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Pet Health and Safety Info

 

Health Tips

   Safety Tips
       

Spay and Neuter

Hot Cars

Rabies

Dog Bites

Parvo

Disaster Plan

Distemper

Harmful Foods

Tapeworm Infection

Moving

 

 Spay and Neuter

 

Spay and Neuter Facts...

  • Spaying is the procedure used for female pets. Neutering generally refers to the procedure used for male pets.
  • Reduces the number of unwanted dogs and cats.
  • Millions of tax dollars are spent to care for lost, abandoned and unwanted pets - and millions more to destroy those that find no homes.

How will spaying affect my pet?

  • Eliminates the heat cycle in female pets.  Female dogs are in heat for about 21 days twice a year. Female cats are less predictable, but can be in heat 3-15 days, 3 or more times a year.
  • Reduces frantic efforts of a cat or dog to get outside to find a mate.
  • Male pets can be drawn from far away by the scent of a female in heat - even when she is kept indoors.
  • Many unspayed dogs develop breast tumors. Virtually none do if spayed before their first heat, and chances are reduced if spayed thereafter.
  • Cats have fewer breast tumors, but when they do, they are nearly always malignant.  Spaying almost eliminates this risk.

How will neutering affect my pet?

  • Reduces the urge to roam in search of a mate - which in turn, reduces the risk of fights, injury, poisoning or death in traffic.
  • Stops male cats from spraying.  Although, if the habit is already established, it may not be completely eliminated.
  • Reduces mounting of furniture, cushions and people's legs by frustrated dogs.
  • Many older unneutered dogs suffer from enlarged prostate glands.  Neutering lowers the risk of this painful disorder, as well as other problems.
  • Neutered dogs and cats have a reduced risk of prostate cancer, and no risk of testicular tumors.

Common myths and misunderstandings...

  • "Spaying and neutering costs too much".  They're cheaper in the long run than caring for the litters!  License fees cost less for spayed or neutered pets.
  • "She should have one litter first, to settle her down".  Having a litter won't improve her health or permanently change her personality.
  • "If I neuter my dog, he'll stop protecting our house".  His instinct to protect his home won't be affected, and he'll be less likely to wander off.
  • "Only females need to get fixed, since the litters are their owners responsibility".  How do you think they get pregnant?  A male pet can easily father hundres of offspring in his lifetime.
  • "Spaying and neutering makes pets fat and lazy".  No, that's caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise.  Spayed or neutered pets require fewer calories.  Cut down on their meals, and make time for walks or play.

When to spay or neuter your pet...

  • Most pets can be spayed or neutered when they are between 2 and 5 months old - before they are sexually mature.  Consult your veterinarian to determine the best time for your pet.
  • Older pets can be spaye or neutered as long as they are in good health and not overweight.
  • Spay your pet when she is not in heat, to reduce the costs, and also the stress it may put on her.

What to expect when you get your pet spayed or neutered...

  • Keep your pet away from food and water for 8-12 hours. (The veterinarian will provide specific instructions.)
  • General anesthesia is administered to let your pet "sleep" during the operation.  Heartbeat and breathing are closely monitered.
  • The ovaries and uterus are removed from females.  Stitches are required and may be removed in a follow-up visit.
  • The testicles are removed from males.  Stitches, if required, may need to be removed in a follow-up visit.
  • Your pet may be able to come home the same day of the operation.  Keep your pet quiet, warm and indoors for a few days. (Keep a dog on a leash, if you take it outside to reieve itself.)  Try to keep your pet from licking incisions or pulling at stitches.  Check area for excessive swelling, redness, discharge or loose stitches.  Call your veterinarian of you notice these signs.

Still thinking about breeding your pet?

  • Every hour, thousands of puppies and kittens are born in the U.S.
  • A dog abandoned in the street has a life expectancy of one year; a cat, slightly longer.
  • Each year, between four and six million dogs and cats are destroyed in animal shelters because there are no homes for them.
  • If a dog or cat has four offspring every year (a low number), two of them female...and each of these females also have four offspring a year, two of them female...by the seventh year, the original mother will have 4,372 descendants!

Consider the future...

  • BE SURE there will be good, permanent homes for the litter.  Cute puppies and kittens are often abandoned when fully grown.
  • BE PREPARED to handle the increased costs of pre- and postnatal care for the mother.  Remember that she could die from complications of pregnancy and leave you to care for the newborn puppies.
  • BE READY to meet the expenses of vaccinations, shelter, food, training, and grooming for the litter.
  • BE ABLE to devote time, attention, and love to the mother and her litter.
  • BE AWARE...that by having your pet bring more babies into the world, you may be denying homes to those already born. 

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Rabies

Facts about rabies...

  • Rabies is usually a fatal disease that can affect all warm-blooded animals...including humans.
  • Rabies Virus is transmitted to humans through the saliva of a rabid animal.
  • The majority of rabies cases occur in skunks, bats, foxes, racoons, dogs, cats, and farm animals.
  • Rabies is decreasing as a human disease because of a better rabies vaccination program for pets and public education about the problem. Part of being a responsible pet owner is keeping rabies immunizations current.
  • Wild animals make poor pets and are a potential rabies threat to their owners and others.

If you have been bitten, or anyone in your family has been bitten by an animal...

  • DON'T...Panic
  • DON'T...Ignore it
  • DON'T...Kill the animal unless it is wild or cannot be captured alive and therefore might endanger others.
  • DO...Try to have the animal detained or at least identified before it runs away.
  • DO...Thoroughly was the wound with soap and lots of water. Give first-aid as with any puncture wound.
  • DO...Call your physician immediately. Explain the curcumstances leading to the bite and follow this advice.
  • DO...Report the bite to the law enforcement officials.

If you own the animal that bit...

  • DON'T...Kill the animal or allow it to be euthanized unless so advised by public health authorities or a veterinarian.
  • DON'T...Let the animal stray or give it away. It must be available for observation.
  • DO...Notify your local Animal Control officials about the bite.
  • DO...Quarentine the animal to observe for any illness or unusual behavior.
  • DO...Check with your veterinarian to see if your animal has a current rabies vaccination.
  • DO...Consult your veterinarian about having your animal vaccinated for rabies if it is not current, AFTER the recommended observation period.

 

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 Parvo

What is Parvo?

Parvovirus is a viral disease of dogs.  It affects puppies and senior dogs much more frequently than it affects healthy adult dogs.  Parvo is a virus that attacks the lining of the digestive system, and it prevents a dog or puppy from absorbing nutrients or liquids.  Puppies are especially prone to it because they have an immature immune system.  If your dog is infected with parvovirus, he or she has about a 50/50 chance of survival.  It is vital that your pet receives supportive therapy immediatly!  It must be stressed that this is not a bad case of "doggy-flu"; without medical treament, most puppies will die. 

What are the symptoms of Parvo?

Generally it takes 7-10 days from the time of exposure for dogs and puppies to start showing symptoms and to test positive for parvo.

  • High Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Depression
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarhea (usually bloody and foul-smelling)
  • Dehydration
  • Shock
  • Death

How is Parvo treated?

Without intense treatment, the victims of parvo die of dehydration.  Treatment generally consists of IV or sub-cutaneous fluids and anitbodies.  There is no cure.  Veterinarians can only treat the symptoms, and try to keep the dog alive by preventing dehydration and loss of proteins.  As there is no cure for any virus, treatment for parvo is mostly that of supporting the different systems in the body during the course of the diease. This includes giving fluids, regulating electrolyte levels, controlling body temperature and giving blood transfusions when necessary.

Dogs who have survived parvo can get it again.  In the case of some puppies, a puppy testing for parvo one day could succumb to the virus within a matter of days.  It strikes fast and without mercy.

Parvovirus Vaccine

Parvovirus is probably the most common viral illness of dogs at the present time.  It can be very hard to successfully vaccinate a puppy for this diease because the antibody protection the puppy aquires from its mother can interfere with vaccinations.  Many vets recommend vaccinating puppies every three to four weeks for this virus starting at 6 weeks of age and continuing until they are at least 16 weeks of age and preferably 20 weeks of age.  It is possible that this vaccine confers lifelong immunity once it does work, but most veterinarians continue to recommend yearly vaccinations.

How is Parvo trasmitted?

Canine parvovirus is carried by dogs in their feces.  Adult dogs may be infected carriers without showing and clinical signs.  Dogs with typical diarhea that parvovirus causes, shed the virus as well.  It can last as long as 9 months or longer in the environment. 

Parvo is highly contagious to unprotected dogs, and the virus can remain infectious in the ground that is contaminated with fecal material for five months or more if conditions are favorable.  It is extremely hardy, most disinfectants cannot kill the virus, however chlorine bleach is the most effective and inexpensive agent that works, and is commonly used by veterinarians.

Parvo can be brought home to your dog on shoes, hands, or even car tires.  Any areas that are thought to be contaminated with parvo should be thoroughly washed with chlorine bleach dliuted 1 oz. per quart of water.  Dogs and puppies CAN contract the virus even if they are kept indoors and never leave their yards.

How do I prevent the spread of Parvo?

The surest way to avoid infection in your dog is to adhere to the recommended vaccination schedule which begins when puppies are 6-8 weeks of age.  Puppies should not socialize with other dogs or frequent areas where other dogs have been until 2 weeks after they have had their last vaccination.  Immunization for parvo is usually included in your dog's distemper vaccine.  The shot gives protection against several potentially fatal canine diseases all at the same time.

If your pet become infected, please keep in mind that dogs with parvo shed the virus in their feces and are extremely contagious to other dogs.  Follow these recommendations to help prevent the spread of this disease.

  • Keep the infected dog isolated from all other dogs for at least one month after full recovery.
  • Clean up all the dog's stools in your yard.
  • Use a 1:30 ratio of chlorine bleach and water to clean food and water bowls (4 oz. in 1 gallon or water).  Wash any bedding the dog has been in contact with in this same bleach solution and hot water.  You should also try to disinfect any other areas that the dog has been, like linoleum, concrete kennels, crates, etc.
  • If you have any other dogs that are two years old or younger, or who have never been vaccinated for parvo, take them to the vet to get a booster as soon as possible.
  • Be sure to feed your dog a bland diet, such as Canine Prescription i/d, until he or she is fully recovered.  When switching back to his or her normal diet, mix the regular food with the i/d for 2-3 days to help your pet gradually adjust to the change.

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Distemper

What is Distemper?

Distemper is a contagious, incurable, often fatal, multisystematic viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems.  The development of a vaccine in the early 1960s led to a dramatic reduction in the number of infected domestic dogs.  It tends to occur now only as sporadic outbreaks.  Young puppies between 3 and 6 months old are most susceptible to infection and disease and are most likely to die than infected adults.  Nonimmunized older dogs are also highly susceptible to infection and disease.  Nonimmunized dogs that have contact with other nonimmunized dogs or with wildlife have a greater risk of developing distemper.  Cells that ingest foreign disease-carrying organisms, like viruses and bacteria, carry the inhaled virus to nearby lymph nodes where it begins reproducing.  It spreads rapidly through the lymphatic tissue and infect all the lymphoid organs within 2 to 5 days.  By 6 to 9 days, the virus spreads to the blood.  It then spreads to the cell lining of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital, and central nervous systems, where it begins doing the damage that causes the symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Distemper?

Early symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Eye and nose discharge
  • Depression
  • Loss of appetite

After the fever, many dogs experience gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms, such as:

  • Diarrhea
  • Cough
  • Labored breathing
  • Runny nose
  • Vomiting

These stmptoms are often exacerbated by secondary bacterial infections.  Dogs almost always develop an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.  Most dogs that die from distemper, die from neurological complications such as:

  • Muscle incoordination
  • Depression
  • Increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as pain or touch
  • Muscle twitching or spasms, which can become disabling
  • Paralysis or partial paralysis
  • Progressive deterioration of mental abilities
  • Progressive deterioration of motor skills
  • Seizures
  • Inflammation of the eye
  • Lesions of the retina
  • Inflammation of the optic nerve which leads to blindness

How is Distemper transmitted?

The primary mode of transmission is airborne viral particles that dogs breath in.  Dogs in recovery may continue to shed the virus for several weeks after symptoms disappear, but they no longer shed the virus once they are fully recovered.

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Tapeworm Infection

What is a Tapeworm?

The most common tapeworm of dogs and cats is called Dipylidium caninum.  This parasite attatches to the small intestinal wall by hook-like mouthparts.  Adult tapeworms may reach 8 inches in length.  The adult worm is actually made up of many small segments about 1/8 inch long.  As the tail end of the worm matures, the terminal segments break off and pass into the stool.  Occasionally, the mobile segments can be seen crawling near the anus or on the surface of fresh feces.  These segments look like grains of rice and contain tapeworm eggs; the eggs are released into the environment when the segment dries.  The dried segments are small, hard, and golden in color.  These dried segments can sometimes be seen stuck to the hair around the dog's anus.  Tapeworms are not usually detected by the routine fecal exam performed by the veterinarian.  Because of this, veterinarians depend of the owner to notify them of possible tapeworm infection in the dog or cat.

A less commonly found tapeworm, called Echinococcus, also occurs in dogs and cats.

How did my dog/cat get Tapeworm?

In order for a dog/cat to become infected with the common tapeworm, Dipylidium, the dog/cat must swallow a flea that contains tapeworm eggs.  As the flea is digested within the dog's/cat's intestine, the tapeworm hitches and anchors itself to the intestinal lining.

A dog/cat becomes infected with Echinococcus when it eats a small mammal, usually a rodent, that contains the worm.  Foxes and coyotes (and the wild rodents on which they prey) are important in the life cycle of this parasite.  Dogs and cats may also become infected if they eat rodents carrying the parasite.

What kind of problems do Tapeworm cause for my dog/cat?

Tapeworms are generally not harmful to your dog or cat.  They may cause debilitation and weight loss when they occur in large numbers.  Sometimes the dog/cat will drag it's anus across the ground because the segments are irritating to the skin in this area.  Occasionally, a tapeworm will release its attatchment in the intestines and move into the stomach.  This irritates the stomach, causing the dog/cat to vomit the worm.

How are Tapeworms treated?

Treatment is simple and, fortunately, very effective.  A drug which kills tapeworms is given, either orally or by injection.  It causes the tapeworm to dissolve witin the intestines.  Since the worm is usually digested before it passes, it is not visible in your dog's/cat's stool. 

How do I prevent Tapeworm infection?

  • Effective flea control is important
  • Prompt deworming should be given when parasites are detected; periodic deworming may be appropriate for pets at high rick of reinfection.
  • All pet feces should be disposed of promptly, especially in yards, playgrounds, and public parks.

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 Hot Cars

Your pet may be dying....

When you leave your pet in the car you could be risking his or her life.  On hot - even warm - sunny days, the inside of a car heats up very quickly.  On an 85 degree day, for example, even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside a car can climb to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, and to 120 degrees in 30 minutes.  On warmer days it will get even hotter.

A dog's normal body temperature is 101.5 to 102.2 degrees.  A dog can withstand a body temperature of 107 to 108 degrees for only a very short period of time before suffering irreparable brain damage - or even death.  The closed car interferes with the dog's normal cooling process, that is, evaporation through panting.

If your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion, immediately immerse or spray him or her with cool running water and continue until the body temperature lowers, give him/her water to drink, and consult with a veterinarian to determine if additional treatment is needed.

 

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Dog Bites

 

"Don't worry, they won't bite..."

While that is true for vast majority of dogs, even the cutest, fuzziest, sweetest dog can bite if provoked.  Some owners actually promote aggression in their dogs as symbols of power.  From nips to bites to actual attacks, dog bites are a serious problem.  Dog bite victims requiring medical attention in the United States number 500,000 to 1 million annually.  Countless more bites go unreported and untreated.  On average, about a dozen people die each year from dog bites.  Fortunately, there are steps we can take to address this problem.

Who's being bitten?

Children make up more than 60 percent of all dog bite victims.  The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates half of all children 12 and younger have been bitten by a dog.  The elderly and home service people - like mail carriers and meter readers - also are high on the list of frequent dog bite victims.

What's a dog owner to do?

  • Carefully consider your pet selection.  Before and after selection, your veterinarian is the bast source for information about behavior and suitability.
  • Make sure your pet is socialized as a young puppy, so it feels at ease around people and other animals.  Expose your puppy to a variety of situations a little at a time and under controlled circumstances: continue that exposure on a regular basis as your dog gets older.  If you're not sure how your dog will react to a large crowd or a busy street, be cautious.  Don't put your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased.
  • Train your dog.  The basic commands, "sit", "stay", "no", and "come" can be incorporated into fun activities which build a bond of obedience and trust between pets and people.  Don't play aggressive games like wrestling or tug-of-war with your dog.
  • Keep your dog healthy.  Have your dog vaccinated against rabies and preventable infectious diseases.  Parasite control is important to how your dog feels and behaves.
  • Neuter your pet.  It is a fact: Neutered dogs are less likely to bite.  Be a responsible pet owner.  License your dog as required.  Obey county pet laws.  Dogs are social animals; spending time with your pet is important.  Dogs that are frequently left alone have a greater chance of developing behavior problems.
  • Be alert.  Know your dog.  The naturally would be alert to signs of illness, but you must also watch for signs your dog is uncomfortable or feeling aggressive.

How can my family and I avoid being bitten?

Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect.  Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should:

  • NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
  • Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations.
  • Start teaching young children - including toddlers - to be careful around pets.  Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs.  Children should be taught to ask permission from a dog's owner before petting the dog.

 Other tips that may prevent or stop a dog attack:

  • Don't run past a dog.  Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things.  Don't give them a reason to become excited or aggressive.
  • Never disturb a dog that's caring for puppies, sleeping, or eating. 
  • If a dog appraoches to sniff you - stay still.  In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.
  • If you're threatened by a dog, remain calm.  Don't scream.  If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.  Avoid eye contact.  Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.  Don't turn and run.
  • If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck.  Protect your face.

What should I do if my dog bites someone?

Even if the bite can be explained (perhaps someone stepped on the dogs tail), it's important to take responsibility for your dog's actions by taking these steps:

  • Restrain the dog immediately.  Separate it from the scene of the attack.  Confine it.
  • Check on the victim's condition.  Wash wounds with soap and water.  Professional medical advice should be sought to evaluate the risk of rabies or other infections.  Call 911 if paramedic response is required.
  • Provide important information: your name, address, and information about your dog's most recent rabies vaccination, it may be necessary to quarantine it or even euthanize it for rabies testing.  Although rare, the person bitten may need to undergo rabies treatment.
  • Report the bite to your insurance company.
  • Comply with local ordinances regarding the reporting of dog bites.
  • Consult your veterinarian for advice about dog behavior that will help prevent similar problems in the future.

If YOU are the victim - treat wounds.

  • If your own dog bit you, confine it immediately and call your veterinarian to check your dog's vaccination records.
  • If someone else's dog bit you, contact an Animal Control Officer and tell them everything you can about the dog: the owner's name, if you know it; color of the dog; size; where you saw it; if you've seen it before.  These details may help Officers locate the dog.

Dogs are wonderful companions.  By acting responsibly, owners not only reduce the number of dog bites, but also enhance the relationships they have with their dogs.

 

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Disaster Plan

Protect your pets's life by taking these precautions:

  • Place an out-of-state contact name and number, along with your pet's ID tag
  • Keep your pets vaccinations up-to-date in case you have to board your pet or leave the state
  • Have your pet's health certificate and a photo handy at all times to prove ownership if you're separated from your pet during a disaster
  • Create a list of boarding facilities within a 100-mile radius of your home, and a list of nearby hotels that accept pets and under what circumstances
  • Purchase a leash and a portable carrier large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around
  • Ask your local animal shelter if they have an evacuation plan in case of a disaster
  • List friends and relatives who could care for your pet for an extended period of time if you lose your home
  • Take your pet with you.  If you must evacuate your house, DO NOT leave your pet behind.  If if is unsafe for you to remain, then it is unsafe for your pet as well.

Douglas County Animal Care During Disasters

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Harmful Foods

Dogs chew almost anything.  Hey, if it's on the floor it's fair game, right?  Unfortunately, certain foods and everyday substances that are perfectly fine for people can be toxic for dogs.  Even a small quantity of the following substances can out your dog's health at risk.

  • Alcoholic beverages:  Can be fatal to dogs.
  • Chocolate:  The darker the chocolate, the more harmful. The methylxanthines (caffine and theobromine) in chocolate can cause a dog to vomit, have diarrhea, experience rapid, irregular heart beat, have increased urination, and experience muscle tremors and seizures. The effects can be serious. Death from chocolate toxicity can occur within 24 hours.
  • Coffee, tea, and soda:  They contain caffeine, a methylxanthine also found in chocolate. The signs of toxicity include rapid heart beat, hyperexcitability, tremors, and seizures.
  • Macadamia nuts:  Causes temporary muscle weakness, often in the hind legs. Other signs include vomitting, fever, and abdominal pain. The mechanism of the toxicity is unknown. Affected dogs recover with no treatment and no long-term effects.
  • Onions and garlic:  Damages red blood cells in dogs and can cause anemia.  Even one small whole onion can cause death. So be particularly careful when disposing of left-overs that contain a significant amount of onions, such as pizza or chinese take-out. The small amounts of onion and garlic powder used in pet foods is safe and well below the toxic levels.
  • Raisins and grapes:  Cause vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney failure. The minimum safe amount is not known, so keep these foods we out of reach of curious muzzles.
  • Sugarless gums and candies:  Causes a rapid drop in your dog's blood sugar.
  • Moldly or spoiled food and garbage:  May contain multiple toxins causing vomiting, diarrhea, and damage to internal organs.
  • Yeast dough (designed to expand):  If swallowed, it can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possibly rupture of the stomach or intestines.
  • Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and Naproxen:  Can be deadly to your dog. Keep all medications away from your animals.
  • Plants, such as: lilies, oleander, rhododendron, azalea, yew, foxglove, rhubarb leaves, and cycads. 

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Moving

Are we ALL moving?

"We're moving" is one of the most common excuses given when owners leave their pets at the shelter.  You can imagine how hard it is on an animal to be left behind.  A pet may live 10-15 years, and most people don't live in one place that long.  Moving with pets can be aproblem, but the time to consider these problems is BEFORE you adopt a pet.

If you are a renter, it can be very difficult to find a landlord who will allow pets.  If you own a pet, you'll have to restrict your choice of apartments to those where pets are allowed, and an extra damage deposit may be required.  A pet that is neutered, tagged, and well behaved may help get a negative landlord in a possitive mood, but if you aren't very careful to see that your dog isn't annoying the neighbors with constant barking or your cat shredding the drapes, you may find yourself looking for a new home sooner than planned.

Moving with a pet can be expensive.  If you don't have a place to live lined up in a new city, you'll have to board your pet at a kennel in the new area while you look around.  If you move a long distance, it may not be practical to take a pet in the car.  Air freight charges, the cost of a sturdy pet carrier, and the expense of a visit to the veterinarian for a health certificate all add up. 

If you can't deal with the difficulties or expense of moving with a pet, don't adopt one in the fist place.  Save yourself the guilt and heartbreak of leaving part of the family behind, and save a dog or cat the sadness of being rejected.

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