Dog & Cat Dangers

Courtesy of the Life's Abundance August 2014 Newsletter and Dr. Jane Bicks

What do you think are the most common pet poisonings? Rat poison? Insecticides? The Pet Poison Hotline publishes a list of most common poisonings reported in dogs and cats - many of these items are non-toxic to humans but can be deadly to fur babies. In this month’s post, we’ll be taking a look at some of the dangers lurking in your home and how to best to protect your pet kids.

Chocolate: Dark equals dangerous! For dogs, chocolate toxicity can lead to seizures, vomiting, diarrhea and coma. In extreme dosages, chocolate poisoning can even prove fatal. Baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the most deadly.

Xylitol: This common sugar substitute is found in sugar-free gums, candies and many other foods. What many don’t know is that it’s not uncommon in some medications and nasal sprays. Xylitol is toxic to dogs, not cats, and can cause low blood sugar and liver failure.

Over-the-counter medications: Ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen cause gastric ulcers in both dogs and cats. Acetaminophen can even lead to anemia in cats. Cough and cold medications that contain phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine or acetaminophen are also dangerous, as these medications are often formulated in tasty liquids pet kids find irresistible. Never give these medications to your fur kids. Keep them in a high cabinet, well out of reach of pets.

Prescription drugs: ADD and ADHD medications can cause tremors, seizures, heart problems and even death in companion animals. Felines are highly sensitive to antidepressant medications. Cymbalta and Effexor, among others, can cause severe neurological and heart problems.

Rodenticides: Rat poison is just as deadly for dogs as it is for rodents. To make matters worse, dogs love the flavor of the bait. These toxic substances cause fatal internal bleeding and brain swelling.

Grapes or Raisins: While harmless to humans, grapes and raisins contain a substance that can lead to canine kidney failure. The exact source of the problem remains a mystery to veterinary experts.

Oxygen Absorbers: You know those little freshness packets in jerky treats? That’s an oxygen absorber, included to keep foods and treats fresh. Oftentimes, they contain iron, which can be poisonous to pets. Whatever you do, don’t let your fur kids ingest these little packets!

Flea products for dogs are toxic to cats! These products often contain pyrethrins, which can cause feline seizures and tremors. If it says ‘for canine use only’, take that warning to heart!

Household Plants: Lilies are the number one source of toxicity reported in cats. These beautiful house plants cause kitty kidney failure. A good rule of thumb … if you have a cat, don’t keep lilies in your house (or your yard, for that matter). Lilies aren’t the only plants with the potential for harm - philodendrons and pothos can cause oral ulcers and foaming at the mouth.

What to do if your companion animal is poisoned …

1. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm.

2. Remove your companion animal from the area where the poisoning occurred.

3. Make sure your pet kid is breathing and behaving normally. If not, go immediately to the emergency clinic.

4. Contain the poisonous material, preventing additional exposure. Obtain a sample of the questionable material, store in a plastic baggy for preservation and ease of transport. The more evidence you can supply your veterinarian, the more easily they’ll be able to diagnose the problem, and solution.

5. Don’t just hope things will improve on their own … go to a vet for immediate assistance. Call your vet’s office for guidance prior to your visit, or contact the 24-hour Pet Poison Hotline at 800-213-6680 ($35 fee). Make sure to save these numbers on your phone now, so you won’t have to scramble for the numbers later. Do not induce vomiting without the advice of a veterinarian and never give your pet oil, milk, food, salt or anything orally without talking to a veterinarian first.

The prognoses for poisoning are better the sooner it’s reported, so never hesitate to get help as soon as possible. There is a narrow window of time to neutralize most poisons. Immediate treatment could save your pet’s life!

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals.
Dr. Jane Bicks

Why does my pet do that?

Courtesy of Life's Abundance 2014 June Newsletter:

We love our companion animals. But sometimes their actions are mystifying, if not altogether baffling. Fortunately, our own Dr. Jane is on-hand to offer some rationale behind some of the most perplexing pet behaviors.

Why Does My Dog Stare At Me?

Dogs stare at their human companions for any number of reasons. Often, it’s because they want something from you: a tasty snack, a walk around the block, an impromptu game of fetch, etc. Dogs can also stare as a form of attention-seeking behavior. Others are simply indicating neediness for human touch, praise or direction. With more perceptive dogs, they may actually be attempting to read an emotion in our facial expressions. Rest assured that in most cases, staring is considered to be a positive behavior, as most trainers encourage dogs to stare at their pet parents. There are instances, however, where staring at a dog can be considered confrontational or a direct challenge (in the wild, canines stare down their challengers). Staring deeply into a canine’s eyes is an activity that should only be engaged within the bounds of a healthy human-dog relationship. If you aren’t sure, don’t do it before talking it over with an animal behaviorist.

Why Does My Dog Turn in Circles Before He Poops?

Not all dogs do it, but many pet parents have watched with confusion at a dog who spins in circles, then steps from one back paw to the other before doing his business. No one knows for sure why dogs do this, but there are several theories. Twirling in circles may be evolutionarily beneficial, in that it enables wild dogs to scan the horizon for predators, so as not to be attacked while in a vulnerable position. Other experts believe the walking helps get the bowels moving. Canines have scent glands in their paws, so twirling might be another way for them to spread their scent around, letting other dogs know that the territory has been claimed.

Why Does My Cat Lick Me?

How many of you have had a cat that licks you incessantly? Well, experts in feline behavior believe that when a cat grooms and licks another cat or a human, they’re conveying trust, affection and caring. These licks are actually ‘kisses’ and a sign that your cat feels happy and safe. When a cat bonds to a human, there can be no limit to feline affection.

Why Does My Cat Meow At Me?

Anyone who has ever lived with a vocal cat has certainly asked this question. The experts say that when a cat meows at their humans, they’re asking for something. Over time, felines have figured out that meowing gets results, but why is this so effective? Feline behaviorists believe that ‘meowing’ is actually a cat’s way of imitating the cry of a human infant. It’s a behavior that kittens learn early on, as kittens meow to their mothers, often because they’re hungry. I find it interesting that cat meows can vary depending on what they are asking for. For example, the meow to ‘go outside’ can sound very different from the one for ‘feed me’. Experts have also found that cats meow differently to different people. For the most part, when a kitty is making a vocal request, it is out of pleasure and trust that their human companion will fulfill the feline’s every need. If your cat is obsessively meowing and the behavior is increasing, it is always a good idea to get your kitty checked by your local veterinarian. Certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can cause excessive vocalization.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. Dr Jane Bicks.

 

Jogging with your Dog

Courtesy of Life's Abundance from the June 2014 newsletter: Dr. Sarah goes over in this video about:
running with your favorite canine:

- what the appropriate age for your dog should be
- what to watch for fatigue
- when to run use a leash?
- get a checkup for you and your dog before going and so much more !

 Watch this video !


 

Video - Annual Exams for your Pets

Courtesy of Life's Abundance Newsletter for April 2014

Preventative care for our companion animals means more than just vaccinations.

Dr. Sarah goes over veterinarian annual exams and the detail it can include.
There are also semi-annual exams depending on the age of your animal.

Some of the points in this video that you and your veterinarian will discuss: -


- Does vaccination have to be given every year? -
- Has anything changed with your god and or cat? Eating, drinking, mobility, going to the bathroom etc.


The exam itself includes - Tip of the nose to tail exam!


So much goes into the exam to determine if anything might be going on.


Early detection of something now could be better than dealing with it when the issue has caused pain or problems later.


This video is amazing to see what an
exam covers on your animal!

Cat, Dog, Human: Heart Disease

How wonderful to have Dr. Jane Bicks - important article regarding Heart Disease:
a must read!

Courtesy of Life's Abundance and the January 2014 Newsletter:

Heart Health Awareness Month is right around the corner, beginning February 1st. While technically concerned with human heart health, I think it’s vital that we expand the scope of the conversation to address canine and feline heart health, too.

Most people have a basic understanding of the risks of heart disease in humans, but when it comes to the heart health of our pet kids, that area remains a mystery to many. In the following seven frequently-asked questions, we’ll consider the parallels between all three species (humans, canines and felines), to better understand heart disease.

How Widespread is Heart Disease?

Humans: In America, heart disease is the #1 cause of death. Annually, about 600,000 people die of heart disease, one in every four deaths.

Dogs and Cats: Although reliable statistics are not readily available for adult felines or canines, heart disease is not the pressing problem that it is for humans. That being said, heart problems are still common, with one in ten dogs developing valvular heart disease. As with many health issues, the risk for heart disease increases with age, especially for dogs over the age of nine (the age varies from breed to breed).

When it comes to cats, tracking heart disease proves extremely challenging, as felines present virtually no physical symptoms from this condition.

What’s the Most Common Form of Heart Disease?

Humans: In adults, coronary artery disease is the most prevalent kind of heart disease. The main type involves plaque build-up in the arteries, which affects their ability to deliver blood to the heart. As the layers of plaque thicken and harden, blood flow to the heart is further restricted.

Dogs and Cats: The biggest difference here is that pet kids are not at-risk for coronary artery disease. While that’s good news, there are other medical conditions that dogs and cats face. Dogs can suffer from mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Mitral valve disease describes a condition where a valve on the left side of the heart fails to close properly. The problem with this is that blood pools into the left atrium, rather than exiting the left ventricle. Older, small-breed dogs are more likely to develop mitral valve disease, and the condition is only worsened by periodontal disease. DCM weakens the heart muscle so that it pumps less vigorously and regularly, a condition more common in large breeds.

Cats, on the other hand, are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Here, the walls of the heart thicken and the muscle becomes less flexible. The unfortunate result is that the heart pumps less blood. HCM is a genetic disease that is found in both pure and mixed breed cats.

What are the Symptoms of Heart Disease?

Humans: Symptoms vary depending on the disease, but patients with coronary artery disease often have chest pain, arm pain and shallow breathing. And, of course, there’s the big wake-up call of a heart attack.

Dogs and Cats: Dogs typically exhibit signs such as low energy, trouble getting comfortable, labored breathing and a low-pitched, chronic cough. On occasion, they might actually collapse or faint.

Cats may also become lethargic, as well as sleeping or hiding more than is typical. Often, cats will also lose their appetite. If a blood clot is swept from the heart and travels down through the aorta, felines can suffer a painful, sudden paralysis in their hind legs. Important note:

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately. And, if your companion animal experiences any of these symptoms, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

How Do You Test for Heart Disease?

Humans: Doctors can choose from a variety of diagnostic testing, including blood exams, treadmill tests, electrocardiograms and imaging analyses.

Dogs and Cats: For veterinarians, a stethoscope is the most effective way to identify heart disease. That being said, it is difficult to detect an issue absent a murmur. Sometimes an x-ray, ECG or echocardiogram may shed light on an undiagnosed problem.

What Medications are used for Treatment?

Humans: If you were to be diagnosed with heart disease, doctors might prescribe a blood-pressure medication, a blood thinner or a cholesterol-lowering drug (among other things). Patients often use medications to make the heart beat more slowly and to relax blood vessels.

Dogs and Cats: Many of the drugs we use are also used by dogs and cats. Treatments vary according to the animal and kind of heart disease. The important thing to note is that there are treatments available, and new research is presenting new avenues for improvement.

Can Diet Help to Prevent Heart Disease?

Humans: Diet has a big influence on heart health. Eating foods heavy with saturated and trans-fats can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries. Conversely, a diet rich in omega fatty acids, whole grains and fiber can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and help prevent heart disease.

Dogs and Cats: A healthy diet has not been proven to significantly alter the rates of canine and feline heart disease … however much more research has been done on humans in this regard. It’s hard to overstate the importance of quality food and your companion animal’s quality of life.

What About Exercise?

Humans: Yes, definitely! Exercise lowers the risk of heart attack and reduces stress, another risk factor for heart disease.

Dogs and Cats: The kinds of heart disease commonly found in cats and dogs can't be avoided through exercise. But, as with people, regular exercise will improve overall health and help prevent obesity in pets. And don’t forget what researchers, healing experts and therapy animals have been demonstrating for decades … that by taking care of a dog or a cat, you’ll also be taking care of your heart.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals.
Dr. Jane Bicks

Fun, Winter Fun with your dog!

Another great video by Dr. Sarah courtesy of Life's Abundance and the January 2014 Newsletter:

Summer isn't the only season it can be dangerous to leave your pup in the car.
Since snow can cover scent - always keep an extra eye on him/her as they may not be able to "smell" their way back.

A canine coat might be a great idea as well as boots

Be careful when your dog wants to roll around in that snow b/c glass or other dangerous thing could be under that snow you can't see.

A dry winter air means always have clean fresh water water and so much more!
Watch Now!!

Pet Weight Loss Tips

Courtesey of Life's Abundance Thank you Dr. Sarah for this video from the Life's Abundance Blog for December:
Fight against obesity:
Meal portions
Feeding guidelines are just guidelines
All metabolisms are different so consult with your Vet specific for your pet. and so much more!!




Mention of Life's Abundance weight loss food for dogs

Off Leash Training by Dr. Sarah

Courtesy of Life's Abundance and their October 2013 Newsletter, Dr Sarah shares off leash training:

 An awesome video explaining different breeds and their instincts.

Where to begin

The major commands your dog must know before even starting

You might need a professional trainer to assist with the individuality of your canine
 and so much more

 Watch this video !



Or click below http://vimeo.com/77972902

Moving Tips for your pets

This article is from Dr. Jane Bicks, Life's Abundance Blog October 2013: It is an excellent article and contains awesome tips for you and your pets for a smooth transition as possible to a new place.

Moving to a new residence can be a nerve-wracking event for everyone involved. With the average American moving 11-14 times, that’s a lot of trips to ‘Stressville’. Between sorting through your possessions, packing up boxes, traveling to the new location, switching utilities and all of the other steps that go into a move, it’s easy to become frazzled at the mere prospect of all that work. Coordinating all of these elements can prove challenging even for folks with a knack for organization. Moving with a companion animal adds an extra layer of complexity. Whatever stress you experience on moving day goes double for companion animals, who have no idea what to expect from the commotion of a move. But, with some strategic planning and a little bit of elbow grease, you can make the transition easier on yourself and your companion animals.

GENERAL TIPS

Make sure your dog or cat wears ID tags at all times, because the likelihood of pet kids becoming separated from their people goes up dramatically during a move. If you maintain registry with a national microchip agency, be sure to update your contact information. Once you’ve moved, call your veterinary office to update your address and phone number. Did you know that a rabies tag includes the contact information for your vet’s office? It’s a built-in safeguard if your pet kid ever becomes lost, so make certain your veterinarian has your most up-to-date contact information. Call your local animal regulatory office and/or homeowner’s association to learn of any rules or legislation regarding companion animals in your new neighborhood.

DOGS ARE FAIRLY EASY

 Moving a family dog is pretty simple. Keep your dog on a leash, buckle his car harness and drive him to his new digs. If your new place features a fenced yard, show him the locations of his food, water, bedding and kennel [if your dog spends part of his day outdoors]. The new sights and smells will likely keep them occupied for hours. If there’s any anxiety, consider using a calming herbal supplement. Aside from canines with compulsive disorders, most adapt to new routines relatively quickly.

CATS REQUIRE MORE FORETHOUGHT

Cat Relocating cats can prove a bit more complicated. Cats not only bond to their people but they bond to their territory as well. As many outdoor cats are free-roaming, it can be difficult to get them to stick around long enough to establish a new territory. There are many stories of cats ending up back at their old addresses after a short-distance move, and other heartbreaking stories of cats being lost forever after a long-distance move. To keep your cat safe before, during and after a move, confinement to a secure space is required. Before the move, keep your kitty in an empty, climate-controlled room. The room should include a litterbox, bedding, food, water, toys and a scratching post (clawing is a fantastic stress reliever). Post a sign on the door, letting movers know the room has been cleared and that it should remain closed at all times. When transporting him to your new home, I strongly advise using a portable crate. If your cat is apprehensive about car travel, only going for rides to see the veterinarian, lightly spray the carrier with a feline-hormone spray that reduces stress.

Put something inside the kennel that reminds them of home, such as a favorite toy or a pillowcase that smells like you. Even if you are staying at a hotel, you should not let your cat out of the carrier - even if your kitty complains, it’s necessary to keep your cat safe, as frightened cats are likely to dart. Keep the carrier partially covered with a towel or sheet so it feels like a den. Once you’ve reached your destination, set aside a room (such as a bedroom or bathroom) to serve as a transition area. This simple step will help your kitty become acclimated to your new home. In these instances, the best medicine is time … giving your cat the personal space to settle in. Visit occasionally while you unpack, providing food, water and treats. If there’s a window, consider setting up a perch, which will give your kitty a view to his new world. Do not let your cat out until the movers are gone, the furniture is arranged and you can keep an eye on your furry friend as he explores the rest of the home.

If you would prefer not to confine your cat to a safe room, consider boarding your cat during the move. For his protection, staying at an extended-care spa or a vet’s office offers a comfortable, caring solution (also good for dogs, too). If you’ve ever considered training an outdoor cat to become an indoor-only cat, moving is a great opportunity to do just that! Short distance moves within the same neighborhood can actually prove more problematic for cats than moving to a completely new area. If your kitty knows he’s near his marked territory, he might drive you bonkers trying to convince you to let him out. In a new neighborhood, however, your cat has no established turf, so he should be less likely to prowl-yowl. If you still want to allow your cat outdoors but have concerns for his health and safety, consider investing in a harness and leash.

I hope that you’ll find these tips helpful, and wish you and your pet kids a safe move and a future of happiness in your new home.

Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. 

Dr Jane Bicks

VIDEO: Parvo by Dr. Sarah

 "Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
Dr. Sarah of Life's Abundance goes over Parvo: a serious virus in canines If you haven't heard of it, please watch below for some signs, about the disease, where it attacks and more



This video is from the Life's Abundance April 2013 Newsletter.

Pet Oral Health Video

 "Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
Thank you Dr. Sarah for this great video on your pet's oral health.
From the Life's Abundance March 2013 Newsletter.
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
 

Dog darting out the door

"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
From the Life's Abundance Newsletter: Is your dog darting out the door when you leave?
Watch this video as Dr. Sarah gives some great ideas to prevent it and deal with it if your dog does manage to get out.
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Winter safety for your pets

 "Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
From the Life's Abundance November 2012 Pet Newsletter:
Dr. Sarah shares some great tips for our furry friends during the winer and cold months!

Brushing your Dog

 "Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
From the Life's Abundance Newsletter: In this video Dr. Sarah goes over great tips on how to brush your dog's coat and so much more. Where to start, when to start, some items that may make it easier and more enjoyable for your dog and you.
"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"

Pet Life span is Determined by?

"Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
From the Life's Abundance Newsletter for August 2012:
Dr. Sarah, Staff Veterinarian does an awesome job at explaining about pet life span.

You may be surprised to learn what factor really plays an important part of a pet's life.

Is it genetics? Is it what they eat?

"Courtesy of Life's Abundance" Click Here or below to watch the video!

Camping with your Dog

 "Courtesy of Life's Abundance"
Thank you once again Dr. Sarah for the great information in this video for all the great tips for camping with your canine.  After you watch the video, please click below to view the check list and a printable form.

"Courtesy of Life's Abundance" Click Here or below to watch the video!

Please visit Life's Abundance for an awesome checklist - click here