How to Tell if a Dog Has Parvo and How to Treat Parvo

What Is the Parvo Virus?

 

 

Effects

• Once parvo manifests itself in the stomach lining the dog cannot properly absorb liquids and nutrients, leading to weakness and lethargy.

Features

• Some of the first symptoms of parvo are vomiting, diarrhea and a general malaise that overtakes the animal. Loss of appetite and a terrible-smelling, bloody stool will follow, with severe cases causing dehydration and possible death.

• Vaccinations are available for parvo, with the shots beginning at 6 weeks of age and continuing until the dog is 5 months old for them to be the most effective. The majority of veterinarians recommend an annual booster for parvo, according to Working Dogs.com.

Time Frame

• Parvo exists in the feces of infected dogs and can remain infectious for as long as five months. An exposed dog usually takes from a week to 10 days to show any signs of the parvo virus and to test positive.

Considerations

• A puppy that lives through its battle with parvo often is weak and sickly for the rest of its life. Some will suffer a form of congestive heart failure brought about by the ailment, sometimes years after the dog has apparently recovered from the illness.

 

 

Parvovirus, or parvo, is an incredibly contagious virus that can cause severe illness and eventually death in puppies, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Parvo cannot be cured, so any animal that displays the symptoms should be immediately taken to a veterinary hospital. Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, not eating and fever are all symptoms of the parvovirus.

Instructions, how to spot parvo

1. • Watch your dog for signs of depression or lethargy. These early symptoms occur between three and 10 days after your dog is exposed to the virus. He may not be his usual playful self and he may sleep more than normal. (Reference 2)

   • Observe the dog’s feces. Parvo often attacks the cells in the intestine, causing watery diarrhea. As a result, a dog with parvo may quickly become dehydrated. (Reference 2)

   • Look for vomiting episodes with or without signs of abdominal pain. In some dogs, the stomach contracts, causing them to tuck their abdomen in and upward. (Reference 1)

   • Check very young puppies for the cardio version of parvo. This less-common form of the virus spreads from the mother dog to her unborn pups and they frequently die soon after birth. The virus attacks the young heart muscle, causing cardiac arrest. (Reference 1, page 78)

   • Take your dog to your veterinarian as soon as you suspect parvo. Some dogs survive the virus if they receive prompt emergency treatment that involves the intravenous fluid replacement. Your veterinarian may order a blood serum test to make a quick diagnosis. (Reference 1)

 

Instructions, how to treat parvo

1. • Take your puppy to see a veterinarian soon after it is born. Between birth and the puppy’s first visit to the vet, keep the dog away from other animals that may be carriers of the disease. A veterinary visit will ensure that your puppy’s vaccinations are up to date, and the doctor will inform you of specific preventative methods to keep your dog safe. The article “Canine Parvovirus” on the Claws and Paws Veterinary Hospital website states that if your puppy does contract parvovirus you must take him or her to the vet for hospitalization. Hospitalization ensures that experienced veterinary professionals can monitor your pet’s health while giving the pet the antibiotics and hydration necessary to effectively treat the symptoms of the virus.

   • Keep your animal’s habitat clean. The Claws and Paws Veterinary Hospital article “Canine Parvovirus” suggests you use a solution of 4 oz. liquid bleach and 1 gallon water to clean any solid surfaces that come into contact with your pet or their stool. Thoroughly clean bedding, collars, crates and kennels, floors and favorite napping or playing areas.

   • Limit your pet’s exposure to other animals. Puppies are especially susceptible to parvo virus, so be sure that during walks your pet does not come into contact with other dogs’ solid waste or vomit. Keep your puppy away from other sick animals, and try to keep it at home for grooming or training. Places where dogs frequently gather can be breeding grounds for the virus, so investing in a grooming kit and a few training tools will go a long way in preventing development of the sickness. Use a kennel crate or large carrier to keep your puppy away from other sick animals if they reside in the same home. Also change your puppy’s bedding daily to prevent the accumulation of waste.

 

How to Tell if a Dog Has Parvo and How to Treat Parvo

What Is the Parvo Virus?

 

 

Effects

• Once parvo manifests itself in the stomach lining the dog cannot properly absorb liquids and nutrients, leading to weakness and lethargy.

Features

• Some of the first symptoms of parvo are vomiting, diarrhea and a general malaise that overtakes the animal. Loss of appetite and a terrible-smelling, bloody stool will follow, with severe cases causing dehydration and possible death.

• Vaccinations are available for parvo, with the shots beginning at 6 weeks of age and continuing until the dog is 5 months old for them to be the most effective. The majority of veterinarians recommend an annual booster for parvo, according to Working Dogs.com.

Time Frame

• Parvo exists in the feces of infected dogs and can remain infectious for as long as five months. An exposed dog usually takes from a week to 10 days to show any signs of the parvo virus and to test positive.

Considerations

• A puppy that lives through its battle with parvo often is weak and sickly for the rest of its life. Some will suffer a form of congestive heart failure brought about by the ailment, sometimes years after the dog has apparently recovered from the illness.

 

 

Parvovirus, or parvo, is an incredibly contagious virus that can cause severe illness and eventually death in puppies, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Parvo cannot be cured, so any animal that displays the symptoms should be immediately taken to a veterinary hospital. Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, not eating and fever are all symptoms of the parvovirus.

Instructions, how to spot parvo

1. • Watch your dog for signs of depression or lethargy. These early symptoms occur between three and 10 days after your dog is exposed to the virus. He may not be his usual playful self and he may sleep more than normal. (Reference 2)

   • Observe the dog’s feces. Parvo often attacks the cells in the intestine, causing watery diarrhea. As a result, a dog with parvo may quickly become dehydrated. (Reference 2)

   • Look for vomiting episodes with or without signs of abdominal pain. In some dogs, the stomach contracts, causing them to tuck their abdomen in and upward. (Reference 1)

   • Check very young puppies for the cardio version of parvo. This less-common form of the virus spreads from the mother dog to her unborn pups and they frequently die soon after birth. The virus attacks the young heart muscle, causing cardiac arrest. (Reference 1, page 78)

   • Take your dog to your veterinarian as soon as you suspect parvo. Some dogs survive the virus if they receive prompt emergency treatment that involves the intravenous fluid replacement. Your veterinarian may order a blood serum test to make a quick diagnosis. (Reference 1)

 

Instructions, how to treat parvo

1. • Take your puppy to see a veterinarian soon after it is born. Between birth and the puppy’s first visit to the vet, keep the dog away from other animals that may be carriers of the disease. A veterinary visit will ensure that your puppy’s vaccinations are up to date, and the doctor will inform you of specific preventative methods to keep your dog safe. The article “Canine Parvovirus” on the Claws and Paws Veterinary Hospital website states that if your puppy does contract parvovirus you must take him or her to the vet for hospitalization. Hospitalization ensures that experienced veterinary professionals can monitor your pet’s health while giving the pet the antibiotics and hydration necessary to effectively treat the symptoms of the virus.

   • Keep your animal’s habitat clean. The Claws and Paws Veterinary Hospital article “Canine Parvovirus” suggests you use a solution of 4 oz. liquid bleach and 1 gallon water to clean any solid surfaces that come into contact with your pet or their stool. Thoroughly clean bedding, collars, crates and kennels, floors and favorite napping or playing areas.

   • Limit your pet’s exposure to other animals. Puppies are especially susceptible to parvo virus, so be sure that during walks your pet does not come into contact with other dogs’ solid waste or vomit. Keep your puppy away from other sick animals, and try to keep it at home for grooming or training. Places where dogs frequently gather can be breeding grounds for the virus, so investing in a grooming kit and a few training tools will go a long way in preventing development of the sickness. Use a kennel crate or large carrier to keep your puppy away from other sick animals if they reside in the same home. Also change your puppy’s bedding daily to prevent the accumulation of waste.

 

Seizure Disorders in Dogs

PLEASE READ THIS!!!! IT IS WHAT MY RORY GIRL DIED FROM THREE DAYS AGO!!!  It is a bit of a read but trust me you need to read this!!

 

What causes seizures in dogs and what to do if your dog is having a seizure. Don’t panic, with this information you can learn more about them.

Observing a beloved pet succumb to a seizure the first time is a frightful experience.

The owner wants to do something to help their pet but often has no idea as to what is going on or why it is occurring. In these types of situations, minutes seem like hours but the best things an owner can do are to take note of the time and length of the seizure, make sure the dog is nowhere near stairs and pad the head and body with blankets to prevent injury as well as removing any other dogs you may have.

 

Regardless of what you have heard, DO NOT reach into the dog’s mouth to grab the tongue in an attempt to “keep it from swallowing its tongue.”

 

During thirteen years as an animal emergency technician, I couldn’t count the number of owners who went to the hospital room while someone else brought their dog to our clinic.

 

Although conscious, the dog is absolutely unaware of what is going on around it and those clenching jaws can do serious if not permanent injury.

 

There are many types of seizures that are commonly seen and if you suspect your dog is or has had a seizure, be sure to discuss it with your veterinarian giving as many details as possible.

Generalized Seizure or Tonic-clonic: The Tonic-clonic seizure has two stages and may come in a mild or Grand Mal version. During the Grand Mal seizure the “tonic” phase is when the dog falls to the ground, rigidly stretches his legs out and loses consciousness. During this time his breathing will also stop. This part of the seizure usually lasts ten to thirty seconds. After this the “clonic” stage begins. It is at this time that owners notice the stereotypical activity that is commonly called a fit.

While the dog is in the clonic stage, he or she will begin any or all of the following symptoms:

1. Paddling of limbs or “running in place”.

2. Jaw movements that look like the dog is trying to chew gum.

3. Pupils in both eyes dilate (become large) and unresponsive.

4. Dog begins salivating or drooling.

5. Dog loses control of bodily functions and begins to urinate or defecate on itself.

In the mild cases of Tonic-clonic seizures there is usually little paddling and no loss of consciousness. Defecation and urination may also not occur.

 

Petit Mal Seizures have short episodes of the dog being unconscious with instances of muscle tone loss, and blank stares. These types of seizures seem to be very rare in dogs and often require the presence of EEG abnormalities to diagnosis for certainty.

 

Partial Seizures are odd things where the seizure activities such as the leg paddling, muscle spasms, neck and head bending or the main part of the body and facial muscle spasms only occur in one part of the body. These types of seizures can worsen until they appear to be Grand Mal or Mild Tonic-clonic but the difference is how the seizure began. Both Tonic-clonic types seem to be overall body from the start but the partials may just start at the face or one hip.

 

Status Epilepticus type seizures can be life threatening. They can appear as one continuous seizure that lasts more than thirty minutes or in a repetitive loop of seizures with the dog never regaining consciousness. Status epilepticus seizures can occur to dogs with a history of Grand Mal or Mild Tonic-clonic seizures and a diagnosis of epilepsy. They can also occur in dogs with no previous seizure activity but that have had an injury to the brain, exposed to toxins such as massive amounts of chocolate, pesticides and poisons or they can be the result of disease.

 

Cluster Seizures are very similar to the loop of status epilepticus seizures and each are often diagnosed as the other. The difference between the status epilepticus and the cluster seizures is that the dog actually has short time periods returning to consciousness in between each seizure.

 

Complex Partial Seizures can also be known as psychomotor or behavioral seizures. Of all the different types of seizures these are the oddest and most bizarre. During a complex partial seizure the dog will demonstrate strange repetitive behaviors such as uncontrollably running in small circles, biting at the air, howling, barking or yipping and even a type of lip-smacking. Others may show signs of attempting to hide for no reason. Other signs can be instances of vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, biting at their sides or flank area and even blindness. Although the dog is awake during these seizures, they are not aware of what they are doing or what is going on around them. Complex partial seizures can last a few minutes, several hours or can turn into generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

 

Seizures can be caused by a variety of things including both primary and secondary epilepsy. They can also be the result of a blow to the head, calcium deficiencies in nursing mothers, end stage heartworm disease, toxic plants, chemicals, fertilizers and poisonings. There is even evidence that seizures may be have a hereditary factor involved since there are several breeds such as the Belgian Tervureren, German Shepherd, Dachshunds and others that have a higher incidence of them than other purebred dogs.

 

If a seizure happens to your dog, the important thing is for you to stay calm. This is especially hard to do when your beloved pet is in the throes of what appears to be pure agony but you must be in control of yourself. Keep a calm, quiet tone of voice while you attempt to comfort the dog. If there is furniture, doors or anything that the dog could hurt itself on during the seizure, move it if possible. If you are unable to move the danger, wrap blankets or place pillows between the dog and the object. Slide something soft under the dog’s head but make sure you do not get your face or hands close enough to the mouth risking a possible bite. Dim the lights, turn off any loud music or TV and keep the environment as quiet as possible. Speak to your dog in a low, reassuring voice and perhaps gently stroke his side or hip. Also try to avoid being on the same side as the feet and toenails. As the muscles spasm, so do the legs making the feet curl into actual claws that can rake or gouge your skin.

During these times, take notes to contact your veterinarian with. Note the time of day it occurred, the duration of each seizure and the time in between them if they are recurrent. In addition to these things, the veterinarian will want to know if the dog regained consciousness, urinated or defecated, if the seizure progressed from mere body twitching or hit suddenly. He will probably ask if there had been any possibly triggering events such as fireworks, excessive exercising or playing, strange products or items eaten and how long it was before the dog appeared normal again.

 

It is very common for dogs that have seizures to have a time period afterwards in which they appear drugged or lost. They may respond to you but in an excessively slow manner. These “drugged” times may vary according to the severity of the seizure. For some dogs they may take only a few minutes or several hours. Seizures are an exhausting experience and most dogs will want to sleep afterwards so allow them to do so. Check in occasionally but don’t disturb their rest.

 

If this is the first occurrence of a seizure, be sure to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on preferences, he or she may take the “wait and see” route or go for a battery of blood tests to check for liver and heart functions, anemia, glucose, calcium, and electrolyte levels. The doctor may even want to run a screen for possible toxins including lead as well as possible x-rays. Teaching facilities and some clinics will even have the ability to do EEGs to check for abnormalities.

 

Even with all the tests, the results may not give a specific reason for the seizure. Some veterinarians will wait and see if it was a one-time occurrence while others may suggest medications right away. If diagnosed with epilepsy, dogs have an excellent chance of a fairly normal life if given the proper medical care and follow up by the owner.

A seizure is caused by an abnormal burst of electrical activity within the brain, commonly in one of the cerebral hemispheres. The electrical activity sometimes spreads out and involves other areas, including the midbrain.

A typical grand mal seizure is preceded by a period of altered behavior, called the aura. During the aura dogs may be restless and anxious, cry out, demand affection, or seek seclusion. The actual seizure normally lasts less than two minutes, and is characterized by collapse with rigid extension of the legs. The dog becomes unconscious and may stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds. This is followed by rhythmic jerking of the legs (which resembles running or paddling). Some dogs also chomp, chew, drool, or urinate and defecate. As the dog regains consciousness there is a postseizure state characterized by disorientation and confusion. The dog may stumble into walls and appear blind. The postseizure state can persist for minutes or hours. Grand mal seizures are typical of epilepsy.

 focal motor or partial seizure is one in which the jerking or twitching is limited (at least initially) to a particular part of the body. A focal seizure usually indicates a specific brain lesion, such as a scar, tumor, or abscess.

Seizures are commonly associated with braininjury, encephalitis, heat stroke, brain abscess, brain tumor, stroke, poisoning, kidney failure, orliver failure. Seizures associated with a concussion frequently occur weeks or months after the head injury and are caused by a focus of scar tissue in the brain.

Postencephalitic seizures occur three to four weeks after the onset of encephalitis. Distemper, in particular, is characterized by attacks that begin with chomping, tongue chewing, foaming at the mouth, head shaking, and blinking, all followed by a dazed look.

Postvaccination seizures have been described in puppies under 6 weeks of age following inoculation with a combined distemper-parvovirus vaccine. This is extremely rare with current vaccines.

 A bitch may develop low blood calcium levels after whelping and have seizures. A sudden drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can also trigger a seizure. This occurs in newborn pups with cardiopulmonary syndrome. It can also occur in small-breed puppies who have not been fed adequately. A common cause of hypoglycemia is giving too much insulin to a diabetic dog.

Common poisons that cause seizures are animal baits such as strychnine, antifreeze (ethylene glycol), lead, insecticides (organophosphates), and chocolate. Seizures caused by organophosphates are preceded by drooling and muscle twitching. Exposure to a spray, dip, or premise treatment suggests the diagnosis.

There are a number of conditions that, while not true seizures, are often mistaken for them. Bee stings, for example, can cause frenzied barking followed by fainting or collapse. Cardiac arrhythmias can be mistaken for seizures because they cause loss of consciousness and collapse, or death!

Treatment: If the dog is in a dangerous location at the time of the seizure, move her to a safe site. Otherwise, do not disturb the dog during or after the seizure, as this may trigger further seizures. Despite the old wives’ tale, do not pull out the dog’s tongue or wedge something between her teeth. Dogs can’t swallow their tongue.

Note the length of the seizure. As soon as the seizure is over, notify your veterinarian, because he or she will want to examine the dog to diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

Seizures lasting more than five minutes (status epilepticus seizures) or cluster seizures (several seizures one after the other without a return to consciousness) are emergencies. They must be stopped with intravenous Valium or other anticonvulsants to prevent permanent brain damage or death. Seek immediate veterinary attention. Status epilepticus has a poor prognosis, because it is usually caused by poisoning or a serious brain disease.

If seizures cannot be controlled with phenobarbital and potassium bromide, other drugs, such as Clonazepam, Valproic acid, Clorazepate, and many others can be added. The dosages and rates of action of all anticonvulsants are variable. Regular monitoring of serum drug levels is essential-both to control seizures and to avoid toxicity. Liver enzymes are monitored as well. The two common causes of treatment failure are not maintaining adequate drug levels and not giving the drugs as often as directed. A missed dose of an anticonvulsant can precipitate a seizure. It is important to work closely with your veterinarian.

Acupuncture and dietary changes may also help to reduce the number and extent of seizures.

 Research is under way to identify the defective gene or genes responsible for epilepsy so that dogs can be identified as carriers before being bred. Affected dogs may not have their first seizure until 3 to 5 years of age, by which time they may have already been bred. No dog known to seizure from suspected epilepsy should be bred.

Do Dogs Need to Be Tested for Heartworm Even if They Are on Heartguard All Year Long?

You know that canine heartworm disease can be deadly — so you’re always certain to give your dog his monthly heartworm preventative tablet. Since he’s on the medication year-round, why does your vet insist on a heartworm test before she writes you an annual prescription? The answer lies both in sound veterinary practices and in law.

Heartgard for Dogs

• Heartgard is a proprietary heartworm preventive medication that contains ivermectin, a broad-spectrum wormer that kills heartworms circulating in the bloodstream in the larval stage, preventing the larvae from growing into adult heartworms and invading the heart and lungs. Many veterinarians recommend Heartgard Plus, which also contains pyrantel. This wormer controls roundworms, hookworms and whipworms.

Legal Requirements

• When you take a medication long-term, even if you experience no side effects, you still need regular visits to your doctor for a check-up before she will renew the prescription. The same holds true for veterinarians and their pet patients. Most heartworm preventatives require a prescription, and that means your vet must follow various state and federal regulations, including documenting an established veterinary and client relationship. For that purpose, your vet must conduct an annual physical examination, including testing for heartworm, before prescribing the medication.

  If You Missed a Dose

  • Most dog owners conscientiously give their pets a monthly Heartgard tablet, marking the calendar for the next dose date with the little red reminder hearts provided in the packaging. However, life happens. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad dog owner if you find you have one tablet left at the end of a year’s supply.Vacation, business trips, entertaining guests — all sorts of events can disrupt your schedule, causing you to lapse in giving your dog a tablet one month. During the period corresponding to that missed dose, your dog could acquire heartworm. While Heartgard is palatable to dogs, it’s possible that your dog might not swallow it or might cough up the chewable tablet shortly after administration without your knowledge.

  Heartworm Transmission

  • Dogs can’t pick up heartworm disease from other canines. Transmission occurs solely via mosquito bite. A female mosquito may carry baby heartworms or microfilariae, which she transfers to a host when she probes for blood. The heartworm larvae develop inside the host. When your vet tests your dog’s blood sample for heartworm, she’s looking for microfilariae or an antigen indicating the presence of heartworm. If your dog tests positive for heartworm, he can’t simply take the preventive — he needs special treatment that can require a period of inactivity. The latter requirement is especially difficult for young, energetic canines.

    How Do You Kill Heartworms in Dogs?

    Heartworm, a deadly parasite that can live in your dog’s heart and major arteries, is contracted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Should your dog be unlucky enough to contract heartworm, it will need to undergo treatment at a veterinarian’s office. While no over-the-counter treatment is available for a dog with heartworm, this preventative will help keep your dog from contracting heartworm.

    Instructions

    1. • Have your veterinarian confirm your dog has heartworm disease. A simple blood test will determine if the dog has heartworm microfilae (larvae) in its bloodstream.

       • Restrict your dog’s activity. This means no exercise, running or ball chasing. You need to keep your dog quiet because extra activity can cause the heartworm mass to dislodge and clog up the arteries, causing blockages and possible strokes.

   

• Start your dog on a heartworm preventative as directed by your veterinarian. You may have to treat your dog over a two-month period.

• Treat your dog with antibiotics and prednisone as directed by your veterinarian.

• After two months have your veterinarian give the first shot of Immiticide. Your dog will likely stay at the veterinarian’s for a couple of days.

• Continue to keep your pet quiet for a month.

• Take your dog’s temperature daily. Contact your veterinarian if your dog’s temperature is more than 102.5 degrees F.

• Bring your dog back to the veterinarian for the series of two shots of Immiticide.

• Keep your dog on heartworm preventative medication.

• Keep your dog quiet for a month with no exercise. Then follow with limited exercise but no running or jumping for two months.

  How Often Do Dogs Need to Be Tested for Heartworm?

  Heartworms are caused when larvae enters a mosquito when it sucks blood from another infected animal. Often, adult heartworms can live in a dog for 5 to 7 years. Heartworms usually cannot be detected in a dog up to 7 months prior to being bitten. It is very important to get dogs tested for heartworms at least once a year. Puppies can start on heartworm preventative from 6 to 8 weeks old. Most vets recommend putting dogs on a heartworm medication such as heartguard that is taken once a month.

  When Should My Puppy Begin Heartworm Medication?

  When to Begin

  • According to Drs. Foster & Smith, puppies can be given certain types of heartworm medication at 4 weeks old. However, Petco recommends beginning a regular heartworm regimen when a puppy is between 6 weeks and 6 months old. Additionally, it is always important to talk with your veterinarian about when to begin a heartworm prevention program and which program to choose. Some medications require blood tests prior to prescription.

    If your puppy is over 6 months old and is not on a regular heartworm prevention regimen, she may already have heartworms. It is important to talk with your veterinarian about getting medication for your puppy immediately. In this case, the vet will perform a blood test before giving you any medication to be sure that your puppy does not already have heartworms. According to Petco, dogs with pre-existing heartworm that begin taking medication can suffer from anaphylactic-shock reaction (a type of severe allergic reaction). Treatment for dogs suffering from heartworm is available in injection form. However, it can be expensive, may require a hospital stay and is potentially toxic.

  Time of the Year

  • It is a general rule that if you are being bit by mosquitoes, your dog is too. However, veterinarians recommend that dogs be treated with heartworm medication all year long since some medications also prevent things like intestinal parasites. As Drs. Foster & Smith points out, staying on a regular regimen decreases the chances of forgetting to give your puppy the medication. If you would rather give your puppy medication only during warm months when mosquitoes are out, Dr. Foster & Smith recommends giving the medication after you see the first mosquito. It is recommended to stay in contact with your vet, who will determine the length of time your puppy should take heartworm medication.

 

Spring Pet Poisons

Gardening season is here! Plant bulbs are just as excited to break through the ground to add some color to our yards as we are to see some greenery! That said, we need to be aware of the potential dangers spring plants can be for our pets. Here is a list of some of the most common spring plants and their toxicities… so you know how to pet-proof your garden and keep your pet safe!

Tulips and Hyacinth

Tulips contain allergenic lactones while hyacinths contain similar alkaloids. The toxic principle of these plants is very concentrated in the bulbs (versus the leaf or flower), so make sure your dog isn’t digging up the bulbs in the garden. When the plant parts or bulbs are chewed or ingested, it can result in tissue irritation to the mouth and esophagus. Typical signs include profuse drooling, vomiting, or even diarrhea, depending on the amount consumed. There’s no specific antidote, but with supportive care from the veterinarian (including rinsing the mouth, anti-vomiting medication, and possibly subcutaneous fluids), animals do quite well. With large ingestions of the bulb, more severe symptoms such as an increase in heart rate and changes in respiration can be seen, and should be treated by a veterinarian. These more severe signs are seen in cattle or our overzealous, chowhound Labradors.

Daffodils

These flowers contain lycorine, an alkaloid with strong emetic properties (something that triggers vomiting). Ingestion of the bulb, plant or flower can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even possible cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Crystals are found in the outer layer of the bulbs, similar to hyacinths, which cause severe tissue irritation and secondary drooling. Daffodil ingestions can result in more severe symptoms so if an exposure is witnessed or symptoms are seen, we recommend seeking veterinary care.

Lilies

There are dangerous and benign lilies out there, and it’s important to know the difference. Peace, Peruvian, and Calla lilies contain oxalate crystals that cause minor signs, such as tissue irritation to the mouth, tongue, pharynx, and esophagus – this results in minor drooling. The more dangerous, potentially fatal lilies are true lilies, and these include Tiger, Day, Asiatic, Easter and Japanese Show lilies – all of which are highly toxic to cats! Even small ingestions (such as 2-3 petals or leaves) can result in severe kidney failure. If your cat is seen consuming any part of a lily, bring your cat (and the plant) immediately to a veterinarian for medical care. The sooner you bring in your cat, the better and more efficiently we can treat the poisoning. Decontamination (like inducing vomiting and giving binders like activated charcoal) are imperative in the early toxic stage, while aggressive intravenous fluid therapy, kidney function monitoring tests, and supportive care can greatly improve the prognosis.

Crocus

There are two Crocus plants: one that blooms in the spring (Crocus species) and the other in the autumn (Colchicum autumnale). The spring plants are more common and are part of the Iridaceae family. These ingestions can cause general gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea. These should not be mistaken for Autumn Crocus, part of the Liliaceae family, which contain colchicine. The Autumn Crocus is highly toxic and can cause severe vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory failure. If you’re not sure what plant it is, bring your pet to their veterinarian immediately for care. Signs may be seen immediately but can be delayed for days.

Lily of the Valley

The Convallaria majalis plant contains cardiac glycosides which will cause symptoms similar to digitalis (foxglove) ingestion. These symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, a drop in heart rate, severe cardiac arrhythmias, and possibly seizures. Pets with any known exposure to this plant should be examined and evaluated by a veterinarian and treated symptomatically.

In addition…Fertilizers

As we gardeners work on our rose garden, be aware of those fertilizers. While most are not very toxic (resulting in minor gastrointestinal irritation when consumed), some fertilizers can be fatal without treatment. Here are a few ingredients to be aware of so you know what toxins and symptoms to watch out for.

• Blood meal – This is dried, ground, and flash-frozen blood and contains 12% nitrogen. While it’s a great organic fertilizer, if ingested, it can cause vomiting (of some other poor animal’s blood) and diarrhea. More importantly, it can result in severe pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Some types of blood meal are also fortified with iron, resulting in iron toxicity, so make sure to know what’s in your bag of blood!
  Bone Meal – This is made up of defatted, dried, and flash-frozen animal bones that are ground to a powder. This “bone” is also what makes it so palatable to your dog, so make sure to keep your pet from digging in it and ingesting the soil. While this also makes a great organic fertilizer, it can become a problem when consumed as the bone meal forms a large cement-like bone ball in the stomach – which can cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract – resulting in possible surgery to remove it!
• Rose and plant fertilizers – Some of these fertilizers contain disulfoton or other types of organophosphates (OP). As little as 1 teaspoon of 1% disulfoton can kill a 55 lb dog, so be careful! Organophosphates, while less commonly used, can result in severe symptoms [including SLUD signs (which abbreviate for salivation, lacrimation, urination, and defecation), seizures, difficulty breathing, hyperthermia, etc. In some cases, it can be fatal!
• Pesticides/Insecticides – Most pesticides or insecticides (typically those that come in a spray can) are basic irritants to the pet and are usually not a huge concern unless a pet’s symptoms become persistent. Some may contain an organophosphate which can be life threatening when consumed in large quantities. It is always best to speak to a trained medical professional if there are any questions.
• Iron – This is commonly added to fertilizers, and can result in iron toxicity (from ingestion of elemental iron). This is different from “total” iron ingestion, and can be confusing to differentiate. When in doubt, have a medical professional at Pet Poison Helpline assist you with finding out if the amount ingested was toxic or not. Large ingestions can result in vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and potential cardiac and liver effects.

The best thing any pet owner can do is to be educated on the household toxins (both inside the house and out in the garden!) – that way you make sure how to pet proof your house appropriately. Make sure to keep all these products in labeled, tightly-sealed containers out of your pet’s reach. When in doubt, please feel free to call Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 with any questions or concerns if you’re worried that your pet could have inadvertently gotten into anything!

Why Does My Dog Pace in Circles?

If your dog is pacing in circles there are a few possible causes that might be effecting it. Take into consideration your dog’s past experiences. Where he came from and what he went through before he came to your home. Environmental issues can also be a factor. Notice what is going on when your dog exhibits this behavior and decide if the dog is reacting to whatever is going on around it. Team up with a veterinarian to find the best possible solution to your dog’s behavior issues

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/info_7897472_dog-pace-circles.html#ixzz2glYe7JoM

Health Issues

• Take a trip to the veterinarian to rule out any health problems your dog might be experiencing. If the dog is in pain it could pace and circle as it tries to work through its discomfort. Ear infections, eye and vision problems, and nervous disorders can cause a dog to pace or circle. Finding the cause of your dog’s discomfort and receiving proper treatment through a veterinarian could alleviate the pacing and circling if it’s caused by a health issue.

Older Dogs

• Dementia might be a factor if your dog is older. Like Alzheimer’s disease, canine dementia can cause the dog to experience confusion or forgetfulness. It may walk in circles as if lost, stare at doors or corners, and exhibit personality changes. The dog may have trouble remembering simple things around the house such as where its food dish is or where it sleeps. A previously house-trained dog may suddenly start having accidents around the house. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms visit a veterinarian. There are some medications that could help your dog be more comfortable in their golden years.

Compulsive Behavior

• Canine compulsive behavior is another reason your dog may be circling and pacing. They may be nervous about something in their environment, such as loud noises or unexpected or strange situations. Separation anxiety can cause the dog to pace or circle. It’s important not to punish your dog for these behaviors. Instead, try to distract the dog by offering a favorite toy or treat. It will help if you can remove the thing that is stressing them from their environment. If you can’t remove it, reassure your dog that they are safe by speaking softly and petting them.

Exercise

• Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. Dogs that do not receive enough exercise can pace and circle out of frustration. Enroll them in agility or training classes to give them exercise and stimulate their mind. Be sure your dog is well socialized. A dog that is comfortable around people and other dogs has less of a chance of developing behavioral problems. Be careful when introducing your dog to new people, places or other dogs. Keep it on a leash until you’re sure how the dog will react.

Why Do Dogs Chew Their Nails?

Nail chewing and biting is not standard dog behavior and could be a cause for concern, according to Dr. Page Wages at the Oberlin Animal Hospital. Boredom, anxiety, poor grooming, allergies and infections are common causes for the chewing habit, and should be addressed quickly to ease the dog’s distress. Some causes can easily be resolved by a trip to the pet store for allergy sensitive food and toys, while other conditions will require a prescription by a veterinarian.

Allergies

• Food and outdoor allergies can lead to nail biting in dogs. Allergies to grass, pollen and other outdoor items may be irritating the dogs paws and nails. Additives to the dog’s diet may also be causing discomfort, including corn. Chewing the nails is a way dogs relieve their itchy sensation. Allergy sensitive foods, including those without corn, are available at large pet retailers. Veterinarians can provide a prescription to ease the symptoms of outdoor allergies.

Infection

• If a nail is injured, and the wound is exposed, infection may result. If the area around the dog’s nails appears red, swollen, tender to the touch or is seeping, it may be infected. Dogs will chew the area to relieve the pressure and itchy feeling. An antibiotic is required to cure the infection, so a trip to the vet is necessary

Anxiety

• Leaving dogs alone can cause anxiety behaviors for some. Chewing nails, defecating in the house and destructive behavior are common signs of anxiety. Crate or kennel the dog when he will be left alone in the home. Dogs are den animals by nature, and need to feel secure. Consider leaving a radio or TV on so the dog can hear human interaction, and supply him with a few chew toys to ease his need to gnaw.

Boredom

• Stimulating a dog’s senses is essential. Exercise, playtime, talking and training are all essential. A bored dog will become destructive to himself and his surroundings. Nail biting is a common sign of boredom. Supply the pet with interactive play toys when dog or human interaction isn’t possible.

Poor Grooming

• Some dogs chew on their nails simply because they need to be trimmed. Visit the vet’s office, a grooming salon or invest in a dog nail clippers. The nails should be kept trimmed to just above the quick. Have a vet or grooming salon show you how to do this task if you wish to maintain the dog’s nails at home. Overgrown nails lead to cracks, chips and more nail chewing from your dog.

How to Treat a Dog for Bee Stings

Dogs are more likely than humans to get stung by bees because they like to play with anything that moves, including bees and their hives. But dogs are just as likely to be allergic to those stings and have bad reactions. This makes it vital to learn how to treat a dog for bee stings at home and to know when it’s time to get him or her to a professional.

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/how_2093265_treat-dog-bee-stings.html#ixzz2cdRxDF62

Instructions

1. • Remove the stinger immediately in case your dog is allergic to the poison and goes into anaphylactic shock. Using a credit card, scrape out the part of the stinger you can see or pull the whole stinger out with tweezers, but only if you can reach it. Breaking it will allow more poison into your dog’s blood stream. If you can’t reach it, leave it alone unless your dog needs veterinary attention. Then let your vet get it out.

   • Assess your dog’s physical condition. If he or she is having problems breathing, acts weak, disoriented, or is vomiting or having diarrhea, see a veterinarian immediately. If your dog seems OK, continue to keep an eye on them for at least 24 hours.

   • Clean the area of the sting with a baking soda and water paste. This will also help if the area starts to swell or gets itchy.

   • Give your dog a dose of an over the counter antihistamine to counteract minor reactions, but only after you’ve gotten approval and dosage information from your veterinarian.

   • Use a cold pack on the area for a few minutes several times a day to help with any lingering pain your dog may experience. The cold should also help with any low grade fever your dog may be carrying.

Why Does My Dog Lose So Much Fur?

If you live with a dog, you also live with dog hair. If your dog sheds a lot or if he has begun to lose much more hair than he used to, take note of it. Increased hair loss can be a sign of a health issue, and your dog may have to taken to a vet for a diagnosis.

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/about_5255798_dog-lose-much-hair.html#ixzz2bb9Eq4EL

The Facts

• All dogs shed. Just as in humans, your dog’s hair follicles have a three-part cycle: hair growth, hair loss and lying dormant. A certain number of follicles will be shedding hair at any given time. If your dog is losing more hair than normal you need to pay attention to that change. There are several possible causes for increased hair loss including include a change in seasons or a serious health problem.

Seasonal Shedding

• If you keep your dog indoors year ’round, then her rate of shedding should stay fairly constant. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, then she could lose more hair because of a change in seasons. Many dogs shed heavily in the fall and again in the spring. If your dog is from a long-haired breed, she will naturally shed much more hair than dogs of shorter haired breeds.

Disease

• A marked increase in hair loss, especially in patches, could be a sign your dog has a health problem. If your dog loses so much hair that he goes bald on his body, but he retains fur on his head and his feet, he could have Cushing’s disease. If his coat is thinning out markedly and his skin looks flaky, then he could have a thyroid disorder. Your veterinarian can tell you about treatment options for both of these conditions.

Infection

• A bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection could be the reason why your dog loses so much hair. A bacterial infection such as pyoderma will cause her fur to fall out and leave behind bald patches. Mange is caused by mites. If they infect your dog, she will lose hair on her face, neck and ears. Ringworm is a fungal infection that triggers hair loss in bald patches. If your dog is losing hair because of an infection, your veterinarian can treat it.

Other

• Some dogs shed more than normal when they are pregnant. A nutritional deficiency can cause your dog to lose so much hair that it becomes noticeable. If your dog is allergic to something in his environment, he might scratch at itchy skin so hard and so often that he pulls hair loose. He can scratch so much that he even causes bald patches.

How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?

How often a dog needs a bath depends on the breed, environment, coat and existing skin issues. A veterinarian or breed-specific resource can guide you in determining your dog’s needs.

Breed Significance

• A veterinarian or breed-specific resource can identify the needs of your dog. Some breeds benefit from frequent washing, while others can develop skin problems from too many baths.

Environment

• Outdoor dogs are exposed to more dirt and undesirable things that cling to their body. Thus, outdoor dogs thus may need a bath more often than indoor dogs. Any dog that has rolled around in the nearest mud puddle, trash pile or decaying roadkill needs a bath immediately.

Type of Coat

• A short-haired dog may require fewer baths than a dog with long hair that traps dirt and debris. Regardless of coat, a dog needs to be brushed daily to loosen the buildup of dirt and to promote a healthy coat.

Skin Issues

• If your dog has dry or flaky skin after a bath, decrease the frequency of the bath and try cooler water. Also be sure to select the right shampoo for your dog. If you notice any other skin issues be sure to consult your veterinarian.

General Rule of Thumb

• Most dogs can benefit from a weekly or bi-weekly bath. Take into consideration the breed, environment, coat and skin issue your dog has and adjust this general time frame. When in doubt, be sure to contact your veterinarian.

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5179469_should-bathe-dog_.html#ixzz2bZyYeEk6