Sit and Stay

Have you ever stopped to consider how many treats, snacks and extra calories you give to your Pet?  We all know that overweight and obesity are increasing in humans, and the same is true for our Pet cats and dogs.  We should be worried because obesity has serious health risks and can shorten lives.  There are many reasons why our Pets are overweight; some are associated with similar changes in our own sedentary lives.  What might shock you is how many calories are in all those little tidbits we give each day.  For some, we seem to forget that these are calories too – and they are not insignificant! 

I recently did some calculations that you might find surprising, but help put things into perspective and give you pause for thought before you drop that next piece of leftovers into your Pet’s mouth.  Take the typical 10 lb cat.  If you gave her just 1 ounce of cheese, that represents a whopping 50% of the calories that she needs every day!  The slice of deli ham that she appears to crave so much represents 20% of the calories she needs.  How about your dog?  For a typical 20 lb dog, 1 hot dog is 22% of the calories he needs, and that spoon of peanut butter you might use to help “the medicines go down “is 14% of the calories!  The 8 oz. bag of potato chips… forget it.  One bag provides 186% of the calories!  So with just a few examples you can see just how easy those small things we give each day add up to lots of unnecessary calories. 

How about some solutions?  Always remember that you can treat your Pet, but it does not have to be food.  New toys, hugs, pats and grooming are all treats that make them feel special too.  Keep the additional calories in treats and snacks to less than 10% of the calories per day, and always investigate and find the lowest calories you can.

I have always felt fortunate to live within seven minutes of Portland, Ore.’s DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, a nonprofit emergency animal hospital in Portland specializing in emergency and critical care medicine. While I hoped I would never have to go, the need arose around midnight on Saturday, July 3, when Emerson woke me up. He was diagnosed a year ago with idiopathic epilepsy, which means that the cause for his epilepsy is undetermined. And on July 3, he suffered an episode of seizure “clustering”—meaning multiple seizures in succession with no recovery in between. Up until this point, his seizures had consisted of isolated incidents with quick recovery. As long as I made sure he couldn’t fall and injure himself, and the seizure activity stopped after just one episode, he never required emergency care.

Because I work around veterinarians each day, I knew the onset of his second seizure within just a few minutes of the first required emergency medical attention. I threw on shoes and a jacket, grabbed his medical records and drove to DoveLewis. This being my first experience in an animal emergency hospital, combined with Emerson’s worst seizure activity to date, I was terrified. I know multiple seizures in a short period of time can be life-threatening.

When I arrived at DoveLewis, Emerson was immediately seen by a compassionate veterinarian, who told me that even though Emerson is on anti-seizure medication, seizure “clustering” can still happen on occasion, and for no apparent reason. Emerson was then hooked up intravenously to medication that would help break the cycle of seizures, followed by a two-night stay in the hospital for monitoring.

I can’t adequately explain what it felt like to say goodbye to my little pup and leave to go home that night. The two days following were emotional. I missed my buddy, although I knew he was in good hands. A veterinarian from DoveLewis called me every morning with an update on his status. On Sunday, I was able to go pick him up. I’m happy to report that he is stable and back to his normal self. I followed up with an appointment with my Banfield veterinarian, who conducted a neurological exam and completed blood work. As his owner, the best thing I can do about his condition is to manage his symptoms with medication and ensure that he lives a healthy lifestyle and regular preventive care. I am grateful to Banfield and DoveLewis for taking such good care of him when he needed it.

Having a dog with epilepsy is always a difficult, stressful situation. Nevertheless, had I known Emerson would eventually develop this condition, I still would have chosen him when I adopted him from the Oregon Humane Society. I know most people think their Pets are special and unique, and I am no exception. Emerson has brought such immense joy, laughter and comfort to my life. I feel so blessed to be able to provide him with a loving home.

With summer well underway in most of the country and finally starting here in the Pacific Northwest, it’s a good time to review a few of the summer dangers faced by our Pets. Luckily all of these dangers can be prevented with some forethought.

Probably the number one danger for most Pets is the heat. Almost everyone has heard how dangerous it can be to leave your Pet in a car. However, many of us don’t understand how quickly heat stroke can happen, and also don’t believe it will ever happen to us. Just a few minutes can be deadly to a Pet left in a car. The breeds most at risk are those with a short snout, such as Boston Terriers or Pugs. However, any breed can succumb to the heat so avoid all danger by refraining from leaving Fido in a parked car.

Another heat danger comes from jogging or running on hot pavement. We all know how much we enjoy our daily exercise routine with our Pets. In fact, they enjoy it so much that they will run on blisters, and even on burst blisters, appearing to ignore the pain they are in until the fun is over. Though blistering and other paw injuries can occur at any time of the year, they are certainly most common when the surface being run on is scorching. Therefore, pick a cooler time of the day or change your routine.

Paws are more prone to other injuries in the summer, especially in breeds with long paw fur, such as Cocker Spaniels. Grass seeds appear to be specially designed to get caught in long fur and then to burrow deeper, eventually burrowing into the skin, causing abscesses, draining wounds and severe pain. Make sure to check your Pet’s fur thoroughly anytime you come in from a long grassy area; you can check for ticks at this time too – another danger encountered more frequently in the summer.

Increased outdoor activity brings other dangers too, in the guise of barbecues. Certainly the smell of cooking must drive our furry friends insane at this time of year. However, with this olfactory nirvana, Pets are more prone to getting burned by trying to jump up at the barbecue. Furthermore, Pets have learned that hanging around the barbecue long enough will result in a tasty tidbit. However, the tidbit, no matter how tasty, can also cause dietary upsets, at the least some simple vomiting and diarrhea, at the most a condition known as pancreatitis, which can be potentially life threatening, especially if it goes untreated. So, refrain from letting your friend indulge and if a tummy upset does rear its ugly head, make sure to get to the veterinarian to ensure something more serious isn’t happening.

If the heat is dangerous, well so can the attempt to be cool. Pools and rivers are a big temptation, both as a cooling mechanism and to provide a sought after drink. However, there are dangers that our Pets, and often we, don’t take into account. Rivers and pools are a frequent cause of drowning, especially when an already exhausted dog takes the plunge only to find that the current is too strong, or there isn’t any way to easily exit a pool. Drinking from rivers can be a source of giardia, a parasite that causes a nasty diarrhea and requires veterinary treatment. Drinking from pools can be dangerous too, especially given the chemicals used to keep our pools clean. So make sure you know what is being used to keep your pool in good shape and don’t let your Pet drink from anything that might be a danger.

Summer is a time to enjoy and there certainly isn’t any reason why your furry friend shouldn’t partake in the festivities. Therefore, be sure to avoid any summer blues with a little planning and some small changes to your routine.

Emerson

Emerson and I relish any opportunity to get out of the house for some fresh air. He enjoys his daily walks, but the Fourth of July holiday gives us the opportunity for extra time together, which usually means we take a small road trip.  Because I live within driving distance of the beach, and Emerson loves running around and playing “fetch” in the sand, my Fourth of July weekend plans entailed frolicking at the Pacific Ocean with him.

However, the downside to Fourth of July is the fireworks. There were plenty of kids playing with fireworks at the beach, which happens to be one of Emerson’s least favorite seaside activities. Emerson can get quite anxious, especially when it comes to loud noises.

From past years, I learned that the best solution is to keep him on an isolated part of the beach and away from the noisy firework festivities of any kind. This way, Emerson and kids can both enjoy the holiday. Anxious Pets can exhibit severe distress, leading up to destructive behavior. Sometimes, your anxious Pet will be happiest in the comfort of your own home. Banfield recommends making your home as comfortable as possible for your Pets during any potentially stressful time, such as the Fourth of July. Leaving on the TV a little louder than usual, playing the radio in each of the bedrooms and leaving on extra lights tends to mask many of the unfamiliar noises that startle Pets. In addition, your Pet may find comfort being kenneled while you are gone—it’s a safe zone for many Pets and they will rest easier knowing they are in familiar territory. 

Although veterinarians will generally recommend keeping Pets at home during Fourth of July and Emerson has more than his fair share of anxiety, I always find he is most content and comfortable wherever I am. My presence and the distraction of play enable him to ignore the loud noises and bright lights coming from fireworks. You will know what’s best for you and your Pet, and you can always go to your veterinarian for behavioral advice. I think that’s why Emerson was brave enough to endure pesky firework noises at the beach this past weekend. Apparently playing fetch with mom far outweighs the scary things in life!

Spring and early summer are peak periods for the acquisition or adoption of many puppies and kittens into loving families.  For some families, this is the first time they have owned a Pet.  There are many things to consider in pet ownership; nutrition and what to feed the new Pet is one of the most important decisions to make.  The right nutrition is important to optimize the health and growth of your puppy or kitten.  Where do you go for advice?  Your veterinarian is the right person to help you select the right nutrition that meets the needs of your pet.         

The first few days in the new home can be stressful for the puppy or kitten.  During this stage, it is best to keep them on the same diet that they were eating when you purchased or adopted them.  Sudden dietary changes can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting or diarrhea.  Therefore, when you are ready to transition them to a different diet, a transition period is always recommended for all Pets when switching from one type of food to another food.  A dietary transition is achieved by mixing the new food with the old food, and slowing increasing the amount of the new food and decreasing the old food given each day.  For example, on day 1, give ¾ old food and ¼ new food.  On day 2 give ½ old food and ½ new food.  On day 3 give ¼ old food and ¾ new food.  Full transition can occur by day 4. 

Milk is not an essential part of the diet for puppies or kittens after weaning from their mother.  Indeed after weaning, many Pets are lactose intolerant.  Providing milk to these Pets can cause diarrhea.  In some areas, Cat Milk is available – the difference with this cat-specific product is that the lactose has been removed, so the kitten or cat will not get diarrhea.

Young puppies and kittens should be fed 4-6 times a day.  As the puppy or kitten ages, the number of feedings can be gradually decreased so that by the time they have reached 50% of their adult body weight they are eating three meals a day.  By the time that they are fully grown, they should be fed twice daily.

Ad-libitum or free feeding should not be recommended as this allows the Pet access to excessive amounts of food.  Over consumption is one of the key contributing factors to the obesity epidemic that our Pets now face – so start them off right.  The best method of feeding is portion control feeding where the amount of food is accurately measured using either a standard 237 ml cooking cup or a kitchen scale to weigh the correct amount of food.

It is also important that feeding should be a consistent routine, at approximately the same time and in the same location every day.  A consistent routine will help the Pet keep normal elimination habits and avoid accidents. 

When feeding the puppy, it is important to place the bowl in front of him and then walk away.  Do not stand over your puppy and watch him eating.  Return several minutes later to remove the bowl at the completion of the feeding period.

Kittens tend to prefer frequent small meals (8-16) throughout a 24 hour period.  This method of feeding can be replicated by dividing their daily food amount into individual portions placed into timed feeders that open to release a small meal.

Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc. announced a voluntary recall of Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry dog food for potential salmonella contamination. The only product affected is the Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011.

Salmonella can cause infections in Pets, children, frail or elderly people as well as others with weakened immune systems. Pets with Salmonella infection may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some Pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Pets can be carriers with no visible symptoms and can potentially infect other Pets or humans. Salmonella infection can be shed in the feces and may pose a zoonotic risk to associates and Pet owners. Proper hygiene should be practiced when handling fecal samples or ill Pets.

If you suspect your Pet has a Salmonella infection, please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Emerson in Bliss

I recently spent time with my good friends who are proud parents of a beautiful 2-year-old boy. As we played with him, we observed his unbridled enthusiasm over his coveted toy truck, as well as simple things, such as sharing his mandarin oranges with me one by one. My friends discussed their son’s behavioral nuances and conveyed the trials and tribulations of being a parent. They would do anything for their son, they said. Each day, he reminds them of the innocent joys life brings. After listening for a few minutes, I told them I knew exactly what they meant. 

He may not be a human child, but even so, I would do just about anything for my Lhasa Apso, Emerson. The day I adopted my now 3-year-old bundle of spunk at the Oregon Humane Society in Portland, Ore., I fell in love. Some might say I am overly indulgent with him. I recognize that he probably doesn’t “need” two different rain parkas, but let’s face it—it rains a lot here in Portland. His parkas keep him dry during our rainy winter and spring walks, while his warmer coats keep him toasty during chilly days. Without fail, Emerson becomes exceedingly exuberant when I open the closet and take out his leash or a jacket of any type. This, to him, means a walk is in store!

In contrast to his obsession with fresh air, Emerson possesses little interest in human food. This could be in part because I rarely indulge him in this foray of pleasure. In his world, this form of ignorance is bliss. However, when one of his favorite treats, such as a juicy steak, is for dinner, Emerson’s indifference to culinary pleasures gives way to a particular look of longing. His big, brown Lhasa eyes appear “hungry” in the most convincing way. Knowing that it’s best to limit the amount of human food I give Emerson, this becomes a trying moment for me. Sometimes, I break down and “throw him a bone” by adding a small portion of steak to his food bowl. It’s important to note that I avoid giving him any real bones, as I know they can be dangerous.

Seeing Emerson’s excitement and appreciation of a small, novel treat is contagious. It reminds me, just as dogs often do, to appreciate the small pleasures of life. This is one of the many lessons I have learned since becoming a Pet owner.

I have a cat called Jake. He’s your usual black and white moggie, a bit bigger than your average cat (a little chunky, too, if I’m honest), loves his cuddles and has plenty of attitude. Attitude’s fine during daylight hours, but not so much fun at 5am. I’m sure plenty of you know exactly what I’m talking about when I say that his yowling is driving me crazy.

Back in Australia (he’s a well-travelled cat) he was an indoor-outdoor kitty but he got into so many fights that when we moved here he became an indoor kitty. He still yowled if he managed to escape at night, 5am outside the bedroom window, but we had a room we could keep him in that blockedmost of the noise. In our current place, we can’t do that because the only areas that aren’t carpeted are the kitchen (no doors to shut and I wouldn’t keep him there anyway) and the bathrooms (too small and they echo a lot).

We’ve tried everything and I’m almost at my wit’s end. Cats yowl for a variety of reasons, such as when they’re unwell, hungry or in need of attention. If you have a cat that’s yowling, get your vet to check him out first to rule possible medical reasons.. My parent’s older cat often yowls because of hyperthyroidism; the changes that the disease cause are often attributed to “old age.”.

Not for Jake, though. He’s had a clean bill of health on multiple occasions. He yowls when he gets bored or hungry.. If your cat yowls for attention during the day, the best thing to do is ignore it, then reward your cat with play or cuddles when he or she is quiet. If your cat is yowling at night, have playtime before bedtime so your cat goes to bed tired. Putting your cat to bed with a little food (make sure it’s not extra to their main meal, to avoid weight problems) can help with the hunger problem.

I’ve done all this. Jake still yowls. The only things that have worked are locking him in a room with Jackson, the Kelpie/Husky cross (on the very first day that Jackson came home, there were some loud noises but we’d had enough of the yowling so we didn’t care. They’re best friends now) and clomicalm. We tried a feliway diffuser, it worked for maybe a week. The clomicalm works well, but it turns him into a vegetable during the day so we didn’t use it for long. The experts say you should never yell, but I have to admit caving in. I can hit a moving target with a cushion from 20 feet as well. It’s so frustrating that I even started to look into bark-stopping collars for dogs that emit small electric shocks. I can hear the chorus of “oh, that’s terrible” and I agree, but sleep deprivation does funny things to you.

My point is, don’t give up. A friend of mine recommended a timed feeder and a “food toy” (a plastic bottle with some holes in the side and some kibble in it), so I’m going to give that a try. Hopefully, the feeder will be able to give him breakfast nice and early and the food toy will keep him busy during the day. The best-case scenario is that he’s fed nice and early and kept busy during the day so that he gets some exercise and is nice and tired at night. Fingers crossed…

For any Pet owners who feed their cats Iams ProActive Health canned cat and kitten foods, you should be aware that Iams is recalling 3 ounce and 5.5 ounce cans of this product that has an expiration date between September 2011 and June 2012. No other Iams foods are affected. Procter & Gamble Company^®, which manufacturers Iams products, is recalling these specific lots because diagnostic testing indicated that the product may contain insufficient levels of thiamine (Vitamin B1), an essential nutrient for cats. If these products are the sole diet cats are receiving, they are at greater risk for developing thiamine deficiency.  Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include loss of appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, signs may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, falling, circling and seizures. If your cat is displaying any of these signs, please visit your Banfield veterinarian immediately. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

You can contact Procter & Gamble for information on refunds at 1-877-340-8826, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EDT. Product purchased at PetSmart can also be returned to them directly.

My morning routine starts with my alarm going off. I hit the snooze button until eventually, I put on my glasses and wait for the sound of my final wake-up call: my 3-year-old Lhasa Apso, Emerson. He begins the day with a long yawn and a stretch or two, then arches his back and begins scratching his ears as I hear the familiar “clink-clink-clink” of the dog collar. It’s a morning routine that I know I share with many other dog owners.

Our routines become so commonplace that eventually we don’t pay much attention to them. This got me thinking about Emerson and his scratching, rubbing and licking consistently on his skin—particularly during the spring and summer months. The itching doesn’t seem to occur only in the morning, but at different times throughout the day. I began to take notice. Have I missed something? Could his scratching indicate a need for further attention? 

Since I always wanted to be a detective on some level, I began to do some investigating, noting the time of day (and season) Emerson was itching, as well as the location of his scratching. I also changed his shampoo, spoke with my Banfield veterinarinan and modified his diet a bit because of some food allergies. Fortunately, Emerson’s itching began to subside.

Dogs shouldn’t itch all the time. And if they do, I would suggest consulting your veterinarian, as your daily sidekick could have a condition that needs to be treated medically. Keep a close eye on how often your Pet indulges in scratching and whether it is localized to one particular area. Also part your Pet’s hair and check regularly for any skin abnormality or discomfort when these areas are touched.

As for Emerson, it seems my detective evaluation gives me nothing further to worry about. His skin and coat looks better than ever and he continues to greet me each morning with long stretches and deep yawns—and yes, a lick and scratch or two. But now the licks are only on my face. Not a bad way to start each day!