If you own a horse (or any other pet, for that matter), it is vital that you know how to read their vital signs.  It is also good to know what these readings should be when the horse is healthy and at rest.

Generally speaking, normal ranges are ...

- Temperature:  99 - 101 degrees
- Pulse / Heart Rate:  28 - 44 beats per minute
- Respiration Rate: 12 - 15 breaths per minute
- Capillary Refill Time:  2 seconds or less & pink


Above is a great video with Dr. Roberta Dwyer, from the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center, showing how to take your horse's temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and how to check his hydration status and mucous membranes.

Lastly, although not covered in the video, you should always check your horse's gut sounds. Normal gut sounds vary widely, but should always be present. Faint, infrequent, or absent gut sounds usually indicate colic and your veterinarian should be called.


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Circovirus in Dogs

A disease normally found in pigs, Circovirus has recently been found in dogs in California and Ohio ... resulting in several deaths. All the dogs in Ohio were all boarders at the same boarding facility.

Authorities advise that direct contact with an infected dog or its vomit or diarrhea would present a higher risk of infection. Viruses can be spread from animal to animal through the use of shared bedding and equipment.

"Dog owners should be cautious of where they go with their dogs ...  don’t go to where a lot of strange dogs are, with unknown vaccination history, because we don’t know who’s carrying this thing and who’s shedding this thing.”

Symptoms include:

- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Foaming at the mouth
- Vasculitis (red spots/patches/skin lesions)
- Rapid worsening of their symptoms

Prompt veterinary attention is key to long term survival and recovery.

For more information & updates, click here.

 Did you know ....


That not only are dandelions OK for your doggies to eat, but that they also may be beneficial?


Dandelions contain vitamins A, B, C, and E, plus potassium, calcium, and iron. They are known to help with an assortment of ailments such as acid indigestion, arthritis, constipation, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, loss of appetite, mild pain, and urinary disorders.

So next time your doggie eats a dandion, don't panic ... your doggie just might be needing a little something extra to help along his constipation. ;0)


Wonder if my chin will glow too, if  mom holds a dandelion flower up underneath it ...
~ Zena ♥



A word of caution - if you do allow your doggie to eat a few dandelions, be sure they are chemical free ... that no pesticides have been applied to them! Also, if your dog is on any medications or is being treated by a veterinarian for anything, be sure to double-check with your vet that dandelions will not cause a bad interaction.

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There sure have been a lot of recalls lately!  Ugh! This time, instead of a pet food recall, this one affects the heartworm medication, Iverhart Max.

We posted this recall on our Facebook page back in March, when it first came out. And later realized that we did not post it here too. Since it is now "that time of the year", when mosquitoes & heartworms are a danger to our pets, we thought now was a good time to post it here too.

Iverhart Max was voluntarily recalled because of concerns with the stability of the main ingredient, Ivermectin. Here is a copy of their press release >>>

Virbac Announces Voluntary Recall Notice for One Lot of IVERHART MAX^® Chewable Tablets (ivermectin / pyrantel pamoate / praziquantel)

March 26, 2012

On Monday, March 26, 2012 Virbac AH, Inc. announced a voluntary recall of a single production lot of   IVERHART MAX^® Chewable Tablets.

Affected Product:  IVERHART MAX Chewable Tablets, Lot #110482 (Large, 50.1 - 100 lbs)

The lot number is stamped on the side lid/flap of the box in a white text field and on the blister foil of the individual doses. Please note that this voluntary recall affects only this specific lot – no other products are affected by this recall.

Virbac, after promptly notifying the FDA, is coordinating with our distributor network to voluntarily recall the affected product.  Letters have been sent directly to veterinary distributors instructing them to cease distribution of this identified lot and to advise veterinary clinics in receipt of the identified product to cease dispensing this affected lot.

It is important to note that prior to releasing the identified product lot for sale and distribution, numerous tests were performed and all test results were within specifications permitting the release of the product. After release, routine product testing has determined that the ivermectin (an active ingredient) has failed to meet our required stability specifications. Consequently, some dogs dosed with the identified lot may not be fully protected against heartworm disease.

It is Virbac’s goal to ensure that all dogs receive adequate protection against heartworm disease. For potentially affected dogs, veterinarians should contact Virbac Technical Services (800-338-3659 x3052) to discuss recommendations for heartworm testing procedures. If any dog receiving IVERHART MAX Tablets is found infected with heartworms, treatment can be administered and will be covered under the IVERHART product satisfaction guarantee.

Virbac regrets this isolated incident and remains committed to manufacturing quality products.  Testing has confirmed that all other lots of IVERHART MAX Chewable Tablets remain potent. Only this single lot is affected by this recall. Since only the ivermectin is affected, protection against other internal parasites covered by the product is not compromised. Additionally, no heartworm-related adverse events or illnesses have been reported to-date with this lot of product.

 Call your veterinarian, if you have been giving this product to your dog, for further advice.

And as always ... hug your doggies ♥,
~ Zena & Pamela
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Rethinking Spay and Neuter
By Geneva Coats, R.N.
Secretary, California Federation of Dog Clubs


Pet sterilization has become widely regarded as a routine procedure that is purely beneficial. Most breeders today sell companion puppies under contracts requiring spay or neuter as a condition of sale.(6) Ingrained in recent popular culture is the notion that pet overpopulation is a serious concern, and that to prevent the deaths of animals in shelters all pets should be sterilized. To bolster the campaign for pet sterilization, we have further been informed that a sterilized pet is happier, healthier and longer-lived than one who remains intact.

Should we believe these widely circulated ideas that “everybody knows?” What are the facts?

"OVERPOPULATION"

In the mid-twentieth century, there was an abundance of pets; many were available “free to good home” via newspaper ads. Few pets were sterilized, and many people unwisely allowed their dogs to roam the neighborhood. Consequently, there were many unplanned litters produced by family pets.

According to “Maddie’s Fund” president Richard Avanzino, in the 1970s, our country’s animal control agencies were killing, on average, about 115 dogs and cats annually for every 1000 human residents. This amounted to about 24 million shelter deaths every year.(2) Avanzino is also the former executive director of the San Francisco SPCA, and is regarded by many as the founder of the modern no-kill movement in the US.

"The Problem" of too many pets and not enough homes to go around was ingrained into the public psyche. To deal with “The Problem” of massive shelter killings, a huge public awareness campaign was initiated. The importance of spaying and neutering pets was emphasized. Vets began to routinely urge their clients to sterilize their pets as an integral part of being a “responsible owner”. Planned breeding became a politically incorrect activity. A popular slogan that persists today is “Don’t breed or buy, while shelter dogs die.”

The crusade for spaying and neutering pets has been very successful. A 2009-2010 national pet owners’ survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association reveals that the vast majority of owned pets...75% of dogs and 87% of cats... are spayed or neutered.

In recent years, according to Avanzino, annual shelter death numbers have dramatically declined to about 12 per thousand human residents, or about 3.6 million deaths each year. This amounts to a staggering 85% reduction in killing since the 1970s.(2) We have reached a nationwide pet shelter death rate that averages just 1.2% per population. This can effectively be considered a “no kill” rate.

In most areas, feral cats and kittens account for the majority of shelter numbers.(9) Several areas of the country have actual shortages of adoptable dogs, particularly purebreds and puppies, and must import from other regions to fill the need. Dogs are being smuggled into the US by the thousands. Some rescue groups are even importing from other countries….Mexico, Brazil, the Caribbean, Taiwan and Romania, to name some of the most popular points of origin. The conservative estimate is that 300,000 dogs are imported into the US each year to meet the demand for pets.(3)

According to shelter expert Nathan Winograd, every year in this country, approximately 3 million adoptable pets die in shelters.* At the same time, each year around 17 million US households are looking for a new pet. That is 17 million households above and beyond those who already will adopt a shelter or rescue pet. There are nearly six times as many homes opening up every year as the number of adoptable pets killed in shelters!(8) It seems the greatest challenge these days is to find ways to match up the adoptable pets with the homes that are waiting for them. Breed rescues fill this niche admirably, but are privately funded and desperately in need of assistance in order to effectively perform this service. Perhaps some of the public funds budgeted for shelters to kill animals could be better spent helping rescue groups who are proactive in matching adoptable pets to suitable homes.

SPAY/NEUTER AND HEALTH

Now that we have addressed the issue of pet overpopulation, let’s examine the claim that sterilization surgery promotes better health. While there are some benefits to sterilization, there are some drawbacks as well.

Sterilization will naturally serve to prevent any unwanted litters. In bitches, spaying will greatly reduce the risk of breast cancer, pyometra, perianal fistula and cancers of the reproductive organs.(5)

Spay surgery itself carries a somewhat high rate (around 20%) of complications such as infection, hemorrhage and even death.(5) Spaying significantly increases the rate of urinary incontinence in bitches….about 20-30% of all spayed bitches will eventually develop this problem. This is believed to be most likely caused by the lack of estrogen that results from being spayed.(1)

Sterilization of males may reduce some unwanted sexual behaviors, but there are few other proven benefits to neutering a male dog. Testicular cancer is prevented, but the actual risk of that cancer is extremely low (<1%) among intact dogs. Contrary to popular belief, studies show that the risk of prostate cancer is actually HIGHER in neutered dogs than in their intact counterparts.(5)

Other studies prove significant health risks associated with sterilization, particularly when done at an early age. The most problematic is a delayed closure of the bony growth plates. This results in an abnormal, “weedy” skeletal development that increases the incidence of orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Working and performance dogs, if neutered before maturity, risk the inability to perform the jobs they were bred for.(10)

But by far the most startling news to surface this year is the result of a study that shows that keeping ovaries to the age of six years or later is associated with a greater than 30% increase of lifespan in female Rottweilers.(4) Similar studies in humans reinforce this finding.(7)(11)

A 30% longer lifespan means that you could have many additional years with your bitch simple by delaying spay surgery until middle-age or later.

Behavioral studies show that sterilization increases fearfulness, noise phobias and aggression. Other well-documented adverse health effects of de-sexing include increased risk of bone cancer, hemangiosarcoma, hypothyroidism, and cognitive dysfunction in older pets. Sterilization confers an increased susceptibility to infectious disease, and also a higher incidence of adverse reactions to vaccines.(10)

So there is no need to feel obligated to sterilize for health or welfare reasons. But, what about the need to protect the puppies that we sell from unethical breeders?

SALES CONTRACTS

Many breeders are justifiably very concerned about the possibility of their dogs being subjected to neglect or abuse by falling into disreputable hands. To help prevent such situations, it has become commonplace for breeders to include spay/neuter requirements in their pet sales contract, and/or to sell the dog on a limited registration. Another common stipulation, particularly for a show/breeding dog, is requiring that the dog be returned to the seller in the event the buyer no longer wishes to keep him.(6)

Such contracts are highly effective when selling a puppy to someone who is honest and ethical. However, contracts are easily skirted by the unscrupulous, particularly if the buyer lives in a different region. Someone intent on breeding may do so regardless of contract language, and sell the puppies without any registration. And without personal knowledge of the living conditions at your puppy’s new home, it is impossible to predict what sort of care and attention he or she will receive. Even some show breeders may have very different ideas than the seller of what constitutes proper care. There is no substitute for a home check to follow up that initial puppy application!

Bottom line, the best insurance for a happy future for your puppies is making sure that you get to know the buyer personally. If something about the buyer or his attitude doesn’t seem right, then it’s probably best to cancel the sale. If you wish to sell puppies on spay-neuter agreements you might also consider advising the buyer to wait until the puppy reaches maturity before having sterilization surgery performed. Another idea is to ask your vet if vasectomy would be a viable alternative to castration for your male. This would preserve sex hormones and possibly prevent some of the adverse health effects of castration.

PUREBRED GENE POOLS

Sterilization of all dogs sold as companions may have some unintended adverse effects. The nature of purebred breeding for the show ring involves intense selection that severely narrows the gene pool in many, if not most, breeds. Some breeds started with just a small pool of founders. Through the years, overuse of only a few popular sires further reduced the genetic variety available in the breed. When troublesome health problems surface and become widespread, where can we turn for “new blood”?

The show-bred population of a breed may have become too small as a result of intense inbreeding or the genetic bottleneck created by overuse of popular sires; or the breed gene pool may have become genetically depleted because of unwise selection for specific, sometimes unhealthy physical traits favored in the show ring. As a result, dogs from the “pet” population may actually be the salvation of the breed gene pool.

Trying to guess which dogs are the "best" to keep intact for showing and breeding can be hit-or-miss. Imagine the scenario where a successful show dog eventually develops a heritable health issue, while his brother is much healthier...but brother was neutered long ago, thereby eliminating those good genes forever. What about that Champion's non-show quality sister, who just happens to have good health, great mothering instincts and/or the ability produce exceptional offspring? If sold as a spayed companion, her genes are effectively lost.

And what about the very future of the dog fancy? Many people (myself included) have bought an intact dog as a pet, and only later sparked an interest in showing and breeding. Developing new breeders is critical to the survival of our sport, but if we sell all companions on spay/neuter agreements, we will lose many fanciers before they have the chance to discover the joy of dog breeding and showing!

Sadly, mandatory sterilization laws are sweeping the nation and may further compromise the future of the dog fancy. AKC registrations continue to decline and the push to legally and/or contractually require spay and neuter of most every dog will only worsen that situation. Regardless, there is a huge demand in society for healthy pets; a demand which the responsible breeders could not come close to meeting even if they wanted to...and sometimes, they do not want to. The choice we have as a society is how that demand will be filled.

Many believe that only show hobbyists should be allowed to keep intact dogs and breed on a limited basis. However, the attempt to legally force well-regulated and inspected commercial breeders and the casual small home breeders out of the picture leaves only the unregulated, less visible "underground" producers and smugglers to fill the need for pets. Perhaps it is time to re-think our preconceived notions about who should and shouldn't possess intact dogs!

As a dog owner, one must weigh the risks of sterilization against the benefits in order to make that very personal decision. Popular culture and many veterinarians downplay or even ignore the risks involved with spay/neuter because of their own belief in the need to reduce dog breeding in general. Many people still believe that overpopulation remains a pressing concern and that sterilization always promotes better health. Some even believe that breeding a female is abusive. It seems the animal rights groups have done an excellent job of brainwashing the public on these matters!

As breeders, we may be wise to re-examine the routine request to have all our companion puppies spayed or neutered. The future availability of pets, the perpetuation of the dog fancy, the health of the individual dogs and the gene pools of the breeds that we love may all depend on keeping a few more dogs intact!

*An adoptable pet is one that does not have insurmountable health or temperament issues.
Per California’s Hayden law: The California Legislature Defines No-Kill Terms
 ■California Law, SB 1785 Statutes of 1998, also known as "The Hayden Law" has defined no-kill terms. What is Adoptable? 1834.4. (a)
"No adoptable animal should be euthanized if it can be adopted into a suitable home. Adoptable animals include only those animals eight weeks of age or older that, at or subsequent to the time the animal is impounded or otherwise taken into possession, have manifested no sign of a behavioral or temperamental defect that could pose a health or safety risk or otherwise make the animal unsuitable for placement as a pet, and have manifested no sign of disease, injury, or congenital or hereditary condition that adversely affects the health of the animal or that is likely to adversely affect the animal's health in the future."
Adoptable dogs may be old, deaf, blind, disfigured or disabled.


REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING

1- Bovsun, Mara;
"Puddle Jumping; Canine Urinary Incontinence";
AKC Gazette April 2009
http://www.barkingbulletin.com/newsletter/2009/q4/Puddle-Jumping--Canine-Urinary-Incontinence/

2- Fry, Mike,
"Reflections from the No Kill Conference in Washington DC":
http://www.animalarkshelter.org/animal/ArkArticles.nsf/AllArticles/3A078C33CD079D17862575AD00471A9B

3- James, Susan Donaldson (ABC News)
"300,000 Imported Puppies Prompt Rabies Concerns"
October 24, 2007
http://www.petpac.net/news/headlines/importedpuppies/

4- Nolen, R. Scott
"Rottweiler Study Links Ovaries With Exceptional Longevity"
JAVMA March 2010
http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/mar10/100301g.asp

5- Sanborn, Laura J., MS
"Long-Term Health Risks and Benefits Associated with Spay/Neuter in Dogs"; May 14,2007
http://www.naiaonline.org/pdfs/longtermhealtheffectsofspayneuterindogs.pdf

6- Thoms, Joy
"The Importance of Spay-Neuter Contracts"
The Orient Express, Nov, 2009

7- Waters, David J., DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVS
"A Healthier Respect for Ovaries"
http://www.gpmcf.org/respectovaries.html

8- Winograd, Nathan J.
"Debunking Pet Overpopulation"
June 29, 2009
http://www.nathanwinograd.com/?p=1390


9- Winograd, Nathan, “Redemption: The Myth of Pet Overpopulation and the No Kill Revolution in America” Almaden Books, 2nd edition, Feb 25, 2009.

10- Zink, Christine, DVM, PhD, DACVP
"Early Spay-Neuter Considerations for the Canine Athlete"; 2005
http://caninesports.com/SpayNeuter.html

11- “Retaining ovaries may be a key to prolonged life in women and dogs”; DVM Newsmagazine; Dec 5, 2009. http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/646838

Article reprinted with permission &  courtesy of Time 4 Dogs .

Below is the Top Ten List from Pet Poison Helpline. Items are presented in order of frequency starting with foods, which accounted for the highest number of poisoning cases in 2011. 

1.  Foods – specifically chocolate, xylitol, and grapes/raisins.

Certain types of chocolate are very toxic to dogs. The chemical causing toxicity in chocolate is theobromine (a relative of caffeine). The darker, more bitter, and more concentrated the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is. Many sugarless gums and candies contain xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous to dogs. When ingested, even in small amounts, it can result in a life-threatening drop in blood sugar or even liver failure. Raisins and grapes are often overlooked as one of the most toxic foods to dogs, and can result in kidney failure.

 

2.  Insecticides – including sprays, bait stations, and spot on flea/tick treatments.

Ingestion of insecticides and pesticides, especially those that contain organophosphates (e.g., disulfoton, often found in rose-care products), can be life-threatening to dogs, even when ingested in small amounts. While spot-on flea and tick treatments work well for dogs, they can be very toxic to cats when not applied appropriately. Cat owners should read labels carefully, as those that contain pyrethrins or pyrethroids (a derivative of the Chrysanthemum flower), are severely toxic if directly applied or ingested.

 

3.  Mouse and rat poison – rodenticides.

There are many types of chemicals in mouse and rat poisons, all with different active ingredients and types of action, making all of them potentially poisonous to dogs. Depending on what type was ingested, poisoning can result in internal bleeding, brain swelling, kidney failure, or even severe vomiting and bloat. Mouse and rat poisons also pose the potential for relay toxicity, meaning pets – and even wildlife – can be poisoned by eating dead rodents poisoned by rodenticides.

 

4.  NSAIDS human drugs – such as ibuprofen, naproxen.

Common drugs including NSAIDs (e.g. Advil^®, Aleve^® and Motrin) can cause serious harm to dogs when ingested, causes stomach and intestinal ulcers as well as potential kidney failure. The use of human NSAIDs in dogs is dangerous and should never be given without consulting Pet Poison Helpline or a veterinarian.

 

5.  Household cleaners – sprays, detergents, polishes.

Strong acidic or alkaline cleaners pose the highest risk due to their corrosive nature, and include common household products like toilet bowel cleaners, lye, drain cleaners, rust removers, and calcium/lime removers. Remember that “natural” does not necessarily mean safe, as some natural products can cause severe reactions. While general cleaners like glass products, spot removers and most surface cleaners have a wide margin of safety, it is still wise to keep them out of reach.

 

6.  Antidepressant human drugs – such as Prozac, Paxil, Celexa and Effexor.

Of all prescription medications, antidepressants account for the highest number of calls to Pet Poison Helpline. When ingested, they can cause neurological problems in dogs like sedation, incoordination, agitation, tremors and seizures.

 

7.  Fertilizers – including bone meal, blood meal and iron-based products.

While some fertilizers are fairly safe, certain organic products that contain blood meal, bone meal, feather meal and iron may be especially tasty – and dangerous – to dogs. Large ingestions can cause severe pancreatitis or even form a concretion in the stomach, obstructing the gastrointestinal tract.

 

8.  Acetaminophen human drugs – such as Tylenol and cough/cold medications.

Sizeable ingestions of acetaminophen can lead to severe liver failure and even dry eye in dogs. However, it should be noted that it is a more significant threat to cats, as a single Tylenol tablet can be fatal. 

 

9.  Amphetamine human drugs – ADD/ADHD medications like Adderall and Concerta.

Medications used to treat ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) contain potent stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate. Even minimal ingestions by dogs can cause life-threatening tremors, seizures, elevated body temperatures and heart problems.

 

10.  Veterinary pain relievers – specifically COX-2 inhibitors like Rimadyl, Dermaxx and Previcox.

Carprofen, more commonly known by its trade name Rimadyl, is a veterinary-specific, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. While it is commonly used for osteoarthritis, inflammation, and pain control in dogs, if over-ingested in large amounts, it can result in severe gastric ulceration and acute kidney failure in dogs.

Just For Fun – Top Ten Breeds

Along with the important information above, the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline pulled from their records the “Top Ten” most common breeds, accounting for the most emergency calls in 2011. 

 

The Top Ten Breeds accounting for the most calls to Pet Poison Helpline were:

1.     Mixed breeds
2.     Labrador retrievers
3.     Golden retrievers
4.     Chihuahuas
5.     Yorkshire terriers
6.     Dachshunds
7.     Shih Tzus
8.     Boxers
9.     Beagles
10.   German shepherds


~ Enjoy your dog’s companionship in 2012 and keep him safe with these life-saving tips from Pet Poison Helpline. If you think your dog may have ingested something harmful, take action immediately. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680. Pet Poison Helpline is the most cost-effective animal poison control center in North America charging, only $39 per call, including unlimited follow-up consultations.

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• Plan to keep all young, old and short-haired pets inside. These types of pets are more vulnerable to cold weather and should not be left outside for long and without supervision.

• Provide shelter for any pets that are left outside. Add straw for additional insulation from the cold and provide a snug, warm bed that does not sit directly on the ground.

• Be sure to leave extra food and water in plastic bowls for any pets that are left outside.

• Learn the signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet is suffering from either of these conditions.

• Clip the long hair on the bottom of your dog’s feet before the snow and ice fall. This will prevent the build up of ice balls which can be painful and difficult to remove.

• Plan to trim your pet’s nails regularly during the winter. Pets may have a difficult time trying to maintain solid footing in icy conditions with long nails.

• Find a warm place for your pets to sleep. All pets, including small caged pets, need to be kept warm and away from drafts.

• Place pet-safe wipes by the door. Ice-melting chemicals and salt can irritate and burn the pads of your pet’s paws. Thoroughly wipe off your pet’s paws when they come inside.

• Use antifreeze and other household chemicals that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is extremely poisonous to pets. Avoid/Beware of all products with ethylene glycol.

• Get in the habit of banging on the hood of your car before starting the engine. Cats and wildlife seek warmth and may climb into the engine during the cold, winter months.

• Should winter travel plans keep you away from home and your pets, make sure to book the services of a professional pet sitter, like All God's Creatures Pet Services, in advance to ensure your pets are safe and happy while you’re away. ♥

Important video on BLOAT in dogs.  A MUST watch for all dog owners ... 95% of dogs die from bloat (stomach filling with air), due to not being brought to the Vet in time.

If you wait too long, the air-filled stomach can flip (torse) and cut off the blood supply ... resulting in damage to the stomach wall, liver, spleen and heart muscle. It will then require very expensive surgery, and even if your dog survives the surgery, they may not survive the aftermath when the toxins from the dying tissue are released, causing heart arrhythmia and sepsis

We can write articles about bloat, and talk about bloat all day long, but until you actually experience it , it is very difficult to recognize.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words ... hopefully this video will help someone save their dog's life.


~ What Are The Symptoms?

• Restlessness - Your dog will act anxious, agitated, uncomfortable, and unable to rest.
• Loss of appetite - Your dog may not be interested in food and water.
• Vomiting - Your dog may vomit once or twice followed by nonproductive retching and gagging (dry heaves).
• Whining, crying, heavy panting, and salivation.
• Swelling - An enlarged stomach will cause the body wall to protrude prominently, especially on the dog's left side. The swelling will be very firm and obvious enough to see across the room. Occasionally, this distention is not very apparent. This occurs in dogs which have a large portion of the stomach up under the rib cage. In most cases, however, the owner is able to detect the distention.
• Depression - A dog which experiences significant pain will be very depressed. Your dog may lie in what is commonly called a "praying position" with the front legs drawn fully forward.

If you see your dog exhibit any or all of the symptoms listed above, even if there is no swelling apparent yet, (sometimes there is no obvious swelling in the early stages; your dog just looks "fatter") ... PLEASE CALL YOUR VET AT ONCE FOR INSTRUCTIONS AND BE PREPARED TO TRANSPORT YOUR DOG IMMEDIATELY.


They can take an x-ray to determine if your dog is in the early stages and treat him immediately. If the vet refuses to take an x-ray, INSIST upon it. This is YOUR dog. YOU know him very well and if the vet still refuses to take an x-ray, go elsewhere. The earlier it is caught, the better your dog's chances of living.



Death loss due to GDV (aka Bloat/Torsion) is very high.


Also, find out if there's an emergency animal clinic near you - one that's open during the time your regular veterinarian isn't available. If there isn't an emergency clinic near you, discuss your options with your regular vet. PLEASE, don't assume your regular vet can and will treat your dog if torsion has occurred!!! Ask him or her if they're familiar with GDV and ask how many times they've performed the surgery that may be needed to save your dog's life!! If you're not comfortable with the response, find a veterinarian that IS qualified to treat your dog!!




~ What Can Be Done As Prevention?

To avoid surgery after an occurrence of bloat, the following steps should be taken to minimize the risk factors for bloat:

• Feed a high quality wholesome diet with appropriate supplements.
• Feed several smaller meals rather than one large one.
• If you have more than one dog make sure that they are calm (to minimize swallowing air) during meals. You may have to feed them separately.
• DO NOT use a raised food bowl. Many studies, including one by Purdue University (http://www.vet.purdue.edu/epi/update2.htm), have found that using a raised food bowl INCREASES the risk of bloat by 110%.
• If your dog is a fast eater and quickly gulps down their kibble, we would also recommend using a "Brake-Fast or Eat-Slow" type bowl or place a large (too big to swallow ... i.e. softball size) stone in their feed bowl. Having to eat around the large stone will help slow them down a bit.
• DO NOT feed your dogs 1 hour before, or after, vigorous play/exercise/activity ... and avoid lots of twisting or rolling play, particularly shortly after feeding. (Walking is okay because it helps stimulate normal gastrointestinal function.)
• Ensure water is always available, but limit the amount immediately after feeding.
• Avoid sudden diet changes. Make any major dietary changes gradually over 7-10 days.
• Prevent obesity.
• Watch for any actions or behavior that may signal abdominal discomfort (abdominal fullness, pacing, salivating, whining, getting up and lying down, stretching, looking at abdomen, anxiety and unsuccessful attempts to vomit, etc.)

Also, studies suggest that "dogs having a first degree relative with a history of GDV (Bloat) should not be bred".






Call your veterinarian or emergency clinic if you have any questions.


FYI - "This dog, Roscoe, was saved. He had just arrived in a new home ... Neither the person who brought the dog to this foster home, nor the foster home, had ever seen bloat and had no idea of what they were seeing. As soon as they realized something was wrong, he was rushed to the emergency vet ... The person filming this very kindly allowed it's use as an educational tool so other people can learn to recognize what is happening when a dog bloats. A voice-over was done to point out the various symptoms of bloat to those who may not recognize or understand what they are seeing. This dog bloated, but did not have gastric torsion. His stomach filled with air, but luckily for him, he made it to the vet in enough time that he had not torsed [flipped]. They were able to deflate him and he is now home and doing well." 


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On February 18, 2011, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a caution regarding the toxicity of xylitol in dogs and ferrets. Xylitol’s effect on insulin and blood glucose in cats is not clear at this time.

The FDA is cautioning consumers about the risks associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol by dogs and ferrets. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol approved for use in many common products, including sugar-free baked goods, candy, oral hygiene products, and chewing gum.



Xylitol can be found in many over-the-counter drugs such as chewable vitamins and throat lozenges and sprays. It can also be purchased in bulk bags for use in home baking. These products are intended only for human use.

FDA is aware of complaints involving dogs that experienced illness associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol. Xylitol is safe for humans but it can be harmful to dogs and ferrets.

FDA is advising consumers to always read the label on products and to not presume that a product that is safe for humans is safe for your pet.

The FDA reports included clinical signs such as a sudden drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), seizures and liver failure. If you suspect your pet has ingested xylitol, some signs to look for are depression, loss of coordination and vomiting. The signs of illness may occur within minutes to days of ingesting xylitol. Owners should consult their veterinarian or pet poison control center immediately for advice if they know or suspect that their pet has ingested a human product containing xylitol.

Other items that may contain Xylitol:

• Mouthwash
• Toothpaste
• Gummy Bears
• Chocolate
• Breath Mints
• Baked Goods (sugar-free)
• Chewing Gum
• Candies
• Multi-Vitamins
• Throat Lozenges
• Throat Sprays
• Sweeteners
• Moisturizing Nasal Wash
• Baking Powder
• Food-storage Containers
• Jams & Jellies
• "Diabetic" candies & foods
• Many "diet" products
• Products that are "artificially sweetened"

If you doggies or ferrets get their paws on any of the above products, call your Vet immediately ... not all dogs show signs of illness after consumption, HOWEVER, sever liver damage or death can still ensue, so evaluation by a Vet ASAP is paramount ... their life could depend on it. Depending on the amount ingested, as little as 30 minutes could be the difference between life & death.

Tips from American Humane and "Happy Dog: Caring for Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit" to Keep Your Dog's Skin and Coat Healthy This Winter


With winter comes snow, mud and dirty dogs! Take care of your pet's skin and coat with the following winter care tips from the American Humane Association:

1. All dogs (except for the truly hairless breeds) require frequent brushing regardless of coat type. Brushing is very important to your dog's health and happiness. Brushing stimulates the skin by removing dead skin flakes, encourages natural oil production, removes irritating debris and encourages blood flow to the skin. It also uncovers skin and coat troubles, such as dandruff, parasites or dry or brittle fur, which may indicate an illness. Failing to brush your dog regularly may result in mats, which breed bacteria and infections and can be very painful for your dog.


2. Dogs should be bathed regularly. Brushing before a bath is recommended, as it breaks down dirt, grime and debris so the shampoo will clean more effectively (and it might also relax the dog). Don't wash dogs outside; the frigid water from a garden hose is extremely uncomfortable and can make them sick.


3. Treat your dog to a visit with a professional groomer periodically. Dogs with coats that need regular trimming -- such as poodles and Shih Tzus -- can be professionally groomed every four to six weeks. Many mixed-breed dogs and those with multi-length coats -- such as golden retrievers, many spaniels and sheep dogs -- can get a professional grooming every six to 12 weeks. Dogs with uniform-length coats -- such as Labs, and beagles -- can visit a professional every 12 to 16 weeks, but can get by with home brushings. A professional can identify and remove mats safely. In addition, nail clipping, ear-hair removal and anal-sac expression are safer when performed by a trained professional. Professional groomers also have the tools and experience to safely cut and style your dog's coat.


4. Inspect your dog's ears frequently. Clean inside the ear only when you see dirt, wax or debris. Use an unexpired canine ear-wash solution and cotton balls to clean the ear (do not use cotton swabs). Squirt the solution into the dog's ear canal and massage the base of the ear canal for 20 seconds. Then use cotton balls to remove the wax, but only as far down as you can see. Stop immediately if your dog cries, bites or exhibits any sign of pain.


5. Perform inspections of your dog's skin and coat. Because your dog is covered in fur that can hide medical and grooming problems, you should inspect every inch of the skin and coat with your eyes and fingers. Regular brushing will make the inspection easier because dirt, mats and tangles won't get in your way. Look for any changes or abnormalities, such as bites, parasites, injuries, lumps or changes in the skin's color or texture.


6. Remember, it's cold outside! Dogs with short hair and dogs that get cold easily should wear coats or sweaters while on a walk to keep them warm. You can also cover their feet with booties to protect their pads from salt or chemical de-icers. Wipe off any salt that might get on their stomach to keep them from licking it off.

Some of the information in this press release was taken from "Happy Dog: Caring for Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit" by Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahr. For every copy sold at www.happydogland.com or www.barkerandmeowsky.com, $1 will be donated to American Humane. For more information about the book, you can also visit http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/happy-dog.html.



The information contained in this release can be reused and posted with proper credit given to the American Humane Association.


SOURCE: American Humane Association

Ten Things All New Pet Owners Should Know


1. Your pet needs to go to the vet. Start saving now.
Every pet needs to be examined by a vet occasionally. Illnesses that are caught early are often treatable, and regular vet exams are your best weapon. Even the healthiest pet may have an accident, calling for immediate emergency care. Older pets may be in pain from age-related deterioration. Face it, you're going to have to take your pet to the vet sooner or later. Be prepared to pay for it!


2. You're the human, you set the rules.
Don't let your pet boss you around. Decide on the rules, and enforce them consistently. Don't let your pet get his way if it goes against the rules -- he'll just try that much harder the next time. Animals may not seem to have long memories, but they sure remember how they got their own way the last time!


3. Animals love a boring routine.
Pets want to know what to expect -- it makes them feel secure. Yours will be happiest if they are fed at the same time every day, sleep in the same spot at night, and can count on you to always come home at a certain time. They'll get by if the routine occasionally changes, but keeping their day predictable keeps them predictable, and happy.


4. Good food and lots of exercise equals a long life.
We all know we should eat healthy foods in moderation and get plenty of exercise. The same goes for our pets. Healthy living prevents illness, and you won't have to see the vet as often! If a small pet is confined to a cage, give it lots of space and things to climb on or explore, to encourage exercise. Reserve treats like dog biscuits for very special occasions.


5. Everything ends up in their mouths.
To you it's an electrical cord, but to your dog, it's a chew toy. Keep in mind that your pets will chew on anything, and keep dangerous items out of reach! Encourage them to chew on toys instead by providing lots of them, especially new ones once the old ones have lost their appeal.


6. Bacteria do not make good pets.
A clean environment keeps everyone happy and healthy. Pets are dirty, and need lots of cleaning. On a weekly basis, brush your dog's teeth, wash out the gerbil's water bottle, and scoop out the cat's litter box! If you don't, you're in for bacterial and parasitic infections, painful tooth decay, and the smell!


7. Tight security saves lives.
Keep your pet confined safely. Escape-proof all cages and fences, walk your dog on a leash, and keep your cat indoors. The outside world is full of speeding cars, unfamiliar animals, pesticides, and even pet thieves. Also, lost pets without tags usually end up being put to sleep at the shelter when they lose their way home. So, just in case, make certain all dogs and cats have sturdy collars with tags, or have been tattooed or micro-chipped.


8. A tired dog is a good dog.
Daily walks and fun romps in the backyard not only provide good physical exercise for your dog (and you!), but they also provide mental stimulation. A bored dog with pent-up energy, can lead to troubles. You will be pleasantly surprised by the difference a daily walk makes in your dog's behavior. If you are unable to walk your dog yourself (due to work schedule, illness, injury, etc.) ... hire a professional dog walker ... it will be money well spent!


9. Training, training, and more training.
Second to strays, owner surrender due to misbehaving dogs is the next reason most dogs end up in shelters. They may be a cute and funny little thing now, but a grown dog that jumps-up on folks, or that still potties in the house is not so cute. Start training early, and be consistent, so that that cute puppy becomes a wonderful dog.


10. It all depends on you!!
Ultimately, when you accepted this animal as a pet, you agreed to take care of him/her for the rest of their lives. This means feeding, habitat, health, safety, training ... you are responsible for it all. It takes a lot of time and money to care for a pet properly. However, it is certainly worth it! There are over 100 million households worldwide with at least one pet, and they can't all be wrong! Take care of your pets, so you can have a long, enjoyable life together.



Oh, and don't forget ... Hugs & Kisses ... if you own a dog like me, like it or not, lots of wiggle-butts & slobbery kisses come with life with a Boxer! =o)
~Zena