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Tag: veterinarian advice

  • Keeping Your Dog Safe This Halloween | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Halloween brings lots of fun with costumes, decorations, and trick-or-treaters. But this spooky holiday can create some real dangers for our furry friends. As dog parents, it’s important to know about these risks so you can keep your pet safe while still enjoying the festivities.

    Candy and Food Dangers

    The biggest Halloween threat to dogs is candy and other treats. Many popular Halloween goodies are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems.

    Chocolate is the most dangerous. It contains substances called methylxanthines that dogs can’t process properly. Dark chocolate is especially harmful, but any amount can make your dog very sick. Signs of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.

    Xylitol is another major concern. Xylitol is a sugar substitute is found in sugar-free gum and candy. Even tiny amounts can cause your dog’s blood sugar to drop dangerously low, leading to seizures or liver damage.

    Other foods to keep away from your dog include raisins, which can cause kidney failure, and anything with garlic or onions. Always keep Halloween candy in sealed containers where curious paws can’t reach them.

    Costume Safety

    If you plan to dress up your dog, make sure their costume fits properly and doesn’t restrict breathing or movement. Avoid costumes with small parts that could be swallowed. Some dogs feel stressed in costumes, so watch for signs of discomfort like excessive panting or trying to remove the outfit.

    Decorations and Hazards

    Halloween decorations can pose risks too. Keep these items away from your dog:

    • Fake spider webs and string lights that could cause choking
    • Candles that might be knocked over
    • Small decorative items that could be swallowed
    • Glow sticks, which contain chemicals that can irritate your dog’s mouth

    Managing Trick-or-Treat Stress

    The constant doorbell ringing and strangers in costumes can stress many dogs. Some pets may become fearful or reactive to people in masks or unusual clothing.

    Create a quiet, safe space for your dog away from the front door. Use white noise or calming music to mask the sounds of trick-or-treaters. Consider giving your dog a special long-lasting treat or puzzle toy to keep them occupied.

    If your dog is particularly anxious about loud noises or strangers, talk to your veterinarian ahead of time about anti-anxiety medications that might help.

    Keep Your Dog Secure

    With doors opening frequently for trick-or-treaters, there’s a higher chance your dog could escape. Make sure they’re wearing proper ID tags and that their microchip information is current. Keep them in a secure area of your home during peak trick-or-treat hours.

    When to Call Your Vet

    If your dog eats chocolate, candy, or anything they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian right away. Don’t wait to see if symptoms develop. Keep these numbers handy: your vet’s clinic, the nearest emergency animal hospital, and the Pet Poison Helpline.

    With some planning and awareness, you and your dog can have a safe and happy Halloween. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian about the best ways to keep your furry family member healthy during the holiday season.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • Are Your Dog’s Gums Pale? It’s a Health Warning | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Your dog’s gums should appear a healthy salmon pink. Pale gums in dogs signal potential health issues. Regular checks can identify problems early. Familiarize yourself with your dog’s normal gum color. This simple habit empowers you to act swiftly if something seems off. If your furry companion resists, don’t force the issue. Instead, consult a veterinarian for guidance.

    Checking for Hydration and Circulation

    Assess hydration by feeling the gums. They should feel moist and slightly damp. Dry or sticky gums indicate dehydration, a serious concern. Next, test circulation using the capillary refill method. Press gently on the gums until they turn white. Release your finger. The color should return to pink within two seconds. If not, poor circulation could be at play.

    When to Seek Help

    Pale gums can indicate severe issues such as anemia or shock. If your dog’s gums appear any color other than salmon pink, contact a veterinarian immediately. Taking a well-lit photo can help when discussing concerns. Quick action often leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate.

    Preventive Measures

    Preventive care plays a vital role in maintaining gum health. Ensure regular dental check-ups to avoid gum disease. Incorporate dental treats and toys into your dog’s routine to promote oral hygiene. A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports overall health. Keep your furry companion hydrated and encourage water intake to maintain moisture levels in the gums.

    Treatments and Management Strategies

    Treatment for pale gums in dogs depends on the underlying cause. Blood tests can identify anemia or organ dysfunction. If dehydration is present, your veterinarian may recommend fluids. Anti-inflammatory medications may relieve symptoms of pain or shock. Always follow your vet’s recommendations for a tailored treatment plan.

    Vigilance is key in monitoring gum health. Share this information with fellow dog lovers to spread awareness. Engage in discussions about health and wellness. Together, proactive care can make a significant difference in the lives of our beloved companions.

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  • How probiotics and prebiotics can help your cat’s digestion | Animal Wellness Magazine

    How probiotics and prebiotics can help your cat’s digestion | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Your cat’s digestive health impacts every area of her well-being. If things are off in her gut, then she’ll likely not be feeling her best and may develop problems ranging from diarrhea to poor immune function to behavioral issues. Along with a nutritious, species-specific diet and regular veterinary care, supplementing her with probiotics and prebiotics can help your cat’s digestion. 

     

    Understanding probiotics and prebiotics

    According to the Mayo Clinic, probiotics are foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or improve the “good” bacteria (normal microflora) in the body. Probiotics are found in foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut. The microorganisms include Lactobacillus acidophilus and other Lactobacillus species, and certain strains of Bacillus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacteria, and Streptococcus, all of which are commonly found in over-the-counter probiotic supplements.

     

    Prebiotics, meanwhile, are typically found in high-fiber foods such as whole grains, bananas, soybeans and artichokes. They act as food for the gut microflora, and aid in digestion. They also help maintain immunity and healthy body weight, and reduce inflammation. Prebiotics are used with the intention of improving the balance of these particular microorganisms, which include Fructooligosaccharides (the most common type of prebiotic), Oligosaccharides, arabinogalactans and lactulose.

     

    Fast fact: All these microorganisms are part of what’s called the gut microbiome. Found primarily in the large and small intestine, the microbiome can be thought of as another organ and consists of trillions of microorganisms co-existing peacefully within the body.

     

    “Intestinal bacteria aid in digesting certain nutrients by providing enzymes that the body does not make on its own,” says retired veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve of LittleBigCat.com. “These organisms manufacture several B vitamins and help maintain an acidic pH in the gut. They also prevent colonization of the digestive tract by pathological (disease-causing) organisms such as Salmonella and Candida.”

     

    When things get out of balance

    Cats have notoriously sensitive digestive tracts. The bacteria in their gut microbiome have a direct effect on overall health, influencing not only digestion, but also immune system function and nutritional metabolism, as well as moods and mental health. 

     

    Fast fact: “Gut dysbiosis” describes an imbalance between healthy and unhealthy bacteria. 

     

    In addition to causing commonly-recognized digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting, gut dysbiosis is the source of many additional illnesses such as kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, pancreatitis, and even cancer.   

     

    Giving probiotics and prebiotics to your cat

     

    It should go without saying that if your cat seems unwell, you need to take her to the vet for a checkup before giving her any supplements, including probiotics and prebiotics. You need to know the cause of her symptoms before trying to treat them. If your cat’s health issues turn out to be caused by gut dysbiosis, then you and your vet can take steps to correct the problem.

     

    Veterinarian Dr. Scott Gavalet recommends the use of probiotics under two circumstances. “[They are the] first line in treating diarrhea, and to replace the good bacteria when we prescribe antibiotics,” he says. So if your cat has been on antibiotics, and/or is prone to vomiting, constipation, diarrhea or bloating in the absence of other pathologies, a probiotic can help boost her levels of good bacteria. 

     

    How to choose the right supplements

     

    The marketplace is full of probiotic and prebiotic products, ranging from powders and capsules to treats. Most are easily added to your cat’s food without affecting the taste. Some cat food companies also include these nutrients in their recipes. When choosing probiotics and prebiotics for your own cat, it’s imperative to look for high quality products made by a reputable company. 

     

    Fast fact: The digestive systems of cats and humans are quite different, so it’s important to use a supplement specifically formulated for cats, or better still, your individual feline.

    Talk to an integrative or holistic veterinarian about which products would be best for your own cat’s needs. In the meantime, here are two important points to keep in mind:

     

    1. Because cats are carnivores and depend on a protein-rich diet, it’s crucial to select supplements tailored to their nutritional needs. For instance, Enterococcus and Bifidobacterium are beneficial for cats. Enterococcus generally lives in the colon and aids in the formation of normal feces and maintaining colon health. Bifidobacterium is found in the small intestine and is responsible for improved digestion.

     

    1. Prebiotics are often used in conjunction with probiotics to facilitate digestion and balance gut health. Herbalist Greg Tilford recommends herbal prebiotics because of their low risk of side effects. He notes that prebiotics can fill in the gaps by providing beneficial plant-based nutrients that cats might not be getting in their food. 

     

    Correcting and supporting your cat’s gut health, under the supervision of your veterinarian, will have a positive effect on her overall health and happiness. Introducing the right probiotics and prebiotics can help your cat’s digestion, balance her microbiome and help her feel better. 

     

    Probiotics from yogurt

     

    Adding a probiotic to your cat’s diet can also include putting a teaspoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt in her food each day. Yogurt contains L acidophilus, the first bacterial strain to be identified and isolated, according to Dr. Hofve. L acidophilus was initially used in the 1920s and ‘30s to treat constipation and diarrhea in human patients. It has also long been given to patients after a course of antibiotics as a way to restore normal gut flora. 

     


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    Sally E. Bahner specializes in cat-related issues, specifically nutrition, holistic care and behavior. She has offered her services as a feline behavior and care consultant and gives classes on cat care. Sally is the resident cat behavior expert on Tracie Hotchner’s Cat Chat radio program, and a member of the Cat Writers’ Association and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

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    Sally E. Bahner

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