All articles tagged with #pet health
In a Washington Post Ask a Vet column, Dr. Jane Sykes outlines the five core vaccines dogs need, explains why they protect against serious diseases like leptospirosis and parvo, and discusses why annual vaccination is increasingly emphasized over the older three‑year cycle to safeguard both canine and public health.
A mix of research and personal stories suggests dogs can promote healthier living by increasing outdoor time, neighborly interaction, and daily routines, which may support longevity. But benefits vary by individual and owning a pet involves responsibilities, costs, and potential caveats.
A Washington Post veterinary column warns that common household items—especially during Easter—can poison pets, including cut flowers, chocolates, and sago palms, with other hazards like raisins, ibuprofen, and pennies. It emphasizes that delays in treatment can be fatal and outlines the importance of recognizing indoor toxins and seeking prompt veterinary care when exposure occurs.
Dog dementia, or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), is common in aging dogs and shares similarities with human Alzheimer's disease, including memory and behavioral impairments. Early detection is crucial as symptoms worsen quickly, but there is no cure; treatments like medication and training are being explored. Dogs serve as valuable models for understanding dementia, which can also inform human health research.
White dog poop was common in the 90s due to high calcium content in dog food, often from bone meal, which left mineral deposits in the stool. Changes in pet food formulations, reducing calcium-rich ingredients, have made white dog poop less common today. Excess calcium can be toxic, so pet owners should monitor their dogs' health and consult vets if unusual stool occurs.
A domestic cat in Evergreen, Colorado, tested positive for the plague and died, marking the first confirmed animal case in Jefferson County since 2023, following a recent human death in Arizona; health officials warn about the risks of flea bites and contact with infected animals, emphasizing prompt antibiotic treatment for humans.
Veterinarian Tiffany Ruiz-Dasilva advises against feeding dogs raw eggs, raw meat, and bully sticks due to health risks like bacterial contamination and potential nutritional deficiencies. She recommends commercially prepared diets formulated by experts to ensure safety and balance, especially in households with children or vulnerable individuals. Her advice has sparked debate among pet owners.
A Tennessee veterinarian has diagnosed two dogs in the Arlington area with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a potentially fatal tick-borne illness. Despite preventative measures, one of the affected dogs, a golden retriever named Stella, experienced severe symptoms but is now recovering. The veterinarian warns that the disease is a significant health concern in Tennessee and urges pet owners to maintain tick and flea prevention measures.
A survey reveals that many dog owners misinterpret symptoms of aging in their senior pets as normal, potentially delaying necessary veterinary care. The study found that owners often attribute common clinical signs in older dogs to aging, such as slowing down on walks and dental issues, and may not seek medical attention promptly. To address this issue, a new toolkit has been developed to improve communication between pet owners and veterinary professionals, aiming to increase owner understanding and engagement with veterinary care for aging dogs.
New research presented at the ESCMID Global Congress indicates that pet dogs and cats can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to their owners, raising concerns about the spread of deadly superbugs. The study found evidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria being passed between sick pets and their healthy owners in Portugal and the UK, highlighting the need for improved hygiene practices and comprehensive monitoring in pet-owning households. The findings underscore the importance of including pet-owning households in national programs that monitor levels of antibiotic resistance and recommend practicing good hygiene to prevent transmission.
Zoetis Inc's stock plummeted after reports suggested that its pet arthritis drugs, Librela and Solensia, may have caused adverse effects in dogs and cats. The FDA approved these drugs for pain associated with osteoarthritis in pets, marking a significant development in pet healthcare. However, some pet owners have linked the drugs to adverse effects and deaths in their pets, leading to scrutiny and thousands of reports of side effects. Zoetis stated that these side effects represent a fraction of the shots given and that neither the company nor researchers have identified a connection between the drugs and the reported adverse effects. Additionally, the European Commission initiated an investigation into whether Zoetis hindered the market launch of a competing pain medication for dogs.
San Diego veterinarians are observing a rise in cases of leptospirosis, a rare bacterial disease that can be transmitted to dogs through contact with contaminated water or wildlife urine. The disease, which can also affect humans, can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Pet owners are urged to be vigilant, vaccinate their pets, and seek veterinary care if their animals show signs of lethargy or illness.
Some pet owners are hesitant to vaccinate their dogs against rabies due to concerns about vaccine safety and potential side effects, despite the fact that rabies is nearly always fatal. Experts stress the importance of vaccinating pets against rabies, as the virus poses a significant public health threat. Vaccine hesitancy among pet owners mirrors similar trends in human vaccination, and there are concerns that dismantling laws mandating rabies vaccines for dogs could jeopardize successful public health initiatives. While there has not been a major decline in dog vaccinations, experts emphasize the importance of distinguishing between perceptions about pet vaccines and the firm mandates requiring dogs to be vaccinated in most states.
When faced with the devastating diagnosis of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in her beloved Dachshund Tanq, the author had to choose between a $15,000 surgery or a holistic approach. Opting for the latter, she found a chiropractor who provided alternative care, and a year later, Tanq is thriving with regular maintenance appointments. The experience prompted her to advocate for proactive pet health and educate others about IVDD in Dachshunds.
Renton residents are on alert as an outbreak of parvovirus, primarily affecting puppies, has been reported in the area, with three cases identified at Petrovitsky Park. Parvovirus is highly contagious and potentially deadly, spreading through direct contact with infected dogs and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, severe diarrhea, and fever. Pet owners are advised to stay informed, take preventive measures, and seek veterinary attention if their dogs show signs of the disease.