What You Need To Know Before Hiking With Your Dog

Author: ruthmacpete

What You Need To Know Before Hiking With Your…

May 16, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Hiking is a great activity for people and pets. Besides the beautiful scenery and fresh air, you get a healthy dose of exercise. Before you set out on a hike with your pet, here are a few things you should know.

Know the rules

First make sure the trail allows dogs. Some allow dogs but only if they are on a leash, others do not allow dogs at all. Most trails post signs at the trailhead to inform you if pets are permitted. Know the rules before you hit the trail. No one likes to arrive at the trailhead with a very excited pooch only to find out that no pets are allowed. Although it may be tempting to break the rules, do so at your own risk. Most parks have rangers who are not afraid to issue citations. It may not seem like a big deal but a ticket can a lot of money.

Know your pet’s ability

Be sure your dog is in good shape and can complete the hike. Otherwise, you may find yourself carrying them back. Some dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds and small dogs, do not have much stamina and cannot physically handle strenuous hikes. Others are just sedentary and don’t enjoy hiking. Years ago, I used to hike with my Doberman and Scottish terrier. My Dobie could hike for miles and miles and would never tire. My Scottie, on the other hand, loved hiking on level ground or downhill but would refuse to hike uphill. After having to carry my twenty-five pound Scottie uphill a few times, I learned my lesson and bought a dog backpack carrier. She loved it and I loved it because it was easier than carrying her in my arms. These days I have two great hikers but I still carry a backpack for my little man Jett, that way when he’s tired he can take a break. The main point is make sure you know your pet’s limits and don’t exceed them.

Stay hydrated

Be sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets. Just like you, your pet will need to drink a lot of water while hiking in order to stay hydrated. The heat and exercise can lead to dehydration quickly if you and your pet are not drinking enough. Never assume you will find water on a trail. You never know when a stream or creek is going to be run dry. Also, drinking water from a stream is a good way to get intestinal parasites like giardia. Make sure you bring enough water for you and your pet and don’t forget to bring a collapsible bowl for your pet since it’s not easy for them to drink from a water bottle.

Hiking dangers

When hiking, always stay on the designated trails to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging native plants. In addition to obeying the rules and helping protect the environment, staying on the trail can actually save your dog’s life. Poisonous snakes are found in every state except Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine. Although you may not realize it, you and your pet may not be the only ones enjoying the hiking trails on a warm summer day. By keeping your pet leashed and on the trails, you can pull your dog away from danger and you are keeping them out of a snake’s favorite hiding place, like brush and piles of rubble. For more info about poisonous snakes and what to do if your pet is bitten, read my previous blog on poisonous snakes. While not as dangerous as a venomous snake, plants with thorns and cacti are a common outdoor hazard for your pet. Keeping your pet leashed and on the trail can protect them from becoming a cactus pincushion. Keeping them on a leash will also keep them out of harms way by keeping them away from cliffs, waterfalls, and rivers. After you finish your hike, check your dog’s fur and in between their toes for thorns, cactus stickers, foxtails, and burrs, and look for ticks, especially if you live in an area endemic for Lyme disease.

In line with the Boy Scout motto, being prepared can make all the difference in the world between an enjoyable outdoor excursion and wilderness misadventure. Before you set out on a hike, know the trail rules and bring plenty of water for yourself and your pet. Remember to keep your pet on a leash and on the trail. Afterwards, check their fur and feet closely after hikes. Hiking is a great activity that people and pets can enjoy together. Hopefully these tips will help you and your pet stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.

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5 Ama-SEA-ing Animal Experiences

May 13, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Living in Southern California, the ocean already plays a prominent role in my family’s activities, whether it’s boogie boarding, paddle boarding, kayaking, or just going to the beach. But what other activities can an animal-loving family do that combines their love of water with their love of animals? Here are some of my favorite aquatic activities that include unique animal encounters. These amazing animal experiences for perfect adults and kids alike.

Swim with Manatees

Manatee encounters allow you to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural environment. Tours take you by boat to manatee hotspots and then let you snorkel and swim around them. Although you are allowed to touch them with one hand, you are not allowed to hold them or ride them. Of course, being curious creatures, don’t be surprised if a manatee decides to touch you! I did the manatee encounter as a vet student years ago and it remains one of my all-time favorite memories. If you are in Florida and want to find out more, go to: www.crystalriverdivers.com

Dolphin Encounters

Have you ever wanted to meet a dolphin? Dolphin Quest gives people the opportunity to learn about dolphins up close and personal. Founded in 1984 by veterinarians Dr. Jay Sweeney and Dr. Rae Stone, Dolphin Quest was created to educate people about these amazing animals in order to inspire dedication to marine conservation. They accomplish these goals with unique interactive educational programs. Dolphin Quest also makes significant contributions to dolphin research and marine medicine. Every year, biologists, veterinary students, and veterinarians from around the world visit their centers to learn more about these incredible marine mammals and to conduct scientific studies designed to improve their health. To find out more about Dolphin Quest Oahu go to: www.dolphinquest.com

Watch Turtles Hatch

Have you ever seen a baby sea turtle hatch and make its way to the ocean? Imagine seeing a thousand little turtle hatchlings crawling towards the water’s edge and then swimming away. Public hatchling releases are a great way for kids to witness this incredible natural spectacle. Padre Island National Seashore incubation facility on Padre Island protects and cares for all the turtle eggs found on the island and all along the Texas coast. Several times a year they invite the public to witness the release of their hatchlings. These events are free of charge and attract thousands of visitors each year. To find out about seeing a turtle hatching, go to: https://www.nps.gov/pais/learn/nature/hatchlingreleases.htm

Help with Sea Turtle Rescue

Ever wonder where to take a sick or injured sea turtle? The Turtle Hospital is a non-profit rehabilitation center in the in the Florida Keys that cares for sick or injured turtles. They rescue, rehabilitate and have successfully released over 1,500 turtles since its founding in 1986. Besides rescuing sea turtles, Turtle Hospital has worked with the University of Florida and University of Georgia College of Vet Medicine to study the causes of fibropapilloma, a deadly viral tumor affecting sea turtles across the globe. In addition to research, they have worked tirelessly to educate people about turtle conservation and have advocated legislation to make our beaches and water cleaner. If you would like to see them care for a turtle, they give tours and are always in need of volunteers.

Swim with Leopard Sharks

Although the idea of swimming with sharks may seem like a bad idea, swimming with La Jolla’s leopard sharks is a memorable animal encounter worth experiencing. Every summer, thousands of leopard sharks migrate to the warmer shallow waters off La Jolla Shores to mate. Leopard sharks are easy to “spot” with their dark brown spots against silvery grey background that resemble a leopard print. During the peak, around August and September, you can just wade out and see sharks swimming around you. Just remember to be respectful and keep your distance as leopard sharks are shy and wary of people.

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Helping Your Pets Live Greener & Cleaner

April 18, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

You drive a hybrid and bring your own bags to the grocery store. You care about greenhouse gases and your carbon footprint. What about your pet’s carbon pawprint? Is your pet living a green, eco-friendly life? April 22nd is Earth Day. What can you do this Earth Day to make sure that your pets are living green too?

Waste Management
Anyone who has ever had a pet knows that they create lots of waste. It is estimated that 10 million tons of waste from pets fill landfills yearly. What can you do to help? Instead of using plastic bags to pick up and dispose of your pet’s waste, try using recycled biodegradable pet poop bags. If you want to be even more eco-friendly, get an in-ground waste disposal system. What you might ask? In-ground waste disposal systems are essentially miniature septic systems that allow you to dispose of your pet’s waste right in your back yard. There are several companies that sell kits you can buy to create your own environmentally-friendly dog waste disposal system. If you have a cat, consider switching from a clay-based litter to a biodegradable litter, such as ökocat. By switching to a biodegradable litter, you can cut down on the estimated 2 million tons of clay litter that end up in landfills. If you brave you can also try teaching your cat to use the toilet. It sounds crazy but cats can accurately be trained to use a toilet. Kits are available that help you guide your cat through the process. It may be a lot of work at first but think about never having to clean a litter box again? Now if we could just teach them to flush!

Give A Hoot, Don’t Pollute
Always pick-up after your pet and follow the backpacker’s motto of leaving only footprints (or paw prints) behind. Besides being inconsiderate, leaving your pet’s waste behind can pollute water sources when runoff washes into streams and lakes.

Buy Green
Purchase pet beds, furniture and toys made from recycled or sustainable materials such as hemp. Environmentally friendly hemp can be used to make almost everything, like leashes, collars, beds and toys. Purchase eco-friendly grooming products, like my favorite reef-safe pet shampoo VetDerm Solutions Pet Shampoo. Buying green products is easy. Nowadays, eco-friendly pet products can be found at large pet retailers across the country.

Buy in Bulk
Buying pet food and pet supplies in bulk not only saves money, it also conserves fuel and lowers emissions by saving you extra trips to the store. It also saves time so you don’t have to go to the store as often.

Pet Overpopulation
Make sure your pet isn’t adding to the pet over-population problem by having your pets spayed or neutered.

Adopt a Shelter Pet
Don’t forget about your local animal shelter if you are thinking about getting a pet. There are lots of “recycled pets” that need a good home. While adopting one of these deserving pets may not lower emissions or save fuel, it can save a life.

By adopting these simple tips, you and your pet can live green and make the planet a better place.

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Dog Clothes: To Wear or Not to Wear

March 15, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

As a veterinarian, I often get asked whether it is okay to put clothes on your dog. The answer is yes. Dressing your dog can not only be fun, but also serve a purpose.

When dressing you dog, make sure you use clothes made specifically for pets. Pet clothes are designed to fit pets and come off easily. I recommend not leaving your dressed pet alone. Some animals may decide to take their clothes off themselves and could become entangled in the clothing. Others may decide that the best way to ensure they don’t have to wear it again is to eat it. Devouring clothes is not only an expensive habit, but also one that can lead to an intestinal obstruction.

My dog loves to be dressed up but not all dogs do. Some dogs need a little time to get used to wearing clothes. Other dogs never get used to clothes. They are nudists preferring to go au natural. If your dog is struggling to take off their clothes, clothing may just not be a good option for them.

Dog clothes can also serve a purpose besides making them look fashionable. Just like us, pets can be susceptible to the cold. Some breeds, like Italian greyhounds and others with short coats, get cold very easily. These animals often benefit from wearing dog clothes when it is cool outside. Other breeds may be less sensitive to the cold, but still need protection from the elements when it is very cold outside.

So how cold is too cold? If you think it’s cold outside, there is a good chance your pet does too. A dog jacket or sweater can keep them warm when they go outside for walks or playtime. My dog Jett loves wearing his Canada Pooch True North Parka whenever he is out in the snow. Not only is he warm and toasty, but he also looks super fashionable. But it is not just cold weather, some dogs also hate rain too. Raincoats can make a walk in the rain less unpleasant for your pooch. Dog booties are also useful. They can protect your dog’s feet from puddles, snow, rough terrain and the hot ground or sand.

Lastly dressing your pet up makes other people smile. Let’s face it, who doesn’t smile when they see an adorable dog in a cute outfit. From fancy to casual, practical to fashionable, keep your pet cozy this winter while turning heads on your next outing.

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Valentine’s Day Gifts for Your Furry Loved Ones

February 10, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Our pets give so much yet ask for so little in return. Show them how much we love and appreciate them this Valentine’s Day with one of these great gift ideas.

Treats
Chocolate is the number one Valentine’s Day gift, which isn’t surprising since everyone loves getting sweets for Valentine’s Day. Unfortunately for dogs, chocolate is toxic to them. So, what can you give them? Instead of a box of chocolates, give them a box of treats, chews, or cat nip for your feline loved ones. All dogs and cats love treats. And if you’re feeling really creative, you can make a Valentine’s Day treat box for your pet by filling a heart-shaped box with some their favorite treats!

Toys
What better way to show your pet that you love them than by giving them something fun? P.L.A.Y.’s dog toys are fun, innovative, and eco-friendly. P.L.A.Y. makes a variety of toys: whimsical soft plush toys, durable ZoomieRex toys, stimulating enrichment toys, outdoor toys and rope toys. Remember, a busy dog is a happy dog.

Fashion
Everyone wants to look good on Valentine’s Day. Why not give your pet an adorable outfit that not only looks fabulous, but also keeps them warm on a chilly February outing? Bring the haute couture of the catwalk to your next dog walk. From fancy to casual, practical to fashionable, keep your pet cozy this winter while turning heads on your next outing.

Relaxation
Pets know the value of relaxation. Whenever your pet has any down time, you’re likely to find them taking a nap. That’s why your pet will enjoy a comfy, new pet bed for Valentine’s Day. Consider getting a stylish dog bed, that’s not only adorable, but also super comfy so your dog or cat will love it! P.L.A.Y. has a variety of stylish, cozy, and comfortable eco-friendly beds made from 100% post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles.

Doggy (or kitty) spa
Give your pet the gift of beauty. You love the spa so why shouldn’t your dog enjoy a little pampering too? VetDerm Solutions Pet Shampoo was created by a veterinarian and dermatologist and is made with human-grade ingredients, like shea butter, aloe, oatmeal, and green tea to hydrate and moisturize your pet’s skin and coat. Of course, it is paraben-free, sulfate-free, tear-free and cruelty-free to provide your pet with the ultimate bathing experience.

Good Health
Lastly, give your pet the ultimate gift of love: good health. Don’t wait until your pets get sick before taking them to the veterinarian. Your pets should have regular checkups, at least annually, and every 6 months for pets older than 7 years. These examinations allow your veterinarian to ensure your pet is protected against preventable diseases and helps your pet stay ahead of potential health problems. In the long run, regular checkups not only save you money, but also, ensure that your pet will live a long and healthy life. And what’s more important than the gift of good health?

When you are thinking about what to get for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget about your four-legged friends. Show them how much you value and appreciate their unconditional love and companionship.

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Keeping Your Pets Safe This Valentine’s Day

February 2, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Valentine’s Day is almost here! That means lots of chocolate, candy and flowers. Unfortunately, that also means lots of sick pets! Every year around this holiday, thousands of pets are hospitalized when they eat something they shouldn’t have eaten. To help keep pets safe this Valentine’s Day, I wanted to share some common Valentine’s Day gifts that can be dangerous or even deadly to our pets and tell you what to do if your pet gets into something.

Chocolate

People aren’t the only ones who find chocolate irresistible. With their amazing sense of smell, dogs and cats always seem to find chocolate goodies. Unfortunately, chocolate can be toxic to pets, as most people know. Chocolate contains theobromine, a relative of caffeine, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and even death in pets. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous because they contain the highest concentration of theobromine but even milk chocolate can be deadly if enough is consumed.

Candy

It’s not just chocolate that we have to watch out for. Candy with xylitol is also very dangerous to pets. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, is often found in sugar-free gums, mints, and candies. Small amounts can cause a rapid and life-threatening drop in blood sugar, and ingestion of large amounts can cause acute liver failure and death. If your pet manages to get ahold of any candy or gum containing xylitol, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

Flowers

Flowers are one of the most common Valentine’s Day gifts, but you have to be careful if you have cats. Certain plants can be dangerous or even deadly to curious cats. Lilies in particular are highly toxic to cats causing kidney failure and death. Every part of a lily is toxic: the leaves, stems, flowers. If you have cats, keep lilies out of your house and check your bouquet to make sure it does not have these toxic flowers.

In order to keep your pets safe this Valentine’s Day, remember to keep all chocolate and candies safely out of reach of your four-legged friends and check any bouquets for toxic flowers like lilies. If your pet gets into any of these items, take your pet to the vet right away. Do not wait for symptoms to develop. If your veterinarian isn’t open, immediately take them to an emergency clinic. If you aren’t sure if what they ate is toxic, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. When you are thinking about your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget about your four-legged friends. Our furry friends give us unconditional love and companionship year-round. Show how much you love them by keeping them safe this Valentine’s Day.

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Big Dog Must Haves

January 31, 2021August 12, 2021
by ruthmacpete

I recently became the pet parent of a Doberman puppy. I had forgotten what it was like to have a large puppy. Unlike Jett, who weighs in at 10 pounds, Marley, my 6 month old, 60 pound pup makes a big splash wherever he goes. As big dog pet owners know, everything is amplified with a big dog. Here’s a list of must haves for big dog owners.

The Right Collar

While little dogs can get away without proper training, obedience training is essential for big dogs. Marley’s been doing well with his leash training. For the most part, he knows to walk alongside you. However, he’s still a puppy and he’s very excitable. When Marley sees a squirrel, you better brace yourself. Big dogs are incredibly strong and you need a collar and leash strong enough to control them. Collars and leashes are only as strong as their weakest component. There are many materials to choose from and each has its pros and cons. I prefer leather collars with a metal buckle. Leather also looks great and lasts a long time. Leather tends to be better for dogs with sensitive skin but requires more care. If your dog loves being in the water, consider a collar made of Bio Thane which is a waterproof material. The collar should be the correct size, tight enough for 2 fingers to fit underneath.

Durable Toys

Big dogs need toys tough enough to handle their powerful jaws. Even though he was only 11 weeks old when we got him, Jett’s toys were no match for Marley. As Marley has grown and gotten stronger, he has needed toys made for big dogs. Choose toys made of rubber or specifically designed for big dogs. Big dogs also tend to be more active than small dogs. Marley loves to play fetch long after Jett has decided to call it a day. I like using the ball launchers so I don’t tire out my arm.

Long Lasting Chews

As mentioned earlier, big dogs love to chew. Unfortunately, unless you provide them with appropriate chew toys, they are likely to chew (and destroy) your home. Giving your dog a chew toy or treat redirects their destructive tendencies and helps them relieve stress. When choosing a chew toy or treat, be wary of hard treats that can break a tooth, like bones and hooves. While antlers have become popular, they too can chip a tooth or even splinter and also cause intestinal obstructions or perforations. Likewise, you want to choose a treat that lasts longer than a few seconds.

Comfy Beds

Marley might be growing up to be a big dog, but he still loves to cuddle like the big pup that he still is. Big dogs need a bed that can provide the support and cushioning they need. I like beds with washable covers and memory foam to cushion and support your big dog.

Odor Control

Marley, like must big dogs, is very active. He goes to dog parks, dog beaches and on hikes regularly. Exercise is very important for dogs. It keeps them in good shape physically, stimulates their mind, and helps them burn off energy that might otherwise be directed towards unwanted behaviors. But all that activity can cause your big dog to get very dirty. Like people, pets need regular baths to stay clean and stink-free. But it is important that you utilize a shampoo that doesn’t strip your pet’s nature oils. VetDerm Solutions Super Hydrating & Conditioning Pet Shampoo combines human-grade ingredients, antioxidants, and moisturizers in a fragrance-free formulation that is designed to gently clean and hydrated a dog’s coat. It combines ingredients such as green tea, aloe, shea butter and oatmeal to naturally moisturize dry, flaky, itchy skin.

Preparing for a new dog is always a big deal, but when your pup is a big dog, it’s an even bigger deal. Choosing the right products for your big dog is essential and the best way to ensure their dog is safe, happy, comfortable and that your house doesn’t get destroyed in the process.

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Thanksgiving Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe

November 24, 2020June 30, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Each year, millions of pets become ill during the holidays, with intestinal obstructions, chocolate or other toxicities, and pancreatitis, being some of the most common reasons. In order to ensure that your Thanksgiving holidays are filled with happiness rather than long waits in a veterinary emergency room, follow these simple precautions to help keep your pets safe.

Obesity
Calorie-filled holiday feasts and sweets can lead to a few post-Thanksgiving extra pounds for us and our pets. Although sharing our leftovers with our pets may be in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, it can lead to pet obesity. Pet obesity is associated with significant health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. In addition, giving leftovers at the table routinely also promotes begging and reinforces bad behavior.

Pancreatitis
Besides leading to obesity, eating fatty holiday foods can also cause a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas gland called pancreatitis. In pets, pancreatitis is usually caused by ingestion of fatty foods like turkey, ham, gravy, and chicken skins. If left untreated, it can be fatal.

Bones
Bones also pose a serious danger to pets. Poultry bones are dangerous because they can splinter and get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract and therefore should never be given to pets. Ham and beef bones can break teeth or can also cause intestinal obstructions. If you wish to give your pet a special holiday treat, instead of giving them bones, consider giving them a healthy dental treat specially intended for safe chewing and dental hygiene.

Dangerous Foods
Chocolate: Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Depending on the amount consumed, it causes vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death. Never give your pets chocolate and of course keep this sweet treat out of reach of your pets.

Xylitol Flavored Sweet Treats: Candies, desserts and other foods that contain the artificial sweetener xylitol are very dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release leading to low blood sugar levels and can also cause liver failure. Be sure to keep all these sweet treats out of reach of hungry pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy or dessert containing xylitol, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

Raisins and grapes: Many Thanksgiving dishes contain raisins or grapes which can be very dangerous for pets. Grapes and raisins have been reported to cause severe kidney damage.

Nuts: Many nut varieties are toxic to pets and can have a devastating effect on dogs’ nervous systems. Walnuts and macadamias are especially toxic and can cause vomiting, paralysis and even death.

Onions: Onions, chives, and garlic in any form are poisonous to pets. They cause lethargy, weakness, ataxia (lack of coordination), hyper-salivation, anemia, and even death.

With so many tasty dangers often at pet’s eye level, it is always best to keep pets out of the kitchen and away from the celebration. And while sharing is in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, sharing leftovers with our pets can lead to serious health problems. Instead of giving your pet leftovers from your holiday meal, give your pet a pet-safe treat or a new toy.

Lost Pets
Although the holidays are usually joyous times, as anyone who has ever hosted a holiday party knows, they can also be stressful times. This can be especially true for our pets. The revolving door of visiting guests and the break from the routine can frighten our pets and cause them to run away. If your pet tends to easily get scared, nervous, or becomes protective, it is important to keep them confined safely inside your house. Many pets are lost during the holidays when they jump out of their yard or dart out of an open door. Remember all pets, even strictly indoor cats, should have collars with tags and microchips so that if they become lost they can be returned safely home.

Paying careful attention to these warnings will help keep the Thanksgiving holidays happy for you and your pet and should prevent unscheduled visits to your veterinarian.

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Diabetes in Pets: Do You Know the Signs?

November 11, 2020November 15, 2021
by ruthmacpete

November is American Diabetes Month®. Diabetes is not just a human disease; dogs and cats also suffer from this all too common disease. In fact, estimates report that diabetes affects about 1:200 cats and 1:300 dogs nationwide and it is increasing at an alarming rate. Fortunately, diabetes is a manageable condition in pets just like humans.

WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body is unable to regulate the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body fails to produce the hormone insulin. Insulin is released when blood sugar levels are high and results in the transfer of sugar from the bloodstream into cells to be stored or used for energy. Insulin resistant or Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes less responsive to the effects of insulin. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes result in chronically elevated levels of sugar in the blood that damage capillaries and eventually lead to nerve damage, kidney failure and even death. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes seen in cats, while Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in dogs.

WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disease influenced by both inherited and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition seems to be an important risk factor, and in dogs, certain breeds, like Keeshonds and Samoyeds, are more likely to develop diabetes. Age is another important risk factor. Though it can affect animals of any age, it is more common in middle-aged and older animals. However, of all the risk factors, obesity is the most important for Type 2 diabetes, especially since the prevalence of obesity is increasing. In the United States, it is estimated that 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES

The classic symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, increased appetite, and increased urination. In addition to these textbook symptoms, pets with diabetes may become lethargic, lose weight, have a dull coat, and in dogs, develop cataracts. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes so that you can promptly seek veterinary care if you notice any of these in your pets. Of course, it’s important to mention that animals are very adept at hiding illness so these symptoms may be difficult to recognize initially. That’s why regular veterinary check-ups are so important. Annual examinations and diagnostic tests help to uncover diseases, like diabetes, early when they are typically easier to treat or manage.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR PET HAS DIABETES?
If you think your cat or dog may have diabetes, see your veterinarian immediately. Diabetes is diagnosed by having your veterinarian perform simple blood and urine tests on your animal. These fast and easy diagnostic tests allow your veterinarian to detect abnormally high levels of sugar in your pet’s bloodstream and also look for the presence of sugar or sugar breakdown products in their urine.

TREATMENT
So what can be done? Fortunately, being diagnosed with diabetes is not a death sentence. Diabetes is a manageable disease. The goal of treatment is to provide stable blood sugar levels. This can be achieved with some combination of diet, insulin and at-home monitoring. There are several different types of insulin available with different durations of action, your veterinarian will assess your pet to determine which type of insulin will be best for your particular pet. In addition to insulin, diet and weight loss are just as important when it comes to treating diabetes in pets. Recent nutritional studies show that switching to a low-carbohydrate and high-protein canned food diet is the most effective dietary routine for most diabetic cats. Speak with our veterinarian about what if any nutritional changes are necessary for your particular pet. Weight loss is also important because obesity is a common cause of insulin resistance. Fatty tissue releases factors that impair the effects of insulin. To promote weight loss, you should exercise your pets in addition to following your veterinarian’s dietary suggestions. At-home monitoring makes a huge difference in the quality of life of pets with diabetes. Through proper veterinary care and the right at-home blood glucose monitor, calibrated specifically for dogs and cats, diabetes in pets can be successfully managed on an ongoing basis. For more information on at-home monitoring click here.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE
Diabetes is an increasingly common problem in dogs and cats. Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of diabetes and watch for their development in your pet. Take your furry friend to their veterinarian for regular examinations and screening tests since it is best to catch diseases early before they become advanced and develop complications. If you discover that your animal has diabetes, remember diabetes is a manageable disease and with treatment most pets with diabetes can live long healthy lives.

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Keeping Your Little Dog Safe

August 10, 2020
by ruthmacpete

As many of you may know, Jett is the newest addition to my furry family. Although I’ve had many dogs throughout my life (Poodle mixes, Chows, Scottish Terriers, a Briard, a Doberman, and most recently, my sweet Boxer Oski), Jett is unlike any other dog that I have ever had. I never realized how different it is to have a tiny dog. Weighing in at 8 pounds, Jett makes a 20+ pound Scotty seem stocky. Jett is even smaller than 2 of my 3 cats! Having a small dog definitely has some cool perks. Jett is so small he fits in purses and adorable dog carriers. He can go kayaking, biking and hiking (while in his cozy backpack), and if the pandemic ever ends, he can easily travel around the country with me. He easily fits on our bed along with our three cats, unlike our Boxer. And unlike his larger predecessors, eating (and pooping) are at a much smaller and manageable scale. Unfortunately, there is a major downside to his diminutive size. He is so small and delicate that I constantly worry about him being attacked and hurt by another dog. This is a novel problem for me. Even with my Scotties, though short in stature, they were built like a tank and had the toughness of a terrier. So, what can you do to protect your little dog?

Risks
So what dangers do little dogs face? The most common is other dogs! It is important to know that your little dog could be attacked by another dog. While this is also true with bigger dogs, if you have a little dog, the results could be deadly. The damage that a large dog can inflict is magnified in a little dog’s body. In addition, a larger dog can grab a small dog and shake them violently, which is often fatal.

Depending on where you live, you may also need to worry about wild animals like coyotes, foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Little dogs are easy prey for these predators and they are sometimes tragically attacked in the presumed safety of their own backyards. If that wasn’t bad enough, birds of prey, like hawks and eagles, can swoop out of nowhere to attack your dog.

Unfortunately, little dogs are also vulnerable to people. Since they are so small, it is easy for a someone to accidentally step on them. This can result in a broken bone. Children are also drawn to little dogs, and if they are too rough, they can accidently injure your dog.

Precautions
The best way to protect your little dog from another dog is to keep them on a short leash and to be prepared to pick them up quickly if necessary. Whenever I encounter a dog I do not know, I always ask the owner if their dog is dog-friendly. I also keep an eye on their dog’s body language and look for signs of aggression. If the hackles go up or I see other signs of dominance, I pick up my dog and move on. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Another way to protect your small dog from an attack is to carry a dog deterrent spray. These sprays usually contain citronella and can be used to distract the attacking dog. They fit easily on your key chain or leash so you have it handy. If I want my little dog to have some fun off-leash, I go to small dog-only dog parks so he can frolic with others dogs his size.

The best way to protect your little dog from wild animals is to avoid dangerous situations. When taking your little dog on a walk at night, keep them on a short leash and avoid dark areas near brush. It only takes a moment for a predator to attack your dog. If your dog has to be in the backyard, make sure your yard is secure. Avoid leaving your dog unattended. Remember that some wild animals can climb fences! If you wish to have additional peace of mind, consider protecting your little dog with a Coyote Vest. Coyote Vests are made of puncture-proof materials and have spikes to deter predators. They even have an attachment to protect against an aerial attack from a bird of prey.

Since little dogs are prone to being stepped on, avoid crowds or simply pick up and carry your dog. Also be prepared for your little dog to be a child magnet! I remind curious children that Jett is a lot smaller than they are and they need to pet him gently. This a wonderful opportunity to teach children to treat animals with kindness and respect.

Summary
Having a little dog has been an eye-opening experience in many ways. For starters, it’s surprising how much personality can fit in such a small package. I also have to see the world from their perspective. Little dogs are vulnerable to hazards big dogs don’t have to worry about. Fortunately, common sense and following these tips can help keep your little dog safe.