VSSF

Dental hygiene in dogs is extremely important because, just like people, dental disease can have a holistic effect on their body. If gone untreated for long periods of time, these problems can potentially have disastrous effects.

Plaque accumulates on your dog’s teeth and if it isn’t taken care of in a timely fashion, it hardens into tartar. This can lead to gum irritation and periodontal disease. One of the best remedies against this is water additives. They don’t contain any chlorhexidine, chlorines, or alcohol, which can be harmful to your dog. Instead, they typically contain enzymes that break down plaque as well as kill the bacteria associated with periodontal disease. Consult with your vet to determine which of the many solutions on the market are best for your dog.

Another remedy worth looking into is dental chews, which also counter plaque and tartar buildup. Like water additives, some may even contain enzymes to combat plaque before it hardens into tartar and control bacteria while others clean the dog’s teeth, simultaneously exercising his jaw. Again, consulting with your vet is always the best option before opting to use any method as part of your dog’s oral care. Your veterinarian can better determine what remedies are the best for your dog by taking x-rays to ensure there are no problems under the gum lines, as well as clean and polish your pet’s teeth.

Dogs are either good at hiding their pain or are unable to articulate their pain. Many owners can see changes in their dogs’ behavior after they receive dental therapy, citing their pets as much more playful and active than before. The ideal way to ensure good dental hygiene in your pet is by daily brushing and visiting the vet twice a year. Remember, good oral hygiene is imperative to your dog’s overall health, so treat it with as much care as you would any other problem.

Aging is a part of life, and cats are no different. Unfortunately, studies show that people put more effort into taking care of their aging dogs,  man’s best friend, than they do their cats. With a little bit of care and attention, even our older cats can live a longer and healthier life being the precocious animals they are.

What would be assumed to be the most obvious yet generally overlooked tip is to make sure you are visiting the vet at least twice a year. This could be an appointment for blood and urine samples for example, informing you of what is considered normal for your cat and what to recommend for it’s health accordingly.

While it’s easy  to let your older cat lounge around, justifying its age as the reason, it’s actually important they stay active. Cats, by nature, are prone to chase, hide, climb and explore. You don’t have to invest in pricey or even a multitude of toys, but just a few basic ones that can keep you cat busy. The idea is to keep them active, not to tire them out completely.

Just as activity is important, so is their rest; or more aptly, their means to rest. Move his bed to a more accessible area, (the same also goes for his food and water bowl) and make sure there are plenty of easy to reach spaces so your cat is able to climb without problems.

Because of declining activity, it is important to adjust your cats food intake accordingly. A food specifically designed for older cats is the best way to go. A dry food diet is good for cats, supplemented through canned food. This also allows you to observe their appetite, as cats tend to love canned food. Remember: obesity shortens your cat’s life span and hinders them from partaking in their daily activities, whatever they might be.

Show your cat the consideration and love needed in its later years. By doing so, you will receive the same love and affection back.

Many dog owners have established a kind of bond over the frustrating, but equally comical, experience of their dog’s reaction to water during bath time. However, water is imperative to a dog’s well being in many ways rather than just the obvious thirst-quenching factor.

 Involving the use of water in housetraining is a first. The norm has usually been to limit a dog’s water during the fact to keep them from urinating when you are unable to let them out. This technique is generally flawed. For one thing, dogs keep cool by panting, which is done effectively only if there is enough moisture in their respiratory system. Water helps in transporting waste products out through the kidneys and intestines, and also helps in cleansing the kidneys, reducing the risk of infection. Furthermore, if a dog is deprived of water when he needs it, he will make up for it after by drinking more than he needs to after. This in itself is a problem as it can cause physical ailments such as diarrhea, bloating, vomiting and urinating inside the house, the one thing you wanted to avoid in the first place.

Cooling is the next obvious use of water. Dogs are unaware of their needs, and are therefore thoroughly dependent on you to fulfill this essential need This is imperative since it is hard to distinguish overheating in dogs and can lead to death. Keep a close watch on your dog when the temperature starts rising, as your dog has not yet adjusted. It is normal behavior for your dog to occupy himself for long periods of time with activities that distract them such as chasing squirrels or some outdoor activity. Try to avoid leaving them alone for too long in hot temperatures because a dog will not realize it needs water until it is too late. If you are not sure if your dog is overheating, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Water is also great for a recreational use. In order to work through a dog’s natural fear of water, introduce them to it gently. On hot days, spraying them with cool water will not only cool them down but also create a positive association that dogs can have with water. Water is also sometimes used as a part of a physical therapy regimen for dogs with orthopedic problems.

Whatever the reason, make water your dog’s friend. They will thank you for it later.

Do you know if your dog has food allergies? If he has symptoms such as itching, licking, and chewing his paws, groin, neck, and/or ears or even some gastrointestinal signs such as chronic vomiting, diarrhea, belching, and frequent bowel movements, then he just might. Food allergies are unfortunate and result in some pretty nasty symptoms, but all of this can be avoided by feeding the proper food to your dog.

 To get started on picking the appropriate food for your dog, consult your veterinarian. Make sure you inform them of your dog’s medical history and even more importantly, every type of food your dog has eaten---this means anything from table scraps to chew toys with food flavorings. Based on skin and possible gastrointestinal signs, your vet will recommend a food allergy trial for your dog.

Some commercials advertise over-the-counter diets that claim to be “hypoallergenic” or “great for sensitive skin” which may be a bit deceiving. In fact, pet food companies don’t even have to list every ingredient on the label, so who knows what they’re leaving out? Also, manufacturers of the food can substitute other ingredients for the appropriate proteins, as long as they meet the guaranteed analysis. It’s pretty scary to think that you have no idea what you’re putting in your dog’s belly! Your best bet is to stick with the diet your veterinarian recommends for a proper food allergy test.

There are three categories of diets that are used in food allergy trials:

1. Prescription diets
2. Low Antigen diets
3. Homemade diets

The purpose of prescription diets is to ensure that the ingredients in the pet food are always consistent---meaning the protein and carbohydrate source in the food will always remain the same. This type of diet is for treating medical conditions (such as food allergies) and is only available through your veterinarian.

Antigens are the proteins in a diet that can be responsible for food allergy symptoms. In a low antigen diet, which is also a type of prescription diet, the protein in the food has been formulated in such a small amount that it will not stimulate the immune system---this will keep your dog from getting those pesky food allergy signs!

So let’s say your pet can’t or won’t eat either the prescription diet food or the low antigen diet food--- a homemade diet may be your last resort. This sort of diet normally contains a new protein source and a carbohydrate. Keep in mind though, this diet cannot be long term, it is meant to be a trial! A recommended homemade diet is not formulated to be a balanced diet---it lacks the proper nutrients needed to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Now, there are always downfalls in food allergy trials.

1)      The client does not understand why the veterinarian has recommended a feeding trial, how the feeding trial will be conducted, their role in completing the food allergy trial properly, and the ultimate goals of the trial.

To help with this, have your vet let you know exactly why the food allergy trial is being conducted and how to complete it---you need to be clear on what the expectations and goals are. It would also be a good idea to request phone progress reports, and remember that it is okay to ask questions! I mean, this is your dog’s health we are talking about---you want to be clear on EVERYTHING.

2)   Feeding your dog any type of snack or chew toy with food flavoring can affect the length and success of the food trial. 

Keep in mind, this mistake can also be made by children, relatives, visitors, etc. So the best way to avoid this is to keep everyone informed of the trial, or just keep your dog in a separate room when visitors or family are over.

3)      In a multiple pet house you must prevent the patient from eating the other dog’s food.  If there is a cat in the household, eating the cat food will disrupt the food trial.

It may be a pain, but you may need to stand over your dogs while they are being fed to avoid any trouble. However you could have the dog who is on a diet eat in a separate room, or even put all of your dogs on the diet, if it’s possible.

4)      The dog is not confined and wanders.  This patient will be able to get into the garbage, compost piles or the neighbor may feed him treats.

The solution for this is simple---keep your dog inside and the garbage out of reach!

Food allergy trials are the only sure fire way of determining if your dog has food allergies. Sure, the trial may be long and difficult, but in the end you and your pup will be grateful to know what food is safe to eat!

One of the most common diseases in older pets is kidney disease. This may be a stressful time for your family but with the assistance of your veterinarian and a few helpful tips, your pet can live a long, happy, and healthy life.

 What is Kidney Disease?

   The kidneys filter and remove waste materials from the blood and help regulate body fluids. Kidney Disease occurs when the kidneys fail to perform these functions properly and waste accumulates in the blood.

Signs of Kidney Disease

     Signs usually do not appear until more than 2/3 of kidney function has been lost. Pets over 6 years old should be screened for kidney disease before signs of disease appear.

These signs are:

   - loss of appetite, increased thirst, vomiting, or diarrhea

  Causes of Kidney Disease

   Acute kidney disease is a rapid decline in kidney function, often result of poisoning, shock, blood loss or other diseases.

   Chronic kidney disease can result from age, nutritional factors, and breed or hereditary tendencies.

Slowing the Progression

     Kidney failure may be stopped and many pets can recover completely once the underlying problem is resolved.

Home Care

 - Give your pet special care and attention

 - Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully.

- Feed your pet only the recommended food every day and speak to your veterinarian before changing your pet’s medication or feeding regimen.

Make sure to monitor your pet’s weight, activity, thirst, and general condition regularly. Inform your vet of any unexpected changes. Provide free access to fresh clean water.

Proper nutrition is essential in fighting against chronic kidney disease. Your veterinarian will recommend a well balanced diet with reduced amounts of phosphorous, salt, high-quality protein and higher amounts of fiber to reduce kidney workload. As always if you are ever suspicious of something, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.  

We brush our teeth two, sometimes three times a day. We floss, brush, and rinse, but should our cats experience the same daily dental care?  This is a common question that is brought to our veterinarians.  There are certain signs to look out for and actions to be taken to ensure your cat’s teeth stay clean and healthy.

Potential Dental Problems:

• Dental plague buildup
• Gingivitis
• Tooth defects
• Oral masses/tumors

Plague is soft, sticky, and filled with bacteria, which easily remains on your cat’s teeth.  If this is not removed and tended to, periodontal disease can be the end result. In order to avoid and prevent this, begin brushing your cat’s teeth when he or she is a kitten. Do not use the toothpaste found in your medicine cabinet, but rather something your veterinarian suggests, such as tuna water.

Bad breath can be a clear sign that dental problems are present. Bad breath can result in the reddening of gums, which is an indication that periodontal disease may be affecting your cat. This calls for a dental examination.

After the examination, be sure to care for your cat’s teeth at home. Avoid soft food whenever possible, as this can lead to plague build up. Cotton swabs, soft toothbrushes, and special cat toothpaste are all key tools to ensuring your cat’s teeth remain healthy.

Dental care is a crucial part in ensuring our cats remain healthy. All it takes is a little extra time at home with your cat and annual examinations. Next time you are at the veterinarian, be sure to ask about the steps necessary to take for your cat. Not every cat needs the same treatment; your vet will be able to provide a personalized system just for you.

Many believe his or her dog is slowing down due to old age, however this may not always be the case. There are certain signs that you, as pet owner, must be aware of when watching your dog’s every day movements. If you see these behaviors, we are about to go over, then your dog may have a disease known as Osteoarthritis (OA), which will painfully affect a dog’s joints.    

Signs to look out for:

1. Reluctance to climb stairs
2. Difficulty jumping
3. Stiffness after exercise
4. Limping
5. Difficulty rising, sitting or squatting
6. Loss of appetite
7. Changes in behavior

Dogs with the greatest risk

1. Over the age of 5
2. Overweight
3. Inactive
4. Large breed dog
5. Previous joint injuries
6. Hip or elbow dysplasia

If this describes you dog’s behaviors and attributes, then there are steps you can take to keep that pup healthy and get him or her on the road to recovery.

1. Visit the veterinarian. Here your vet will be able to observe your dog and give a proper diagnosis.
2. Exercise is key in keeping your dog at the proper weight and maintaining flexibility in joints and muscles. Stray from high impact exercise, and your dog will be well on his or her way to happier and healthier joints.
3. A diet rich in fatty acids can assist in the reduction of inflammation, control damage to cartilage, and reduce symptoms of arthritis. There are specially developed foods to help introduce these fatty acids into his or her diets, simply ask your veterinarian for his or her professional opinion.
4. Physical therapy is not only for us humans. Animal physical rehabilitation uses cold and hot compresses, massage, and various exercises to ensure pain relief and aid in the healing process.

Hopefully, these pointers have answered some questions about your dog’s recent behaviors. Next step, make an appointment with your veterinarian and your best friend will be on the way to recovery. 

While watching your cat eat you begin to wonder why she cannot seem to gain any weight. She is skin and bones, but eats constantly. This could be a clear indication that your cat has hyperthyroidism. This is the abnormal secretion of excess thyroid hormone, which strongly affects the metabolic function of a cat. There are a few options to consider when treating this condition.

Treatments

Medical: The medical option requires methimazole administration two or three times per day for the duration of your cat’s life. This can be a pill, a cream spread in the cat’s ear, or oil placed in the cat’s food.

Surgery: During surgery one or both lobes of the thyroid gland would be removed. Cons to this option include anesthesia and a chance of reoccurrence.

Radioiodine:  This is a form of iodine, which has been made radioactive. When injected into the body, radioiodine accumulates in the thyroid gland, while the unused radioiodine is excreted. The radiation is capable of eliminating the abnormal cells while sparing the normal cells. This treatment allows the cat to quickly return to a normal health without assistance from medication.  

Hyperthyroidism must be treated; fatal results can follow if this condition goes without treatment. If ignored heart failure and an untimely death can occur.

When we cough, it is usually due to a tickle in the throat or an easily cured common cold. However, if you start noticing a cough escaping your feline’s tiny mouth, this can be reason to worry. Coughing is extremely rare in cats, and can be a clear indication of asthma and respiratory distress.

Causes of Asthma

Asthma is the result of hyper-responsive airways, and your cat will react to a range of irritants.

1. Inhaled debris: this includes items mostly found around the house such as cat litter, cigarette smoke, perfume, even laundry detergent, and air fresheners. 
2. Others are commonly found outdoors such as pollens or mold.
3. Viruses and bacteria are also common irritants.
4. Parasites such as heartworms or lungworms

Treatments

1. Avoid the common irritants listed above
2. Bronchodilators are drugs used to open airways, allowing air to move freely.
3. Steroids may be administered to decrease inflammation and mucus production.

Asthma is something your cat will most likely live with for the entirety of his or her life, however this is a manageable problem. Between medical treatments, and awareness in your home, your cat can li 

The Bufo Toad is an exotic animal that was introduced to Florida in order to control insects. Since its introduction, it has managed to quickly reproduce and become a native in South Florida.  The Bufo Toad is considered extremely toxic due to the parotid glands located behind the head. These toxins contain high concentrations of hormones including adrenalin. This will attack the cardiovascular system, consisting of the heart, and the nervous system, which is in the brain. 

Signs of Toxicity

Dogs will commonly attack these toads due to their slow movements. Once attacked, the toad will release toxins, which will quickly affect your dog. These are the signs you should be aware of when determining whether your dog was affected.

1. Foaming from the mouth.
2. Drooling
3. Pawing at the mouth
4. Vomiting
5. Stumbling
6. Falling
7. Tremors
8. Rigid legs
9. Seizures

Treatment

If you see the above signs displayed by your dog, but he or she has not experienced a seizure, follow these steps: 

1. Rinse your dog’s mouth with running water: place a garden hose or faucet along the side of the dog’s mouth.
2. DO NOT force water down your dog’s mouth or try to make them swallow
3. DO NOT feed the dog oil, milk or other substances besides water.
4. Rinse his or her mouth 3 times for 3 to 5 minutes each.