Chickens As Backyard Pets

This was a question that was sent to our exotics veterinarian where I work.

 I have a flock of backyard chickens that are having problems. I recently introduced a new bird to the flock and soon after the egg production dropped, they have gone off their feed and their feathers are messed up. When I looked at the birds I saw lots of dark specks running around on their skin. What is the problem with them and how do I fix it so they start laying eggs again?

It sounds like your hens may have encountered a parasite problem. Those “fast-moving specks” might very well be mites. These external parasites suck the blood of their host and are common in poultry. Affected birds will often lose their appetite, look scruffy and have a drop in their egg production due to anemia from blood loss. Mites can also make the chickens more susceptible to other diseases. Your local avian veterinarian can confirm this diagnosis by examining those “specks” under a microscope as well as examining your birds for other health problems.

The key to treatment involves treating both the birds and their environment at the same time. The parasites will attack the birds to feed but often are found hiding in cool, dark areas of the hen house or in the bedding. After removing any bedding and eggs, dust both the birds and the ground with a poultry-safe insecticide powder such as ‘Sevin’ which contains 5% Carbaryl. It is important to follow the directions on the label when using insecticide powders for your safety and that of your birds. At the same time scrub all surfaces of the hen house with hot soapy water followed by a dilute 1:10 bleach solution (9 parts water to one part full-strength bleach) to eliminate the mites and their eggs. Let in as much sunlight in as you can while cleaning as this will also help kill the parasites. Replace all bedding material each time you clean. Allow the hen house to air out between applications. Since the life cycle of the parasites takes a week, you will probably need to do several weekly treatments to eradicate the pests. Don’t forget that you should not eat any eggs for a week after treating the chickens with insecticide.

Please note that you can also use an organic parasite control, diatomaceous earth, to reduce future mite problems in your chicken yard. These products are available from your farm/feed store or by consulting your agricultural extension agent. Follow the instructions on the labels for all products. Finally, your local avian veterinarian can be a very helpful source of advice for the proper husbandry of your chickens.

Adjusting your Dog to a New Baby

Having a baby is very exciting and is a time and something you have to prepare for in many ways. A lot of clients come to me, anxious about how their dog will do once they bring the baby home. A few have been worried that the dog may physically harm the baby. It is impossible to know how your dog will react to the change. Dogs vary tremendously in how they will respond to a new member of the household, especially a baby. You can help him accept the new baby by taking a few steps.

To minimize your dog's stress when the baby comes, try to start making any anticipated changes to his routine ahead of time. Since the baby isn't due for a month, you still have time.

If his daily exercise is about to change from long walks to being let out in the yard, start making this transition now. Have you thought about which rooms he will not have access to once the baby is here? If you plan to limit his ability to roam the house, start using baby gates and other barriers now so he is gets used to them. This is also a great time to give him a short refresher course on basic commands such as "come," "sit,'' "down" and "stay."

After your baby is born and mom and baby are still at the hospital, have someone bring home a few objects such as a blanket and used diaper. This will help him get used to the baby's scent. If you are concerned your dog may jump on you when you first come home, have someone else hold the baby when you walk in the door. This will allow your dog to happily greet you while keeping the baby safe.

Once the baby is home and everyone is settling in, set absolute rules that they are not together unsupervised. Give him lots of attention and praise for being calm with the baby. If he is too aroused and you are afraid he will try to jump or bite, use a leash and/or muzzle to help control his actions. Avoid interactions when the baby is crying or waving arms and legs as these actions could elicit a playful or predatory response. Try your best to still give him quality time away from the baby.

With some careful planning now and patience once the baby is home, your dog should and child will become best friends.

Housetraining Help!

Are you still struggling with house training, even though your puppy has been home for several months? Does it seem like they were understanding the routine at first but now are having accidents in the house? Here are some tips that might help!

Unfortunately, some puppies are slower to get with the housebreaking program than others. When cleaning up accidents in the house, make sure to use an enzyme type cleaner that will get rid of any lingering scent that could be attracting her to the area. If possible limit her access to room she has been using as her bathroom.

Before you blame her problem on behavior, have your veterinarian make sure she doesn’t have a urinary tract infection that is causing her to urinate more frequently. If this test comes back fine, you’ll need to back up and restart your training.

The Basics:
Restrict her to a small area (crate or small pen) when you can’t supervise her. Carry her outside to the designated potty area immediately after you let her out of the crate and after she eats or drinks. Also do this after she wakes up from a nap and after she has been playing, as she’ll likely need to go. Tethering is another method that allows you to always keep an eye on her and catch any signal she gives before she is about to urinate. This involves attaching her to your belt loop with a 6-foot lead, thus keeping her at your side as you move around the house. With her tethered to you, as soon as you notice her starting to sniff or circle or squat, quickly lift her up to take her outside. After she urinates outside, praise her and give her a treat for being a good girl. A designated outdoor potty area with a soiled rag or paper can also help, as she will be attracted to her own scent. This has to be a team effort, with everyone in the house being consistent with the housetraining.

With repetition on your part and positive reinforcement for her actions, she should start to learn. At her age, she should be able to hold her urine for at least 6 hours. As you know, reprimanding her after you find an accident doesn’t do any good, just clean it up. Have patience and she should eventually catch on.

Maryland Making Strides to Prevent Antifreeze Related Deaths in Pets

Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is a freeze preventive used in engines and other heat transfer applications, such as HVAC chillers and solar water heaters. It is a common substance to have in garages this time of year. The problem with traditional antifreeze is that it is attractive to pets because it has a very sweet taste but only a small amount is needed to kill an animal.

After ingestion, antifreeze is quickly absorbed from the stomach tract; in dogs, this occurs within 3 hours. As the substance is broken down in the body, reactions in the liver and kidneys can cause severe damage to the body.

If your pet ingests antifreeze, the onset of signs is almost immediate and resembles alcohol (ethanol) intoxication. Dogs and cats vomit due to irritation of the stomach and intestines, drink more water, urinate more often and have neurologic signs. You may notice your pet stumbling, falling over, or having slow reflexes. As the central nervous system begins to slow down, cats and dogs drink less but the kidneys continue to produce more urine, resulting in severe dehydration. Renal failure usually develops between 12 and 24 hours in a cat and 36 and 72 hours in a dog.


Diagnosis can be difficult if someone did not witness ingestion and because many other things can look the same as antifreeze toxicity. Within 3 hours of ingestion, there are significant changes on bloodwork and in the urine that can help a veterinarian diagnose ethylene glycol toxicity. One of the most common changes is the presense of calcium oxalate crystals forming in the urine. These can be seen as early as 3 and 6 hours after ingestion in cats and dogs, respectively. Commercial test kits are also helpful in detecting blood concentrations.

The prognosis after ingestion varies based on the amount of time that elapses between ingestion and initiation of treatment. The goal of treatment is to decrease absorption of the antifreeze and increase excretion out of the body. If ingestion has been recent, your veterinarian will be able to induce vomiting and give activated charcoal to prevent further absorption. If hours have passed between ingestion of antifreeze and your veterinarian being able to treat the pet, prognosis for survival is poor.


Effective January 1, a new Maryland law will require a bitter-tasting additive be put in antifreeze. The law was pushed by Lynne Gillis, from Huntingtown, MD, who testified at a legislative hearing last winter about her hound-mix dog, Nikko, who died after ingesting antifreeze. Unfortunately Nikko did not survive the poisoning, but the law hopes to prevent other deaths. The Maryland Antifreeze Bittering Agent Act, which requires retailers to stock engine coolants with the additive denatonium benzoate, was to begin Oct. 1, but lawmakers agreed to a later date to allow retailers to clear their inventory.

American Diabetes Month- For Pets Too!

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 26 million children and adults in American are living with diabetes and another 79 million at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The disease is taking a devastating physical, emotional and financial toll on our country and it is affecting our pets too!

Diabetic pets require special attention and have specific medical needs, but can live healthy, long lives. If your pet has been recently diagnosed as diabetic, don't panic. Here are some information that can help.

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes results from a decrease in insulin secretion from the beta cells of the pancreas and/or a decrease in insulin action. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, a small organ located in the abdomen. Insulin is made by the pancreatic islet cells (also called the beta cells), then secreted into the blood, where it travels throughout the body and helps regulate blood sugar. Glucose circulates in the blood and is available to all the cells as a source of energy. In order to be used for energy, glucose must get inside the cell. Insulin attaches to receptors on the cell, which in turn allows glucose to pass from the blood into the cell. It's like a key to a door: insulin is the key, and it must attach to the cell before glucose can get through the door and into the cell. Without insulin, glucose can not enter the cell. So the cell is "hungry" even though there are high levels of glucose in the blood.

There are 3 types of diabetes:

Type I: comparable to insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) in humans. It results in low insulin concentrations with an impaired ability to secrete insulin after a glucose load. This means after a meal is eaten, the body is unable to put insulin into the blood to match up with glucose. This is the most common form of diabetes in dogs.

Type II: comparable to non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM) in humans. It causes normal to high insulin concentrations with a decreased amount of insulin secreted after a glucose load. In other words, there is usually a high or normal amount of insulin circulating throughout the blood, except after a meal when insulin is needed to bind with glucose. Insulin is not always needed with this type of diabetes.

Type III: usually seen with hormonally-induced diabetes and is similar to impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in humans. Hormones or medications can cause interference with insulin and cause glucose intolerance.

Understanding the difference between cats and dogs:
Cats: The most common causes of diabetes in cats include obesity, pancreatitis and a change in the pancreatic beta cells called amyloidosis. The onset of diabetes is usually middle age.

Dogs: This is most commonly an immune mediated disease with slow destruction of the beta cells. The progression occurs over time and usually 90% of the cells are lost before diabetes occurs. Other causes include genetic predisposition, chronic pancreatitis and medication-induced diabetes.

Breeds that are likely to develop diabetes include German Shepard dogs, Schnauzeers, Beagles, and Poodles. Golden Retrievers and Keshonds are more prone to juvenile diabetes.

Females are three times more likely to develop diabetes than males. Diabetes usually occurs around 6-9 years of age but can start earlier with juvenile diabetes.

What to look for:
Polyuria/Polydpsia (PU?PD): This means excessive urination and excessive thirst. The body eliminates excess blood glucose by filtering it through the kidneys and passing it into the urine. Water must be used to flush this excess glucose out of the body, and this is why you see excessive urine volume in a diabetic. Because so much water is being used to flush the excess glucose out of the body, the animal is thirsty and drinks a lot.

Polyphagia: This means excess hunger. Under these conditions, the body gets signals to start using stored fat and protein as energy sources. A diabetic animal often eats extra food because it is trying to supply its body with additional energy. But the food is not used efficiently, so even though the animal is eating a lot it is still losing weight.

Cataracts: 70% of dogs will develop cataracts in the first year to two years of diabetes. This is rare in cats.

Dropped hocks: Cats may develop a plantigrade stance where they appear to have dropped hind legs. This is directly related to the severity and duration of hyperglycemia. This may or may not improve with treatment.

If your veterinarian suspects that your cat or dog has diabetes, they will need to collect blood for analysis as well as an urine sample. Pets with diabetes also frequently develop urinary tract infections which can make managing the diabetes more difficult.

What is the treatment:
The number one cause of death in diabetic dogs and cats isn't the disease itself, but rather the owner's frustration with the disease. The goals of treatment are to eliminate the clinical signs of diabetes, prevent or slow progression of cataracts, prevent dangerous hypoglycemia, maintaining body weight and prevention of any other illness.

When your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, make sure you and your veterinarian take an appointment to talk about the following topics:
1. How to store insulin
2. How to give insulin
3. What types of food to feed and how often
4. How to recognize signs of hypoglycemia
5. How to react to hypoglycemia

Diet is a big part!
After your cat or dog is diagnosed with diabetes, he or she will need to go to twice-daily meal feeding. The reason for this is to ensure insulin is always given at the same time food is consumed. Your veterinarian will also recommend a specific diet for your pet. Diabetics require a special carbohydrates/fat/protein ratio. There are numerous prescription diets and a few regular brand foods that are appropriate. If you enjoy making your pet's food at home, there are recipes available and your veterinarian should be able to provide you with these.

The dose of insulin that your veterinarian starts your pet on will likely increase over the first year. After starting insulin or changing a dose, blood glucose curves must be obtained to monitor how the glucose levels drop and rise during the day. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a plan to get your pet controlled. Diabetes is not a simple disease to manage, but once a patient is controlled they can remain well managed for years.

If you have questions or suspect your pet might be diabetic, speak to your veterinarian immediately.

Trick-Or-Treating With Your Pets

It's almost Halloween and this is a fun night for your pet to go out and walk the neighborhood with your family. Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe!

*Make sure everyone can see your dog
Light up collars and reflective materials on your pet are the best way to make sure cars and people can see your dog coming. Most pet stores carry clip on flashing lights that can be attached to the collar also.

*Unfriendly dogs should be left at home
If you know your dog is very protective around strangers or is dog aggressive, please leave him at home. You are putting children, other pets and your dog in danger by taking him in the dark and exposing him to new people and dogs.

*Keep Trick-or-Treat bags out of reach of your dog
Chocolate and candy are great treats for your kids, but not your dog. When walking door-to-door or riding around in a car, make sure the dog cannot reach into a trick-or-treat bag.

*Chose your pet's costume wisely
A mummy is a very cute costume for a Standard Poodle, but if halfway through the night he begins to chew off and swallow parts of the costume, you are going to have a big problem the next day. Pieces of fabric can become trapped in the dog's stomach and not allow anything to pass. A foreign body obstruction requires surgery to remove the material. The same idea is true for costumes with metal pieces which may be fun for the dog to chew on, but don't pass easily through the GI tract if swallowed.

*Choose the right event for your pets to attend
Halloween is a fun night to be shared with friends, family and our four-legged friends. Please choose to bring them to events where they will be well watched. With the distractions of candy, costumes and new people, it is not uncommon for dogs to become lost on Halloween. If your dog does not like new people at the door or the sound of the doorbell, a crate may be the best place for your pet while kids are trick-or-treating. Also, keep in mind that haunted trails where a dog may become spooked or become aggressive out of fear are not appropriate.

I hope these tips help everyone and their dogs have a fun and safe Halloween!

Separation Anxiety- Explained and Discussed

Coming home to a shredded pillow or scratches on the front door might be more than a nuisance, it could be the first sign that your dog is suffering from a medical condition called Separation Anxiety.

What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a physiologic panic attack, outside of your dog's control. It is caused by a hyper-attachment to an individual or other pet. The attack may occur when a pet is left alone or when a particular person leaves. Have you ever been so worried and upset over something you can barely function? This is how your dog feels during separation anxiety.

Do many dogs have Separation Anxiety?
Statistics show that about 20% of dogs are affected. That means one in every 5 dogs you see at the dog park has some degree of separation anxiety.

Why does a dog develop Separation Anxiety?
We often do not know the cause of separation anxiety in dogs and often times they may be anxious in other ways as well. The anxiety related to separation may have started after being boarded at a kennel, after moving to a new home or after a tragic event. Other anxious behaviors include storm phobia or extreme fear of vacuum cleaners.

How do I know if my dog has Separation Anxiety?
Signs can be very mild or very severe. Often times owner's won't know the dog has separation anxiety until the neighbors mention that the dog howls consistently while they are gone. In more severe cases, dogs may destroy furniture or even chew through drywall. For some pets, you don't have to leave to see signs of anxiety. If you can't go to the bathroom without your pet following behind you, you're seeing separation anxiety! A dog that is blocking the door or rushing an owner to the dog is also displaying signs of separation anxiety.

What are the treatments for Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is not a behavioral problem but a physiologic reaction instead. Successful treatment involves teaching the dog to relax when you leave the house, making sure to pair your departure and with pleasurable experiences. It is important to eliminate punishment due to the anxiety. Often times treatment will involve medications to help avoid the panic attack. Some cases involve short term medications while others will require long term medications.

What can you do right now to help with the anxiety?

Your veterinarian may recommend some medications to start your dog on for long term use, but these can take up to 4 weeks to show an effect. In the mean time you can start by hiding all of the triggers that signal your departure to your dog. These often include your purse, keys, or wallet. My dogs know which bag I take when I leave for work and will react differently than when I only pick up my keys. Do not confine your dog to a crate to control anxiety, unless they are already used to it and are comfortable in the crate. Kongs, irresistible toys that are very durable, are great to give dogs before you leave because it can help make leaving a pleasurable experience. One other thing you can do is ignoring your dog for 5 minutes before you leave and waiting until she calms down when you get home. This will help minimize the difference between when you are staying home and when you are leaving.


Can you cure Separation Anxiety?
It is unlikely that you will ever cure separation anxiety in your dog but you can make the situation less stressful over time. It is important to recognize separation anxiety early and speak to your veterinarian about what you can do.

Kids and Pets

These pictures are from an email I received but they were too cute to not pass on!

Why Dogs and Pickup Trucks Are A Scary Combination

We've all seen the pickup truck driving down the road with the dog running around in the bed. The dog seems so happy, taking in all the smells with the wind blowing in his face. But what if that dog sees something he wants NOW and jumps out the back of the truck and gets hit by a passing truck? Or even worse, if you thought you were being responsible by tying him in with a rope and he jumps out, now you're dragging him behind as you speed down the road. It is never OK to drive with an unrestrained pet in the bed of a pickup truck. "When you drive with a loose dog in the back of your truck, you’re taking a huge risk and placing your dog and other motorists in danger,” says Chuck Mai, a vice president with AAA Oklahoma. “Even if a dog is trained, we’re talking about an animal who responds to stimuli on impulse. This irresponsible decision can start a deadly chain reaction on the road.” In the majority of towns and states, there are no laws preventing people from letting their pets ride unrestrained in pickup truck beds, so it's important that you make smart decisions on your own. (In fact, most states do not have laws preventing people from riding there either) If you have a dog that needs ride in the bed, secure a large crate in the bed so that it will not shift during turns. The dog should remain in the crate at all times. If you can avoid having a pet in the bed of your truck, that is best. If you see an unrestrained pet in the back of a moving pickup truck, try to obtain a license plate number and contact your local police.

Pet Obesity... A BIG Problem!

As more Americans struggle to manage their own weight, our pets seem to be struggling as well. A new study that came out in February announced that more than half of U.S. dogs and cats are overweight or obese. "Obese" is defined as weighing 30% above the normal weight, which would describe 20% of all cats and dogs according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

Owners overfeeding pets and pets not being exercised enough are the major problems. Add to that owners who are not aware of the serious health problems caused by excess weight and you can appreciate why the problem is spiraling out of control.

Obesity in pets is such an easily prevented disease that it is now being compared to smoking in humans. It is truly the single most preventable disease that our pets face. Steven Budsberg, director of clinical research at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine says with obesity, "There is the high cost to people, and it's self induced. I never met a German Shepard who could open the refrigerator or food bag and pour himself another bowl."

Obesity is not only detrimental to pets health, it is also costly. Petplan USA, a pet insurance company, says five of the top insurance claims all have a close correlation to obesity. Cruciate ruptures can cost approximately $1500 and tend to occur more often when large breed dogs are overweight.

There are two problems with addressing pet obesity in the veterinary world. The first is that veterinarians often avoid the topic, as they don't want to make owners feel bad and it is hard to tell an overweight owner that their pet is overweight. The other half of the problem is that often times, owners don't feel that their pets are overweight. Pfizer Inc.'s Animal Health business showed that 47% of veterinarians felt their canine patients were obese while only 17% of dog owners agreed.

It's often hard to figure out what a dog should weigh, but try to imagine this: A 90-pound female Labrador Retriever is roughly equivalent to a 186-pound woman who is 5-foot, 4-inches tall, which would be considered obese. Or if you have a cat, a 15 pound Domestic Shorthair is comparable to a 254 pound man who is 5-foot-9.

If you are wondering how much you should be feeding your cats and dogs, don't go to the back of the bag as they can typically overfeed by 25%. And regular pet food and treat products are not required to list the calories on the bag. Working with your veterinarian to feed measured amounts of food and low calorie treats is the best way to make sure you aren't overfeeding.

The other part to battling pet obesity is keeping them physically active. And an active pet generally results in an active owner, which is great all around. Not every dog and cat requires the same amount of exercise. Larger breeds such as Labradors and German shepherds need 30 to 60 minutes of active play daily, vets say, or two to three miles of walking. Smaller breeds still require about 15 to 30 minutes of play, while cats benefit from short five- to 15-minute bursts of activity like chasing toys.

For more information on pet obesity, visit the following websites:
Pet Obesity Prevention
Pet Slim Down

Treating Hyperthyroid Cats Without Pills

If you have a cat with Hyperthyroidism, a disease where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, you understand the frustration of trying to control the disease. Radioactive medicine is one treatment option, but can be expensive for some owners and not all cats qualify for the treatment because of underlying conditions. The other option is twice a day medication, for the duration of the cat's life. That will be the case until Hill's releases a new prescription diet designed to treat Hyperthyroidism in cats by just switching the diet.

The new diet manages iodine intake to control thyroid hormone production and will eliminate the need for oral medications.

The product helps restore thyroid health by reducing T4 hormone production, and it helps support kidney health by controlling phosphorus and sodium. The product is also said to help support urinary tract health through reduced magnesium and moderate urine pH target (6.4 – 6.6). Hill's claims the food can correct thyroid health in 3 weeks. The standard T4 blood test will be used by your veterinarian to determine if the food is working correctly.

The food will be released in October and will be available in dry and wet formulas. I am very interested to see the data and research on the food but if this really works, it will be a great alternative for so many cat owners!

Preparing for Hurricane Irene

Everyone is starting to prepare for Hurricane Irene, and if you haven't started checking Weather.com hourly, it's time that you did! The hurricane is posing a major threat to the eastern seaboard and many beach towns are evacuating. As you prepare for the hurricane, don't forget to prepare for your pets too! Here are some reminders as we head into the weekend....


1. If you pets are on daily prescriptions or prescription foods, call your vet today to get a refill. Some items may have to be ordered, but you do not want to run out if clinics are closed due to power outages or weather.


2. Make sure you have enough food AND water to get you through several days to possibly a week. If your pets eat wet or canned food, remember you will need to keep this food cool, even if the power is out.

3. Be careful when walking pets outside under tall trees and in areas of high or fast moving water. Also be sure to have your pet's collars with identification on them at all times.

4. Instructions for meals and medications should be ready. Include what foods they may be allergic too as well as when and how any medications are given. Always make sure you have a current medical history for each pet as well.

5. You may not be able to go outside. In the event you must stay inside for days, be sure to keep pets separated to help keep a clean environment in the home. Pets may need to be crated or kept in separate rooms.

6. Pets feed off of our stress and anxiety and keeping a normal routine is the best thing you can do. Have familiar toys, blankets and beds on hand to help them stay calm.

I hope everyone has a safe weekend!

Which is worse? Fleas or Bed Bugs?

If you said bed bugs.... you're WRONG! And it's important you know why!

In a recent study done by Banfield Pet Hospital, 3 out of 4 pet owners said they were aware about the dangers of fleas but only 11% felt it was worse to have fleas than bed bugs. Fleas transmit diseases to humans, unlike bed bugs. These diseases can be very serious, especially with younger children or immune compromised adults. One serious bacterial disease that fleas carry is caused by Yersinia pestis, also known as Plague. And a dog recently tested positive for Plague in Mexico so the threat isn't too far away.

77& of pet owners allow their pets to sleep in their beds but only 16% of these were worried about fleas. Are you one of them? Fleas are easy to treat and easier to prevent and it's important that everyone knows this.

According to the same study, flea infestations have increased an average of 14% in dogs and cats since 2006. Don't be a statistic! Use monthly flea protection on your pets every month, even if you don't see fleas.

Is your dog getting better parasite protection than your cat?

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has recently reported that cats are not as well protected from parasites as their dog counterparts. In a study looking at the incidence of Roundworms in fecal samples from cats and dogs, 6% of cats had eggs from the feline roundworm versus only 2.9% of dogs having eggs of the canine roundworm. This was consistent for 46 states. (Alaska, Arizona, California and Nevada had higher rates in dogs than cats)

When looking at heartworms, a higher percentage of cats tested positive in every state except Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas. Dogs are routinely tested for heartworms every year as part of the annual wellness exam but often times cats are only tested when they are sick. Because of this, there may be even more heartworm positive cats than the study showed. Unlike dogs, cats are affected by a much lower worm burden than dogs and there is no treatment for cats.

There are a variety of products that are labeled to protect cats from heartworms and intestinal parasites including roundworms. Two of these are Heartgard for cats and Revolution. Talk to your veterinarian today about these products and start protecting your cats like they deserve!

Top 10 Weirdest Cat and Dog Names

Bella and Bailey are 2 of the most common dog names at our practice and Whiskers and Smokey are common cat names. Yesterday when a dog by the name of Ducks came in, I thought that was bizarre. But then I found the list of this year's strangest cat and dog names and I was impressed!

Here they are.... the 10 weirdest names that you and I never would have thought of!

DOGS:
1. Almost-A-Dog (Seriously, this is a teacup Yorkie)
2. Franco Furter
3. Stinkie McStinkerson
4. Sir Seamus McPoop
5. Audrey Shepburn
6. Dewey Decimell
7. Knuckles Capone
8. Beagle Lugosi
9. Shooter McLovin
10. Uzi Duzi Du


CATS:
1. Ozzy Pawsbourne
2. Mr. Meowgi
3. Murderface
4. Fuglee
5. Scruffernutter
6. Corporal Cuddles
7. Cat Masterson
8. Spam
9. Tape W. Orm
10. Louisiana Purchase

See the full list with pictures by clicking HERE

The Dangers of Leaving Pets in your Car

Brutus, Duke, Coco, Lola and Jake are the names of 5 pets that died last year when owners left them in the car to run errands, go shopping or visit friends. The saddest part about their deaths is that they were 100% avoidable.


An independent study was recently done to prove that as a car sits outside, the temperature steadily increases and cracking the window doesn't help. Click here to see a detailed chart of the estimated temperature inside your car over time.

But the heat is not the only danger to your pet. The majority of pet owners do not properly restrain or use any form of restraint with their pets in the car. This can lead to fatalities if the vehicle must come to a sudden stop or if it is involved in a collision. Pets in the car also serve as a distraction to the driver, forcing them to take their eyes off the road. According to a 2010 American Automobile Association (AAA) survey, 2 out of 3 owners engage in distracting behaviors (playing with, feeding or petting their dog, or letting their dog sit in their lap) when pets are in the car...and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 20% of injury crashes involve distracted driving.

Click HERE for more information on distracted driving.

Veterinarians are asking you to help keep you and your pet safe and only take your pets in the car when you absolutely must. We don't want your cat or dog's name included in our list next year.

How can you help prevent these injuries and deaths?

* Learn more about keeping your pet safe during travel
* Set a good example by leaving your pet(s) at home except when you need to have them in the vehicle
* Set a good example by always properly restraining your own pet(s) while in a vehicle
* Educate family and friends about these issues and how they can keep their pet(s) safe

Getting Pets Ready for 4th of July

It's almost July 4th and the phone calls for sedatives for pets are coming in! If your dog is freaked out during fireworks shows, they are not alone. Many clients say their pets hide under tables or in closets, shake constantly, or exhibit other signs of anxiety. Some pets have even been known to display destructive behaviors, destroying furniture or scratching doors. A lot of pets even run away from home during fireworks in an attempt to get away from the loud noise.

To help ensure your pet's safety, keep them indoors during fireworks shows if you know they will be anxious. Many dogs will attempt to dig under fences or go over gates and so during these times, a yard may not be enough.

It is a good idea to make sure pets have their collars on with identifying tags in case they do get out and run away during a fireworks show. This is another time that microchipping pets is very helpful.


If you know your pet has anxiety attacks during fireworks shows, contact your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe an anti-anxiety or sedating medication to help your pet. Most vets may require an office visit prior to a prescription if they have not seen your pet in some time or if this is a new condition.

If you are going to be shooting off fireworks from your house, make sure all pets are far away from where they will be launched. It is not funny to put fireworks or other explosives near pets and they can be severely burned if you are not careful. Never shoot off any explosive in the direction of a pet. And of course, do not let your pets have access to be able to ingest any explosive.

The 4th of July weekend is a great time to get together with friends and family and it is important to make sure we are looking after our safety as well as that of our pets.

Personalizing for Pets

It seems like you can put your name or initials anywhere you want these days. I passed a car on the highway that had a girl's initials in a fancy script and someone pulled their iPad out of a monogrammed case at Starbucks yesterday. What about our pets? I think they deserve their own personalized accessories as well!

Here are a few of my favorite finds:

Embroidered sweaters from Cricketlane.com



Collars from Etsy.com


Personalized Dog Beds from Orvis


Personalized Pet Bowls from Mypamperedpetgifts.com


And even Personalized Paw Wiper Towels from Mypersonalizedpet.com

Pets Making A Difference In Our Lives

It's amazing how big of a role pets are playing in our lives. Even as I look back on my family's dogs growing up, the transition from pet to family member is clear. Our first Lab, Corkey, lived in a large pen in the backyard with a dog house. The next Lab,Cocoa, lived in the garage and was allowed to come in the house occasionally. Our current Lab, Molly, spent her first night in our home in my bed and now sleeps in the bedroom on her own, expensive throne. We've given more and more to our pets over the years, but you might be surprised by the many ways our pets are actually giving back to us.

Pets Help to Lower Blood Pressure
A recent study at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that people with hypertension who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet. (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo)

Pets Help to Reduce Stress
Walking with a pet helps to sooth nerves and offers instant relaxation. Studies conducted worldwide have shown that the impact of a stressful situation is lesser on pet owners, especially males, than on those who do not own a pet. (Josephine M. Wills, Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, United Kingdom)

Pets Help to Prevent Heart Disease
Because pets provide people with faithful companionship, research shows they may also provide their owners with greater psychological stability, thus a measure of protection from heart disease. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

Pets Help to Lower Health Care Costs
People with pets actually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

Pets Help to Fight Depression
Pets help fight depression and loneliness, promoting an interest in life. When seniors face adversity or trauma, affection from pets takes on great meaning. Their bonding behavior can foster a sense of security. (Between Pets and People: The Importance of Animal Companionship)

So the next time you feel bad about buying your pet an expensive new bed or toy, don't. They are actually giving back to you and your health every day!

It's Heating Up Outside... How to Keep Your Pets Cool

It seems like overnight, the temperatures have shot up into the 90's reaching record highs. This drastic change in heat and humidity is tough on us, but also on our pets! It's very important to anticipate the hot weather and know how to keep your pets cool this summer. Here's a quick break down on how to keep your cats and dogs cool this summer!

Cats:
* Cats are NOT small dogs! They do not pant to help themselves cool down. In fact, they sweat through their paws. On really hot days you might even notice there are wet paw prints through the house. This is an early sign that your cat's temperature is rising. You may also notice an excessive amount of grooming as a cat gets hotter.

* Bathing cats can be difficult and is often times frustrating. Instead, help keep long haired cats cool by shaving their belly or having a groomer give the cat a lion cut for the summer.

* Allow access to cool surfaces such as tile in the bathroom or kitchen. Cats will often lay on these surfaces to help cool themselves down.

* If your cat is an outside cat, make sure there is constant access to shade and water. Leaving the garage door open with many bowls of water is a great idea.

* Some cats enjoy ice cubes in their water and slow moving fans to keep cool as well.

Dogs:
* ALWAYS PROVIDE CONSTANT ACCESS TO WATER AND SHADE! This is the most important thing you can do.

* Providing plastic pools and sprinklers are a fun way for dogs to cool off. Make sure to frequently change the water in the pools, as standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

* Limit time outside for certain breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, other short nosed dogs) and limit activity outside for all dogs on very hot and humid days.

* Shaving the coat on long coated dogs can drastically help dogs cool off. Older and smaller dogs have a more difficult time at thermoregulation, keeping themselves cool. Giving them a shorter hair cut in the summer can make a big difference.

All Pets:
DO NOT leave your pet unattended in a car during the summer. Even if the windows are down and the car is parked in the shade, cars can heat up very quickly and this can be fatal to your pet. Many police are now ticketing owners who leave their pets in the car during the summer.

If you suspect your pet has overheated:
This is often a fatal condition. Call your veterinarian immediately. It is important that the pet receives immediate medical attention to help cool down, rehydrate and protect the GI tract, heart, and kidneys. Often times these are critical cases that result in clotting disorders and ultimately death. If you try to cool your pet down yourself, DO NOT submerge them in a bath of ice water. The cooling needs to be done slowly to prevent the temperature from dropping too low.

As always, if you have questions about keeping your pets cool or heat stroke, call your veterinarian.

Understanding Vaccines for your Cat

Vaccines for Your Cat

Core Vaccines are those vaccines which every cat should receive, regardless of exposure to other cats. These include distemper (feline panleukopenia), calicivirus and herpesvirus (feline viral rhinotracheitis). These are combined in the “feline distemper shot”, given as a series of vaccinations as a kitten then an “adult booster” a year later. Rabies is also given to every cat. Kittens get one dose, then a booster a year later. Depending on the rabies vaccination used, the rabies booster is given every 1 to 3 years as an adult. .

Feline Leukemia (FeLV) is a deadly virus that infects cats worldwide. It causes a variety of symptoms including cancers, anemia, and immunosuppression, leading to infections with other diseases. Early in the course of the disease, cats can have no symptoms for months to years, but can be infective to other cats. It cannot be transmitted to people and has no relation to leukemias that happen in people. Cats pick up the virus from direct contact with another infected cat, usually through grooming, biting, or sharing food or water dishes. It can also be passed from a mother cat to her kittens. Although young cats and kittens are most susceptible to the virus, adult cats can be infected as well.

The feline leukemia vaccine is recommended for cats and kittens who will go outdoors, potentially contacting other cats who may be infected. It is also recommended for cats in multiple-cat households where the introduction of new cats is common, and for cats living with a FeLV-infected cat. All cats should be tested for FeLV prior to vaccination, since the vaccine will not provide protection if your cat has already been exposed. All new cats should be tested prior to bringing them into your household. If you have a kitten and are not sure it will be kept indoors, you should have the vaccine until you know for sure. The vaccine is given as a series of 2 shots, 3-4 weeks apart, and then an annual booster.

About Feline Leukemia Testing: All cats should be tested at least once in their lives for FeLV (feline leukemia) and FIV (feline AIDs). This is commonly referred to as the “combo test”. Both viruses are contagious to other cats, and if we know that your cat is positive we can make recommendations for his/her health as well as recommendations to reduce the risk of infection to other cats around him/her. If your cat has been going outdoors and is not currently vaccinated, a test is recommended before starting the Feline Leukemia vaccine.

Risks of vaccination: in general, vaccines may cause localized pain or swelling, low grade transient fever, allergic reactions such as swelling of lips and eyelids, and mild lethargy. With any vaccine, anaphylaxis (a potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction) may occur. In cats, this is generally seen as severe vomiting and diarrhea or wheezing, usually within half an hour of receiving the vaccine. If this occurs, let your veterinarian know immediately. While there is no direct cause and effect relationship between vaccinations and certain immune-mediated diseases, this continues to be investigated. Overall, the risk of any reaction is quite small compared to the risk of the diseases the vaccines protect against.

Kitty Kindergarten? Some experts say YES!

Everyone knows that there is no predicting the personality of a cat. Some are social and love belly rubs and being a part of the family while others are nocturnal animals that seem to hide when more than one person is in the room. As far as cats in the clinic, some will purr and seem at ease while others give me about 5 seconds to work with. Some days I feel like we are so far from domesticating cats!

Kitty Kindergarten classes were developed to help kittens become better socialized and learn what behaviors are desired (playing chase with toys) and which ones are not (waking you up at 2 am by biting you). Cats are easily stressed and even the smallest things to us can set off behaviors including scratching furniture and urinating inappropriately. Training and socialization can help educate owners about early signs of stress and help decrease the severity of strike out behaviors.

Class sizes are small, most under 10 people, with the goal of keeping the group focused as they try to work with young kittens. Costs range from $25-$50. The classes are great for owners too, as they discuss general wellness for kittens and ways to enrich the environment for cats at home. Common diseases and illnesses may also be discussed during the classes. The idea may seem crazy when you sign up, but the majority of those who enroll in a Kitty Kindergarten class are very thrilled with the value.

Kitty classes may take a while to really gain as much popularity as puppy training classes, but with time I anticipate they will be just as popular. And as it is with puppies, it is so important to train and socialize pets while impressionable to help prevent undesired behaviors which often lead to owners becoming frustrated and taking the pets to shelters.

Check with your veterinarian about Kitty Kindergarten classes in your area and get started today!

Mississippi Residents Remind Us of the Importance of Microchips For Pets

Earlier I discussed the importance of microchips and how they work and now as residents in the Mississippi River areas are being forced to evacuate due to flooding, the microchips might be their best hope of reconnecting with their pets. As residents are being forced to leaves their home with short notice, many have no other options but to take their pets to shelters. All shelters are equipped with scanners that can scan any cat or dog that is microchipped. The scanners can pull up the unique identification number for each pet and then the number can be traced to the owner. This is the best way to reconnect pet and owner.

Other than microchips, there are more things you can do to help you reconnect with your pet. If you have to leave your pet behind in any emergency situation, always take pictures of your pets and pictures of you with your pets. It is not uncommon for there to be a dispute over a pet later. Having pictures with you and your pets helps clear up any dispute about who the cat or dog belongs to.

In the best-case scenario, one would be able to arrange ahead of time for pets to be able to leave with them and stay at the same accommodations. But emergencies never come when we are ready. Always having a friend or relative out of town that is willing to take your pets, even if you do not stay with them, is a great situation to be in. Regardless of the direction you and your pets are going in, make sure you have plenty of food for them as well as leashes and collars. Medical histories and vaccine records are also a great idea.

Flooding and evacuations are happening now in the south. To help ease some of the financial burden of caring for animals during disasters, the Board of Animal Health worked with the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association to set up the Mississippi Animal Disaster Relief Fund. The fund provides assistance to Mississippians during recovery from animal-related disasters and supports efforts to prevent and protect animal health and welfare in disasters.

For more information on preparing pets for evacuation, visit www.mbah.state.ms.us/emergency_programs/saving_family_brochure.pdf.

Donations can be made to the Mississippi Animal Disaster Relief Fund by sending a check to Mississippi Animal Disaster Relief Fund, c/o The Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, Box 964, Trussville AL 35173.

Traveling with your pet? Here are some tips!

It's becoming more frequent that my clients are calling or coming in with questions about taking their pets on vacation with them. And with summer just around the corner, I expect this trend to continue. But people aren't just taking them on road trips or to camp. More and more our pets are flying or taking trains and staying in hotels and even boats!


PetRelocation.com, a pet travel service provider, announced that 60 percent of over 10,000 pet owners polled traveled with pets during 2010. The survey also shows that 48 percent of the pet owners spends less than $500 annually on pet travel-related products and services. However, almost 30% of pet owners said they spend $1000 or more. Anyone who has had to pay a pet sitter or pay to board their pets knows that leaving them home isn't the cheapest option anymore.

Before your travel with your pets, make sure you get copies of vaccine records and any other important medical history pertaining to your pet. It is also a good idea to make sure you have enough medication to last through the duration of the trip and if flea/tick or heartworm prevention needs to be applied, you might want to give these before you go.



Some pets become extremely stressed out while traveling and other can become very motion sick. Talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications for any pets that get upset on car rides or in carriers when flying. Given appropriately, these can ensure a safe, calm trip for everyone. If your pet gets motion sick, there is now an oral medication that can be given prior to leaving that works to prevent vomiting. All airlines have guidelines set in place for specific breeds being held in the cargo areas. Please read these carefully before you fly.

Read more about the pet travel statistics by clicking HERE

The AVMA has a great checklist to read over before you travel with your pet. To read their recommendations, click AVMA HERE

Are You Suffering from Allergies? Your Dog May Be Too!

This time of the year is awful for me. I get the itchy eyes, the nasal congestion and my raspy voice is at an all time extreme. Without my daily anti-histamine, I can barely function and I'm not alone. Reports are saying that this year is the worst for allergy sufferers. While we complain about how we feel, what about our pets? Are they immune to seasonal allergies?

The answer is NO! Cats, dogs and horses can all develop seasonal allergies. True seasonal allergies start to manifest themselves after the animal has been exposed to the allergen at least once, usually requiring that they are at least a year old. Allergic symptoms are caused by specialized cells with receptors that react to Ig-E, an antibody made in response to foreign substances. In the spring, trees, flowers, and grasses can all produce allergens that stimulate Ig-E production. Allergic patients either produce too much Ig-E or are more sensitive to it. In people, the highest concentration of Ig-E receptors is in the upper respiratory passages. That’s why we react with sneezing and sinus congestion. In dogs, the highest concentration is found in the ear canals and skin. As a result, allergies most frequently present as inflammation in the ears or itching skin.

So the early signs you see at home include licking the paws, rubbing the face on the ground and shaking or pawing at the ears. While the skin may still look normal while these behaviors are starting, they are the first indication that your pet is suffering from seasonal allergies. Excessive licking/scratching/head shaking leads to the infection which is usually the main reason your pet is seen by a veterinarian.

Not every skin or ear infection can be treated the same even if the primary cause was allergies. It is important to do diagnostic tests to determine what kind of bacteria is causing the skin or ear infection and also equally important to determine if there is a yeast, or fungal, component which would need an antifungal medication.




Weekly ear cleanings and anti-histamines are the first step to help prevent severe infections. If your pet has a history of allergy associated ear or skin infections, please contact them today to make sure you are working to prevent infections this year!

Kitty of Marine Corps Family needs a home!

Can you help? Read more about this wonderful kitty below!!

The family is being sent to Singapore and can’t bring their beloved cat. Can you save the day and adopt this gorgeous, adorable, snuggly Persian? He’s an older cat, but that’s all the more reason he needs a safe place to go! He’s in good health, neutered, up-to-date on shots. He might be shy the first time you meet him, but once he gets to used to you, he’s a lover! A real cuddle-bear who’ll happily follow you around.


If you can help, please contact Dee Matthews at 1-808-753-7311or Emilykikabilyou@yahoo.com

To see his picture and get more information visit this website: CLICK HERE

Donate Pet Items for Tornado Victims

Companion Animal Hospital in Phenix City, Alabama is collecting pet items as donations after the devastating tornadoes blew through the south last week, leaving many in need.






Items being accepted include:
Food and water bowls
Litter pans
Leashes and collars
Bedding and toys
Treats and food

Items can be shipped to 3720 Highway 431 North, Phenix City, Alabama 36867.

Lori Boisclair, of Companion Animal Hospital, says the shelters are needy and not picky. They are seeking out all pet-related items. Many shelters have taken in large numbers of homeless animals since the tornadoes struck last week.

"The people need help, too, of course, but I haven't heard much about the animals," Lori said. All items will be delivered May 13.

National Pet Week

May 1-7 marks the 30th annual National Pet Week!

The theme this year is “Save a Life—Adopt a Pet.” National Pet Week was created to celebrate the importance of the human/animal bond and promote responsible pet ownership.

Many times when we think of pet adoption, people think about dogs, but I’d like to remind you that a variety of pets, such as cats, ferrets, rabbits, fish and lizards can bring special joy to your household.

Every veterinarian has a story of a client that adopted a pet to “save its life” yet spends every visit telling the veterinarian just how much unexpected joy their new pet has brought into their lives.


National Pet Week is a special week is set aside by the American Veterinary Medical Association and its members to remind pet owners that their companions rely on us for everything. Pets need annual checkups, proper nutrition, dental care, exercise, fun and even a plan for when disaster strikes.

This National Pet Week, talk with your veterinarian about what is involved in responsible pet ownership and determine if this National Pet Week is a good time for you add a new pet to your household. The AVMA, your state veterinary medical association and your local veterinarian have tremendous resources for you. Visit www.avma.org for information about National Pet Week and responsible pet ownership.

Click HERE for great ideas of ways to celebrate National Pet Week in the Classroom!

Click HERE for great information for every pet owner!!

What you need to know about your Geriatric Pet

As more and more research is being done about the human aging process and we are getting better at diagnosing and treating Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), we are also able to do a better job using preventative medicine to keep our pets healthy longer.

Pet's lives are divided into 4 groups: Pediatric (0-1 years), Adult (1-6 years), Senior (7-10 years) and Geriatric (10+ years). It is during the Adult to Senior transition that age related diseases begin to show and us, as veterinarians, need to be doing our best to diagnose them and start treatment. In general, cats live longer than dogs, small dogs live longer than large dogs. See the Human/Pet Age Analogy chart below:



Aging is not a disease but a complex process influenced by genetics, environment, stress and nutrition. Genetics are responsible for 30-35% of the aging process, and it is something we have little control over. Environment, stress and nutrition are all areas that we directly influence and have the ability to improve for our pets. Preventative medicine is the best way to diagnose early signs of a disease process beginning and includes regular physical exams as well as routine screening blood-work and urinalysis reports. Good nutrition with a diet high in anti-oxidants and regular exercise are very beneficial. Several studies have shown that 2, 10 minute daily walks can increase a patient's mental attitude by increasing oxygen to the brain and increasing chemical levels in the brain. When considering an anti-oxidant to give your pet, please consult your veterinarian for advice. As a general rule, all supplements should contain a lot # and expiration date.

Changes associated with aging include:
1. Dryness of tissues including decreased tear production and less saliva in the mouth
2. Steady decrease in organ function
3. Decreased oxygen to tissues throughout the body
4. Changes in the way cells function
5. Decreased immune competence
6. Personality alterations including increased irritability or confusion


Some specific things you need to know about your older pet:


1. Geriatric animals are not as effective at thermoregulation. This means they develop cold intolerance during the winter months or heat intolerance in the summer. As our pets get older, they have a decreased ability to pant which, in the end, can lead to heat stroke. Pets that respond to "cool ambient temperatures" may have difficulty sleeping, do not want to go outside and may tremble for no known reason.

2. Loss of muscle mass and function is inherent to aging. Older pets often have hind limb weakness or lameness as a result of the changes in the number of muscle cells as well as chronic changes in these cells. Low protein diets can also severely decrease the amount of muscle mass overtime. Diets high in essential amino acids and a regular exercise program are important for preventing pre-mature muscle loss.

3. Inappetence or a "picky eater" is not an uncommon complaint with geriatric pets. As they age, the sense of smell and ability to taste decrease by 25% and less saliva is produced. These changes combined with muscle atrophy of the muscles used during chewing may make some pets reluctant to eat dry, hard foods. Also, dry foods are not as aromatic as wet foods and so they may become less appetizing over time. Heating canned food to a warm temperature and transiting foods over a longer period can be very helpful when dealing with geriatric cats or dogs.

4. As with people, dogs and cats skin and coats change with age. There is a decrease of hair pigment and dryness of the skin and coat over time. Working with your veterinarian to find a bathing routine to moisturize and add oils to the skin can be very helpful when managing their coats. Older pets may also develop hyperkeratosis (crusting of the nose of paw pads) and lentigo (freckles in cat's mouths) over time.

5. Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) is a common disease in dogs and cats. The functional unit of the kidney is the nephron. Overtime, there is a steady loss of nephrons which leads to the progression of renal disease. Early detection of nephron loss is possible by doing routine blood-work and urinalysis screenings and can pick up changes before your pet begins to show you signs at home.

6. Hearing loss occurs in older pets as it does in people. In one study, 48% of dogs over 12 years of age had significant hearing deficits. By 16 years of age, 97% had significant hearing deficits including total dearness. A vibrating collar may be an option for your older pet to help get their attention. During early hearing loss, a high-frequency whistle may be another option.

7. There are chronic changes that occur in the eyes of pets. Cloudy eyes caused by normal aging of the lens (Lenticular Sclerosis) is different from cataracts which are dense changes in the lens. All pets with ocular changes should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

8. Liver decline chronic valvular disease and pulmonary decline are also all progressive diseases which develop over time. Regular exams by a veterinarian can help identify these early and lead to the best treatment and preventative choices.

9. The immune system of geriatric pets gradually deteriorates . This is a major factor to the increased frequency of morbidity and mortality among older pets. Dietary vitamin E and beta carotene can boost the immune system and are often incorporated into premium "senior" diets.

Behavioral changes in pets as they age may be attributed to specific brain diseases such as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. Owners often notice the pets cannot sleep through the night, they become restless or move from spot to spot. Other signs of CDS include inappropriate urination/defecation, increased vocalization, reclusiveness, disorientation/confusion or excessive grooming. It is important to discuss these changes with your veterinarian when they are first noticed. There are several medical therapy options that can significantly improve the quality of life of your pet suffering from CDS. Therapies include prescription diets (The Brain Diet from Hills), anti-oxidants, prescription medications and exercise.

I recommend semi-annual physical exams for all pets over 6 years of age and annual wellness screens including blood-work and an urinalysis report. These 3 things are crucial for early detection and treatment of diseases associated with aging. Speak to your veterinarian today about your geriatric cat or dog.

(This post was adapted from a Continuing Education lecture given by Dr. William Fortney from Kansas State University)

Pictures of Patients

These are some of my favorite patients!