Winnie's Corner
Thanksgiving Safety for Dogs:
by Linda Burkett on 11/24/10
Thankgiving Safety for Dogs:
Stuff the turkey, not your dog
by Nikita
Ahhh, the aroma of a fresh, mouthwatering, roasting turkey in the oven, Mom's cornbread stuffing cooling on the counter, sweet, spicy pumpkin pie tempting your passions. But don't forget the happy, little furry-feet, following your every move!
Yep, its Thanksgiving! A time to be thankful for all we have, for those around us we love, including our canine friends. Many people share the family feast with their dog in an offering of thanks and love. While this is an innocent and seemingly gracious and loving gesture, the truth is, it's more loving not to share your holiday meals with your dog. While it may seem that a little bit of turkey skin here and a little bit of stuffing there wouldn't hurt, we know how quickly the pounds can add up over the holiday season. The same rules that apply to us apply to our pets. A diet high in fat and being overweight is very unhealthy for them.
Pancreatitis is just one of the problems that occur with a high fat and unhealthy diet. The "typical" pancreatitis victim is middle-aged or older and overweight. It's common in both sexes, and very often the family has just had a party or a big holiday meal when this disease strikes. So, if your pet is often one that gets a table scrap here, a potato chip there, extra caution should be taken, as his possibility for an accute pacreatitis attack could already be high. However this doesn't OK you to indulge him if it's "just this once" or "just for the holiday." Things can turn bad quickly and with the hustle and bustle of the holidays; you may not be as alert to the first symptoms, or may pass them off as just nerves, stress or having a little too much turkey or all the family at the home for the holiday.
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes that break down food so the body can digest it. These enzymes are carefully handled by the pancreas in order to prevent them from damaging the pancreas itself or surrounding tissue. If they break down for any reason, the result is leakage of enzymes, which damage the pancreas and any surrounding tissue they reach. This breakdown is called pancreatitis. Symptoms include loss of appetite, severe and frequent vomiting, diarrhea that may contain blood, reluctance to walk, weakness, pain, crying, restlessness, irritability, or refusing to eat. Many people know their dog is sick, but may be confused as to whether or not it's serious because of a lack of symptoms or symptoms being vague and mild.
Pancreatitis may occur only once in a dog's life or it can become chronic, a condition that returns over and over again. It can quickly become fatal or just be a mild attack of pain that is over in a few hours or a day or so. It can cause serious side effects including shock, blood clotting disorders, heart arrythmias, and liver or kidney damage. So if your pet exhibits ANY of these signs, even if mild at first, get him to your vet immediately! Of course with it being a holiday, many animal clinics may be closed - another VERY valid reason to not be so sharing with your pets this Thanksgiving. And just in case, make sure you have an emergency number for your vet or the emergency vet clinic number handy for when your vet's office is closed.
Make sure your pet has no access to any food left on the counters or tables when no one is around. After you're done cleaning up the kitchen, make sure you take the garbage out, and dispose of it in a secure place where no pets can get into it. Even the best behaved, well trained pets may be too tempted with turkey bones, the string that tied the turkey legs together, and what little of what was left of Mom's stuffing in the trash.
Other Holiday Food Dangers
Besides table scraps being dangerous to your pets because of the high-fat in some of them, there are still other reasons to not share your holiday feast with pets. Cooked turkey, duck, geese and other bird bones are dangerous to your pet. They are hollow and break and splinter easily. Also, because they are so easily breakable, dogs usually won't chew them thoroughly. The results are sharp pieces that can choke the dog or block, tear the intestines. A pet that has a bone or fragment of one lodged in his intestine may not even show symptoms for a few days. When they do occur they may include loss of appetite, depression, vomiting, or diarrhea. Sometimes the bone will pass by itself; other times it may need to be surgically removed. So make sure all left overs and throw away and out of your pets' reach.
Chocolate and your dog
Yet another danger to dogs is chocolate. It contains a xanthine compound called theobromine. Theobromine is highest in dark chocolate, but even milk chocolate contains theobromine. Chocolate can be fatal to your dog! Bowls of candy, or pieces dropped by guests or children, may go unnoticed by you for hours, but pose a real risk to your pets.
Bloat is a medical emergency!
One last word of caution on holiday meals and your pet is "bloat." Bloat is a gastric condition that can be deadly and is an EMERGENCY for you and your dog. Bloat is most commonly caused by too much gas or fluid in the stomach. This gas can extend the stomach causing gastric dilation. If the stomach partially rotates it is called gastric torsion. If it fully rotates its called gastric volvolus. Each can be a life threatening problem. Usually, large, deep-chested dogs are the victims, but it has occurred in some smaller breeds and puppies that have been allowed to eat too fast. While the causes of bloat are varied, gulping of food and water, a common behavior at excitable times when yummy treats are given and then exercise, such as the excitability and playfulness a lot of pets experience during busy times like holidays and family gatherings, may be a serious threat to a lot of pets.
Bloat is a deadly condition that gives you a very limited amount of time to act. Symptoms include abdominal distention, salivating, retching, restlessness, depression, lethargy, anorexia, weakness, or a rapid heart rate. Any of these symptoms, even if mild at first, should IMMEDIATELY be attended to by your vet. The stages and manifestations of this condition can happen rapidly once started, so no time should be wasted in seeking advice and care, even if there is a little doubt. Things to avoid are not allowing your pet to overeat, even his own food. Instead of 1 or 2 large meals a day, try 3 or 4 smaller ones. Do not feed your pet at high excitability times, or when he's nervous, such as when you have a house full of company. Many dogs will gulp down their food as a "defense" to keep these "strange intruders" out of it. Calm your dog and feed him at quiet times of the day. Do not allow vigorous exercise before or after your pet has eaten.
Be careful with your pets this holiday season, and be truly thankful for them by keeping them healthy!
Ewh! Gross! Why does my dog eat poop?!
by Linda Burkett on 10/26/10
Ewh! Gross! Why Does My Dog Eat Poop!!?
Nothing can turn the stomach like seeing your adorable little face licking dog eat poop! This is called Coprophagia. Your first thought, "Where can I throw up?" second thought "That dog is never licking my face again!" and finally "Why does my dog do that!". Embarrassment sets in. You hope none of the other dog owners, family members, neighbors, etc. finds out your little pride and joy eats poop! Okay so why does he do it and how can you stop it from happening again?
Why does your dog do it? "Is he missing something in his diet?" That is the most asked question but the answer is maybe, but probably not.
Dogs eat poop for several different reasons and if your dog is well fed, and not on the brink of starvation then it's probably not because something is missing in it's diet. However, a lot of the cheaper grocery store dog foods contain a lot of useless fillers that fill your dog, but add no nutritional value and simply pass right through. When I say they pass right through I mean they come out smelling and tasting just as yummy as they were going in. So why not eat poop? Yum!
If it happens often enough it becomes a habit. Puppies do it quite often but usually out grow it. It sounds gross I know, but what smells like rose petals to you and I, smells like poop to them and what smells like poop to us... well, it's probably poop lets face it. Silly dogs!
So basically your adorable little doggy is just enjoying last nights cheap dinner again. If your dog is eating "Kitty Tenders" from the litter box it's basically for the same reason. If he's eating deer poop or other wild dung then yes, something could be missing. Probably something in the vegetable variety of foods. Maybe it's time to introduce your dog to sliced carrots or apple chuncks as treats.
Is it bad or dangerous if my dog eats poop?
Generally coprophagia isn't dangerous, just "icky". Although when your precious one is out and about and eating the poop of others or dips into the Kitty Tender box it could become hazardous.
Who knows what kind of parasites or illness the mystery animal who left the tasty morsel behind might have. Once ingested your dog will probably get whatever illness the depositor had. Also, dipping into the litter box usually means some kitty litter is going to be enjoyed along with the treat. Kitty litter can clump in your dogs intestines and could cause a blockage requiring help from a veterinarian. Surgery isn't cheap!
How do I stop this disgusting behavior?
There are several products available at your local pet store which when added to your dogs diet will prevent him from eating poop. These can sometimes be expensive. Here are a few of my suggestions:
- Take a look at your dogs food. Are corn, meat bi-products, or other fillers listed among the ingredients? These are the things they add to your dogs food to make them taste great, but add no nutritional value to the meal. They are also basically undigestible and pass right through, becoming snacks for later. Better quality, highly digestible foods are much better for your dogs health and leave behind undesirable poop!
- Don't over feed! Over feeding also causes undigested food to pass on through. More yummy snacks for later!
- Pick up the poop! Don't leave the pick up chore for the weekend or whenever. Pick it up at least once a day. Try to limit the availability of the tasty problem.
- Keep Fido on the leash. If you haven't had the opportunity to pick up the poop, take your dog out to do it's business on the leash. Even if it's in your own back yard. If he tries to eat the poop give a firm "NO" and a quick tug on the leash. Let him know you don't want him doing that anymore. Then redirect his interest with a treat or game.
- Break out the hot sauce! Sprinkle a little hot sauce or something similar on the piles of poop. This will make them a lot less appealing. Of course if you've got the time to spice up the poop, you probably have time to pick up and get rid of it. I'm just saying...
- Try adding tenderizer. Some people found that sprinkling a little meat tenderizer on the dogs' food makes the poop less tasty to the dog.
Hopefully this answers the question you've been dying to know the answer to but were too embarrassed to ask. Good luck!
Caring for Your Cat: The Top Ten Essentials?
by Linda Burkett on 10/19/10
Caring for Your Cat: The Top Ten Essentials?
Although your cat may act independent and be litter trained, he still counts on you to provide him with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, companionship, and more. Take care of these ten essentials, and you'll be guaranteed to develop a rewarding relationship with your feline companion.
- Outfit your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address and telephone number. No matter how careful you are, there's a chance your companion may slip out the door. An ID tag greatly increases the chance that your cat will be returned home safely.
- Follow local cat registration laws. Licensing, a registration and identification system administered by some local governments, protects both cats and people in the community.
- Keep your cat indoors. Keeping your cat safely confined at all times is best for you, your pet, and your community. (Use this tip at your own discretion. I personally believe in letting cats go in or out doors as they please. I believe it is a cat's natural instinct to want to be outside, and allowing them to become familiar with their outside surroundings prevents any chance of becoming frightened and disoriented.)
- Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular check ups. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet-owning friend for a referral.
- Spay or neuter your pet. This will keep her healthier and will reduce the problem of cat overpopulation.
- Give your cat a nutritionally balanced diet. Including constant access to fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet.
- Train your cat to refrain from undesirable behaviors such as scratching furniture and jumping on countertops. Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained with a bit of patience, effort and understanding on your part. (for tips on training your cat, contact me and I'll try to help you out.)
- Groom your cat often to keep her coat healthy, soft and shiny. Although it is especially important to brush long-haired cats to prevent their hair from matting, even short-haired felines need to be groomed to remove as much loose hair as possible. When cats groom themselves, they ingest a geat deal of hair, which often leads to hairballs.
- Set aside time to play with your cat. While cats do not need the same level of exercise that dogs do, enjoying regular play sessions with your pet will provide him with the physical exercise and mental stimulation he needs, as well as strengthen the bond you share.
- Be loyal to and patient with your cat. Make sure the expectations you have of your companion are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavioir problems can be solved. If you are struggling with your pet's behavior, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for advoce, and check out the HSUS's Pets for Life campaign information.
Good luck, good health and happiness to you and your cat. If you need any Kitty Cat advice just let me know. I'll consult my four legged companions and we'll do what we can to help. · Share
Winnie's Friends Need Good Homes!
by Linda Burkett on 10/03/10
Okay Lotsa Love Pet Care Fans my friend Miss Becky Sterling is trying to find great homes for some very special and super lovable friends of hers. Here are some pictures to entice you! Please call Becky at 801-466-3980 for more information
Winnie Snacks
by Linda Burkett on 10/02/10
Since we're walking into the beginning of the holiday season, I thought it might be a good idea to post some treat recipes this month. Here's one that Princess Winnie likes. I hope you and your mutt or kitty enjoy them too!
Winnie Snacks
- 2 1/2 cups whole what flour
- 1/2 cup powdered dry milk
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. brown sugar or honey
- 6 tbs. meat or bacon drippings (cold and solidified not melted)
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- 1/2 cup ice water
Prehat oven to 350F, lightly grease a cookie sheet. Combine flour, dry milk, garlic powder and sugar. Cut in meat drippings until mixture resembles corn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so that mixture forms a ball. Using your fingers, pat out dough onto cookie sheet to 1/2" thick. Cut dough into squares at an appropriate size for your dog or cat (I like to use small cookie cutters). Prick each cookie with a fork. Bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from the tray and cool on a rack. Store in an airtight container.
Enjoy! And don't forget to take your pet out to walk off the extra holiday pounds that are bound to appear! (your dog told me to tell you that)
10 Things Your Veterinarian Wants You to Know
by Linda Burkett on 09/30/10
10 Things Your Veterinarian Wants You to Know
By Craig Woloshyn, DVM
Your veterinarian is trained to care for your pet and is privileged to do so. But no amount of training or fancy, high-tech equipment can replace one crucial piece of the animal-care puzzle: communication between you and your pet's doctor. Here are 10 things most of us veterinarians would like you to know, but may not tell you.
1. Talk to us. Tell us your expectations for your pet's care. A complete cure? Pain control? Hospice? Medical advances mean we can do more and more for your pet, but that may not be what you want. Veterinarians won't order unnecessary tests or procedures, but you need to let us know the level of care you expect for your pet, as well as your emotional and financial limitations, so we can deliver optimum care.
2. Write it down. There's nothing more helpful than bringing in a list of problems your pet has, concerns you want to discuss, and questions you want to ask so that you don’t forget anything when you visit. There's a lot going on when you come to the veterinary practice, and it’s beneficial to have all the pertinent information ready for us when you arrive at your pet's appointment.
3. Make a call. Sometime things that seem unimportant to you are serious signs to us and may indicate a big problem in the making. Sometimes it's the other way around, and your pet's odd behavior is nothing to worry about. But if your pet's behavior changes or you have a concern, however slight, we'd prefer you call and ask. You should be able to easily get a hold of one of our technicians to see what they think.
4. Be proactive. Along these same lines, don't wait too long to address an issue your pet is experiencing. Many problems in pets double in seriousness ever 24 hours. For many conditions, fast action and early treatment can save your pet suffering and ensure a more complete cure. Remember, the first time you think about calling us, you should.
5. Ask us questions. We spend a lot of time trying to ake your pet's disease understandable, but our communication skills are sometimes lacking. If you don't understand what's going on with your pet, ask us to explain. If you're still confused ask again. Request handouts and reference materials so you can read about your pet's problem. And if you aren't getting satisfactory results, ask for a referral to a specialist.
6. Use the Internet wisely. The Internet is a great source of information if you go to the right sites. Look at our veterinary practice website for reference links, or ask us for an authoritive site that covers your pet's illness. We know the Internet can be a big help. But don't try to diagnose your pet's problem online; the web rarely offers up correct diagnosis. More often than not, when people tell us they're afraid their pet has some terrible disease they read about on the Web, it turns out that their pet's ailment is something simple and fixable.
7. Medicine isn't cheap. MRIs, neurosurgery, and joint replacements are common procedures for pets nowadays. While we're able to deliver excellent health care for pets at a fraction of what it costs humans, many pets still aren't covered by insurance, so such treatments can quickly empty a bank account. Be honest about what you can afford. We can almost always do something, if not everything for your pet. And look into health insurance for young pets. A policy is inexpensive and may save your pet's life someday if it covers a costly procedure.
8. Demand pain relief. We can't always provide a cure for pets, but we can usually provide them with a pain-free existence. Cats and dogs feel pain just as we do, they just can't tell us about it. The field of pain relief is well advanced, and pain relief is generally simple and inexpensive. So demand pain relief for your pet. It's the least you can do.
9. Practice prevention. Treatments can be difficult and costly, so it's best to prevent illness and disease in the first place. While this isn't always possible, regular exams, proper diet, and exercise can delay or prevent many conditions. Ask your veterinarian about wellness care and preventive steps if your pet is predisposed to a particular problem.
10. See us first. The best time to find a veterinarian is before you get a pet. We can tell you if the pet you’re considering has predispositions to health problems and give you a good idea if the pets' temperament is a good fit for you. Most animals end up in shelter because of behavior problems, and those are often due simply to the wrong choice of pet. Ask us first and have no regrets later.
Dr. Woloshyn is the former owner of Animal Medical Clinic in Spring Hill, Fla., and he now owns Sun Dog Veterinary Consulting in Custer, S. D.
Interesting Dog Fact #10
by Linda Burkett on 09/29/10
Interesting Dog Fact #10
Franklin Roosevelt spent $15,000 on a destroyer to pick up his Scottie in the Aluetian Islands...
I wonder how that would go down now? Consider the value of the dollar now compared to then... Hmmm... That's a serious chunk of change! I don't have that kind of money, so I gues I would have used a row boat. Tough trip but imagine what great work out that would be huh.
Fear Isn't Always An Indication Of Past Abuse!
by Linda Burkett on 09/29/10
Fear Isn't Always An Indication Of Past Abuse!
Fear doesn't always equal abuse
A lot of times, after adopting a pet from an animal shelter or rescue foundation people notice signs of fear in their adopted pets reactions. If you adopt or purchase a dog that is older than 6 months and it is fearful, there's no way to be certain it wasn't abused. However, some dogs are genetically inclined to be more fearful than others. It is also not uncommon for dogs to be afraid of men. Men tend to have deeper, more authoritative voices and their actions can appear more threatening that a woman's.
Before getting a new dog from a shelter or breeder, speak with your veterinarian about which type or breed is best suited for your lifestyle and your family. If you've decided to adopt a dog, ask the shelter to provide as complete a history as possible. Usually the shelter's dog walkers can give you a little more insight to a particular dog's reactions to different situations as they tend to spend more time with the individual dogs. After your new dog comes home, work through any behavior challenges, including fear. The best way is to seek training advice from your veterinarian.
Always remember when bringing a new pet into your family, to be patient. A complete change of environment is stressful to animals. They may require a quiet, calm adjustment period. Also, remember to keep a close eye on young children around a new pet. The child's excitement combined with the pet's anxiety could be a dangerous situation for both the new pet and the child.
How old is your pet really?
by Linda Burkett on 09/29/10
How old is your pet really?
Ever wonder how old your pet really is?
I borrowed this chart from my Veterinarians monthly magazine "Healthy Pet" from Sun Valley Regional Animal Hospital. Very interesting... Poor little Winnie's real age is 70 according to this info!
How old is your pet? What type of pet do you have?
