to identify the underlying factors should be made. Demodicosis is a common cause.

With discharging lesions, antimicrobial washes and soaks are useful to remove pus and debris, and may accelerate recovery. Clipping is helpful, enables the extent of lesions to be demonstrated and can be useful in persuading clients to comply with treatment. Prolonged systemic antibiotic treatment with bactericidal antibiotic is necessary and must continue for at least two weeks beyond clinical cure. Where lesions are in areas with poor blood supply or large granulomatous lesions, fluoroquinolones, which penetrate well, are particularly useful. On rare occasions it may be necessary to use unusual antibiotics to achieve penetration, such as rifampicin.

In some cases, unusual organisms such as actinomycetes or mycobacteria are involved, and there may be concurrent infection with fungi. Careful diagnostic procedures, including discussion with the laboratory concerned, may be required as routine methods may not be effective.

Choice of Antibiotics and Dosage

Although antibiotics can be selected empirically, where recurrent infection occurs or there is a lack of response, microbiological culture and sensitivity should be carried out.8,9 Ensure that you use a reliable laboratory and question unusual results e.g., very broad resistance in an organism identified as S. intermedius; this could turn out to be a methicillin-resistant S. aureus or S. schleiferi.10,11 Remember that several different strains of pathogenic staphylococci may be present on a single animal. Thus a single sensitivity test may not give the full picture. Failure of a particular antibiotic may mean you have only eliminated part of the causative bacterial population. If in doubt, always retest. Ensure your sample contains material from deep within the lesions; biopsy may be necessary for this.

Generally, manufacturer's recommended dose rates will be effective. Occasionally you will need to use higher doses to achieve effective levels of antibiotic within lesions or to overcome low level resistance. The range of antibiotics commonly used in veterinary dermatology and their properties and use are reviewed in a special issue of Veterinary Dermatology published in 1999, which is still relevant and provides excellent summaries.12

References

1. Ascher F, Madin F, Guaguere E et al. Intérêt d'une solution topique non antibiocorticoide dans le traitement de la dermatite pyotraumatique du chien. Pratique Médicale et Chirurgicale de L'Animal de Compagnie. 1995; 30:345-354.

2. Lloyd DH, Lamport AI. Activity of chlorhexidine shampoos in vitro against Staphylococcus intermedius, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Malassezia pachydermatis. Veterinary Record 1999; 144: 536-537.

3. De Jaham c. Effects of an ethyl lactate shampoo in conjunction with a systemic antibiotic in the treatment of canine superficial bacterial pyoderma in an open-label, non placebo-controlled study. Veterinary Therapeutics 2003; 4: 94-100.

4. Curtis CF, Lamport AI, Lloyd DH. Blinded, controlled study to investigate the efficacy of a staphylococcal autogenous bacterin for the control of canine idiopathic recurrent pyoderma. Proceedings of the 16th Annual Congress of the ESVD-ECVD, Helsinki, Finland, August 1999. p. 148.

5. Deboer DJ, Moriello KA, Thomas CB, et al. Evaluation of a commercial staphylococcal bacterin for management of idiopathic recurrent pyoderma in dogs. American Journal of Veterinary Research 1990; 51: 636-639.

6. Carlotti DN, Jasmin P, L. Gardey L, Sanquer A. (2004): Evaluation of cephalexin intermittent therapy (weekend therapy) in the control of recurrent idiopathic pyoderma in dogs: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Veterinary Dermatology 2004; 15 ( s1): 7-8.

7. Saijonmaa-Koulumies L., Parsons E., Lloyd, DH. Elimination of Staphylococcus intermedius in healthy dogs by topical treatment with fusidic acid. Journal of Small Animal Practice 1998; 39: 341-7.

8. Holm BR, Petersson U, Morner A, et al. Antimicrobial resistance in staphylococci from canine pyoderma: a prospective study of first-time and recurrent cases in Sweden. Veterinary Record 2002; 151: 600-5.

9. Kruse H, Hofshagen M, Thoresen SI, et al. The antimicrobial susceptibility of Staphylococcus species isolated from canine dermatitis. Veterinary Research Communication 1996; 20: 205-14.

10. Loeffler A, Boag AK, Sung J, et al. Prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus among staff and pets in a small Animal referral hospital in the UK. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy 2005; 56: 692-7.

11. Frank, LA, Kania, SA, Hnilica, KA, et al. Isolation of Staphylococcus schleiferi from dogs with pyoderma. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 2003; 222 (4); 451-4.

12. Special Issue on Antibiotics in Veterinary Dermatology. Veterinary Dermatology 1999; 10: 161-262.

Speaker Information
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David Lloyd
Royal Veterinary College
Hawkshead Campus
North Mymms, Hertfordshire , United Kingdom

Treatment of canine pyoderma

2008-09-23T16:50:00.001+05:30

Treatment of canine pyoderma
Systemic (antibiotic) and topical therapy can be used in canine pyoderma.
1. Selection of antibiotics
The criteria for the choice of an antibiotic are as follows: appropriate kinetics and good cutaneous penetration, activity against Staphylococci, activity in pus and reactive tissues, bactericidal activity rather than bacteriostatic activity particularly in severe cases, easy administration (oral, q12h or q24h), absence of secondary effects, reasonable cost. The choice can be empirical, particularly in superficial pyoderma, after cytological examination of pus from an intact pustule which shows bacterial invasion. Bacteriology and sensitivity testing must be used in case of deep pyoderma, recurrent pyoderma, when cytology shows a complex flora with rods, and in case of empirical antibiotic therapy failure. They can be repeated during therapy.
2. Dosage and duration of treatment
Ideal doses must be used and duration of treatment must be long enough (a few weeks to several months depending of extension and depth of lesions, and always beyond clinical cure). Maintenance pulse treatment (e.g., 2 to 3 days a week) can be used in chronically relapsing pyoderma but it could theoretically select resistant strains as well as the use of subminimal doses. They are both used for economical reasons but the former is preferable.
3. Antibiotics useable in canine pyoderma
Antibiotics useful in canine pyoderma are included in the following table. They all have a good cutaneous diffusion (because of their liposolubility) and can be given orally, which is useful because of long therapeutic courses (ease of administration). They are all bactericidal except macrolides which are bacteriostatic.

Macrolides
narrow spectrum/Gram+
erythromycin : 30 to 50 mg/kg div. bid or tid
lincomycin : 40 to 50 mg/kg div. bid or tid
clindamycin : 5,5 to 11 mg/kg sid or div. Bid
tylosin : 40 mg/kg div. bid

Penicillins M
resistant to penicillinases
narrow spectrum/Gram+
oxacillin : 30 to 50 mg/kg div. bid
Penicillins A
potentiated by
clavulanic acid
resistant to penicillinases larger spectrum
amoxicillin-clavulanic acid : 25 mg/kg/div. bid

Cephalosporins
resistant to penicillinases
broad spectrum
cephalexin : 30 to 60 mg/kg div. Bid
cefadroxil : 44 to 70 mg/kg div. bid
Cephalosporin Presistant to penicillinases
narrow spectrum/Gram+
synergy with penicillins
and erythromycin
fusidic acid (the only one of this group) :
60 mg/kg div. tid

Sulfonamides-
Diaminopyrimidinesbroad spectrumtrimethoprim-sulfa : 30 mg (i.e., 5 mg trimethoprim)/kg sid or div. Bid
baquiloprim-sulfadimethoxine : 30 mg (i.e., 5mg
baquiloprim)/kg q.48h
ormetoprim-sulfadimethoxine : 30 mg (i.e., 5mg
ormetoprim)/kg sid after a single double dose
the first day

Fluoroquinolones
broad spectrum
excellent tissue
penetration
(not to be used in puppies of giant breeds)enrofloxacin : 5mg/kg sid of div. Bid
marbofloxacin : 2 mg/kg sid
difloxacin : 5 mg/kg sid
orbifloxacin : 2.5 mg/kg sid

Penicillin G (which is injectable) and A are sensitive to penicillinases. Aminoglycosides have a low cutaneous diffusion (they are hydrosoluble), are injectable and toxic. Chloramphenicol has a bad reputation in humans and the cat (haematologic toxicity). Tetracyclines have a very low activity against Staphylococci. These antibiotics are never or rarely used in canine pyoderma. Rifampicin is effective against Staphylococci but, as it is still used to treat human tuberculosis, it should be used when there is no other possibility (5 to 10 mg/kg SID). In addition, it should be then associated to a betalactamine to prevent the selection of resistant strains of Staphylococci. Mupirocine, a topically active bactericidal antibiotic, in a polyethylene glycol base is effective against Gram+ Cocci, is not systematically absorbed and is not chemically related to other antibiotics. It can be used in localized pyodermas (acne, pressure point pyoderma, interdigital pyoderma).
4. Associated treatments
Topical therapy is always beneficial in canine pyoderma, particularly in superficial staphylococcal disease. Clipping can be useful and is necessary in deep pyoderma such as cellulitis. The main useful topical products are chlorhexidine (lotion and/or shampoo), povidone-iodine (lotion and/or shampoo), benzoyl-peroxide (shampoo and eventually gel), ethyl-lactate (shampoo). They should be used frequently, e.g., once a day, at the beginning of therapy. Later, frequency of application may decrease. Each shampoo should be followed by the application of an appropriate humectant. Topical or systemic glucocorticoids should never be used in true canine pyoderma, even in case of pruritus, because they cause severe relapses ("rebound effect"). In contrast they can be used and are effective in pseudo-pyoderma (e.g., oral prednisolone: 1 mg/kg/day for pyotraumatic dermatitis and 2 mg/kg/day for juvenile cellulitis).

The Coughing Pet

2008-05-31T11:50:00.000+05:30

Cough is a common problem in dogs but occurs less frequently in cats. Cough is caused by irritation of the throat, airways or the lungs. The main airway to the lungs known as the windpipe or trachea branches into smaller airways called bronchi which branch several more times as they travel to the deeper parts of the lung. (Anatomy of the lungs and airways: dog / cat)

There are many causes of cough. A thorough history and physical examination help the veterinarian decide which causes of cough are most likely in your pet and helps him or her decide which diagnostic tests to recommend and which therapies are most likely to be effective. Cough originating from the trachea may be stimulated by lightly squeezing the trachea. Cough due to heart disease may be accompanied by a murmur or abnormal heart rate or rhythm.

Your description of the nature of the cough, when the cough occurs, and if anything brings on coughing can be very helpful in pinpointing the cause of coughing in your pet. Some causes of cough result in difficulty breathing between coughing episodes whereas with other diseases, the pet breathes normally between coughing episodes. Some types of cough occur more commonly at night when the animal (and human family members) are trying to rest. Animals with heart failure, collapsing trachea and lung edema cough more at night than during the day.

Cough caused by tracheal irritation or tracheal collapse often occurs when the pet is excited or is tugging on its collar. Cough caused by heart disease may follow exercise or excitement. Cough due to tracheal collapse may be stimulated by drinking water. Coughing that occurs during or shortly after eating may be due to disease of the larynx or esophagus. The larynx normally closes when food is swallowed to prevent food from entering the trachea. If the larynx is diseased it may not close when food is swallowed resulting in food entering the trachea. Food may pool in an abnormally dilated esophagus. The food then may pass to the mouth and down the airways into the lungs causing pneumonia and cough.

Some coughs sound moist and others are harsh and dry. Moist coughs indicate the accumulation of fluid (water, blood or pus) in the airways or lungs. The environment and habits of the pet can influence which causes of cough are more likely. Dogs that hunt or spend time outdoors may inhale grasses, seeds or other foreign materials through the nose into the airways. In addition to causing coughing, foreign materials can travel down the airways and through the lung causing an infection with a large amount of pus to develop in the space surrounding the lung. This disease is called pyothorax. Animals that have exposure to other animals in a shelter or boarding facility are more likely to have an infectious cause for coughing. The region of the country in which you live or to which you and your pet have traveled, influences the likelihood of some diseases like heartworm disease and fungal infections of the lung (histoplasmosis, coccidiomycosis and blastomycosis). Heartworm disease occurs in both dogs and cats and is most common in parts of the country that have lots of mosquitoes.

The age and breed of the pet also influences what causes of cough are most likely. Young animals are more likely to develop a cough due to infections with bacteria or viruses. Young to middle aged cats may develop wheezing and cough due to asthma. Cats with asthma have sudden episodes of wheezing and coughing but are normal in between episodes. Middle aged to older, small breed dogs are more likely to have heart disease due to leaky valves. Middle aged to older, large breed dogs are more likely to develop paralysis of the larynx.

Tracheal collapse occurs most commonly in middle to aged overweight small breed dogs . Tracheal collapse is rare in cats. The cough is often described as sounding like a goose honking. Treatment for tracheal collapse includes weight reduction and intermittent use of cough suppressants and sedatives. Surgery can be performed in dogs with severe collapse that don't respond to weight reduction and cough suppressants but often surgery is not effective.

Kennel cough or infectious tracheobronchitis is caused by several infectious organisms, including bacteria and viruses. Vaccinations are not 100% protective against the agents of kennel cough. Coughing due to kennel cough usually becomes apparent within a few weeks of exposure of your dog to other dogs in a kennel or show environment. Kennel cough usually resolves itself without any treatment. If the cough is severe enough that the pet has difficulty sleeping or people in the house have difficulty sleeping, cough suppressants can be given to suppress the frequency of cough, allowing the pet and human members of the household to get rest while the disease runs its course. If the cough does not subside in a week to ten days, your pet should be evaluated for other diseases of the lungs or airways.

Cough can be caused by heart disease, which is diagnosed by a chest x-ray, an electrocardiogram which measures the electrical activity of the heart, and often by a heart ultrasound which allows the veterinarian to view the inside of the heart, including the valves and the thickness of the walls of the heart muscle. Heart disease may cause heart enlargement that puts pressure on the airways causing cough or the heart may fail and lead to edema of the lungs. (Anatomy of the dog / cat heart)

Allergies to particles in the air including dust, pollens, and smoke can cause allergic lung disease and coughing.

In older patients, lung cancer has to be considered. The lungs receives a large amount of blood that flows through the rest of the body. Lung cancers in dogs and cats most often originate from other organs and are transferred from those organs through the blood to the lung. Some cancers may be controllable with anticancer medication. Single lung tumors that originate within the lung may be surgically removed in some cases.Tests that may be recommended to identify the cause of a cough include a blood profile to screen multiple organs, a stool exam to look for parasites or their eggs that are coughed up and swallowed, chest x-rays or x-rays of the trachea. The larger airways can be examined using a flexible scope called a bronchoscope in a procedure called bronchcoscopy. Sterile fluid can be flushed into the airways to collect samples for culture or microscopic exam. Large foreign bodies in the airways can be removed by bronchoscopy. Specific tests may be performed if heart worm disease or an infectious cause for the cough are suspected.

Treatment of coughing patients depends upon the disease diagnosed and may include cough suppressants, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and steroids for allergic lung disease. Avoid self medicating your pet as the treatment for one cause of cough may be very wrong for the treatment of another type of cough.

Seizures in Dogs

2008-05-31T11:41:00.001+05:30

A seizure is defined as a paroxysmal, transitory disturbance of brain function that has a sudden onset, ceases spontaneously, and has a tendency to recur. Epilepsy is a recurrent seizure disorder irrespective of cause. Generalized seizures affect the entire body. Most commonly, dogs will fall to the side, make paddling movements with the limbs, and often will urinate, salivate and defecate. Seizures usually last less than 90 seconds. Focal seizures remain localized to one body region. Seizures may start focal and then become generalized. Information about where the seizure activity begins is of value in localization of the seizure focus to one side of the brain. The seizure focus is the point in the brain from which the seizure begins.

After the veterinarian is convinced that a seizure disorder is present, the most important question to be answered is whether the seizure focus is the result of primary brain disease (intracranial), the result of a disturbance outside the brain (extracranial), or is occurring idiopathically (without obvious cause). Initially the causes for seizures, should be categorized into those secondary to an intracranial structural cause, an extracranial cause (metabolic), or an unknown cause (idiopathic).

Metabolic: Extracranial disease resulting in seizures can be separated into those causes arising within the dog itself (endogenous) for example due to liver disease, or those arising external to the dog (exogenous) such as toxins. There are numerous metabolic diseases that can result in seizures. These include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), liver disease, kidney disease, electrolyte disturbances, toxins (poisons), anemia, and heart and lung diseases.

Structural diseases which result in seizures include hydrocephalus, storage diseases, cancer (primary and secondary brain tumor), inflammatory diseases (infectious and non-infectious encephalitis), trauma (injury), and blood-vessel-based diseases. Primary brain cancers originate in the brain whereas secondary cancers develop when cells from cancers outside the brain are carried to the brain in the blood.

Idiopathic epilepsy is a seizure disorder without obvious cause. Idiopathic seizures (Idiopathic epilepsy) begins between 1 year and 4 years of age. Therefore, a dog that begins having seizures at 9 years of age does not have idiopathic epilepsy. Certain breeds of dogs are known or thought to have an increased incidence of idiopathic epilepsy such as beagles, Belgian Tervurens, German shepherds, keeshonds, and collies. High incidence breeds include the Saint Bernard, German shepherd, golden retriever, Irish setter, American cocker spaniel, Wire-haired fox terriers, Alaskan malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and miniature poodles.

To search for an extracranial cause for seizures, a metabolic evaluation is performed. The evaluation may include a complete physical examination, blood tests and sometimes x-rays. To search for a mass in the brain an imaging study (CT, MRI) is performed and sometimes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected. An electrical brain (EEG) evaluation is usually not very helpful, unless it is necessary to localize the seizure focus.

If an underlying disease can be found, then primary treatment for that disease may help to make the seizures stop. If the seizures are recurrent, anticonvulsant medications are often given. The choice of medication depends upon the characteristics of the individual animal's problem. Some of the more commonly used anticonvulsants are listed below. It is important to remember that once an anticonvulsant is initiated, it should not be changed without veterinary assistance. Most animals with idiopathic epilepsy will require anticonvulsant medication for the rest of their life.

Drugs Used to Treat Seizures

Phenobarbital is a barbiturate. It is the most commonly used anticonvulsant. Toxicity signs include drowsiness/sedation, falling, increased drinking, urination and appetite. With high dosages or prolonged use, phenobarbital can cause damage to the liver. Paradoxically, some animals given phenobarbital may become restless and excitable. If this occurs, consult your veterinarian for assistance. For best results, this drug needs to be given consistently (every day) at least twice daily. This drug should not be altered without veterinary consultation
Primidone is rapidly metabolized to phenobarbital and some other metabolites by the liver. Phenobarbital contributes 85% of the anticonvulsant activity due to its prolonged half-life. It seems to work no better than phenobarbital for most animals. Acute toxicity signs are similar to those of phenobarbital. Primidone may be more liver toxic than phenobarbital
Phenytoin (Dilantin) is a commonly used anticonvulsant in people. Because it is metabolized differently in dogs, it not as effective in dogs. It also can be toxic to the liver. Phenytoin is toxic to cats and should not be used.
Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine. It is a very effective anticonvulsant, but is metabolized very quickly in dogs, making it's effects short lasting. It is given in emergency situations because it works quickly. Acute toxicity includes drowsiness, lethargy, and depression.
Potassium Bromide is used mostly as a secondary anticonvulsant in animals refractory to phenobarbital, however, can be used alone. Due to its lack of metabolism it is the ideal anticonvulsant for patients with liver disease. Acute toxicity includes vomiting, anorexia, constipation, sedation and incoordination.

Diarrhea in Dogs

2008-05-31T11:36:00.001+05:30

Diarrhea is the passing of loose or liquid stool, more often than normal. Diarrhea can be caused by diseases of the small intestine, large intestine or by diseases of organs other than the intestinal tract. Your ability to answer questions about your pet's diet, habits, environment and specific details about the diarrhea can help the veterinarian narrow the list of possible causes, and to plan for specific tests to determine the cause of diarrhea. (Anatomy of the digestive system: dog / cat)

Small intestinal and large intestinal diarrhea have different causes, require different tests to diagnose and are treated differently. Small intestinal diseases result in a larger amount of stool passed with a mild increase in frequency; about 3 to 5 bowel movements per day. The pet doesn't strain or have difficulty passing stool. Animals with small intestinal disease may also vomit and lose weight. Excess gas production is sometimes seen and you may hear the rumbling of gas in the belly. If there is blood in the stool it is digested and black in color.

Disease of the large intestine including the colon and rectum cause the pet to pass small amounts of loose stool very often, usually more than 5 times daily. The pet strains to pass stool. If there is blood in the stool, it is red in color. The stool may be slimy with mucus. The pet does not usually vomit or lose weight with large bowel diarrhea. A sudden onset of small intestinal diarrhea may be caused by viruses including canine distemper, canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus, feline panleukopenia virus or feline coronavirus, in young, poorly vaccinated pets. Small intestinal diarrhea can be caused by bacteria such as salmonella, clostridia or campylobacter although these same bacteria can be found in the stool of normal dogs and cats.

Worms and giardia can cause small intestinal diarrhea, mostly in young animals. Foreign bodies including bones, sticks and other objects can pass through the stomach and get stuck in the intestine causing both diarrhea and vomiting. These same foreign materials may pass through the intestinal tract without getting stuck but may damage the lining of the intestinal tract causing diarrhea. Dietary indiscretion or a sudden change in diet can cause diarrhea with or without vomiting. Food allergies in dogs and cats can cause diarrhea, vomiting or itchy skin. Toxins including lead and insecticides can cause diarrhea usually with vomiting. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) occurs commonly in both dogs and cats. In IBD the walls of the intestine contain abnormal numbers of inflammatory cells which can be eosinophils, lymphocytes or plasma cells. The cause of IBD is not known but is suspected to be an allergic reaction to components of food, bacteria or parasites. IBD can be congenital in some breeds of dogs, for example Basenji dogs may develop a severe inflammatory bowel disease. Tumors of the intestine are another cause of diarrhea usually occurring in older pets. The tumor may be a single mass when the tumor is from the glands of the intestine (adenocarcinoma) and may be removed by surgery or the tumor may occur diffusely along the intestine. Lymphosarcoma occurs in both dogs and cats and can either be a single or multiple masses in the intestine or the abnormal lymphocytes may be spread through out the intestine. Lymphosarcoma is often responsive to anti-cancer drugs in cats but rarely responds to anti-cancer drugs in dogs.

In certain parts of the country small intestinal disease can be caused by fungal infections including histoplasmosis. Your veterinarian can discuss with you whether histoplasmosis is seen in your part of the country. Diseases outside the intestinal tract that may cause diarrhea include kidney failure, liver failure, pancreatic disease and hyperthyroidism in the cat. Severe inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) can lead to damage of the pancreas and an inability to make enough enzymes to digest fat. This is called pancreatic insufficiency and causes diarrhea with a large volume of greasy stool. Pancreatic insufficiency can occur in young animals due to a congenital deficiency of pancreatic enzymes.

The cause of small intestinal diarrhea may be determined from blood tests, examination of the stool, x-rays or ultrasound of the abdomen or by endoscopy. Endoscopy is the technique of passing a flexible scope through the stomach into the upper intestine. Small biopsies of the lining of the intestine can be taken for microscopic evaluation. Endoscopy requires general anesthesia. A diagnosis of intestinal lymphosarcoma may be missed on endoscopy as the biopsies taken using endoscopy do not include the full thickness of the wall of the intestine and the cancerous cells may be deep in the wall of the intestine. A diagnosis in that case requires surgery in order to take a larger biopsy of the entire thickness of the intestine.

Dogs and cats with chronic small intestinal diarrhea will lose weight as they are unable to properly absorb nutrients and may develop edema of the legs or fluid accumulation in the belly or chest. A small protein, albumin may be lost in diarrhea. Albumin acts like a sponge to keep water in the blood vessels. When albumin is lost in the stool, blood albumin gets low and water leaks out of blood vessels to accumulate in other locations. Chronic diarrhea may cause the fur to look dull and brittle due to nutrient deficiencies. Acute small intestinal diarrhea can be managed by withholding food, but not water for 24 - 48 hours. If diarrhea stops, small amounts of a bland low-fat food are fed 3 to 6 times daily for a few days, with a gradual increase in the amount fed and a gradual transition to the pet's normal diet. Foods designed as intestinal diets usually contain rice as rice is more digestible than other grains. You are discouraged from administering over-the-counter diarrhea medications without first consulting a veterinarian. If the pet is active, not dehydrated and has been previously healthy, acute diarrhea can often be managed at home. Diarrhea that continues for more than a few days or is accompanied by depression or other signs is an indication to take your pet to a veterinarian.

Diarrhea of large intestinal origin can be caused by whipworms, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, colonic ulcers or colonic cancer. Stress can cause large bowel diarrhea in excitable dogs. The diagnosis of large intestinal diarrhea is also made by blood tests and examination of the stool. A rectal examination using a gloved finger may provide some information about the cause of large bowel problems including rectal polyps and rectal cancer. Endoscopy to examine the large intestine is performed using a rigid or flexible scope passed up the rectum. Because the rectum is often very irritated, colon exams are usually performed under general anesthesia.

The treatment of large bowel diarrhea may be based on a specific diagnosis. Non specific treatment of large bowel diarrhea often includes a high fiber diet and sullfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug.

Vomoting in Dogs

2008-05-23T17:14:00.002+05:30

What causes vomiting?
Vomiting is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of many different diseases. Many cases of vomiting are self-limiting after a few days. Less commonly, vomiting may result from a serious illness, such as cancer. Even when vomiting is caused by mild illnesses, it may lead to death of the animal if treatment is not begun early enough to prevent severe fluid and nutrient losses.

How serious is vomiting in dogs?
Your veterinarian attempt to determine how sick the dog has become as a consequence of the vomiting. When the dog is systemically ill (i.e., more than one body system is involved), some of the following may be noted:
1. Diarrhea
2. Dehydration
3. Loss of appetite
4. Abdominal pain
5. High fever
6. Lethargy
7. Bloody vomiting

What types of tests are performed to find the cause?
If vomiting is associated with several of the above signs, your vet will perform a series of tests in the hope that a diagnosis may be made. When this can be done, more specific treatment may be initiated. Diagnostic tests may include radiography (x-rays) with or without barium, blood tests, biopsies of the stomach and intestinal tract, and exploratory abdominal surgery. Once the diagnosis is known, treatment may include special medications, diets, and/or surgery.

If your dog does not appear systemically ill from the vomiting, the cause may be less serious. Some of the minor causes of vomiting include stomach or intestinal viruses, stomach or intestinal parasites, and dietary indiscretions (such as eating garbage or other offensive or irritating materials). A minimum number of tests are performed to rule out certain parasites and infections. These cases may be treated with drugs to control the motility of the intestinal tract, drugs that relieve inflammation in the intestinal tract, and, often, a special diet for a few days. This approach allows the body's healing mechanisms to correct the problem. Usually improvement occurs within 2-4 days; if this does not occur, a change in medication or further tests are done to better understand the problem. Please keep your vet informed of lack of expected improvement so that he can manage the situation properly.

Vaginal Discharge in Dogs

2008-05-23T14:59:00.002+05:30

Vaginal discharge is the appearance of liquid material (other than urine) from the labia of the vulva (the external female genitals). Vaginal discharge may be clear and watery (serous), bloody, thick and gray (mucousy), yellow/green (purulent), or dark green/black (after giving birth). The discharge may or may not have an odor. Licking at the vulva may also be noted.Vaginal discharge, depending on the type and circumstances, may be considered normal in some cases. However, its presence may also signify a disease process of the urinary tract or reproductive tract.

Causes
Vaginal discharge is a normal part of the heat cycle of the intact female dog. Bloody discharge occurs for several days when the bitch is in heat (in estrus).
Vaginal discharge is also a normal finding in the immediate postpartum (after birth) period.
A dark green to black discharge is often present for several days, and traces of discharge may persist for up to 3 weeks.
When the placental sites do not recede in the bitch after birth, then a persistent watery and sometimes bloody discharge may occur. This type of discharge is abnormal.
Any discharge that occurs during a pregnancy is potentially abnormal.
Urogenital tract infections, such as a urinary tract infection or an infected uterus (pyometra), may result in an opaque purulent discharge from the vulva.
Neoplasia (cancer) of the urogenital tract may cause bloody, mucousy or purulent vaginal discharge.
Vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) may give rise to watery or mucousy discharge.
Coagulation (clotting) disorders that result in abnormal bleeding may produce a bloody discharge that can be difficult to distinguish from blood in the urine (hematuria).
Trauma or the presence of a foreign body in the vagina may result in bloody, watery or purulent discharge.
Urinary incontinence (inability to hold urine in the bladder) secondary to an abnormal location (ectopic) of the ureter, or a problem with the bladder sphincter (the muscle that acts like a valve at the opening of the bladder) may result in pooling of urine in the vagina and secondary irritation and discharge.
A defect and open communication (fistula) between the rectum and vagina may lead to the passage of watery fecal material from the vagina.

What to Watch For
Vaginal discharge of any type other than the normal stream of urine
Attracting male dogs
Excessive licking of the vagina
Scooting the bottom along the floor
Increased urination and/or straining to urinate
Difficulty defecating
Lethargy, fever, increased thirst

Diagnosis
It is important to obtain a complete medical history and to perform a thorough physical examination. Additional tests may include:
A complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile, and urinalysis
A urine culture to rule out a bacterial urinary tract infection
Vaginal cytology
Culture of the vaginal discharge
Abdominal radiographs (X-ray) to assess the uterus and pelvis
Abdominal ultrasonography
Vaginoscopy, which is examination of the vagina through a rigid or flexible viewing scope
Cytology and biopsy of any abnormal tissue in the vagina
Serologic tests for brucellosis and herpesvirus
Intravenous dye study of the kidneys and ureters to identify any abnormalities in the location of the ureters
A coagulation profile if bloody discharge may be related to a clotting problem

Treatment
Vaginal discharges that are considered normal for the dog do not require treatment. In addition, mild vaginitis that is sometimes present in young puppies often resolves spontaneously once the dog is spayed or has passed through its first heat.Other causes of vaginal discharge are more serious and require specific therapy, depending upon the cause. Examples of such therapy include:
Surgical removal of an infected uterus, a vaginal foreign body, or a uterine or vaginal tumor
Surgical correction of any congenital defects of the ureters, the walls of the vagina or rectum
Antibiotics for urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginitis, and following trauma
Corrective therapy for any bleeding disorders
Chemotherapy for selected tumors of the vagina or external genitalia, e.g. transmissible venereal tumor, lymphosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma
Avoidance of breeding the bitch while she has vaginal dischargeHome CareAdminister all prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian. Observe your pet closely. If the clinical signs are not improving or are getting worse, contact your veterinarian at once.

How to Bathe Your Dog

2008-05-22T16:07:00.002+05:30

If your dog can announce his presence without barking or even entering the room, it may be time to give him a bath. Many people look forward to this as much as their pets do; that is, not at all. But you both may soon need to take the plunge.Here are a few tips to make the ritual of the bath more enjoyable, or at least tolerable, for the both of you. With some patience and practice, your dog, rather than you, will get the lion's share of the bath. To Bathe or Not to BatheThe first step is to consult your veterinarian about your particular pooch. Different breeds and lifestyles will dictate how often your dog requires bathing and what sort of pet shampoos work best. If your dog spends a lot of time playing outdoors, chances are he'll need a bath more frequently. Some breeds, such as poodles, generally require more bathing than German shepherds. Dogs with smooth coats generally require even fewer baths.

Again, it depends on your dog's lifestyle.
Too much bathing (such as once a week) will remove vital oils from your dog's coat, causing his skin to dry out. Unless your dog is especially dirty, regular grooming can reduce the number of bathes. It will also keep him looking and feeling fresh.

Getting Ready
Before you tackle your dog, you'll want to go through a pre-bath checklist. Prepare the bathing area out of your dog's presence. (There's no point in warning him ahead of time; he'll only get anxious.) Here are some items you'll want to have on hand:
A veterinarian-approved dog shampoo (People products are not recommended because they can cause allergic reactions.)

Mineral oil and/or cotton balls
Washcloth or sponge
Towels (the bigger the dog, the more towels you'll need)
A warm, draft-free area
A bathing tether if you're bathing him in a tub. (If you're bathing him outside, a tether to a fixed point will do.)
Brush and comb for his coat
A soft brush for in between his toes and on his nails
A rubber tub mat

Never wash your dog outside if the weather is cold. This is particularly true for puppies, who have trouble regulating their body temperatures. Puppies should be at least four weeks old before they receive their first bath.Before bathing, comb and brush out all mats. Otherwise, the water will turn the mats into solid masses, which will require clippers to remove. If your dog's hair is matted with paint, tar or some other sticky material, trim with clippers or soak the area with vegetable or mineral oil for 24 hours. (You may want to speak with a professional groomer if the tangles are difficult.)Now it's time to prep your dog. Put a drop of mineral oil in the eyes to protect them from suds. Some people use cotton balls in the ears. If you use cotton balls, make sure they're the right size for your dog's ears; if they're too small, they may slip down the ear canal.If you're using a tub, fill the water to the level of your dog's knees. The water should be about his temperature; around 102 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Bath
Bring your dog into the tub. If you have a bathing tether, attach one end to his collar and the suction cup to the bathtub. Ladle the warm water over him. If you use a spray, use it on low and hold it gently against his coat so the spraying action doesn't scare him. When he's thoroughly wet, apply the shampoo on his back and work it gently through the coat for about 10 minutes. Be careful not to get soap in his face or mouth. Use the washcloth or sponge to clean and rinse his face, and the soft brush to clean the paws, between toes and on nails.When you're ready to rinse, don't forget to drain the tub first. The rinsing cycle, by the way, is very important. You want to do it twice to make sure all the soap is rinsed off. (Leaving soap on the dog can cause an allergic reaction.) If you need to, drain the tub again so your dog isn't standing in water while he dries. Now, you'd better back up; your dog has been waiting to shake off the excess water since you began. Gently squeeze out excess water (don't forget to remove the cotton from his ears) and finish drying him with the towels. If you use a hair dryer, keep the heat and blow force on low. Remember to dry the ears with cotton balls to prevent infection.Keep your dog away from any drafts until his coat is completely dry.

Tick Infestation and Control in Dogs

2008-05-22T16:02:00.002+05:30

Tick infestation is the presence and attachment of a tick, a blood sucking parasite. Direct contact with ticks frequently results in tick infestation. In addition, ingestion of ticks can occur when the dog grooms.Tick infestations are more common in dogs than cats. There is no age or breed predilection, although individuals who spend more time outdoors and who are in direct contact with ticks are more often affected, such as hunting breeds.Ticks may appear as a small dark speck on your pet's fur, or in an attached, engorged state, may appear as small growths or raisins. Ticks are important agents of disease transmission. Although not all ticks carry disease, it is important to note that certain ones do. Signs associated with certain tick-borne diseases (borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme and others) vary with the organ system affected.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis of tick parasitism is made by examining the skin for the presence of ticks.

Treatment
Ticks should be removed as soon as possible to minimize the amount of pathogen (disease producing organism) transmitted. To do this, grasp the tick close to the skin and pull gently, generally with tweezers, and never with your bare hand. Tick collars or products applied topically may act to prevent attachment of new ticks and to promote detachment of ticks already attached. Ticks may be killed by spraying, dipping, bathing, or powdering affected individuals with appropriate tick-killing products.

Home Care and Prevention
Administer prescribed or recommended products by your veterinarian. When manually removing an attached tick be careful not to handle the tick directly with bare hands. Use tweezers or commercial available tick removal devices.Control and prevention of ticks is extremely important. Tick avoidance requires avoiding environments that harbor ticks. In addition, since ticks can be carried unknowingly from one place to another on clothing, it is never impossible for an individual to be affected by a tick. Repellents, such as collars or products applied topically may be of great benefit in controlling/eliminating ticks.Removal of ticks, either manually or with the aid of baths, dips or sprays, may be necessary in pets that are heavily infested.

Pyometra in Dogs

2008-05-20T15:55:00.001+05:30

In its simplest terms, pyometra is an infection in the uterus. Most cases of pyometra are much more difficult to manage than a routine infection.Infection in the lining of the uterus is established as a result of hormonal changes. Following estrus (heat), progesterone levels remain elevated for 8-10 weeks and thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur for several estrus cycles, the lining continues to increase in thickness until cysts form within it. The thickened, cystic lining secretes fluids that create an ideal environment in which bacteria can grow. Additionally, high progesterone levels inhibit the ability of the muscles in the wall of the uterus to contract.

Pyometra may occur in young to middle-aged dogs, though it is most common in older dogs. After many years of estrus cycles without pregnancy, the uterine wall undergoes the changes that promote this disease.The typical time for pyometra to occur is about 1-2 months following estrus.

The clinical signs depend on whether or not the cervix is open. If it is open, pus will drain from the uterus through the vagina to the outside. It is often noted on the skin or hair under the tail or on bedding and furniture where the dog has laid. Fever, lethargy, anorexia, and depression may or may not be present.If the cervix is closed, pus that forms is not able to drain to the outside. It collects in the uterus causing distention of the abdomen. The bacteria release toxins which are absorbed into circulation These dogs often become severely ill very rapidly. They are anorectic, very listless, and very depressed. Vomiting or diarrhea may be present.Toxins from the bacteria affect the kidneys ability to retain fluid. Increased urine production occurs, and the dog drinks an excess of water. This occurs in both open- and closed-cervix pyometra.

The preferred treatment is to surgically remove the uterus and ovaries. This is called an ovariohysterectomy (spay). Dogs diagnosed in the early stage of the disease are very good surgical candidates. The surgery is only slightly more complicated than a routine spay. Most dogs are diagnosed when they are quite ill so the surgery is not as routine as the same surgery in a healthy dog. Intravenous fluids are often needed before and after surgery. Antibiotics are given for 1-2 weeks.

External Parasites in Dogs (Flea, Lice, Mite, Tick)

2008-05-18T12:26:00.002+05:30

From time to time most pets have parasites such as fleas, ticks, lice, or mites. It's simply in the nature of things, parasites being parasites. The pests abound everywhere; therefore, their presence is not a disgraceful reflection on one's living habits. It is, of course, not necessary simply to accept such a state of affairs. Because external parasites can be extremely irritating to a pet and cause serious skin disorders or even disease, you have an obligation to rid your pet of these unwelcome guests if they are infested with them.
Yet external parasites, like squatters, are tenacious and difficult to "evict." They are not always discernible to the unpracticed eye and are therefore sometimes present in great numbers before you become aware of them. If you find your pet scratching frequently, or if you discover bald spots or inflammation of his skin, chances are your pet is playing host to an army of non-paying boarders. And it's high time for you to take him to the veterinarian.

The Adaptable Flea
The flea is an acrobatic pest that is adept at finding a warm place to live, jumping readily from dogs to cats or even human beings. The life cycle of the flea is about 30 days. The eggs are dormant in cool weather, but, with the advent of milder days, they hatch into worm-like larvae which eventually become fleas. The best way to rid your pet of fleas is to see a veterinarianfor advice. They may recommend powders, sprays, dips, specially treated collars, or even tablets to be taken internally — whatever the veterinarian's prescription, you should take care to follow their instructions exactly.
It will do little good to rid the pet's body of fleas if you don't simultaneously cleanse their sleeping quarters and other equipment. Aerosol sprays can be used for this purpose with excellent results. Regular and thorough vacuum cleaning of the pet's living area also helps to remove eggs, larvae, and pupae. Getting rid of fleas not only makes your pet more comfortable, it also reduces their chances of acquiring tapeworms since many fleas harbor tapeworm eggs.

Lice Not Nice
Lice are not just aesthetically unpleasant, and therefore, not "nice" but, they can become a source of danger for your pet — especially to puppies. Often dogs with just a few lice are very "itchy," while those harboring thousands of lice may not scratch themselves at all. So small they escape notice, some lice penetrate the pet's skin and suck the blood. The females will lay eggs which in just three weeks will hatch and develop into adult lice.
The constant blood-sucking, if extensive, can cause severe anemia in puppies and greatly weaken mature dogs, particularly females with nursing puppies. The pest can also be a source of irritation to cats and kittens.
Your veterinarian is your best resource to detect and eventually eliminate this dangerous parasite.

Mites and Manges
Mange is caused by another type of external parasite — the mite. Fortunately, mange is rare in the well-fed, well-kept cat.
In dogs, two types of mange are the most common: DEMODECTIC mange or "red mange," and SARCOPTIC mange or "scabies." They may be present at any time of the year.
Dogs suffering from demodectic mange usually do not scratch. This mange is most common in young short-haired animals and is marked in the early stages by small areas of hairlessness, accompanied by a red, irritated appearance. In sarcoptic mange, a severe itching is usually observed, with consequent skin irritation and loss of hair. This type of mange is contagious to people as well as to other dogs and therefore should be checked as soon as possible.
It should be remembered that mange is more serious than a simple skin irritation or abrasion or a source of discomfort to your dog — though it certainly is that. Both of these manges are serious skin diseases that can lead to complications such as severe skin infections. Veterinarians usually treat mange by clipping, medicated baths or sprays, as well as oral medication or injections.

The Tenacious Tick
The hardiest and perhaps the most "pesky" of the external parasites is the tick which has the innocent appearance of a small wart or seed. Hosting the tick is the price the dog or the cat must pay for investigating the mysteries of the shrubbery or wild undergrowth, for that is where your pet most likely acquires these pests. Be sure and look for ticks during the daily grooming of your pet and pick off any you see — a trick that can be mastered with a little practice. Ticks are most apt to bed down in the neck area, between the toes, in the ears, and in the folds between the legs and the body.
To remove a tick, use small tweezers to firmly grip the tick's mouth parts as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight outward. Apply an antiseptic to the bitten area. After removing, destroy the tick by immersing it in alcohol. Save the tick, marking the date it was found on the body, in the event that symptoms arise and identification of the tick becomes necessary.
If your dog has been in an area where the tick is found, or if you have found a tick on its body and it develops any of the symptoms mentioned above, make an appointment with your veterinarian for an examination, blood test and possible treatment. The blood test may have to be repeated several months later. It would be wise, whether or not you have found a tick on your dog, to have it tested in the spring and fall to assure yourself that your pet does not have Lyme Disease.
It is not as easy to detect ticks on horses and cows, particularly in herds, but horse owners and farmers should be alert to any sudden onset of fever, lameness, abortions, laminitis-like signs or chronic weight loss in their animals and should consult with their veterinarian for evaluation.
If you have been in an area where the tick is found, or if you have found a tick on your body and develop any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see your physician for evaluation and treatment.
Enlist the aid of your veterinarian in your tick eradication campaign. Dipping your pet at frequent intervals in a medicated compound is the most common method of getting rid of ticks.
Spraying the grass and bushes with a chemical solution recommended by your veterinarian is often very effective in eliminating ticks, as is a frequent cleaning of your pet's belongings and sleeping quarters. Ticks as well as fleas may infest the home and become a major nuisance.
Allowed to thrive unchecked, ticks may cause serious skin infections or paralysis. Some ticks serve as carriers of serious diseases to pets and humans.

Ear Mites
Ear mites can be a source of severe annoyance and disease. They are common in dogs and cats. These mites spend most of their life in the ears. Often an animal can be severely infested with the pests before there is any outward sign of their presence. It is a good idea to have your veterinarian regularly examine your pet's ears.
If an ear mite infestation is ignored it will almost always be followed by a bacterial infection because the bacteria find easy access to living tissue through the holes left by the mites. Such an infection can spread deep into the ear and eventually penetrate the brain causing convulsions and death.
Ear mites are very irritating. They often cause the animal to scratch to the point where it tears out all of the hair and creates bleeding sores around the ears. Scratching can result in reinfestation with mites from the paw or tail. Consult your veterinarian about methods for treating infested animals.

Cancer in Dogs

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How Common is Cancer?
Cancer is common in pet animals, and the rate increases with age. Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans, while cats get fewer cancers. Cancer accounts for almost half of the deaths of pets over 10 years of age.
How is it Diagnosed?
Strong circumstantial evidence of cancer can be attained from x-rays, blood tests, the physical appearance of the cancer, or the physical signs caused by the cancer. Most cancers, however, will require a biopsy (removal of a piece of tissue) for confirmation.
Is Cancer Preventable?
Some cancer, such as breast cancer, is largely preventable with early spaying. Unfortunately, the cause of most cancers is not known and therefore prevention is difficult.
Common Signs of Cancer in Pets
Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
Sores that do not heal
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
Offensive odor
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina
Persistent lameness or stiffness
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Many of the above signs are also seen with noncancerous conditions but still warrant prompt attention by your veterinarian to determine the cause. Cancer is frequently treatable, and early diagnosis will aid your veterinarian in delivering the best care possible.
Common Types of Cancer in Pets
Skin - Skin tumors are very common in older dogs, but much less common in cats. Most skin tumors in cats are malignant, but in dogs they are often benign. All skin tumors should be examined by your veterinarian.
Breast - Fifty percent of all breast tumors in dogs and 85% of all breast tumors in cats are malignant. Spaying your pet between 6 and 12 months of age will greatly reduce the risk of breast cancer. Surgery is the treatment of choice for this type of cancer.
Head & Neck - Cancer of the mouth is common in dogs and less common in cats. A mass on the gums, bleeding, odor, or difficult eating are signs to watch for. Many swellings are malignant, so early aggressive treatment is essential. Cancer may develop inside the nose of both cats and dogs. Bleeding from the nose, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling may occur.
Lymphoma - Lymphoma is a common form of cancer in dogs and cats. It is characterized by enlargement of one or many lymph nodes in the body. A virus causes most of these cancers in cats. Chemotherapy is frequently effective in controlling this type of cancer.
Feline Leukemia Complex - The feline leukemia virus is contagious among cats and will occasionally cause true cancer. There is no proof that it is contagious to humans. While a great deal of research is ongoing, no consistently effective treatment is presently available for virus-positive cats.
Testicles - Testicular tumors are rare in cats and common in dogs, especially those with retained testes. Most of these cancers are curable with surgery.
Abdominal Tumors - Tumors inside the abdomen are common. It is difficult to make an early diagnosis. Weight loss and abdominal enlargement are common signs of these tumors.
Bone - Bone tumors are most commonly seen in large breed dogs and rarely in cats. The leg bones, near joints, are the most common sites. Persistent lameness and swelling of the leg is an early sign of disease.
How is it Treated?
Each cancer requires individual care. Your veterinarian may use surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, cryosurgery (freezing), hyperthermia (heating) or immunotherapy to effectively treat cancers. Combination therapy is commonly employed.
What is the Success Rate?
This depends strongly on the type and extent of the cancer as well as the aggressiveness of therapy. Some cancers can be cured, and almost all patients can be helped to some degree. Your veterinarian will have a better chance to control or cure your pet's cancer if it is detected early.

First Aid Basics

2008-05-18T12:19:00.000+05:30

A sick or injured animal is often in a frightened state, so if emergency first aid is necessary protect yourself (even if it's your own pet); cats can be handled with gloves or wrapped in a blanket - a dog can be muzzled. If there's any question of seriousness, follow up your first aid with advice from your veterinarian, whose listing should be kept handy with other emergency phone numbers. Of course, before an emergency ever arises, it's a good idea to learn all you can about first aid techniques and pet health care. Never leave dangerous objects like pins, needles, or fish hooks within reach. And be well aware of your pet's normal behavior, so you can recognize what's not normal. Remember that the objective is to relieve suffering . . . perhaps even to save a life. Emergency first aid is most effective when rendered quickly, but calmly.

"Keep your veterinarian's telephone number handy with other emergency phone numbers."

Poisoning in Dogs: First aid

2008-05-18T12:17:00.000+05:30

Family pets (and all animals) risk all kinds of poisoning from all kinds of places. Snakes can poison; some plants can poison; and hundreds of poisonous materials are used around the home by people every day — things like pesticides, weed killers, lawn sprays, acids, fertilizers, paints . . . the list is endless. Here's what you can do if your pet is poisoned:

Keep the animal warm and quiet
Try to determine what the poison was, when it was ingested, and the amount swallowed
Immediately call your veterinarian or your nearest poison control center

If you decide to take the pet to your veterinarian, bring the container (or the label) with you. Most of the time poisoning is accidental. Keep poisonous materials out of reach, know what your pet is doing at all times, and keep emergency telephone numbers handy.

Mealtime

2008-05-18T12:05:00.000+05:30

Puppies
Feed a high quality diet designed for puppies. A wide variety of diets and formulations are available and your veterinarian should be your primary source of information as to the best choice for your puppy. The amount fed will vary with the type of food and the individual dog, but in general, should only be as much as the puppy can consume in 5 to 10 minutes at a given meal. Puppies are usually fed 3 times daily when between 6 and 12 weeks old, 2 times daily when 12 weeks to 6 months old, and may be fed 1 or 2 times daily when older than 6 months. For certain large breeds of dogs, your veterinarian may recommend that several smaller meals be fed rather than 1 large meal (even when your dog becomes an adult) because an association has been suggested between the consumption of large meals and a serious medical condition called gastric dilatation/volvulus or "bloat."

Docking Your Dog's Tail

2008-05-18T12:00:00.000+05:30

This procedure is typically done on puppies between 3 and 5 days of age. No anesthetic is involved, and the tails are docked to an appropriate length for the breed. Some of the breeds normally docked include the Rottweiler, Doberman pincer, Boxer, Schnauzer, Miniature pincer, Toy Fox Terrier (amongst other terrier breeds), Corgi, Poodle, and Sckipperke to name a few.
This procedure is much preferred done while the puppies are less than a week of age. Afterwards, the puppy has to wait until it is of age appropriate for anesthesia, which is much more involving a procedure, with a much longer healing process. There is also associated pain with the procedure when done on an older animal, and complications include bleeding, premature stitch removal by the dog, poor healing of the area, and more chances for scarring to occur.
Unless the dog is being utilized for show purposes in the conformation ring, tail docking is best left undone if beyond the age of 5-7 days.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has recently made a statement with regards to cosmetic tail docking in the dog. Essentially, and ultimately the AVMA would like to see this type of cosmetic procedure discontinued for cosmetic purposes only.

Debarking Your Dog

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This procedure involves the removal of 2 folds of tissue located on either side of the larynx or voice box in the dog. The so called vocal folds actually function to come together in order for the dog to make an audible sound with pitch.
When removed, the sound made by the dog is much like that of a whisper or a bark heard from far away when the dog is right next to you. The effect of debarking can be explained much like an individual trying to whistle while the lips are apart. In order for sound to occur, air must travel through a narrow opening in either the voice box for a bark, or the lips for a whistle to occur.
Most cases of owners requesting their dogs to be debarked are in locations where disturbing the neighborhood becomes a problem. In some cases, household disruption occurs as some dogs refuse to pay attention to owners wishes for them to cease the barking.
Other alternatives to surgery are available. These include electronic devices worn about the dog's neck which emit an electric shock (much like that of a static shock) when barking occurs. Remote collars are activated by the owner. Self activated collars do not depend upon the owner's presence, and are activated ideally by the dog's bark. However, in some cases, these self activating collars can discharge for reasons other than barking, which can confuse and serve to de-spirit the dog.
Other collars can be worn which emit scents such as citronella when the dog barks. These collars are preferred over the electric devices, in that the startle response is achieved in a less harmful process.
Sometimes, if the barking is only a problem when the owner is present, using external devices to startle will work. A favorite device used for purposes of startle, is simply a can of coins that is shook sharply toward the dog when the undesirable barking occurs. This serves to divert the dog's attention toward the can of coins, and away from the barking stimulus.
Choose wisely and smartly for your dog if barking is a problem. Remember, if you live alone, or are away from the house for periods of time, a barking dog can thwart a potential robber from breaking and entering your home. If complaints are occurring from your neighbors however, common courtesy should direct you to take appropriate action to ensure peace and quiet in the neighborhood.