MESSENGER POST MEDIA PetTales SUMMER EDITION Advertising supplement for June 25, 2015 2 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 How a pet friendly practice can make it easier How a “Cat Friendly” practice can make it easier
BY EMBER COUTURE, DVM & JOANNE HACH, DVM
While cats are the most popular companion Your veterinary team is at a disadvantage animal at this point, they lag far behind in assessing a cat’s health without this their canine counterparts in visits to their input. Observant families may provide key veterinarian. The goal of this article is information for this creature that is secretive to increase awareness of the benefits of by nature. seeking routine health care for kitties and The value of the second tool, the physical to explain how an American Association of exam, is drastically underestimated. Feline Practitioners (AAFP) certified “Feline Families are surprised at the amount of Friendly Practice” has worked to make this information our hands and eyes gather as sometimes stressful process easier. they roam from the nose to the tip of the Your veterinary healthcare team is dedicated tail. Every body system is assessed and the to preserving the health of your cat. information recorded in the patient’s record Examinations once or twice a year give us for future reference. the opportunity to gain familiarity with each Eyes: Is there conjunctivitis, pigment cat and to counsel their families on changing changes in any part of the eyes or retinal preventative recommendations. changes? Do both eyes look the same? Do Examinations also give us the chance to find they respond appropriately to stimuli like problems early when intervention may be light? less invasive. The more quickly we begin to Ears: Is there any redness, discharge or manage disease processes, or inappropriate itching? weight gain or behavior, the higher our chances of success. Lymph Nodes: Are they normal in size and texture? Two of the best tools we have to assess our patient’s needs are a thorough history obtained Thyroid Gland: Is it enlarged? from the patient’s family and a comprehensive Oral Health: How are the teeth, gums, mucous physical examination performed on each membranes and salivary glands? patient. Respiratory Tract - Nose to Lungs: Is there The history is obtained by discussing details of the sneezing or upper respiratory congestion or cat’s life and behaviors at home. The following are obstruction? Is there discharge from the nose? examples of questions that cat owners may be Is the breathing rate and effort normal? Are the asked to answer: lungs clear? Are the gums pink and moist? • Does your cat go outside or Circulatory system: Is the heart’s rhythm live with one that does? and rate normal? Is the color of the mucous Ember Couture, DVM Joanne Hach, DVM • Does he/she hunt? membranes and the quality of the pulses Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital normal? • Has the kitty traveled to other areas Monroe Veterinary Associates Monroe Veterinary Associates of the country or world? Skin and Haircoat: Are there parasites, growths or wounds? Is there hair loss or itching? • Has there been any change in water consumption or urination? The Abdomen: We feel for the liver, stomach, kidneys, lymph nodes, intestines and urinary bladder. Is there discomfort? Is everything in its correct position and of • What do you feed your cat? normal texture and size? • How is his/her appetite? Musculoskeletal System: Does the cat move around normally and comfortably? • Have you seen vomiting or diarrhea? Are any of the joints thickened, swollen or painful? Is the musculature normal? Is • Tell us about your litterbox management. there muscle wasting? Is there weakness? What does the cat weigh? Is this weight appropriate? The history helps identify health risks for the individual patient so that appropriate preventative measures may be recommended. For example, making sure that litterbox Neurological System: Does the mental state appear normal? Is his movement management is optimal might prevent inappropriate urination or defecation in the coordinated normal and coordinated? home. Continued on Page 8 ... PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 3 CANINE INFLUENZA — what you need to know
You may already be aware our patients from future of the canine influenza outbreaks of this strain and outbreak that occurred in the if there is cross protection Midwest earlier this year. This for the H3N2 strain then outbreak initially started in they may benefit from this Chicago, with the first cases as well. of cough starting in February. The CDC has information Currently thousands of about Canine Influenza for cases have been diagnosed pet owners, which can be based on history and clinical found at: www.cdc.gov/flu/ signs. Eight states have canine/index.htm confirmed cases through viral testing/isolation that Hopefully this outbreak will have been performed at not continue to spread into Cornell University (Ohio, other states. Please be aware Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, of the clinical signs related to Georgia, New York, Iowa and Canine Influenza. Massachusetts). There were • Lethargy five confirmed cases of canine • Depressed appetite influenza which resulted in death in the initial outbreak • Runny nose/nasal in Chicago. discharge The strain of the influenza • Cough virus is H3N2. This strain • Low-grade fever originated from Asia in avian More severe cases may have species and it has adapted to a high fever with increased infect dogs. It is not infective to people (as far as we know) and respiratory rates indicating the potential of pneumonia. it has no relation to the current outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N2 that originated in Washington State and If you think your dog may be showing signs related to Canine is now very prevalent in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and South Influenza, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon Dakota. as possible. Based on the current numbers the morbidity (those dogs who Dr. Herrema is the director of Penfield Veterinary Hospital. He get sick) is very high, but mortality (death as a result of infection) was awarded his VMD degree in 2003 from the University of seems to be lower (0.5 percent) than what has been documented Pennslyvania. Dr. Herrema was the recipient of the Leonard in Previous H3N8 outbreaks (five percent). Pearson Prize (the schools highest honor awarded to the fourth-year student who demonstrates the best potential for There are currently two vaccines on the market for the H3N8 professional and/or academic leadership in veterinary medicine) strain. They are Vanguard CIV made by Zoetis and Nobivac CIV. Erik Herrema, VMD and The American College of Veterinary Radiology Award at his There is no evidence to show that our current vaccines would Penfield Veterinary Hospital graduation. With professional interests in internal medicine, give cross protection for the H3N2 strain. The current vaccines we Monroe Veterinary Associates cardiology, radiology and ultrasonography, Dr. Herrema enjoys use for the H3N8 strain are safe and effective. So by vaccinating practicing general veterinary medicine and surgery at Penfield our at-risk dogs for this strain we would minimally be protecting Veterinary Hospital.
The Puppy Bumper The Puppy Bumper is a safety collar that attaches to the existing collar to keep your dog from squeezing between fence or balcony rails or under gates! The bumper is light, comfortable and machine washable and can be tumbled dry products for your on low heat. Made of 100% cotton material with polyester fiberfill stuffing and has ribbon loops on the inside of the neck hole that allow the bumper to be attached to the collar to keep it from being pushed over the dog’s head. Never fear for Fido’s safety near a fence again! Measure your dog’s neck to ensure correct sizing. $19.95 at amazon.com. 4 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015
HOME BANDAGING may not be best for your pet
There comes a point in every pet movement of the knee and ankle owner’s life when his or her little joints, the bandage will often roll furry one gets a cut or wound down the leg and fall off. Once on their body. Your first instinct, again, leg bandages that are too as a pet owner, is to wrap up tight can stop circulation to the the wound or stick a Band-Aid limb, causing necrosis similar to on it for protection and healing. that seen with the tail. Severe Our pets have a thick set of fur, skin infections underneath overly which makes it very tough for tight bandages are a less serious, homemade bandages to stay but still a very common problem in place long term. I am here to that can occur. tell you why it is so important to Sticky tape (such as duct tape) take your pet to your veterinarian is another method that we have to have bandages applied and seen pet owners use to try to maintained safely. keep bandages in place. This When attempting to bandage causes the animal’s fur to be pets at home, bandages are often ripped out whenever it moves or placed very tightly to make them when the bandage is finally taken stay in place. If properly cared off, which can be very painful. for, this technique may not cause Imagine if we had a ton of fur any major problems. However, underneath a Band-Aid when we if left unattended for extended went to pull it off, it would hurt periods of time (potentially a even worse than it already does! few hours to a few days), this Lastly, making sure the bandage technique can cause major issues. For example, “happy tail” is a stays clean and dry is essential. Placing a plastic bag over the wound on the tip of the tail that occurs when a dog wags its tail bandage is very important when going outside, especially with excessively and hits it against walls or objects repeatedly. This our weather! If the bandage gets wet, there is a higher likelihood can be a frustrating wound for pet owners because the wound that an infection could take hold in the wound. Changing the will typically break open repeatedly as the dog continues to wag bandage, if it does get wet, is important for all wound healing. its tail, unless it is bandaged. The tail is one of the most difficult appendages to bandage on our pets. If bandaged improperly, You may save a few dollars by applying a bandage on your pet at such as a very tight bandage left in place for too long, the tail can home, but if you don’t place it correctly and maintain the upkeep lose blood supply, allowing the process of necrosis to set in. This of the bandage, you may end up spending a lot more money on is when the tissue of the tail starts to die from lack of blood and severe infections or surgery. Please allow your veterinarian to oxygen. This can lead to a tail amputation surgery which needs handle the care of your pet’s wounds. to be performed under anesthesia. John Sampson, BVM&S Dr. Sampson will begin working at Greece Animal Hospital as an Greece Animal Hospital Associate veterinarian in July. He is currently a rotating intern at Other common areas for our pets to have wounds are their legs Monroe Veterinary Associates and paw pads. There are similar issues with bandaging these Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services. He attended Royal body parts as with the tail. The back legs can be very difficult to (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh, bandage due to their unique conformation, they are very wide near the hip joint Scotland where he graduated in 2014. He shares his home with an Antiguan Street and taper down to a very thin appendage at the foot. Due to this shape and the dog (mixed breed) named Ellie.
SnoozePal Cat Hammock Your cat will love hanging out on or in the sturdy SnoozePal which encloses a comfortable hammock to snuggle in, giving your cat an elevated spot off the floor. The sheltered hideaway has products for your porthole windows allowing your cat to keep an eye on everything. The fleece- lined hammock sling molds to your cat’s shape, is removable and washable. Made of durable heavy-duty corrugated cardboard. Ships flat and is easy to assemble.$39 at catabove.com. PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 5 BITE WOUNDS in dogs
As an emergency veterinarian I As stated earlier, the best see bite wounds in dogs almost thing to do is to get your dog on a daily basis. The severity of to your regular veterinarian or these wounds can vary from emergency facility as soon as small lacerations to serious, life- possible. threatening injuries. Frequently After your dog has they involve a larger dog biting been examined, wound a smaller dog and/or multiple exploration under sedation dogs attacking another dog. or general anesthesia is often The scenarios where bite recommended. I am often asked wounds occur are myriad, but why can’t we just clean the frequently occur at dog parks wound and put some sutures in or other areas where people it. The answer is that what you bring their pets to walk or run see on the surface is just the “tip off leash. They can occur while of the iceberg”. out walking your dog on the Bite wounds, by nature, cause street or even in your own yard crushing injury to the skin if there is a stray dog roaming and tissue below and carry your neighborhood that spots hair, debris, skin bacteria and your dog and considers it a bacteria from the biting dog’s threat or prey. mouth under the skin and embed These situations can also occur among your own dogs if there are them in the tissue. Because of this, bite wounds need to be ones that don’t get along or if some other dominance issue exits. surgically explored to remove damaged and contaminated The list goes on and on. tissue, as well as flushed with sterile saline to remove bacteria It is important is to know what to do in case your pet is bitten and debris. by another dog. There are many factors that affect what the Many of these bites will cause large pockets under the skin and best course of action is, but having your pet examined by a drains will be needed in order to prevent fluid accumulation veterinarian as soon as possible is probably the most important. after the wound is closed. Antibiotics and pain medications will If the dogs are actively fighting, do not try to grab or otherwise likely be prescribed and follow-up exams will be required to touch the fighting dogs. This can escalate things and you may be remove drains, monitor healing and remove sutures or staples. bitten as well. You can try to distract them with a loud noise such Joseph Wilder, DVM Some wounds will dehisce (break down) because crushing as banging pots or garbage can lids together, spraying the dogs Veterinary Specialists injuries can damage the blood supply to the skin. This may not with a hose or opening a large umbrella, folding chair or another & Emergency Services be apparent at the time of the initial injury. Repeated surgery, object to get between them. Monroe Veterinary Associates open wound management and skin grafts may be required for Once the fight is over, you can start first aid. If your dog is small, more severe wounds. it may be best to wrap them up in a towel and use something such as gauze or In summary, bite wounds in dogs are one of the more common injuries seen in other similar item to tie a muzzle around their mouth to prevent yourself from veterinary practice, can happen in almost any scenario imagined, have a wide being bitten. range of severity and often need to be surgically explored to assess and treat the You may use a leash or other similar object to tie around the mouth of a larger damaged tissue under the skin. Examination by a veterinarian is recommended dog and use a large blanket or comforter to wrap them up, if needed. If there are in almost every case with frequent follow up to monitor healing. any bleeding wounds, apply pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding. Avoid Board Certified in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary the urge to put anything on or in the wound, as most over the counter topical Practitioner, Dr. Joe Wilder has been a staff clinician at the Veterinary Specialists medications such as hydrogen peroxide are not meant to go in open wounds and & Emergency Services since 2002. Dr. Wilder received his Doctorate in Veterinary can cause more harm than good. Medicine from Cornell University in 1990. “You really should advertise in the next issue of Pet Tales...” It’s easy! Call 394.0770 today! 6 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015
expert tips on taking beautiful pet photos
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW
Trying to capture your pet’s personality on camera? It’s harder than it looks. Getting him in.” Watch out for odd trees or branches behind your subject that will appear pets to cooperate during a photo session requires skill, patience and a great eye. on film to be growing from his or her head. Bill Parsons and Natalia Martinez are the creative powerhouses behind Negative space is a lovely thing. Your subject does not need to be The Photo Lab, which specializes in pet photography. They’re in the center or be the largest thing in your photograph in order supported by their pack: dogs Corbin and Willow, and cats to steal the focus. “I love negative space, and a lot of our work Leeloo and RT. They offer some tips for readers to try at has the subject off to one side of the frame. Ideally, angle home. your pet’s body and attention towards the negative space Comfort equals cooperation A camera lens looks instead of looking away from it,” Martinez said. “The most important thing in our line of work is to make like a giant, black, Lighting is key. “To be a keen photographer, you have sure your pet feels safe and comfortable. Sometimes unblinking eye, and to learn how to see light and know how it will interact something pointed at their face, such as a camera or that can be scary with your subjects. Photographing in harsh sunlight in the middle of the day will only give you harsh colors even a phone, can make them feel uncomfortable and or threatening to cause them to look away,” said Martinez. “A camera lens and contrast and a very squinty-eyed subject. Shade is looks like a giant, black, unblinking eye, and that can be dogs especially.” lovely light to work in, and if it is hot out, your dogs will scary or threatening to dogs especially.” — Natalia Martinez appreciate it,” she said. Offering treats can help get pets interested in posing for a photo. Shooting at “magic hour” (one to two hours before or after sunrise or sunset) will give a photo beautiful light. Don’t be afraid of cloudy “Not every pet is food-motivated, but most are. If they are not, then maybe skies or overcast, foggy days. “The sky often acts as a giant soft box and it gives it is a toy or praise that helps them. Use what works to reward them for what you even, beautiful light for your subject. It looks lovely on human skin, too. If you are want them to do,” said Parsons. “Also keep in mind they have shorter attention shooting indoors, window light is my favorite,” Martinez said. spans than us. So if they stop cooperating, have a good break and come back to it. Maybe the next day, even.” Getting close Compose the shot Close-ups can be difficult, Parsons said: “Many animals inherently don’t look you in the eye because it can be taken as threatening. So for close-ups, use a long lens/ A few things to remember include: focal range, or spend some time helping the pet get used to the camera. Also utilize Watch where you crop. Cropping off toes, tails, tops of heads or other odd areas macro settings or lenses for super-close-up detail and with small animals.” will take away from your composition. Avoid cropping at joints, but feel free to get In the action creative with your point of view. Abstract angles can be very cool and different. “Pets in motion require, first and foremost, patience as well as trial and error,” Mind your background. “If you have a busy background, such as dappled light Parsons said. “A good practice is, plan your shot before you take it and be ready streaming through the trees on a bright sunny day and you have a black dog, it will when the pet reaches the spot in the motion you would like them to be. Take a be very hard to make him stand out from the background,” Martinez said. “Wide lot of pictures — some will come out, others will be outtakes. Make sure you are apertures can help in separating your subject from the background, but make sure focused, and if possible try to use a high ISO and/or shutter speed.” you have enough contrast between your pet and the environment you are placing PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 7
Avoiding DENTAL DISASTERS
Did you brush your teeth this • Masses in the mouth morning? How about your It is even possible for dental pet’s teeth? Did you know disease to be so severe that a pet’s that just like in humans, an jaw may break! animal’s teeth can accumulate bacteria that live in the What should you do if you see mouth? More than 80 percent these signs in your pet? A trip to of dogs and 70 percent of the veterinarian is in order. cats have dental disease by Your vet may suggest an Oral the age of three. The normal Assessment and Treatment (OAT, bacteria that live in the mouth also referred to as a “dental”). can adhere to the dentition, This procedure involves general forming a sticky layer called anesthesia, to allow dental x-rays a biofilm. In just three days, to be taken. These pictures allow this biofilm can start turning your vet to see what’s going on hard, transforming into tough below the surface of your pet’s material called plaque or pearly whites. During the OAT, dental tartar. Although gross veterinary staff will also check the to look at, this dental tartar is depth of the gingival sulcus (the not the worst problem in your area between the pet’s tooth and pet’s mouth. the gingiva). A very deep sulcus The real disease starts when the bacteria on the teeth and in can indicate disease. If any teeth need to be removed, now is the mouth migrate under the gums, or gingiva. This causes the time. Your vet will have discussed this with you before the local infection and inflammation of the gingiva (gingivitis). procedure or may call you during the OAT to give an update. The gingiva becomes red and sore. Once bacteria are under the The teeth will be scaled (to remove all of the tartar both above gums, they are able to reach the bloodstream and travel to other and below the gum line) and polished (to smooth them out organs in the body — including the kidneys, liver and heart! and get rid of any rough spots to which bacteria could adhere). Meanwhile, those pesky pathogens continue to wreak havoc Frequently, the mouth will also be rinsed with a special pet in the oral cavity. They can set up shop at the deep part of the mouthwash to help kill bacteria for extra kissable breath. tooth under the gums (the root), resulting in abscesses (pockets Once your pet comes home, what do you need to do to keep of pus) that cause pain and can loosen teeth. Bacteria can also that mouth sparkling? Daily brushing is recommended (or at get inside a tooth, killing the living tissue within. Elizabeth Ferderbar, DVM least three-four times weekly). Do not use human toothpaste. Animals may continue to eat despite pain and discomfort. Once Greece Animal Hospital There are special toothpastes available that are safe for pets to that happens, the options include a root canal or removal of the Monroe Veterinary Associates swallow and come in yummy flavors like chicken, peanut butter tooth. and salmon. Ask your vet about techniques to get your pet in the habit of good hygiene. Other noticeable signs of dental disease in a pet include: Even if your pet is not a fan of brushing, you can still place the paste on rubber toys • Bad breath (halitosis) such as Kongs. When your pet chews on the toy, the tooth gets rubbed with the • Chattering (moving their jaws together quickly) paste. A good general rule for pet toys is that they should be soft enough to indent • Change in behavior them with your fingernail (hard rubber toys are fine; bone, antlers and hooves are • Lots of drooling too hard). Dental diets and dental treats are also available to help remove tartar. • Bleeding from the gums/mouth Brushing may also help prevent your pet from needing an OAT or may lengthen • Decreased appetite or desire to play with toys the time between procedures. • Loose teeth By performing regular brushing and having OATs done by your veterinarian, you • Not wanting to be patted on the head can help keep Fido feeling fine! • Sneezing Dr. Ferderbar is completing a rotating internship at Veterinary Specialists & • Discharge from the mouth Emergency Services. She will begin working at Greece Animal Hospital as an Associate Veterinarian in July. Originally from Menomonee Falls, Wis., she graduated • Chewing on one side of the mouth from veterinary school at Western University of Health Sciences in 2014. She • Swelling under the eye received a Service Award and a National VBMA Business Certificate while attending • Drainage under the eye veterinary school. Some of her professional interests include exotic, avian and alpaca • Discolored teeth medicine.
“How we behave toward cats here below determines our status in heaven.” —Robert A. 8 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 Tail of Hope - Eli’s story
PROVIDED BY ROCHESTER HOPE FOR PETS
Last fall, Katrina went to her local shelter and instantly fell in love with a small kitten she named Eli. Even though Eli was blind, Katrina knew that it was meant to be. After several months of caring for Eli, it became apparent that his eye health was interfering with his quality of life. Despite his daily maintenance drops, his eyes were severely inflamed. This caused constant discharge that needed to be cleaned every day. Not wanting to see Eli live in discomfort, Katrina took him to a specialist to find out if the eye issues that Eli had could be fixed or at least improved. Luckily there was a surgery that could be performed, but the cost was more than Katrina expected. “I knew I had to do what was best for Eli to ensure that he was as healthy and as comfortable as possible,” Katrina said. Eli received the surgery needed to fix his painful eye issues with the assistance of a grant from Rochester Hope for Pets. “While the award did not cover the entire procedure, I was so very grateful for any help I could get,” Katrina stated. Eli’s surgery went smoothly and he has completely healed. He no longer has painful irritation and almost no drainage. “He is such a happy and loving kitty and I am so lucky to have him in my life” Katrina said.
Rochester Hope for Pets is a not-for-prot organization that was founded in 2008 with the mission to improve the quality of life for companion animals in the greater Rochester area. Through our award process, we oer nancial assistance toward veterinary care costs to pet owners during times of need. Through Duncan’s Fund for Education, we provide continuing education courses, upgraded equipment and technology, and the most current reference literature for veterinary health professionals who practice in Monroe and surrounding counties. This training and knowledge serves to enhance the care and treatment of pets at facilities in our region. We also partner with other local nonprots to improve the welfare of animals.
Rochester Hope for Pets • 2816 Monroe Avenue • Rochester, NY 14618 • 585-271-2733 x89 • [email protected]
Continued from Page 2 ... to create an awareness of the benefits of preventative care and early intervention and Every cat is different. Familiarity with the individual cat and his or her unique to preserve the relationships that exist between cats and their families. characteristics helps us more accurately and efficiently target our attention when More information on Cat Friendly Practices may be found at catvets.com and more there are health concerns. information about Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital can be found at catsandcritters. The Cat Friendly Program was developed by the American Association of feline com. Practitioners (AAFP) to improve the relationships between cats, their families and Dr. Ember Couture has been hospital codirector at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital their healthcare team. Thereby increasing the quality and quantity of health care since 1999. Previous to her arrival at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital, she completed that cats receive during their lifetimes. an internship at Animal Hospital of Pittsford/Veterinary Specialists of Rochester in 1997. Certified practices have taken extra steps to make their interactions with cats more She continued on as a staff veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Pittsford until 1999. positive by better understanding their behaviors and needs and implementing feline- Originally from Massachusetts, Dr. Couture attended the University of Massachusetts friendly techniques. where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics in 1989. Following her undergraduate education, Dr. Couture was employed as a veterinary technician, before Certified Cat Friendly Practices have also committed ourselves to providing high quality going on to the College of Veterinary Medicine at LSU. care. Everything fromthe hospital design to medical equipment and practices, referral services, grooming and continuing education is addressed. Dr. Joanne Hach is hospital codirector at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital. A native of Randolph, NJ, Dr. Hach attended Bucknell University and received her Bachelor’s Degree Achieving the distinction of a Cat Friendly Practice was an important step for us at Cats in Biochemistry in 1995. Following her undergraduate studies, she completed a Master’s & Critters Veterinary Hospital to demonstrate our commitment to our feline patients. Degree program in Biochemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. She went on to attend Our goals are to work with families to reduce the stress involved with veterinary visits, Cornell University and was awarded her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 9
TOYS and TREATS: How these items could land you at the vet’s office
We all love our animals and like • Dehydration to show that love by giving them • Anorexia toys to play with or bones to chew on, but it is important that The only way to evaluate for an we take into consideration what obstruction is to take x-rays of kinds of items are given and that the abdomen and evaluate the our pets are properly supervised GI tract. when playing with them. Sometimes, hospitalization for Esophageal foreign supportive care with intravenous bodies: fluids alone can rehydrate the GI system enough to move the Bones, rawhides and dental material along, but sometimes chews can be good for your the only treatment that will help dog’s teeth and provide hours is abdominal exploratory surgery of activity to keep your dog’s to remove the material. attention. Unfortunately, this can However, if left unsupervised, sometimes be on an emergency these items can pose a big risk basis depending on how sick to your pet. If the bones are too your pet is. hard or too small, your pet may swallow them without chewing Strings, ribbons, rope and cloth- them into appropriately-sized like material (socks, towels, etc) pieces, resulting in the bone comprise a special category becoming lodged in your dog’s of foreign bodies called linear esophagus. foreign bodies. These items often have one end anchored in the pylorus of the stomach, while This is different than choking on something in that it is not in the rest of the material starts to travel onto the intestines. This the trachea or windpipe, but actually in the esophagus, which results in a bunching of the intestines, similar to an accordion or connects the mouth to the stomach. scrunched up sock, as the muscle contractions continue to try to This is incredibly painful, can cause temporary or permanent move the foreign material along. damage to the esophagus and can be very difficult to remove This can lead to damage to a greater portion of the intestines — often requiring special scoping instruments not available at and also poses a greater risk, especially with thin thread or rope, all veterinarian’s offices. because it can cause a saw-like motion and cut through the wall Soft, breakable treats (cookie consistency) that can easily of the intestine, leading to spillage of the GI contents into the be chewed into small pieces or large bones that cannot be abdomen and making your pet very sick. swallowed whole are often the best choices. Kathryn Benavides, DVM This is more common in cats, so be particularly careful with toys Intestinal foreign bodies: Veterinary Specialists that contain strings or have ribbons attached. & Emergency Services Small, soft toys or toys that can be ripped into pieces small Monroe Veterinary Associates Things to watch for: enough to swallow (depending on the size of your pet), pose a If you ever see your pet ingest something he or she should not, risk for ingestion and subsequent blockage of the intestinal tract. please contact your veterinarian’s office or the local veterinary emergency clinic. Sometimes dogs or cats swallow toys, clothing (socks, mittens, etc.) or other They may recommend inducing vomiting to reduce the risk that these items will materials that do not become lodged in the esophagus, but pass easily into the cause an obstruction. stomach. However, there are multiple points at which these items can become If your pet begins displaying clinical signs of an obstruction (vomiting, anorexia, stuck in the intestinal tract. painful abdomen, etc.), please seek veterinary care as this can become life The pylorus of the stomach is the narrowing where the GI contents are funneled threatening if left untreated. from the stomach into the intestines. This is a common region where foreign items If you are ever concerned about the size of your pet’s treats or toys or want further can get stuck. The item could pass through the pylorus, but could become stuck guidance as to which items to purchase, consult your veterinarian to help make anywhere along the small intestines, particularly at places where the intestines the best choices for you and your pet. take tight turns. Dr. Benavides grew up in Houston, Texas. She received her degree in Biochemistry If an item becomes stuck, anything your pet eats or drinks will not be able to pass with a minor in Animal Science from The Ohio State University in 2010. She went through normally and can result in: on to attend Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine where she • Vomiting (unable to keep anything down) graduated in 2014. Dr. Benavides’s professional interests include pursuing a residency • A painful abdomen in surgery or emergency and critical care medicine. She is currently a rotating intern at Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services. Dr. Benavides shares her home • Decreased to absent bowel movements with four cats; Olive, Oscar, Odessa and Orylee. 10 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 Canine AGILITY TRAINING
Agility: the power of moving us humans, you don’t want to quickly and easily; nimbleness; go run a five mile race the first exercises demanding agility. time you go out! The ability to think and Pre-exercise stretching is draw conclusions quickly; another great preventative intellectual acuity … for measure for the canine your dog? Yes, through canine athlete. Low jumps, wide agility training! turns and warming up with a What is agility brisk trot is a good start to any training? athletic event. Canine agility training is a Kathy Sercu, a licensed popular sport in which a veterinary technician at handler, many times the Veterinary Specialists & owner, directs their dog Emergency Services, has been through a variety of obstacles training her seven-year-old such as a tunnel, teeter-totter, Labrador Retriever, Halligan, tire jump, weave poles, pause for six years. During this time table and standard jumps. Sercu and Halligan have been During competitive agil- fortunate to have not had ity events, handlers attempt any major injuries; however, to navigate dogs through they are a great example of a course as quickly and as the power of preventative accurately as possible. medicine. “I take as many preventative measures as I can Agility competitions have been televised more lately, which has to ensure we have luck on our side,” Sercu said. “I manage been a great way to introduce a larger audience to this wonderful Halligan’s weight, I have had her on joint supplements since she sport. Once thought of as an activity for working dogs such as was a year old (when we started training) and we stretch and border collies, agility is fast becoming a popular sport for dogs warm up before any training or competition.” of all sizes and types. Sercu added, “I made sure to start her training slow and not Is agility training right for your dog? In speaking with local agility to stress out her young, still developing joint and bones. In trainers, generally any dog can do agility. Although, dogs with the beginning, and when she was two years old, we had heavier and shorter frames, like bulldogs, may not be the best radiographs done of her hips and elbows to make sure there fit. were not any underlining problems. I hope that at age 13 Diversity in the sport has been increasing from collies, shelties Halligan and I will still be competing and learning this amazing, Rochelle Richardson and retrievers to hounds, mixed breeds and even Jack Russell fun sport together.” Hospital Administrator terriers. Veterinary Specialists What type of time investment is needed for you and your dog, There are many benefits of agility training for you and your dog. & Emergency Services for the sport? The good news is that the time commitment is First and foremost, agility provides an opportunity to connect Monroe Veterinary Associates what you are able to give. You will want to spend time in an and develop a relationship between you and your dog. initial training class, which are usually held on evenings or The sport also gives the dog a chance to reach both intellectual and emotional weekends. After that, you can participate as little or as much as you and your dog potential by having to think, draw conclusions and make decisions in a split are ready for. If you find your dog excels at the sport, there are local competitions second. And a benefit not commonly thought of, agility gives a dog an opportunity in the Finger Lakes area, as well as national and international competitions. to develop responsiveness and almost telepathic communication with humans. Agility training can be an incredibly rewarding experience for you, for your dog Are there any risks for the dog? As with any sporting activity, human or canine, and for the relationship between the two of you. With good training, and keeping there is the potential for injury from minor sprains and strains to more complex in mind standard preventative measures such as weight management, stretching knee or back issues. and massaging, your dog could be an agility champion in no time! According to a survey published in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Rochelle is accountable for the hospital operations at VSES. She has previously worked Association, one in every three agility dogs sustained a sports-related injury, with at Rochester Regional Health System where she led the business transformation team a majority, 70 percent, involving tendons and ligaments. focusing on change management, process improvement, strategic planning and market analysis. Rochelle has also worked at Xerox Corporation where she worked in As with human sports, prevention and awareness are key. It’s always good to customer service, program management and quality process improvement. Rochelle remember that at age five a dog is 40 in human years and their bones, joints and attended Ball State University in Indiana and holds certifications in Lean Process tendons need care and attention just like ours. Improvement and Change Management. Rochelle, her wife and kids have a mixed Preventative measures include managing your dogs weight, keeping toe nails breed dog, Daphne. trimmed and keeping your dog exercised. This may sound funny, but just as with PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 11 Common health concerns in BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS
Brachycephalic dog breeds are poor job regulating their body those whose facial conformation is temperature through panting when characterized by a shortened nose they get too hot. The blood flowing and upper airway. Brachycephalic through the tongue and throat is breeds include, but are not limited not adequately cooled, so their core to, Bulldogs, Pekingnese, Shih Tzus, temperature is more likely to rise Boston Terriers and Pugs. While during those hot months. these cute little wrinkled faces Overexertion also causes the body can steal your heart, they can also temperature to rise and increases cause significant problems for these the diffi culty of breathing for these dogs including breathing problems, dogs. Extra care and attention must predisposition for heat intolerance/ be taken to keep these dogs cool heat stroke, skin infections and eye and calm. In the warm months, take problems. them only on short leashed walks Brachycephalic Upper to go to the bathroom and limit the Airway Obstructive amount of time they spend playing Syndrome outside to five or 10 minutes at a These dogs have been bred for time. optimum “squish” to their faces. Skin Fold Pyoderma While the actual nasal passages and airway are shortened, they The excess skin and wrinkles in these dogs, while endearing, have the same internal anatomy forced into a smaller space, creates an excellent place for moisture to accumulate and leading to diffi culties breathing. bacterial infections of the skin (pyoderma) to develop. The three characteristics of Brachycephalic Syndrome include It is important to keep these areas clean and dry, particularly stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), an elongated soft palate that the fold above the nose as this can be quite significant in some can occlude the airway and everted saccules (tissue within the dogs. Cleanse with warm water and a dr y towel and monitor for airway that impedes air flow to the lungs). Clinical signs include any signs of infection including redness, moistness, discharge, noisy breathing/snorting, snoring, coughing, gagging and itchiness or a foul odor. Infections will typically require exercise intolerance. treatment with antibiotics — either topical or oral — and If signs progress or are exacerbated by environmental stresses should be addressed by your veterinarian. Kathryn Benavides, DVM (excessive activity, heat and humidity), surgical intervention The brachycephalic breeds generally make great family pets may be necessary. As an owner of these loveable dogs, the best Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services with their mellow attitudes and sweet personalities, but take things you can do to manage these clinical signs is to keep them Monroe Veterinary Associates into consideration these health concerns if you are thinking of cool (especially during the warm months of summer), don’t adopting one of these great dogs. allow them to overexert themselves and keep them at a healthy weight. Dr. Benavides grew up in Houston, Texas. She received her degree in Biochemistry If you are considering surgery for your brachycephalic dog, contact your with a minor in Animal Science from The Ohio State University in 2010. She went veterinarian for more information. on to attend Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine where she Heat intolerance/Heat Stroke graduated in 2014. Dr. Benavides’s professional interests include pursuing a residency Dogs dissipate excess heat by panting. Since these brachycephalic breeds have in surgery or emergency and critical care medicine. She is currently a rotating intern diffi culty passing air effi ciently and quickly through their airway, they do a at Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services. Dr. Benavides shares her home with four cats; Olive, Oscar, Odessa and Orylee.
The exuberant, exhilarating photographs of dogs underwater that have become a sensation! From the water’s surface, it’s a simple exercise: a dog’s leap, a splash and then a wet head surfacing with a ball, triumphant. But beneath the water is a chaotic ballet of bared teeth and bubbles, paddling paws, fur and ears billowing in the currents. From leaping Lab to diving Dachshund, the water is where a dog’s distinct personality shines through. Some lounge in the current, paddling slowly, but others arch their bodies to cut through the water with the focus and determination of a shark. More than eighty portraits, award-winning pet photographer and “Underwater Dogs” animal rights activist Seth Casteel captures new sides of our old friends. In Underwater Dogs, Seth Casteel gives playful and energetic Seth Casteel testament to the rough-and-tumble joy that our dogs bring into our lives. $14.38 at barnesandnoble.com. 12 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015
M O C . Y A B A I X AGING P gracefully adapting to older pets’ health needs
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW
Your loving companion still greets you at the front door when you overweight or obese. The Packaged Facts survey found that 52 come home, he’s just not as quick as he used to be. Your pet is percent of dogs and cats in the U.S. are obese. growing older. His needs are changing, and he depends “Because pets can’t tell us how they are feeling on you to stay healthy and comfortable. and a lot of the changes are often very subtle, it “A pet becomes a senior in the last quarter of their becomes key to have biannual exams for senior predicted lifespan, so this has a bit of variability, As pets age, we see pets so early signs of disease can be identified as average life expectancies decrease the bigger some of the same and treated early,” Vogelsang said. “This makes a the pet,” said veterinarian Jessica Vogelsang, who changes that we see in huge difference in an aging pet’s quality of life. In blogs at Pawcurious. Her new book, “All Dogs Go ourselves: a slowdown addition, keeping senior pets at a healthy weight to Kevin” will be out in July. “A cat, for example, in metabolism, onset becomes vital as well, as it not only decreases the can be considered senior around 10 years of age, of arthritis, cognitive onset of metabolic diseases such as diabetes, it where a Great Dane might be considered a senior changes.” helps reduce the signs of joint disease.” at around 5 years of age.” — Jessica Vogelsang Tools to help Almost half of pets are seniors Because we treat pets as a part of the family, aging pets are About 45 percent of dog owners have a dog age 7 or older, while benefitting from myriad products on the market aimed at making 46 percent of cat owners have a cat in that oldest age bracket, according to a their twilight years more comfortable. Pet owners are opening up their wallets 2015 Packaged Facts Pet Owner Survey. for things like orthopedic mattresses, hind limb harnesses, steps and ramps. “As pets age, we see some of the same changes that we see in ourselves: a “Pet owners are becoming more interested in services for aging pets, but slowdown in metabolism, onset of arthritis, cognitive changes,” Vogelsang in order to take advantage of them they need to know that those options said. are available,” Vogelsang said. “I am very excited to see more veterinarians Older pets also can suffer from age-related conditions such as Type-2 diabetes, discussing senior care with clients. We are even beginning to see hospice and respiratory disorders, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, as well palliative care services for pets in the end-of-life stages that mirror the services as other afflictions. Studies show older pets have a higher incidence of being we offer to people.” PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 13 Enjoy your new reptilian companion!
Some people are terrified of snakes, substrate, the cage should be but others love them. While keeping spot cleaned daily as needed. The them as pets is not for everyone, it entire cage should be cleaned and can be very rewarding. Snakes are the substrate replaced every one amazing animals and can be very to two weeks, or more often if enjoyable to keep. There are many necessary. At least one hide should different species and various color be provided. The hide should be patterns (morphs) can be found large enough for the snake to coil with many of the common species. up in, and provides an area where This article will discuss some basic the snake will feel secure. snake information, but every Snakes are poikilothermic meaning species has its own requirements that their body temperature varies and a single article can’t cover based on the ambient temperature. everything. There are entire books All reptiles have a preferred optimal devoted to snake husbandry. If you temperature zone (POTZ). This will decide that a snake is the pet for be different for every species, so you, please do your research! make sure that you know what The most common reason for the proper temperatures are for medical problems in snakes, and your snake. Your snake will need a other reptiles, is poor husbandry. basking area, which is the warmest That’s not to say that if you do area in the enclosure. everything right, you won’t have The basking area should be on one problems. Always monitor for side of the enclosure, so that there changes in behavior, appetite and is a cooler area on the other side. general condition. Seek veterinary This creates a temperature gradient attention if you have questions or so that the snake can regulate its concerns. If your veterinarian is not body temperature as needed. The experienced with snakes, they can basking area can be created using direct you to someone who is. a basking light. Some snakes, like It all starts with choosing a snake. Looking into some of the boa constrictors, may prefer under cage heating. Most pet stores literature on snake husbandry or speaking with people experienced carry a variety of basking lights and under cage heating elements, with snakes can help you to make this decision. Be sure to know such as heat tape or heating pads that stick on under the cage. Do the local and state laws regarding ownership of exotic animals. not use heat rocks or other heating elements in the cage that the There are species that are illegal to own or that may require special snake may come into contact with. This can cause severe burns. permits depending on where you live. Know how big the snake you Even heating elements under the cage can get too hot and cause are acquiring can get and make sure that you have the appropriate burns, so it is important to monitor these to ensure that they sized housing for it. That cute baby red tailed boa may be small don’t overheat. The temperature in the basking area should be now, but they can grow up to 10 feet in length and weight more monitored to ensure that it is maintained in the proper range. than 50 pounds! It is best to get your snake from a reputable source The best way to monitor the temperature is by using an infrared to reduce the risk of getting an unhealthy snake. If you have never Chris McKinney, DVM thermometer. You can also use a thermometer in the cage. Be sure owned a snake, good species to consider are corn snakes, California East River and Cats & Critters to monitor not only the temperature of the basking area, but also kingsnakes or ball pythons. However, ball pythons will commonly Veterinary Hospitals the cool side of the cage as well. If you are using a thermometer go off feeding and can present some difficulties. Monroe Veterinary Associates that sticks onto the side of the cage, you should have at least two, Snakes can be kept on various types of substrate. One popular substrate is cage one on either side of the cage. carpet, which is convenient because it is durable, easy to clean and there is no Humidity is also an important part of proper husbandry. If the humidity is too low, concern with your snake accidentally ingesting any material. You can also use this can cause respiratory problems or difficulty shedding. If the humidity is too butcher paper or newspaper. Depending on the snake species, you could also use high, this can lead to fungal growth and can also contribute to respiratory or skin aspen chips, mulch or sand. However, when using these materials, there is some problems. Even snakes that are adapted to dry environments need some humidity. risk that the snake could ingest some of the material which could potentially cause In the wild, species from dry environments will often spend time in burrows where an obstruction. Be sure to keep the enclosure clean. If you are using cage carpet, or there is higher humidity. A water bowl must be provided and kept filled with fresh, paper, you can just replace the substrate whenever it is soiled. If using other types of clean water both for drinking and soaking in. The bowl should be large enough for Continued on Page 14 ...
“A well-trained dog will make no attempt to share your lunch. He will just make you feel so guilty that you cannot enjoy it.” —Helen Tomson 14 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015
Continued from Page 13 ... the snake to enter in order to soak. This will help to maintain some humidity, but may not always be enough, especially for tropical species. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier or mister, Portraits or misting the cage as needed. Snakes should be fed whole prey, typically rats or of mice. It is best to wait about five days after getting a new snake before feeding. After that, they should be Love fed every one to two weeks depending on the species Each week, Lollypop Farm receives letters and emails filled with and the age of the snake. I recommend against happy endings for animals who have been adopted from our shelter. feeding live prey because the prey item may defend Pictures help to tell these wonderful stories. itself and cause injury to the snake. Rats can do major damage or even kill a snake. Obviously this is also very stressful for the prey! The easiest way to go is to get frozen prey items and thaw them out for feeding. The prey should be thawed in the refrigerator and then heated in warm water immediately before feeding. To prevent any disease risk to humans, Ivory do not heat the prey in anything that is used for human food/drink and do not use a microwave (this would make a disgusting mess). If you purchase live prey, it should be killed in a humane manner prior IVORY was adopted to feeding. It is best to feed snakes in a separate enclosure from where they are normally kept. The by ELIZABETH C in 2009 reason for this is to avoid having the snake associate its regular enclosure with feeding as this can lead to aggression and diffi culty handling the snake. Use feeding tongs to hold the prey, not your hand. This will avoid having a hungry snake accidentally bite your fingers. The tongs can be used to dangle the prey in front of the snake, sometimes moving it will help to entice the snake to eat. Remember that to keep your snake healthy, you need to know the proper requirements for that species. For more information you can call your Kelly veterinarian or people experienced with reptiles, such as members of the Western New York Herpetological Society. You can also obtain a book on husbandry or look online. As with anything, be careful when looking online as there are many websites with misleading or wrong information. A couple of good, reputable websites that I KELLY was adopted recommend are anapsid.org and reptiles magazine. by VANESSA M. in 2014 com. Enjoy your new reptilian companion! Dr. McKinney is an associate veterinarian at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital and East River Veterinary Hospital. He received his Doctorate of Veterinary Davis Medicine from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. After two years in practice Dr. McKinney attended Tufts University, where he received his Master of Science in Conservation Medicine in 2013. Most recently he worked at a small veterinary practice in the greater Buffalo area. His professional interests include exotic animals, wildlife DAVISwas and internal medicine. Dr. McKinney shares his home adopted by with his wife, Elizabeth, and four cats; Max, Jawa, Viggo and Vlad. MADDIE G. in 2013 PET TALES • SUMMER EDITION 2015 15
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