Veterinary Discussions

How fat is your dog??

2010-09-29T23:54:00.000-07:00

Many dog owners do not often care on the above question as long as they are healthy or fat enough. The worrying part is often seen in pet owners when the dog is below the ideal weight level i.e. dogs start becoming thin. Now when you ask a vet like me about which worrying is appropriate, the answer would be both. Idealism in everything is the best and that implies to dog's body weight too. Now vets will ask you to maintain your pets weight in an ideal level as far as possible by balancing its diet and exercise. What exactly is an ideal weight for your dog?? This article is trying to help you sort out this question.

Dogs around the world come in different sizes. From a toy breed Chihuahua which may weigh as less as 2 pounds to St. Bernard which may weigh upto 190 pounds in normal condition the weight range of canines is wide. As such, one chart of dogs weight to classify thin, healthy and fat dogs will be insufficient. Taking weight as a parameter to classify also does not seem correct. To simplify this job, the body condition of dogs is divided into 9 stages according to Purina body condition system. You can observe your dog and find out how ideal his body weight condition is.

Evaluating your dog's weight

How skinny is "pretty skinny"? How heavy is "not as thin as he should be"? The Purina body condition system provides a uniform way to describe a pet's weight, from "emaciated" to "grossly obese"

1.EMACIATED

Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and all bony prominences evident from a distance. No discernable body fat. Obvious loss of muscle mass.

2.VERY THIN

Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.

3.THIN

Ribs easily palpated and may be visible with no palpable fat. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.

4.UNDERWEIGHT

Ribs easily palpable, with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted, viewed from above. Abdominal tuck evident.

5.IDEAL

Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Waist observed behind ribs when viewed from above. Abdomen tucked when viewed from the side.

6.OVERWEIGHT

Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering. Waist is discernable viewed from above but is not prominent. Abdominal tuck apparent.

7.HEAVY

Ribs palpable with difficulty, heavy fat cover. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent or barely visible. Abdominal tuck may be absent.

8.OBESE

Ribs not palpable under heavy fat cover, or palpable only with significant pressure. Heavy fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent. No abdominal tuck. Obvious abdominal distension may be present.

9.GROSSLY OBESE

P.S.: Chart and information courtesy of Ralston Purina

Flea allergy dermatitis

2010-08-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Monsoon is at our door step and with the cool rain, humid season also commences. Humid season helps in breeding and increase in number of tiny jumping parasites, the fleas. Once fleas get a hold on your pets body, your pet will sooner or later develop an allergic condition. Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common allergy in dogs and is caused by flea bites, specifically the saliva of the flea. It is a very itchy disease and predisposes to the development of secondary skin infections.

Oddly enough, most animals with flea allergy have very few fleas – because they are so itchy, they groom themselves excessively, eliminating any evidence of fleas. However, a couple of flea bites every two weeks are sufficient to make a flea allergic dog itchy all the time. Any animal can become allergic to fleas, although some dogs are more attractive to fleas than others.

Fleas are bloodsucking insects with a life span of 6 to 12 months. This life span is influenced by environmental conditions and can vary from two to three weeks up to a year. Optimal conditions include humidity of 75 to 85 percent and temperature of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity is more important than the temperature.

The adult flea spends most of its life on the host, while the immature stages (eggs) are found in the environment.

Symptoms

Severe itching
Chewing and biting of the tail, rump, back legs and occasionally front legs
Oozing lesions (lick granuloma) from chewing
Hot spots on the hips or face, which is severe skin damage from scratching
Flea excreta on your pet’s body surface (which is reddish brown coloured and when touched upon by moist paper turns red)

Diagnosis

Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of itchiness and scratching in dogs, but other medical problems can lead to similar symptoms. Other disorders that must be excluded are:

Food allergy
Atopy
Trauma or other cause of local skin irritation
Sarcoptic mange
Cheyletiellosis (a mite infestation)
Otitis externa (ear infection)
Primary keratinization defects

Some pets may have more than one medical problem. For example, scratching or biting due to flea irritation can cause a "hot spot" (acute moist dermatitis) and secondary bacterial skin infection (pyoderma) can follow.

Diagnosis of flea allergy is made based on history, clinical signs and a positive response to flea control.

Treatment

Treatment of flea allergy dermatitis involves four phases:

Prevention of flea bites:The most important part of treatment is preventing flea bites with aggressive flea control on your dog and in the environment. Flea control can be done by spot on medications like Frontline, Revolution or flea powders and sprays.

Treatment of secondary skin infections: Antibiotics and antifungal drugs may be necessary to treat secondary skin infections triggered by the flea allergy.

Breaking the itch cycle: If your dog is intensely itchy, a short course of steroids may be necessary to break the itch cycle and make your dog more comfortable.

Nutritive support: One important phase to better your pet's coat which has been infected by fleas is to add a nutritive supplement for the skin and mainly the hair follicles. Supplements containing Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids and cod liver oil can be used to strengthen hair follicles and also ensure hair regrowth keeping your pet's coat healthy.

Preventative Care

Use an effective safe flea control product on your dog on a regular basis beginning one month before the flea season starts and continuing up until one month after the flea season ends.

Use frequent vacuuming and carpet cleaning strategies to remove eggs and larvae from the dog's indoor environment. Use a professional cleaning or exterminating service in difficult cases.

See your veterinarian promptly if your dog develops acute skin lesions (acute moist dermatitis) as a result of biting or scratching at fleas. Frequent grooming of your dog with a "flea comb" may be helpful to remove fleas.
Veterinary care should include diagnostic tests and subsequent treatment recommendations.

Your Pet Dog’s Life Expectancy

2010-06-03T02:39:00.000-07:00

We all will do anything and everything we can so that our pet will have a long and

healthy life. But how long is the average life of a particular breed of dog and what can we do to

maximize the likelihood that our dog will live longer than expected?

A myth is heard that one year of a dog’s life is equal to seven human years, so that, for

example, a dog at age one is like a human child at age seven, and a 5-year old dog is the

equivalent of a human adult of 35.

In fact, there is not any linear relationship between human and dog years. Dogs mature much more

quickly than humans. A dog at age one has generally achieved its full growth and is sexually

active – this is obviously not true of a seven year old human child. So a dog at age one is

similar to a teenager, who has some growing out to do but is more or less mature physically.

Thereafter each year in a dog’s life may be seen as about equal to 4 to 6 human years.

Overall, the life expectancy of most dogs is around twelve years on an average. But the actual

expected life span of any particular dog is highly dependant on its breed. Generally speaking,

the larger the breed of dog, the shorter its life will be. We veterinarians guess that this is

because larger dogs’ bodies must work harder than those of their smaller compatriots.

Factors That Contribute to Life Span

Various important suggestions as to how dog owners can improve the odds of their particular dog

living beyond the standard life span are discussed. A number of steps owners of dogs should take

to extend their pet’s life are also included.

* Some breeds simply live longer than other breeds due to breed health, body structure and

genetics.

* Smaller breed dogs live about 1.5 times longer than bigger breed dogs. This may be due to

the fact that a bigger dog's body must work harder to maintain daily functions (i.e. the heart of

a Great Dane must pump harder than that of a Chihuahua's).

* Just like humans, gender plays a role with canine life span. Female dogs are expected to

live a year or two more than males.

* Spaying or neutering your dog also contributes to a longer life span. An unaltered dog has

greater risk of cancer and diseases associated with the sex organs.

* Nutrition is a major factor in your dog's life. High-quality dog food will lengthen his

life.

* A healthy life style and exercise also helps your dog stay in fit physical shape. A

mentally and physically fit dog will live much longer than one who is not.

Medical attention when needed also attributes to longer life. Never wait to take a dog to the vet

if you suspect he is ill, and get him vaccinated against dangerous diseases on regular basis.

Also, it is a good idea to keep his teeth clean. Rotten teeth can cause heart problems.

A review of the normal life span of dogs.

The average life spans for some of the most common breeds of dogs are:

• 7-10 years: Great Dane, Newfoundland, Doberman Pinscher, Bulldog, Rottweiler

• 9-11 years: St. Bernard, Bloodhound, Chow Chow, Boxer

• 10-13 years: Airedale Terrier, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Scottish Terrier,

Afghan Hound, Dachshund, Irish Setter

• 12-15 years: Beagle, Bichon Frise, Collie, Doberman, Pomeranian, Border Terrier, Cocker

Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Greyhound, Labrador

• 14-16 years: Boston Terrier, Irish Setter, Standard Poodle, Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire

Terrier

• 15-18 years: Dachshund, Miniature and Toy Poodle, Chihuahua.

The life expectancies set out above are for purebred dogs. Inbreeding and pure breeding can

weaken the gene pool and reduce life expectancy, as a unique pool increases the likelihood of an

undesirable trait influencing your dog’s genetic makeup dog.

So what can be done to increase the chance of your dog beating the statistical norms for its

particular breed and living a longer than average life? Obviously seeing to it that your dog gets

plenty of exercise is important. And, like humans, dogs seem to thrive better in an atmosphere

that is relatively stress-free.

Most important is your dog’s diet. Dogs are carnivores and as such require a diet heavy in meat

proteins, as high as 42% for puppies. Unfortunately the manufactured foods we buy for them at the

supermarket or local pet store, while being high in protein, for the large part use cereal grain

protein sources. Also, even a well balanced Asian diet of rice, lentils and vegetables is

inadequate. You should try to feed them a supplement that contains high grade meat proteins. In

addition, to help ward off the chances of cancer, it is advisable that the supplement contain

immune enhancers. To ward off skin irritations and the seemingly inevitable scratching, an

anti-inflammatory supplement containing a proper balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids

should be added to the daily diet. As dogs are very prone to joint diseases as they grow older, a

Cox-2 inhibitor can prove very useful. And of course the supplement should be rich in vitamins

and minerals.

You should make sure that your dog is get ample exercise and gets playful time and again. Also

special care should be taken to monitor the food and supplements it eats. this and above all can

help ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life. Also, a regular annual check up of your dog's

health by a veterinarian is a must.

P.S.
Also, according to the AKC, the following is a list of the most popular dogs in 2008, and their

average life expectancy.

1. Labrador Retriever (12.5 years)
2. Yorkshire Terrier (14 years)
3. German Shepherd Dog (11 years)
4. Golden Retriever (12 years)
5. Beagle (13 years)
6. Boxer (10.5 years)
7. Dachshund (15.5 years)
8. Bulldog (7 years)
9. Poodle (12 years Standard) (15 years Miniature)
10. Shih Tzu (13 years)
11. Miniature Schnauzer (14 years)
12. Chihuahua (13.5)
13. Pomeranian (15 years)
14. Rottweiler (10 years)
15. Pug (13.5 years)
16. German Shorthaired Pointer (13 years)
17. Boston Terrier (13 years)
18. Doberman Pinscher (10 years)
19. Shetland Sheepdog (13.5 years)
20. Maltese (14 years)
21. Cocker Spaniel (12 years)
22. Great Dane (8.5 years)
23. Siberian Husky (12 years)
24. Pembroke Welsh Corgi (13 years)
25. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (10 years)

Swine Influenza and You

2009-04-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

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What is swine flu?

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.

Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?

In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.

Is this swine flu virus contagious?

CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does swine flu spread?

Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?

First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?

Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).

How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?

People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?

Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How long can viruses live outside the body?

We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water. or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. we recommend that when you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with a rash

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting

How serious is swine flu infection?

Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the U.S. with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious. In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year-old pregnant woman in Wisconsin was hospitalized for pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died 8 days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death.

Can I get swine influenza from eating pork?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

Swine influenza: Technical Information & Updates

2009-04-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

(Source: WHO, OIE; Transferred by WVA and Modulated by NVA)

In response to cases of swine influenza A (H1N1), reported in Mexico and the United States of America, the Director-General convened a meeting of the Emergency Committee to assess the situation and advise her on appropriate responses.

The establishment of the Committee, which is composed of international experts in a variety of disciplines, is in compliance with the International Health Regulations (2005). The first meeting of the Emergency Committee was held on Saturday 25 April 2009. After reviewing available data on the current situation, Committee members identified a number of gaps in knowledge about the clinical features, epidemiology, and virology of reported cases and the appropriate responses. The Committee advised that answers to several specific questions were needed to facilitate its work. The Committee nevertheless agreed that the current situation constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. Based on this advice, the Director-General has determined that the current events constitute a public health emergency of international concern, under the Regulations.

Concerning public health measures, in line with the Regulations the Director-General is recommending, on the advice of the Committee, that all countries intensify surveillance for unusual outbreaks of influenza-like illness and severe pneumonia. The Committee further agreed that more information is needed before a decision could be made concerning the appropriateness of the current phase 3.

Swine flu illness in the United States and Mexico - update 2

26 April 2009 -- As of 26 April 2009, the United States Government has reported 20 laboratory confirmed human cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 (8 in New York, 7 in California, 2 in Texas, 2 in Kansas and 1 in Ohio). All 20 cases have had mild Influenza-Like Illness with only one requiring brief hospitalization. No deaths have been reported. All 20 viruses have the same genetic pattern based on preliminary testing. The virus is being described as a new subtype of A/H1N1 not previously detected in swine or humans.

Also as of 26 April, the Government of Mexico has reported 18 laboratory confirmed cases of swine influenza A/H1N1. Investigation is continuing to clarify the spread and severity of the disease in Mexico. Suspect clinical cases have been reported in 19 of the country's 32 states.

WHO and the Global Alert and Response Network (GOARN) are sending experts to Mexico to work with health authorities. WHO and its partners are actively investigating reports of suspect cases in other Member States as they occur, and are supporting field epidemiology activities, laboratory diagnosis and clinical management.

On Saturday, 25 April, upon the advice of the Emergency Committee called under the rules of the International Health Regulations, the Director-General declared this event a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

WHO is not recommending any travel or trade restrictions.

For more details, click to :

Swine Influenza : http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html

Current WHO phase of pandemic alert : http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/phase/en/index.html

International Health Regulations (IHR) : http://www.who.int/ihr/en/index.html

Pandemic Influenza Preparedness and Response (A WHO Guidance Document) :

http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2008/9789241580410_eng.pdf

Guidance to Influenza Laboratories. Diagnosing Swine Influenza A/H1N1 Infections of current concern: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/swineflu_guidance_labs_20090425.pdf

Interim WHO guidance for the surveillance of human infection with swine influenza A(H1N1) virus

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/WHO_case_definition_swine_flu_2009_04_26.pdf

Q&A: Swine flu

Infection control experts are scrambling to respond to outbreaks of swine flu in Mexico and the US, and suspected cases elsewhere.

What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease which infects pigs.

Caused by influenza type A, there are regular outbreaks among herds of pigs, where the disease causes high levels of illness but is rarely fatal.

It tends to spread in autumn and winter but can circulate all year round.

There are many different types of swine flu and like human flu, the infection is constantly changing.

Can humans catch swine flu?

Swine flu does not normally infect humans, although sporadic cases do occur - usually in people who have had close contact with pigs.

There have also been rare documented cases of humans passing the infection to other humans.

Human-to-human transmission of swine flu is thought to spread in the same way as seasonal flu - through coughing and sneezing.

In the latest outbreak it is clear that the disease is being passed from person to person.

Symptoms of swine flu in humans appear to be similar to those produced by standard, seasonal flu.

Is this a new type of swine flu?

The World Health Organization has confirmed that at least some of the cases are a never-before-seen version of the H1N1 strain of influenza type A.

H1N1 is the same strain which causes seasonal outbreaks of flu in humans on a regular basis.

But this latest version of H1N1 is different: it contains genetic material that is typically found in strains of the virus that affect humans, birds and swine.

Flu viruses have the ability to swap genetic components with each other, and it seems likely that the new version of H1N1 resulted from a mixing of different versions of the virus, which may usually affect different species, in the same animal host.

Is it safe to eat pig meat?

Yes. There is no evidence that swine flu can be transmitted through eating meat from infected animals.

However, it is essential to cook meat properly. A temperature of 70C (158F) would be sure to kill the virus.

How worried should people be?

When any new strain of flu emerges that acquires the ability to pass from person to person, it is monitored very closely in case it has the potential to spark a pandemic.

The World Health Organization has warned that taken together the Mexican and US cases could potentially trigger a global pandemic, and stress that the situation is serious.

However, it is stressed that it is still too early to accurately assess the situation fully.

Currently, they say the world is closer to a flu pandemic than at any point since 1968 - rating the threat at three on a six-point scale.

Nobody knows the full potential impact of the pandemic, but experts have warned that it could cost millions of lives worldwide. The Spanish flu pandemic, which began in 1918, and was also caused by an H1N1 strain, killed millions of people.

The fact that all the cases in the US have so far produced mild symptoms is encouraging. It suggests that the severity of the Mexican outbreak may be due to an unusual geographically-specific factor - possibly a second unrelated virus circulating in the community - which would be unlikely to come into play in the rest of the world.

However, the fact that many of the victims are young does point to something unusual. Normal, seasonal flu tends to affect the elderly disproportionately.

What about treatments and vaccines?

The US authorities say that two drugs commonly used to treat flu, Tamiflu and Relenza, seem to be effective at treating cases that have occurred there so far.

It is unclear how effective currently available flu vaccines would be at offering protection against the new strain, as it is genetically distinct from other flu strains.

US scientists are already developing a bespoke new vaccine, but it may take some time to perfect it, and manufacture enough supplies to meet what could be huge demand.

What about bird flu?

The strain of bird flu which has caused scores of human deaths in South East Asia in recent years is a different strain to that responsible for the current outbreak of swine flu.

The latest form of swine flu is a new type of the H1N1 strain, while bird, or avian flu, is H5N1.

Experts fear H5N1 hold the potential to trigger a pandemic because of its ability to mutate rapidly. However, up until now it has remained very much a disease of birds. Those humans who have been infected have, without exception, worked closely with birds, and cases of human-to-human transmission are extremely rare - there is no suggestion that H5N1 has gained the ability to pass easily from person to person.

Reproductive health of bitches: Pyometra

2009-03-13T02:35:00.000-07:00

Has your female dog been suffering from anorexia, vomition and inappetance. Does it also show discharges from its vaginal opening?? If your female dog is not spayed and shows the above mentioned signs, it may be due to a disease of uterus called pyometra. In such condition, immediate visit to vet is required.

Introduction:

Pyometra is a condition in which the uterus of the dog is filled with pus. Pyometra occurs mostly 4-8 weeks after oestrus or few weeks after parturition. This is due to pathological bacteria entering the birth canal through open cervix. As such infection of the uterus occurs. Hormonal imbalance in the body may also result in pyometra. Infection or hormones result in fluid and toxic materials formation in the uterus and gets accumulated in it. The normal pencil size uterus increases considerably with the contents. As the disease progresses, condition worsens. Toxic materials are circulated through entire body system. In case treatment is not started immediately, death may occur due to septicemia.

Symptoms:

The most common clinical signs that are present in >50% of dogs are:
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Anorexia
• excessive water intake
• excessive urination
• pale mucous membranes
• Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal distension, and inflamed eyes have been reported although much less frequently
• Up to 16% of patients may have no clinical signs other than purulent vaginal discharge.

Many dogs will have a closed cervix and therefore the obvious sign of a sanguinous (bloody) to mucopurulent, hemorrhagic vaginal discharge may not be present.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

If your pet has recently had a heat cycle and displays any of the listed clinical signs, veterinary attention should be sought immediately. Most veterinarians are well equipped to diagnose a pyometra. However, many patients will need 24 hour intensive care after the procedure to help with the systemic disease.

Exam, Screening Tests and Imaging

Most of the time, your veterinarian will probably suspect the diagnosis based on your history and the animal’s physical exam. If the cervix is not open, the diagnosis may take a few more diagnostic tests. In general, a fluid distended uterus is needed to diagnose pyometra. The veterinarian will most likely perform a general chemistry profile, complete blood count, urinalysis, abdominal radiographs, abdominal ultrasound and perhaps vaginal cytology to help rule in or out pyometra. Radiographs are typically very suggestive but abdominal ultrasounds will typically identify the fluid filled uterus

Treatment:

Pyometra cannot be well treated by antibiotics alone. Even antibiotic therapy alongwith douching of the pus filled uterus is of less help. By far, surgical removal of the infected uterus by means of spaying (Ovario-hysterectomy) is found to be the best solution of the problem. Post-operative care has to be given to spayed bitches with proper course of antibiotics.

Aggression in Dogs

2009-02-12T23:05:00.000-08:00

Being bitten by a dog is what we find now and then. Such is seen mostly in aggressive dogs. Aggression in dogs is defined as a threatening or harmful behavior directed toward another living creature. This includes snarling, growling, snapping, nipping, biting and lunging. Dogs' showing such behavior is not abnormal; they are merely exhibiting normal species-typical behavior that is incompatible with human lifestyle (and safety). There are many reasons why a dog will act aggressively toward strangers or even his owner.

The first step, when attempting to find out why your dog is being aggressive, is to take him to your veterinarian. Some veterinarians will visit you at your home - but dogs tend to be more aggressive on "their" territory.

If there's no medical cause for the aggression, your veterinarian may refer you to a behaviorist, who will then obtain a full behavioral history and recommend therapy.

Even if treatment appears to be successful, you should always be on guard. The frequency and severity of aggression may be reduced but, in most cases, aggression cannot be eliminated completely. You must weigh the risks of keeping an aggressive dog against the benefits. Remember, safety for yourself and people around you is the primary concern!

Diagnosis

In the course of a veterinary examination, your veterinarian will determine if there is a medical reason underlying your dog's aggressiveness. For instance, a dog with neck pain may show aggression when pulled by the collar.
Once medical causes have been ruled out, your veterinarian will refer you to a behaviorist. At the behaviorist's, you'll be asked to answer many detailed questions regarding your dog's behavior. The session may last a couple of hours. An accurate description of your dog's behavior is necessary. Keeping a journal is helpful. You should note:

• What elicits the aggression
• How often it occurs
• To whom it is directed
• The specific behaviors
• The dog's postures at the time

Videotaping your dog's behavior is helpful for the behaviorist, but don't get hurt while making the video. Answers to the many questions asked can lead the behaviorist to establish the cause of the aggression, and then outline an individualized approach to its treatment. The behaviorist will also provide a professional opinion of the risk involved.
Aggression is influenced by several factors, including: genetic predisposition, early experience, maturation, sex, age, size, hormonal status, physiological state and external stimuli. Behaviorists use a classification system based on patterns of behavior and the circumstances in which they occur. This is done to determine the dog's motivation and the cause of the behavior. The classification is as follows:

• Dominance-related aggression is one of the most common types of canine aggression that behaviorists treat. The aggressive acts are directed toward one or several family members or other household pets. Dogs are pack animals, and they relate to humans as members of their own species and pack members.

• Territorial aggression is directed toward approaching animals or people outside of the pack in defense of a dog's area (home, room or yard), owner or fellow pack member.

• Inter-male aggression between adult males usually involves territorial or dominance disputes. Inter-female aggression occurs most frequently between adult females living in the same household.

• Predatory aggression is directed toward anything that the dog considers prey, usually other species, but sometimes any quick-moving stimulus, like a car or bike.

• Pain-induced aggression is caused by a person or animal that causes pain. It often occurs when a person attempts to touch a painful area or when injections are given.

• Fear-induced aggression occurs when people or animals approach a fearful dog. This is common when the dog cannot escape, and is sometimes seen when an owner uses severe punishment. Active, unpredictable children may also stimulate this type of aggression.

• Maternal aggression is directed toward anyone that approaches a bitch with puppies or in false pregnancy.

• Redirected aggression occurs when a dog that is aggressively motivated redirects the aggression from the source to another. For example, a dog that is barking at the door may redirect his aggression onto an owner that is pulling him back. Dominant dogs often redirect onto subordinates.

Treatment

Treating aggressive behavior may involve a combination of behavior modification techniques (habituation, counterconditioning and desensitization), drug therapy, surgery (such as neutering/spaying), avoidance and management (such as leash or head halter). Each case is unique, and the success of treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and in accord with your capability, motivation and schedule.

Even with successful treatment, however, there is no guarantee that the aggressive behavior won't return. In most cases, the frequency and severity of aggressive behavior can be reduced but the aggressive behavior cannot be eliminated completely. The best that may be hoped for is to reduce the probability of aggression. You must weigh the risks of keeping an aggressive dog against the benefits.

Home Care

If your dog is unpredictable, consider using a comfortable basket-style muzzle until you can get professional help. Until you receive professional help, avoid all interactions that trigger your dog's aggression. Do not attempt physical punishment. This can increase the intensity of your dog's aggression and may result in serious injury. Avoiding problems may involve:

• Keeping your dog confined in a separate room when visitors or children are present
• Housing or feeding your dogs separately if they are fighting with each other
• Removing objects like bones or rawhides that your dog may be guarding

Do not allow children to have unsupervised access to your dog. Children should be taught to avoid interacting with dogs that are eating, chewing on a bone, or resting. They should not be allowed to tease or hurt dogs.

Keep your dog on a leash at all times. In the home, you may want to attach a thin nylon leash on a buckle collar, which your dog can drag comfortably. This will give you safer control over him. Indoor leashes can be attached to head collars for even greater control. If your dogs are fighting, do not get in the middle. Interrupt the aggression using water, a loud noise, blanket or spray.

Management of such aggressive behaviour with ascertain safety of you and your pet.
(Courtesy: www.petplace.com)

Are you getting a new puppy home??

2009-02-07T23:39:00.000-08:00

If you are getting a dog, most veterinarians recommend that you get your dog from a breeder. Choosing a breeder can be difficult.

To help you get the best possible pet from the best possible breeder, be prepared to ask some questions. The answers you receive will help you select the best and healthiest puppy.

Here is a list of questions to consider asking the breeder:

1. Are the puppies' parents "certified"? This means that certain breeds are often at risk for genetic conditions such as hip problems, heart problems and eye problems. Most of these diseases are inherited, meaning the disease is passed from parent to puppy. Many breeders will have their dogs evaluated and tested for that disease and ultimately "certified" by a veterinary specialist to be disease-free. Know about the breed and if there are any common genetic problems

2. What are the sizes of the puppy's parents? Know how big the parents are, to get a good idea of how big your puppy will be. Is that the size dog you want?

3. Ask to meet the dogs parents. If possible, meet the puppy's parents. Notice if they appear to be in good health and evaluate their overall temperament. Are they shy, aggressive, or well adjusted?

4. How have they socialized the pups? Have the pups been around other dogs or other people? Socialization is critical in puppies 6 – 16 weeks old. Proper socialization consisting of good experiences of a puppy with other puppies and lots of different ages, sizes and types of people will give you the best chance at having a well-adjusted dog.

5. What vaccines has the puppy had? How many shots has he received and when will the puppy be due for his next puppy shot?

6. Have the puppies been dewormed? All puppies are born with worms and routine deworming is recommended.

7. Have any of the puppies in the litter been sick? If so, what were the signs, the diagnosis and treatment?

8. What visits has the puppies had with the veterinarian? Have they been examined and declared "healthy"? If not, what problems have they had? Have they been on any medications?

9. What is their guarantee? What guarantee does the breeder give with their puppies? If the puppy is found to have a severe illness, what will they do? This is a difficult topic but one that is a lot easier to cover up front rather than later.

10. Recommendations? Ask the breeder for a couple references of puppy owners that they have sold within the past year. CALL them. Find out if the breeder was fair, if they were happy with their pups, and how any problems were handled.

11. What is the family history? Ask if the breeder has information about the breed line. For example, ask how long the dogs have lived and what they have died from. Write it down. This may be important for monitoring your pet as he gets older.

12. What is the breeder currently feeding the puppy? Regardless of what they are feeding, it is ideal to continue feeding the same food for the first few days at home to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal disturbances. If you choose to change the diet, do it gradually.

13. Health certificate. Ask the breeder if he will supply a health certificate for the puppy issued by his veterinarian.

Get your questions answered and feel very comfortable with your new puppy.
Proper and responsible breeding, appropriate health care and correct puppy socialization will make a big difference in how healthy your dog is and what kind of dog your puppy will turn out to be.
(Courtesy: www.petplace.com)

The Importance of an Annual Physical Examination in Dogs

2009-02-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. Time to take your dog to the veterinarian for his annual examination. But maybe you're thinking that you might skip it this year. After all, he isn't sick. Maybe you will just put it off until next year – what could it hurt?

Actually, delaying an annual physical exam can hurt. Annual physical exams are an important part of providing optimal health care and the best longevity for your beloved companion. Dogs age quickly and they are unable to tell us if they are feeling a little off. Remember, it may be one year in your life but that can be about 5-10 comparative years in your pet's life. A lot can change in that much time.

Sometimes, dogs can be ill for weeks and you are unaware of it. This may not be from a lack of monitoring or caring; your dog just hides his illness until it is so far advanced he has no choice but to show signs of disease.

Your veterinarian has special training and experience in detecting subtle illness in pets. Listening to the heart can detect murmurs. Increased lung sounds may indicate early illness. Abdominal palpation may reveal pain in certain areas, abnormal size and shape of various organs or even tumors. Checking out the eyes can detect early signs of cataract or other ocular problems. Ears may be in need of cleaning or medication. Dental disease may be detected as well as signs of allergies or skin problems. It's easier for someone who doesn't see your pet every day to detects lumps and bumps that you may not have noticed. Comparing annual weights, too, can determine if your dog is heading down the path to obesity or is slowly losing weight.

As a dog reaches middle to old age, annual physical exams become even more important. Certain problems that you may simply attribute to "old age," and just something you will have to live with, may be signs of underling disease and may be very treatable. Annual physical exams also give you an opportunity to ask your veterinarian any questions you may have about your dog's health. Your veterinarian may recommend certain additional tests to determine overall health based on physical exam findings or may have suggestions for improving the quality of your dog's life. Remember, the primary goal for your veterinarian is to keep your dog healthy and provide the best care available.

A physical examination is a chance for your vet for a thorough exam which can pick up on a variety of illnesses and prevent potential catastrophic disease. By finding, diagnosing and treating these problems early, your pet will live a much healthier and longer life.

So, I believe everybody reading this article will automatically mark their calendars for a day. This day, every year is when you’ll be taking your pet for a check up. Let us make our pet feel that we really love them.

Rabies Vaccine Recommendations in Dogs

2009-02-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

Vaccination

Rabies is a highly fatal viral infection of the nervous system that affects all warm-blooded animal species, including humans. The virus is most often transmitted from one animal to another through bite wounds. It then travels up through nerves, the spinal cord and eventually the brain. Once in the brain, the signs of rabies occur. Once the virus reaches the brain, death usually occurs within 10 days; it can take weeks to months for the virus to reach the brain, however.

Signs include:

Aggression
Extreme lethargy
Abnormal mental status
Seizure
Drooling ( the muscles of the throat are paralyzed and the animal cannot swallow)

Once signs of rabies develop, there is no cure and the disease is fatal. For this reason, reducing the potential risk of rabies in our companion pets is very important. It is so important that vaccinating your pet for rabies is required by law.

Each state has its own laws governing the frequency of administration of the rabies vaccine, but all agree that the first vaccine should be given around 24-26 weeks of age. A booster injection one year later is necessary. After that, laws vary and some areas require annual rabies vaccination. Other areas allow vaccine every three years.

In order to prove the pet was vaccinated against rabies, many areas require the pet to wear a rabies tag on his collar and for the owner to maintain a rabies certificate. Rabies vaccine is to be given according to the vaccine manufacturers recommendation, either subcutaneously or in a muscle. The vaccine should be delivered by a veterinarian or under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.

The purpose of the rabies vaccination is to help your pet fight off a rabies infection if he should be exposed to the virus. The vaccine is not a cure for rabies and pets vaccinated against rabies can still become infected with the virus. After initial vaccination, it takes about one month before the peak levels of rabies antibodies is reached and the pet is considered immunized for rabies.

If you adopt an adult dog without an accurate vaccination history, initial rabies vaccine should be administered with a follow up vaccine one year later. After that, local laws regarding frequency of vaccination apply.

Consult a vet free of cost..

2009-02-03T20:20:00.001-08:00

dear blogger,
this site is fully dedicated to vet service. you can put in your queries regarding any animal related problem.. we will get back to you within 24 hrs with solution from a vet.

Welcome to Vetsonline - Your online vet

2008-12-26T07:25:00.000-08:00

welcome, we will be uploading contents soon :)