Dog Influenza

Several years ago an influenza virus mysteriously jumped from horses to canines (or so the scientific community believes) It was just announced that there is a new outbreak of "dog flu". KCBS in Los Angeles stated that there are outbreaks in 30 states, most on the east coast.

But there is good news:

The first vaccine against canine influenza virus (CIV) has been announced following the grant a conditional product license by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for use by veterinarians in the United States.
“Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection that has a significant impact on dogs housed in shelters, kennels and communal facilities,” said Cynda Crawford, D.V.M., Ph.D., University of Florida, Clinical Assistant Professor of Shelter Medicine. “The availability of a vaccine can help prevent the medical, financial and emotional costs associated with this new virus.”

Kennel Cough or Bronchitis

Vets are now calling Kennel Cough: Bronchitis.

Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers be aware of other dogs when walking a dog that is getting over Bronchitis. Don't allow contact with other dogs on your daily walks.

Clinical signs of infections occur 2-14 days after exposure, and if uncomplicated with other agents, symptoms will last around 10 days. However, after the infection has been resolved, the affected animal will continue to shed the bacteria for 6 to 14 weeks and can spread the disease to other susceptible animals during that time.

The bronchitis in dogs (kennel cough) is not contagious to humans (unless they have weakened immune systems) but is highly contagious to other dogs.

If you have any info on Kennel Cough, please stop by and leave your comments.

Dehydration Test

Dehydration Test-

OF the many illnesses that your pet can get, there is one VERY common symptom that you need to be aware of..Dehydration. In serious diseases such as Parvovirus, it is OFTEN the dehydration that is fatal. And subclinically, treating dehydration helps your dog or cat's immune system respond better to most diseases.

First you need to know HOW to decide: It is of utmost importance for your pet not to become dehydrated.

The Skin

The first test for dehydration is 'tenting' the skin. Pinch the skin between your pet's shoulder blades and see how quickly it springs back. It should go back in less than 5 seconds. If the skin tent is prolonged, then your pet is dehydrated.

The Eyes

Your pet's eyes will be sunken into their head. Specifically, the eyes recede into the eye socket. It is often seen with dehydrated cats.

Capillary Refill

Your pet's gums are the best indicator of dehydration. Lift your pet's lips to expose the gums (pink tissue above the teeth). Place your index finger on the gums and press your finger flat to the gum. This temporarily squeezes blood in that spot out of the small blood vessels (capillaries). When you lift your finger, the blood should return in less than 2 seconds. This response will be delayed in a dehydrated pet.

Gum moisture

The gums often feel dry and tacky in a dehydrated pet. When you pull your index finger away from the gums, it should feel wet, and easily slide away. In a dehydrated pet, your finger will stick to the gums.

WHAT you can do if this happens?

ON THE ROCKS:

Some dogs will readily lick ice cubes when they are dehydrated, even if they are reluctant to drink water. Float the ice in their water bowl.

SQUIRT IT IN

Pets that are more severely dehydrated will benefit from additional electrolytes. 'Pedialyte' is an oral electrolyte re-hydration supplement for children. A needle-less syringe or a turkey baster works well. Insert the tip into the center of your pet's mouth. Tilt his head back, hold his mouth closed and squirt in the fluid. A safe rule of thumb is to give 30 ml (2 tablespoons) per 10 lbs of weight every hour. Even pets that have allergies can get dehydrated- ALL of the scratching causes them to NOT drink as much. They are then MORE prone to secondary skin infections.So practice some of dehydration tests on your pet.

Thanks to Dr. Jones

Dogs Throwing Up

On Monday (June 22,2009) I went to walk my Australian Shepherd, she had been throwing up all night. She didn't have any other symptoms & was ready for a walk. I wouldn't have walked her anyway, but her owner was taking her to the vet. Thank goodness! Bella was diagnosed with Bronchitis.

What Would You Do if Your Dog Vomits

What would you do if your dog vomits?

How you handle a dog that vomits depends on the number of time that your dog vomits. If only once or twice then it's probably no big deal as long as everything else appears normal. By normal I mean that your dog is not showing signs of diarrhea, weakness, and/or is lethargic. Keep an eye on your dog for these symptoms. Don't give water or any food for a couple of hours. After that begin with small amounts.

If vomiting continues consult your vet.

http://www.TheDogWalkerCa.com

Lions in Kenya are dying horrific deaths from carbofuran pesticide poisoning, a toxic chemical used on crops. Unfortunately, once one animal has been poisoned, its carcass attracts other wildlife, poisoning animals and predators up the food chain – including the iconic and beautiful African lions. Urge Kenya to enact a ban on carbofuran pesticide and protect these majestic, wild lions »Lions are a vulnerable species that depend on a wide variety of wildlife to survive. With a diet that ranges from wildebeest and hippos to smaller animals such as hares and birds, they are at tremendous risk of poisoning from carbofuran pesticide. While the Kenyan government has stopped allowing sales of the pesticide in their country, some members of Kenya's parliament still oppose a ban of the pesticide. As home to the most iconic and celebrated wildlife on the African continent, it is important that Kenya ban this poison immediately. Please take action today http://www.care2.com/go/z/e/AFnc4/zJdB/bE8A7 Thanks to Natasha at Care2 Team

Last Minute Pet Sitting

Why do people that have been planning a vacation or even a short "get-a-way" wait until the day before they are leaving to call a pet sitter/dog walker? They're getting ready to leave one of their most precious possessions, their pet, with a complete stranger. I was called by two different clients the day before their departure within days of each other. I was so stressed out because of this last minute run for the initial consultation, getting key,etc that I decided I will no longer take last minute clients.

If someone is looking for a pet sitter/dog walker they need to do their research. Checking references can't be done last minute. Not every pet sitter/dog walker fits with every pet. There are many factor involved: is the pet sitter insured? what hours will the pet sitter be willing to go to the pet's home?etc.

I'd like to educate pet owners to have a "meet & greet" early on. One never knows what will come up. If a pet owner has a pet sitter lined up for emergencies then there is one less thing to worry about and that is, "Who will care for my pets, oh no?"