Dog Diseases: Parasites

Heartworm (Dirofilaria Immitis)

Cycle of Infection Picture

Signs and Symptoms

Class 1:  No symptoms or mild symptoms such as an occasional cough.

Class 2:  Mild to moderate symptoms such as an occasional cough and tiredness after moderate activity.

Class 3:  General loss of body condition, a persistent cough, and tiredness after mild activity.  Trouble breathing and signs of heart failure are common. For class 2 and 3 heartworm disease, heart and lung changes are usually seen on chest x-rays.

Class 4:  Also called caval syndrome.  There is such a heavy worm burden that blood flowing back to the heart is physically blocked by a large mass of worms.  Caval syndrome is life-threatening and quick surgical removal of the heartworms is the only treatment option.  The surgery is risky, and even with surgery, most dogs with caval syndrome die. 

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by a blood test to detect proteins produced by the worms ("antigen") in your dog's blood. The test may be falsely negative early in an infection or if only a small number of worms are present, so repeating the test after six months may be necessary to detect an infection. An older test method involves checking the blood for circulating larvae, but this test is not as accurate.

In addition to blood testing, radiographs and ultrasound can be used to assess changes in the heart and lungs associated with heartworm disease.

Treatment

The drug that you treat with is called Immiticide. It’s an injectable, arsenic-based product. The dog is given two or three injections that will kill the adult heartworms in the blood vessels of the heart.

• Hookworm (Necator americanus; Ancylostoma duodenale)

Cycle of Infection Picture

Signs and Symptoms

• failure to gain weight, or weight loss
• loss of appetite
• diarrhea
• anemia (pale gums, weakness) sometimes seen, and can be cause of death in puppies
• bloody or tarry stools may be present
• sometimes coughing can occur due to the larval migration through the lungs (with very heavy infections)
• skin irritation, most often on the feet between the toes, due to migrating larvae

Diagnosis

The eggs of hookworms can be detected under the microscope in a routine check of a stool sample (the test process is called fecal flotation). It takes a while for infected puppies to shed eggs, so routine deworming of puppies is recommended.

Treatment

Treatment is the same, regardless of the species. There are a number of medications that can be used to treat hookworms, and your vet can help you pick the one right for your dog. Medications will only affect hookworms in the intestines, not migrating larvae. Treatment should be repeated to deal with larvae as they mature (e.g. at 2 week intervals). The number of treatments necessary will depend on the age of the dog and the situation, and will be recommended by your vet.

• Roundworm (Toxocara canis; toxascara leonina)

Cycle of Infection Picture

Signs and Symptoms

• Pot-belly
• Weakness
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Belly pain
• Dull coat
• Weight loss

Diagnosis

The eggs of roundworms are detected under the microscope in a routine check of a stool sample (the test process is called fecal flotation). It is possible to tell the difference between the species of roundowrm based on the appearance of their eggs. Of course, when roundworms appear in vomit or stool, the diagnosis is pretty clear.

Treatment

There are many safe and effective deworming drugs. They include fenbendazole, milbemycin, moxidectin, nitroscanate, piperazine, and pyrantel. Your vet will give your dog one to three doses at first, which will kill the adult worms. Your dog will get follow-up doses to kill any new worms that weren’t fully developed when the first doses were given.

Because it’s so common in puppies, many vets deworm pups when they’re 2-3 weeks old just to be safe.

Even after your dog is treated, he should get regular fecal exams. For puppies, that’s two to four times a year. For dogs 1 year or older, it’s one to two times a year.

• Whipworm (Trichuris trichiura)

Cycle of Infection Picture

Signs and Symptoms

• weight loss
• diarrhea
• mucous or blood in stool
• anemia (pale gums, weakness) can be seen with chronic, heavy infections

Rarely, whipworm infections cause a syndrome similar to Addison's disease, with periodic episodes of weakness and electrolyte imbalance, though the mechanism of this effect is poorly understood.

Diagnosis

The eggs of whipworms can be detected under the microscope in a check of a stool sample (the test process is called fecal flotation).

However, unlike roundworms and hookworms, female whipworms only produce eggs intermittently, so the eggs can be very difficult to catch on fecal tests. Repeated tests may be necessary, and if a whipworm infection is suspected it is common to treat for whipworms even if eggs aren't found.

Treatment

There are a number of medications that can be used to treat whipworms, and your vet can help you pick the one right for your dog (they are resistant to some common dewormers). Repeated treatments are usually recommended for best results (e.g., after 3 weeks and 3 months).

Because the eggs survive for so long, the potential for re-infections from eggs in the environment is significant. Your vet may recommend a monthly parasite preventative effective for whipworms to prevent whipworm infections on an ongoing basis.

Keeping pet wastes picked up promptly can help prevent infections with whipworms.

• Tapeworm (Cestoda)

Cycle of Infection Picture

Signs and Symptoms

• Anal and perianal itchiness (pruritus at and around the anus)
• Licking at the anal and perianal area
• Scooting
• Weight loss (despite maintaining a good appetite)
• Increased appetite (without weight gain)
• Poor hair coat (dull, dry, unkempt)
• Poor skin condition (dry, flaky)
• Abdominal distension
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Irritability
• Abdominal pain (less common)

Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis is usually made by observing the white mobile tapeworm segments in the feces or crawling around the anus. They often look like grains of rice.

Tapeworm segments are only passed intermittently and therefore are often not diagnosed on routine fecal examination. If you find any segments, white or golden color, bring them to your veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

The parasiticide may be given either in the form of tablets or by injection. It causes the parasite to dissolve in the intestines so you normally will not see tapeworms passed in the stool. These drugs are very safe and should not cause any side effects.

Trick-or-Treating and Pets: Keep Them and Everyone Safe and Happy on Halloween

Candy

Dogs should never eat chocolate. The theobromine,the ingredient  in the cacao bean used to make chocolate, is toxic to dogs. Anything high in sugar is also be a hazard. If you want to give your dog something special on Halloween, make sure it is not candies. 

Safe Costumes

Sure, Fido may look cute as a hot dog or an angel, but beware: some costumes can be dangerous. Be sure to keep any string or ribbon away from your dog's throat or mouth, and make sure he has room and a full range of motion in the costume before you go out.

Away from the Door

For pet parents who stay home and hand out candy, one important thing to keep in mind is how your pet will react to having people ringing the doorbell or knocking every couple minutes. This can cause them extreme anxiety and even aggression. Keep your pets away from the door when handing out candy.

Keep them Close & Be Aware

Many families take their dogs out on Halloween. There is nothing inherently wrong or dangerous about this practice, but just to be safe, keep them on a leash and/or keep them close to you. There can be a lot of confusion with all the people out and about, so just be aware of your surroundings. 

Something else to keep in mind:
Don’t forget that Halloween and mischief are often linked. Why take a chance on your pet being a target, becoming injured, or worse? Keep an eye out: on the community, on yourself, and on your pet.

Have a good, happy, and safe Halloween.

Pumpkin All Around: Benefits for Pets

Combating dehydration: Pumpkin flesh is around 90% water, so a little pumpkin topping on a meal can combat dehydration resulting from moisture-deficient processed dry dog and cat foods. An additional benefit is improved digestion from increasing the gastric "juices" essential to proper gastrointestinal health.

2.  Helping with Constipation: Fiber from pumpkin works in pets the same way it does in humans and can actually treat some gastrointestinal issues. A tablespoon or two of pumpkin can resolve symptoms in a few days if the gut is just a bit "out of order." Some cats may experience decreased colon activity as they age, resulting in constipation. The added fiber from pumpkin increases the bulk of the stool and the colon muscles react by moving things along.

3.  Reducing Hairballs: By increasing the volume of waste in the intestine, pumpkin can help your cat digest and eliminate fur swallowed during grooming. This can reduce or even prevent the formation of "hairballs" that are eventually regurgitated.

4. Resolving Diarrhea: Yes, it works both ways! Pumpkin can soothe constipation but diarrhea can also be remedied with the addition of pumpkin to a dog or cat's diet. It is particularly effective if the upset is the result of colitis caused by a rapid food change or the ingestion of a new food. All it takes is a teaspoon for small dog or cat and a tablespoon or two for a medium or large dog of canned pumpkin in the animal's food.

5.  Boosting Weight Loss: With 3 grams of fiber per cup, pumpkin can augment weight loss in dogs and cats. The fiber fills the tummy so your pet feels "fuller" sooner, meaning Pookie eats fewer calories overall.

6.  Supplementing Nutrition: One of the biggest benefits of pumpkin to pets and humans is its wealth of nutrition. Pumpkins contain carbohydrates, potassium, vitamin C, Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, selenium, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, copper, and protein. You do not want to overload your pet's system with these nutrients and trace minerals, however. This is not a case of a little bit being good and a lot being better.

7. Adding Antioxidants: Pumpkin contains antioxidants which help moisturize skin, helping your pet maintain a healthy and shiny coat.

8. Providing Essential Fatty Acids: In addition to antioxidants, pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids with similar benefits. Pets may consume the seeds raw (if they are fresh) or enjoy the roasted version which store better. Lightly coat the seeds with cooking oil and roast in a 375-degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes for a daily treat your pet will love. Only offer a few seeds at a time to your pet (the fiber can cause a softening of the stool). Store the seeds in an airtight container or freeze them. Don't forget to roast some extras for yourself! If your pet is small you can grind up the seeds to ensure they are easier to digest and don't get caught in the intestine.

9. Controlling Parasites: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a possible anthelmintic that eliminates tape and roundworms. Additionally the seeds may inhibit the formation of kidney and bladder stones, and some studies have shown anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds may be ground up and added to food, but again, be conservative.

http://www.petplace.com/article/dogs/news-videos-fun/fun-stuff/9-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-pets---pumpkin-for-dogs-and-cats

Puppy Milestones

NEWBORN
Puppies are born both blind and deaf.

DAY 7
Puppies begin to crawl and scoot across the floor.

DAY 14
His ears and eyes open and he can see and hear. His eyes are blue.

DAY 17
He, shaky and wobbly, begins to try to walk.

DAY 21
Now, he has the hang of walking.
He will play, mainly with his brothers and sisters..

DAY 28
His teething is over; all deciduous teeth have erupted
His eyes start to change color

4 TO 5 WEEKS
Potty training should not be attempted until this time

5 TO 7 WEEKS
He begins to form relationships with humans
Your puppy now recognizes his name
He starts chasing objects, even his own tail

DAY 45
All of his 28 deciduous teeth are fully grown

8 TO 11 WEEKS
He enters the Fear Imprint period: trauma during this stage influence a dog's whole life

14 WEEKS
His adolescence begins.

2 TO 5 MONTHS
His permanent teeth have erupted
He will respond to the "come" command

12 MONTHS
If your dog is a large breed, he is now considered mature

18 MONTHS
If your dog is a small breed, he is now considered mature

http://www.hartz.com/Dogs/Hartz_Puppy/milestones_in_a_puppys_development.aspx

http://www.petplace.com/article/dogs/keeping-your-dog-healthy/puppy-care/developmental-milestones-in-the-puppy

http://blog.petsolutions.com/dog/development-milestones-of-your-puppy/

Common Diseases in Dogs

Ear Infections:

Ear infections are a common canine health problem, and they can be caused by allergies, yeast, ear mites, bacteria, hair growth deep in the ear canal, and more. Symptoms your dog may have with an ear infection include:

• Head shaking or head tilting

• Ear odor

• Vigorous scratching

• Lack of balance

• Unusual back-and-forth eye movements

• Redness of the ear canal

• Swelling of the outer portion of the ear

• Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge

Worms

Tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms are common internal parasites in dogs. And although any worm infestation can make him uncomfortable, some, like hookworms, can be fatal in puppies. Signs your dog may have worms include:

• Diarrhea (may be bloody)

• Weight loss

• A change in appetite

• A rough, dry coat

• Scooting on his bottom

• An overall poor appearance

Fleas

It takes just three weeks for one flea to turn into an infestation of 1,000 biting bugs. A very common canine health problem, fleas are easy for your dog to pick up, but they're also easy to treat. Signs your dog may have fleas include:

• Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at the skin

• Hair loss

• Hot spots

• Allergic dermatitis

• Tapeworms (which are carried by fleas)

• Flea dirt (looks like small black dots) against your dog's skin

Untreated, fleas not only make your dog intensely uncomfortable, they can also cause allergic reactions, infections, and even lead to anemia from blood loss.

Talk to your vet about the right flea medicine for your dog, which may include oral medicine, shampoos, sprays, or topical liquids.

Hot Spots:

They’re commonly known as hot spots, but the medical term for those bare, inflamed, red areas you often see on dogs is acute moist dermatitis -- a bacterial skin infection. Anything that irritates your dog's skin enough to make him scratch or chew can lead to the pain and itch of hot spots, which, if left untreated, can quickly grow larger.

A hot spot's location can help your vet diagnose its cause. Fleas, for example, may be the source of a hip hot spot, while a hot spot at the ear might point to ear problems.

Treating hot spots may involve shaving and cleaning the irritated area, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), steroids, or topical medications, depending on how bad the hot spots are, and how much pain your pooch is in.

Vomiting:

Vomiting is a common dog health problem, with dozens of possible causes, from infection or intestinal parasites to pancreatitis, kidney failure, heatstroke, or poisoning.

Symptoms are basic: abdominal heaving and drooling caused by nausea. If your dog also has diarrhea, blood in the vomit, seems lethargic, continues vomiting, or can't hold down liquids, contact your vet right away to prevent life-threatening dehydration.

Treatment depends on what's causing a dog's distress, and may include fluid therapy, drugs to control vomiting, and homemade foods like well-cooked skinless chicken, boiled potatoes, and rice.

Diarrhea:

Diarrhea in dogs, as with vomiting, can have lots of causes, including stress, infections like parvo virus, intestinal parasites, and food problems.

Diarrhea symptoms are pretty obvious -- look for loose, watery, or liquid stool.

Because diarrhea can easily lead to dehydration, be sure your dog has plenty of clean water available, then take your pooch to the vet if the diarrhea persists for more than a day, or immediately if there's also fever, lethargy, vomiting, dark or bloody stools, or loss of appetite.

Common Stereotypes and Myths About Cats and Dogs

LARGE DOGS ARE ALL AGGRESSIVE:

No dog is born dangerous. People who own supposedly aggressive dog breeds like Pit Bulls, Doberman, and German Shepherds will tell you this. It is how they are raised that determines their temperament. Unfortunately, many dog owners will raise large dogs to be fighting dogs. Here is something to think about: any dog will lash out at humans if he feels threatened. However, a Chihuahua bite is much less serious than a Pit Bull’s.

In a study published in the journal Applied Animal Behavior Science came up with the most aggressive dog breeds, and their answer will surprise you. The most aggressive breed was the Dachshund. The study also showed that one in every five of this breed has bitten or attempted to bite their owners.

The least aggressive were identified as Basset Hounds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Siberian Huskies. Pit Bulls and Rottweilers were scored about average, hardly the deadly breeds that society has named them.

DOGS LIKE TASTY FOOD:

Nope. Actually, dogs have very weak taste buds. They eat primarily based on their sense of smell. While they can detect bitter, sweet, salty, and sour, they don’t perceive it the way humans do, and they have only one-sixth the number of taste buds that we do. It is important that, while he may beg for scraps, it is much better for him and you if he is fed healthy, well-balanced meals with high protein and fiber.

DOGS AND BONES:

Another familiar example is the image of a dog snacking on a big, juicy bone. Unfortunately, this practice can be extremely dangerous. Bones, while enticing, can cause many health issues.

Bones are hard enough to crack and fracture their teeth. This can lead to root canals or even tooth extraction. Then there’s the risk of oral injuries. When bone breaks, it splinters. Razor-sharp chips and fragments can become lodged in all sorts of painful places. The digestive system, which includes the esophagus, the stomach, small intestine, and colon, is also at risk of lacerations and punctures due to the pieces of bone that can become lodged inside, any of which can be fatal.

BLACK CATS REPRESENT EVIL:

These poor cats. Long considered to be bad luck and the servants of witches, they have never had it easy. But there is no evidence that the gene for black fur is in any way connected to bad luck. On the contrary; In Japan and the UK, they are prized. Neither are black cats evil. Playful and energetic behaviors, like jumping on your feet or scratching up your armchair, shouldn’t be confused with an attack.

Sadly, what is true about black cats is that they are unwanted. They are only half as likely to be adopted as other cats. It seems that the age-old fear of these felines is enough to overlook such a pet. Every cat, including the black ones, deserve a loving home, because, all superstition aside, they make wonderful pets.

DECLAWING CATS IS HARMLESS:

Imagine if one day a doctor said that, to make sure you didn’t scratch anyone, your nails should be removed— permanently. You’d say no, wouldn’t you? There’s just one problem: that’s what declawing does to a cat. You are removing a crucial part of a cat’s identity, and hurting them in an irreversible fashion.

There are several ways to perform the operation. One, amputate their toes with a scalpel. Two, a laser cuts through bone and tissue, heating the flesh and vaporizing it. Three, cut the tendons that connect each claw, making it impossible for the cat to extend their claws or to even control them.

The truth is, cats scratch. They do it to sharpen their claws, to mark their property, and to calm themselves when they get overexcited. The behavior cannot be stopped by declawing. It often leads to worse problems like aggression or inappropriate urination. Declawing should never be an option. It is dangerous and extremely painful.

CATS AND MILK:

While we have all seen the cute cartoons depicting cats happily lapping up milk out of a saucer, the truth is that, after becoming an adult, cats become lactose intolerant. So, even if you think you are giving your cat a treat, chances are it will make her sick. The lactase in milk often causes a cat to have an upset stomach. 

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/the-3-most-aggressive-dog-breeds-may-surprise-you.html

http://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/investigating-aggressive-breed-stereotypes.html

http://www.france-property-and-information.com/dog-years-to-human-years-age.htm

http://www.aspca.org/blog/debunking-black-cat-mythhttp://

www.onegreenplanet.org/animalsandnature/the-dangers-and-myths-of-declawing-cats/

The Four Stages of a Dog's Life

PUPPY:

This stage begins when he is born and ends somewhere in between 6 and 18 months, depending on his breed. During the first eight weeks of their lives, puppies should be with his mother and siblings. While a dog is in the puppy stage, he is learning how to interact with dogs and humans alike. This is why it is a good to start training and get him vaccinated at this stage.

ADOLESCENT:

The puppy stage will give way to adolescence sometime between the ages of 6 and 18 months. Smaller breed dogs will go into the adolescent stage earlier than larger breed dogs. This is the stage of the life cycle when hormones start to kick in and, if not spayed/neutered, your dog may begin to act like a moody teenager. Your dog will lose his puppy fur and grow to his adult size, though he may be awkward with his body and appear gawky until he gets accustomed to his new size. At the beginning of this stage of the life cycle have your dog altered and consider obedience training.

ADULT:

Between the ages of 1 and 3 years, your dog enters the adult stage of life. As with adolescence, smaller breeds reach this stage in less time than larger breeds. During this phase of the life cycle, your dog will still enjoy plenty of exercise and playtime, but he likely won't be so demanding of your attention and will not burst with the same amounts of energy that kept you busy during earlier stages. He is likely completely house-trained by now. Consider obedience training or advanced training. Your adult dog will continue to thrive from the mental and physical exercise of learning.

SENIOR:

From adulthood your dog will enter the senior stage of the life cycle sometime between his 6th and 10th birthday. Unlike with adolescence and adulthood, larger breed dogs reach this stage of the life cycle at a younger age than smaller breed dogs. During this stage of the life cycle your dog's muzzle will likely begin to gray. He will move more slowly and, instead of a brisk game of fetch, he'll be more content with a stroll. Your senior dog may eat less and sleep more than he has at other times of his life.

http://pets.thenest.com/dog-life-cycles-5026.html

http://dogtime.com/article/ages-stages.html

http://www.dogingtonpost.com/natural-life-cycle-of-a-dog/

Traveling With Your Pet

ROAD TRIP

Trial Run:

A few days before heading off, take them for a short drive to see how they react. Do they get restless and anxious? Do they get carsick? These are some things you should know beforehand.

Seat Belt:

Always, always make sure they are in their carrier, and make sure the crate is secured and buckled up. Thousands of crashes each year have been chalked up to unrestrained pets, especially when they are in the passenger seat. It’s not only distracting, it’s dangerous.

Stay Inside:

While it seems harmless, letting your dog stick his head out the window is inadvisable. According to a study by the ASPCA, such an act can damage the lungs and cause lung infections.

Pit Stops and Water:

The ASPCA recommends that you let your dog out and do his business every two to three hours, and let them get some exercise as well. Also, be sure to have a gallon or two of cold water to keep them hydrated.

Stay Together:

Do not leave them in the car. Even with the window cracked open, the temperature can reach up to 110 degrees in 10 minutes on a hot day. If you are going somewhere pets are not allowed, either leave them at home or keep them in a pet-friendly hotel.

PLANE

Fit to Fly?:

Young pets, old pets, or sick pets do not do well in planes. This also applies to many breeds. Also, many airlines will not allow pets to fly in the cargo hold. Check with your veterinarian before you fly with your pet.

Papers:

If you are going out of the country, find out what vaccinations and paperwork your pet will need. Consult your veterinarian to find out more.

The Carrier:

Make sure that your pet has enough room to stand and turn around without hitting their head. If you have never had a carrier before, leave it out for several days before the trip so that they get used to it.

ID Tags:

Keep your information on your pets’ collar and on their carrier at all times. 

Exercise:

Before you fly, spend some time with your pet while exercising. Play. Go for a walk. The more tired your pet is, the more likely they may sleep during the trip.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/23/traveling-with-pets_n_3640948.html

http://www.aa.com/i18n/travelInformation/specialAssistance/pets.jsp

http://www.thetruckersreport.com/traveling-by-car-or-truck-with-pets/

What Not to Eat: For Cats

Chocolate: Toxic to both cats and dogs, the ingredients theobromine and caffeine can have a devastating effect on their entire bodies. Chocolate is one of the deadliest substances for cats to consume. Chocolate poisoning can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and seizures. If you see any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. There are treatments for chocolate poisoning. Inducing vomiting is sometimes recommended to purge the system of the toxins.

Wild Mushrooms: While the small, store-bought mushrooms will have no effect, these fungi can sometimes contain neurotoxins which causes multiple dangerous symptoms including toxic shock, kidney problems, and even death. A more severe mushroom poisoning symptom is hallucinations. Any behavior that makes a cat seem “high”, such as excessive saliva and uneven walking, means that you need to get to the vet ASAP.

Grapes/Raisins: This is a relatively recent discovery. Although the studies were carried out with dogs, it is believes that cats would show the same symptoms, but since cats are picky eaters, they may not even go after grapes. Just keep an eye out if your cat actually does ingest grapes or raisin, and make sure, if you see symptoms, to consult your veterinarian.

Raw Eggs: In years past, cats and dogs would eat the eggs right out of the nest. However, times have changed. They haven’t had the same access to raw eggs, which means that raw eggs are no longer harmless. Not to mention that the shell, once fragmented, can hurt their mouths. Raw Eggs contain an enzyme, avidin, which can decrease the levels of several vitamins in cats’ bodies.  In addition, raw eggs can contain Salmonella.

Raw Fish: Raw fish, like raw eggs, have bacteria that can lead to food poisoning. Consuming uncooked fish could result in a B-vitamin deficiency, or thiamine. This can escalate into loss of appetite, seizures, and, in a worst-case scenario, death, especially when fed regularly. A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma. In addition, Tuna, raw or cooked, and either prepared for cats or humans, can be harmful, especially when there is a serving every day.

Milk: Despite the common misconception, milk is not good for cats. Like most mammals, after entering adulthood, cats become lactose intolerant. Also, milk is high in calories for cats, and can lead to obesity. Other side-effects are diarrhea, upset stomachs, cramps, and gas.

http://pets.thenest.com/mushrooms-poisonous-cats-9179.html

http://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_chocolate_toxicity

http://www.petplace.com/article/cats/dr-debras-faqs-and-posts/dr-debras-posts/are-grapes-and-raisins-bad-for-cats

http://pets.webmd.com/cats/ss/slideshow-foods-your-cat-should-never-eat

http://www.pawnation.com/2013/01/11/7-facts-about-cats-and-milk/8

It's Getting Hot in Here . . .

Spring has sprung and the weather is heating up fast. As the temperature rises, so do the risks associated with dogs. Here is a list of things to think about concerning your dog’s health in the heat.

GET THEM OUT OF THE CAR:

This is one that you hear a lot. Unfortunately, many dog owners still do it. We cannot stress it enough: you should never leave your dog in the car in the heat, no matter what the temperature is, no matter how long you will be away from the car, no matter how many windows are cracked open. In the summer, especially in cars parked out in the sun, cars can reach over 100 degrees in less than half an hour.

Not only is it unwise to keep your dog trapped in the car, it is also considered abusive and is illegal in more than 15 states.

If you see a dog in a hot car, call 911 or Animal Control immediately. That call could save a dog’s life.

BEWARE OF TICKS

These little buggers are perhaps the most common, but also the most dangerous, threat to dogs. Ticks are disease-carriers, and the ailments they carry, namely Lyme Disease, can be deadly. Make sure to inoculate them with  a monthly dose of a tick control product and keep them up to date on their shots. Also, be careful where you let your dog wander off to. You never know what could be hiding in the plants he wants to run through.

WALK YOUR DOG IN COOLER HOURS

The scalding heat of the mid-day sun is not the best time to walk your dog. If possible, try to go out in the early morning or later in the afternoon to dusk, when the sun isn’t so direct. This is not just for your dog’s benefit, but also for yours.

WATER, SHADE, AND AIR CONDITIONING 

Make sure that, while your dog is outside, he has plenty of fresh water and a cool, shady place to curl up and hide from the heat. When he is inside, try to keep the house as cool as possible.

BE CAREFUL WITH DOG TOYS

Several years ago, there was a social network post that quickly went viral. The person who posted it claimed that their dog was poisoned by a pet toy that was abandoned in his favorite dog park. There have been several similar stories over the years. Whether or not they are true, the moral of all of them is this: never let your dog bite, pick up, or touch in any way a toy that is not yours. Any abandoned toys should go in the trash immediately.

https://www.petfinder.com/dogs/dog-care/hot-weather-tips/

http://nakedlaw.avvo.com/crime/leaving-dogs-in-hot-cars-cruel-illegal-many-states.html

http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/dogdiseasesconditions/tp/CanineParasites.htm

http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/hookworm-in-dogs