TABLE OF CONTENTS:

I.    Puppy
II.   Adult Canine
III.  Senior Canine
IV.  End-of-Life Care
V.   Conclusion

With respect to canines, not all life stages are created equal. It may sound arbitrary, but when dogs pass through different life stages depends entirely on their size and breed. Because of this, the America Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) does not apply specific hard and fast rules when defining canine life stages.

However, we’re going to explore four key stages of a dog’s life: puppy, adult, senior, and end-of-life care. Each stage comes with its own unique healthcare needs that pet owners should be aware of.

II.  ADULT CANINE

As canines enter the prime of their life, exercise and nutrition needs change. Their healthcare needs shift to include dental care, weight management, and prevention of heartworms and parasites. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet are also important elements in maintaining their health and preventing illnesses.

1.  Exercise: Keeping your dog physically fit and mentally stimulated should be at, or near the top, of every pet parent’s to-do list. The amount of exercise a dog needs depends on their breed, size, and overall health, but in general, your dog should get at least 30 – 60 minutes of exercise per day. This can include activities like walking, jogging, playing fetch, or swimming.

2.  Nutrition: Proper nutrition for adult dogs is very important as it provides the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and prevent obesity. Feeding a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their breed, size, and activity level is essential. Follow the manufacturers guidelines on the food label (don’t overfeed!), as excess weight can lead to chronic health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.

3.  Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and dental cleanings by our veterinarians can help prevent dental disease. This is a common health issue in adult dogs that can lead to other chronic health issues. Signs of dental disease include bad breath, tooth decay, and swollen gums.

4.  Flea, Tick and Heartworm Prevention: These are all possibly life-threatening, especially heartworm. Dogs should be on a regular flea, tick and heartworm parasite prevention program, which typically involves the administration of an all-in-one, chewable tablet on a monthly basis.

A comprehensive breakdown of each can be found at these links:

Meet the Enemy: Fleas
Ticks and Canine Lyme Disease
The Pet Parent Guide to Heartworm Disease

5.  Weight Management: Monitoring a dog’s weight and overall health is important for detecting health problems early. Pet obesity is a serious health concern and needs to be addressed before they become serious health problems. Annual exams with our vets can help ensure that your adult dog is on the right track to old age.

III.  SENIOR CANINE

As dogs move into their senior years, their healthcare needs dramatically change – providing them with specialized senior care is required to maintain their health and quality of life. Regular veterinary exams are more critical than ever for senior dogs, as they are more susceptible to age-related health problems. Senior dogs should see our veterinarian at least twice a year for a wellness exam, which normally include blood work, urinalysis, and other diagnostic tests. This can help catch health problems early and provide prompt treatment.

1.  Diet: Older dogs require specialized senior diets that are tailored to their age, breed, and health status. These diets may include reduced calories to prevent obesity, increased protein for muscle maintenance, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. Feeding senior dogs a high-quality diet that meets their specific nutritional needs will help them age gracefully.

2.  Mobility and Joint Health: Arthritis, joint pain, and reduced mobility are common problems in senior dogs, but there are ways to help prevent or manage these conditions. Providing comfortable bedding, keeping dogs at a healthy weight, and using joint supplements or medications can help improve mobility and joint health.

3.  Dental Care: It becomes more important as your dog ages, as dental disease can be the precursor to other health problems. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and dental cleanings by our veterinarians can help prevent dental disease and keep senior dogs healthy.

4.  Other Age-Related Health Concerns: Senior dogs may incur vision and hearing loss, cognitive decline, and organ dysfunction. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and manage these health problems.

IV.  END-OF-LIFE CARE FOR DOGS

What is end-of-life care for dogs and what can I do to make this transition easier?

End-of-life care in dogs refers to the support and care provided to dogs during the final stages of their life. This period can be emotionally challenging for pet parents, but it’s important to provide comfort and care to make the transition easier for your cherished canine companion.

7 Ways to Make the End-of-Life Transition Easier for Your Doggo:

1. Provide Comfort: Make sure your dog is comfortable and has access to their favorite possessions, such as their bed, toys, and blankets.
2. Manage Pain: If your dog has chronic pain, speak with our veterinarians about pain management options, such as medications or alternative therapies like acupuncture or physical therapy.
3. Keep Them Clean: Bathing your dog and keeping them clean can help keep them comfortable and prevent skin problems.
4. Adjustments in the Home: If your dog is having mobility issues, make changes to their environment to make it easier for them to from A to B. This may include providing ramps, non-slip flooring, and other mobility aids.
5. Spending Time: Devote quality time with your dog, engage in activities that they enjoy, and let them know how much you love them.
6. Consider Hospice Care: If your dog has a terminal illness, hospice care can provide support and comfort for both you and your dog during the end-of-life process.
7. Consider Euthanasia: Nobody wants to think about this possibility, but if your dog’s quality of life is deteriorating – and they are in pain – euthanasia may the most humane option. Speak with our vets about the best time for this and options available for aftercare, such as cremation or burial.

The end-of-life process can be challenging, but providing comfort, managing pain, and spending quality time with your dog can make the transition easier for both you and your beloved furry family member.

V.  CONCLUSION

Canine health care is essential at every life stage, from puppy to end-of-life care. As a responsible pet parent, it’s important to be aware of the unique healthcare needs of your dog at each stage of their life and to provide them with regular check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet.

By taking a proactive approach to your dog’s health care, you can help prevent health problems, detect issues early, and provide prompt treatment if necessary. By giving your dog health care attention they require, you can help them achieve a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life as a beloved member of your family.

Introduction

As cat lovers, we all know that they have their own distinctive personalities and quirks. But did you know that health needs change as your cat ages?

Cats are beloved furry feline family members, and as a pet parent, it’s important to understand their unique health needs at every stage of life. From kittenhood to senior years, felines face a range of health concerns that can impact their quality of life.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I.   Kittenhood (up to 1 year)
II.  Adolescence (1-2 years)
III. Adulthood (3-7 years)
IV.  Senior Years (7+ years)
V.   Conclusion

Whether you’re a new pet parent or just looking to level up your feline health care knowledge, we’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be diving into vaccinations, parasite control, diet and nutrition, behavioral concerns, and more. We’ll also offer tips on how to keep your furry feline friend happy and healthy. So, let’s start our deep dive into feline care health at every life stage.

IV.  Senior Felines: The Golden Years

We realize we’re starting to sound like a broken record, but…regular checkups and lab work are critical components for extending the life of your senior cat. Common health problems for senior cats include kidney disease, diabetes, and cancer. These can be prevented or managed with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

When you work with our veterinarians, we’ll help you develop a senior cat health care plan that meets the unique needs of your aging cat and recommend any adjustments to accommodate their changing needs.

1. ANNUAL CHECKUPS AND BLOOD WORK FOR SENIOR CATS

Early detection is the main takeaway here. As cats get older, it’s clear that they become more susceptible to a broader range of health problems. Annual – or more frequent – checkups and lab work are indispensable pieces of senior cat health care and should not be dismissed.

During an annual exam, our veterinarians will perform a physical exam, note your cat’s weight and overall body condition, and discuss any changes in behavior or health that you may have observed. We highly recommend blood screening and urine testing at this stage – it helps detect a variety of other potential health concerns.

2. COMMON HEALTH CONCERNS FOR SENIOR CATS

• Kidney Disease: Renal failure is a genuine – and common – concern for senior cats. Kidneys help manage blood pressure, produce hormones, stimulate the production of more red blood cells, and remove waste from the blood. Symptoms of kidney disease in cats include increased thirst, decreased appetite, and weight loss. With a carefully managed diet. plenty of clean fresh water, a calm environment, you can help your cat live their best life in their remaining days.
• Diabetes: Often tied to obesity, diabetes is a growing problem in senior cats leading to a range of health problems, including vision loss and nerve damage. Symptoms of diabetes in cats include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, and weight loss.
• The Big “C”: Cancer in senior cats can take many forms, including skin cancer, liver cancer, and lymphoma. Symptoms of cancer vary depending on the type of cancer and its location, but they may include loss of appetite, weight loss, and changes in behavior.

If any of these symptoms emerge, book an appointment with us immediately. With early detection and treatment, dealing with these three common health concerns can help reduce their severity and extend the life of you beloved feline.

If treatments prove to significantly impede or lessen your cat’s quality of life, then there’s a very difficult decision to be made. We can help with an end-of-life plan for your senior cat to make their remaining days as comfortable as possible.

3. CARING FOR A SENIOR CAT

• Diet

To maintain optimal health, senior cats need a balanced diet that provides the nutrients they need to thrive. Your veterinarian can help you determine the right diet for your senior cat based on their current health status and any other underlying conditions.

• Exercise

As with all previous three life stages, regular exercise is so important for senior cat wellness, as it helps maintain mobility and flexibility. This is especially important if you have an indoor-only or solo cat who doesn’t get any natural/outdoor stimulation.

Exercise helps your cat maintain a healthy weight by motivating them to pounce, jump, and claw at something they perceive as prey, while also providing hours of stimulation. As such, cat toys are designed with a feline’s primal instincts in mind. Anything that can help satisfy your cat’s natural instincts and offer exercise – such as toys, scratching posts and lasers – will help extend -and enrich – your cat’s life.

• Environmental Adjustments

As cats age, they will experience changes in their agility, vision, and hearing. To accommodate these changes, you may need to make modifications in your home. Providing accessible places for your senior cat to rest and sleep (no stairs!) tend to be the easiest adjustments to improve your cat’s quality of life.

V.  Conclusion

Attending to your cat’s health at every life stage is essential for ensuring a long and contented life for your furry feline friend. From kittenhood to senior status, there are many preventative care options that support your cat’s health and wellness, including the upkeep of required vaccinations, parasite control, spaying/neutering, dental care, and annual wellness exams. Wellness exams that also include blood and urine analysis can help detect potential health issues early on, while a balanced diet and proper exercise can help maintain optimal health throughout your cat’s lifespan.

QUICK LINKS:

I.     Introduction
II.   What Causes Hot Spots in Dogs?
III.  Symptoms of Hot Spots
IV.  Treatment and Prevention of Hot Spots
V.    Frequently Asked Questions
VI.  Conclusion

I. Introduction

HOT SPOTS – also known as acute moist dermatitis – are a common skin problem in dogs that can affect all breeds and at every life stage. These raw and unpleasant sores can appear unexpectedly and spread rapidly, if left untreated. As a pet parent, it’s important to understand what hot spots are, what causes them, and how to prevent and treat them.

In this post, we’ll provide a complete overview of hot spots in dogs, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available. We’ll also offer advice on how to prevent hot spots from occurring in the first place. By the end of this post, we hope that you will have a stronger grasp of how to care for your furry family member and help keep them happy and healthy over their lifetime.

II. What Causes Hot Spots in Dogs?

Acute moist dermatitis or hot spots are a common skin disorder in dogs. Hot spots can appear suddenly and become large red, irritated lesions in a short period of time.

Hot spots are self-inflicted often triggered by chewing, scratching, and/or licking the affected area. The resulting distress to the skin causes irritation, swelling and secondary bacterial infections. Constant licking (or over-grooming) keeps the area moist, making it an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish. A dog’s coat can also become matted over the skin, trapping in moisture and further promoting infection.

This compounds the self-harm by making the skin even itchier, which causes the cycle to continue unabated. Any circumstance that causes your dog to feel inflamed has the potential to result in a hot spot.

The most common underlying health issues that lead to hot spots include:

• Allergies (flea allergy, food allergy, or seasonal allergies)
• External Parasites: Reactions to insect bites from small pests such as mites, bees, mosquitos or fleas – especially fleas!
• Behavioural Issues: Stress, anxiety, fear or OCD can cause excessive licking and scratching.
• Ear Infections. Disruption in the ear can be debilitating enough that your dog scratches at that location, creating hot spots behind the ear, on the neck or even on the ear flap.
• Dogs develop bad habits just like their human counterparts. You might chew your fingernails, but your dog may lick easily reachable areas out of sheer boredom.
• Canine Atopic Dermatitis.
• Anal Sac Disease/Gland Inflammation: Unsurprisingly, infected (aka. impacted) anal glands are truly irritating – and painful. Dogs will lick the area around their rectum (if reachable!) causing hot spots, either below or on top of the tail.
• Poor Grooming: Unkempt coats can cause dogs to chew at matted hair, creating open lesions. Also, matted fur prevents air from reaching the skin. If a dog with matted hair retains water after swimming or after a bath, the skin may maintain moisture – this is almost always bad, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to proliferate and a hot spot to emerge.
• Orthopedic Concerns: Dogs – usually mature – with arthritis or back problems tend to lie down much of the time, creating irritations over pressure points – we know them as bed sores in the human world. Dogs instinctively lick or scratch these points, causing a hot spot.
• Injuries: Damage to skin, joints, bone, or soft tissue can cause dogs to engage in itching or scratching behaviours.

Other Causes

Due to their thicker coats, some breeds – Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers come to mind – are susceptible to developing hot spots. Dogs that are often wet either from swimming, bathing, or rainy weather are more vulnerable to emerging hot spots due to the additional moisture held against the skin by their thicker coats.

Seasonality also contributes to hot spots. They are much more likely to occur during warm weather and periods of high humidity.

III. Symptoms of Hot Spots

Hot spots can occur anywhere – and anytime – but are most commonly seen on the head, legs, and hips.

The affected area is generally moist and may discharge fluid (pus…ew!) due to a bacterial or fungal infection, which can lead to matting of the neighbouring hair. Hot spots will grow in size as scratching continues to injure the area.

6 Common Symptoms of Hot Spots include:

• Red, swollen, and inflamed skin
• Hair loss surrounding the affected area
• Excessive licking or biting
• Intense itching and scratching
• Hot to the touch
• Oozing or crusting of infected fluids

Because different types of skin conditions can have similar symptoms, it is important discuss the condition with one of our veterinarians to determine the underlying cause.

IV. Prevention and Treatment of Hot Spots

Although it is difficult to completely prevent hot spots, the following tips can help significantly reduce the risk of recurrent skin problems in dogs.

3 Pro Tips to Help Prevent Hot Spots in Dogs:

1. Keeping your dog’s skin healthy is the first step towards keeping hot spots at bay. Make sure flea and tick treatments are kept current and continue to manage any allergies they may have. Excellent parasite prevention, treatment of skin infections, and management of allergies are crucial to stop scratching and preventing trauma to the skin.
2. Good hygiene and routine grooming play an important prevention function when it comes to dog hot spots. For dogs that swim or bathe frequently, it is also important to ensure their coats are thoroughly dried after these events. Trimming long coats – especially in hot and humid weather – will stop moisture from getting trapped close to the skin and discourage bacteria from breeding.
3. If your dog has developed a bad itching habit because of boredom or anxiety, there are a few simple things pet parents can do to combat this issue. Increasing daily exercise, providing more toys and engaging in active play time can help alleviate this problem. Of course, there may be more serious underlying issues, but this is a great starting point.

Although it’s nearly impossible to eliminate the possibility of canine hot spots, some easy upfront planning can reduce the risk.

How are hot spots treated?

Once you’ve identified a hot spot on your dog’s skin, we recommend that you book an appointment with one of our veterinarians. By getting veterinary care as soon as possible, you can prevent further infection and any permanent damage.

Depending on the severity, our veterinarians may use the following treatments:

• Flea and tick preventives.
• Topical ointments – sprays or creams to relieve itching and cleanse the affected area.
• Anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics. (oral or injected)
• Oral Antipruritic or abirritants. (anti-itch medications)
• An Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent further damage to the affected area.

Upon arrival for your appointment, our veterinary team will conduct the following:

• Hair from the affected area is shaved with clippers to allow easier access to the wound.
• The area is cleansed with sterile saline and a mild antiseptic; the wound is patted dry and left uncovered to air dry.
• Prescribed medications, such as topical sprays may be applied to help the hot spot mend. Our vets might recommend antibiotics to help fight the infection or steroids for combating inflammation, depending on the severity.
• An E-collar (“the cone of shame”) is standard protocol to prevent the dog from further harming the site while in recovery.
• Provide a home care regimen and arrange a follow-up appointment, if necessary.

The majority of hot spots will start to heal within a week after the beginning the treatment. We highly recommend that you follow our veterinarian’s advice regarding care at home and follow-up.

And, most importantly, contact us if the wound is not healing or your dog continues to shows signs of infection.

VI. Conclusion

Acute moist dermatitis – also known as a hot spot – is a common and very treatable dog skin problem that affects canines of all ages and breeds. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, pet parents can easily take the proper precautions to prevent and manage any emerging hot spots. Also, with any persistent dog skin issue we encourage you to speak with one of our veterinarians to rule out any underlying health issues.

Good hygiene and regular grooming can help prevent hot spots, and early detection and treatment can help prevent them from escalating into a more serious medical condition. With the information contained in this guide, you can ensure that your canine furry family member stays happy, healthy – and feel comfortable – in their own skin.

QUICK LINKS:

Introduction
What Breed of Feline are Ginger Cats?
What Makes Ginger Cats So Unique? | 6-Fun-Facts

1. Personality Plus: Ginger Cat Stereotypes and Temperament
2. Vocal Calisthenics: Ginger Cats Love to Chat
3. Feline Freckles: Ginger Cat Beauty Marks
4. Fur Patterns: ‘M’ Marks the Spot | Ginger Cat Stripes
5. Mice Beware: Ginger Cats Have a High Prey Drive
6. Sex Inequality: Why Most Ginger Cats are Male

BONUS ! 7 Famous Ginger Cats Portrayed in TV and Movies (with video)
Conclusion

Introduction: Gimme Some Ginger Cat Love! ♥

Ginger cats are hard to miss. Also called red, orange, orange tabby, marmalade, tiger-cat and cinnamon, this distinctive feline can certainly strike a charismatic pose.

From 9Lives Morris to Garfield to Puss in Boots, ginger cats are some of the most celebrated felines in television and film. However, there’s more to them that meets the eye. Gingers possess personalities that are as strong-willed and sincere as their stunning coat coloring.

As pop culture phenoms, we’ve taken this opportunity to discover as much as possible about them, leading us to two important – and, dare we say – provocative questions.

What makes ginger cats so special? Are ginger cats the best cats?

What Breed of Feline are Ginger Cats?

Ginger cats are not a specific breed, but rather refers to the colour of their fur. In fact, all ginger cats are tabbies. But not all tabbies are gingers. Tabbies are also not a specific breed, but a coat type. Confused yet?

Just like tabbies, ginger cats can be found in various distinct breeds, from Bengals, Savannahs, Maine Coon and Persians, all the way to your standard Domestic Shorthair (aka. mutts of the cat world).

All ginger cats – and tabbies – have the ‘agouti’ gene, meaning that this gene determines the coloration, length, pattern and texture of a cat’s fur, typically resulting in stripes, swirls or tiger-like markings. Another distinguishing feature in tabby/ginger cats is a unique ‘M’ pattern on their forehead.

Conclusion

Are ginger cats the best cats? Those who agree are passionate about their orange tabbies and, if necessary, will fight you. They offer many desirable traits that can even turn non-cat people into cat lovers.

We won’t wander into this debate. Suffice it to say, all cat breeds hold a special place in our hearts and your current kitty companion will always be your favourite.

Introduction

As many cat lovers know, the prospect of getting scratched is in Chapter 1 of the feline ownership manual. In many instances, this is a result of healthy play and an accepted part of being a cat parent.

Recently, one of our loyal Cabbagetown Pet Clinic clients was cat-sitting for his mother over the Easter long weekend. The cat is a feisty, 1 year-old that tends to have (overly) playful tendencies, including the tactical use of razor-sharp claws. Our client was well aware of this, but having been scratched many times before, he felt that the risk of infection from light play was VERY low.

Wrong.

Apparently, the cat’s mood changed and playfulness turned to ire (surprise…lol!), resulting in a series of scratches over both hands. Unmoved by this outburst, he doused his hands in hydrogen peroxide and washed them thoroughly with soap and water.

Later that evening, he noticed swelling and tenderness on his left knuckle but thought nothing of it. The next morning, the swollen area had become larger, but he still (remarkably!) didn’t find this a source of concern. Only after an afternoon of cold sweats, back pain and high fever did the prospect of an infection ever cross his mind. Nonetheless, he waited one more sleepless night to see if there would be improvement.

That was a mistake.

The next morning, it had become abundantly clear that an immediate trip to the local ER was a forgone conclusion, as his left hand swelled like an inflated rubber glove. As it turns out, not only were there scratches on the left hand, but also a distinct puncture wound very near to the infected area – mostly likely caused by the cat’s bite. Cellulitis had begun to take hold.

What followed was a tetanus shot, bloodwork and six days of a strong, broad-spectrum antibiotic administered through an IV at the local ER, followed by another 10 days of an oral antibiotic to treat the infection. Yes, this was quite an ordeal, but the story had a happy ending – the infection was defeated. However, another day (or two) of neglect could have resulted in something much worse.

What is Cat Scratch Disease (CSD)?

Cat Scratch Disease (also known as *cat scratch fever*) is an infection caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae carried in cat saliva. This is one of the most common bacteria in the world. CSD is generally mild, but people with weakened immune systems and the young tend to be at more risk of developing a serious infection.

However, Bartonella henselae is not the only bacteria in a cat’s mouth. Others include Pasteurella multocida which is a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouth. A research study (science geek out alert!) from 2013 showed that Pasteurella multocida is the most common organism isolated from both cat and dog bites. Bite wounds tend to be highly aggressive and exposure to this bacterium can cause a more significant infection – such as cellulitis – after a bite or scratch. This can have much more serious consequences, as our devoted client discovered.

Where does the bacteria come from?

It is believed that cats acquire these bacteria from fleas.

Cat Scratch Fever is transmitted when a cat carrying the infection:

• delivers a deep scratch that draws blood
• administers a bite* that punctures the skin
• licks an open wound

* Cats have sharp, slender canine teeth that easily pierce deep tissues, bones and joints. These quick-healing puncture wounds – injected with saliva and bacteria – seal in harmful bacteria and create a dead space for infection to flourish.

How do you know if a cat bite is infected?

What are the symptoms?

Common symptoms of infection from a cat bite include:

• redness and/or inflammation
• warmth over the affected area
• a bump or blister near the bite puncture

These indicators typically do not require medical attention. However, keep a close eye for an escalation of the symptoms.

7 Signs of a Serious Cat Bite Infection:

1. 1. A bite or scratch that becomes inflamed and tender within a few days and worsens over time
   2. Sore or swollen glands under the arms (hand wound) or in the groin (lower leg wound)
   3. Pus leaking from a blistered wound
   4. Loss of feeling near the wound
   5. Red or discoloured streaks close to the wound
   6. Discomfort and/or restricted mobility in your hand
   7. Flu-like symptoms including:

• • • headache
    • reduced appetite
    • fatigue
    • joint pain
    • fever or chills
    • night sweats

The symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease may look like other medical conditions. Unlike our client, seek medical treatment immediately if you experience these complications.

What cats carry the highest risk of infection?

• stray and feral cats
• flea-infested cats
• kittens (less than 1 year old)
• outdoor cats that hunt

What should I do after being bitten by a cat?

Follow these 4 steps:

1. Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. An antibiotic ointment can be also applied, but avoid strong disinfectants as this may damage the skin. Vigorous scrubbing of the wounds may damage tissue and delay healing.
2. With a sterile, absorbent dressing, apply direct pressure to the wound to control any bleeding** and keep covered.
3. Monitor for symptoms (see above)
4. If symptoms persist or get worse, see a physician as soon as possible. Left untreated, a serious infection can develop within twenty-four to forty-eight hours.

** If the injury is a bite wound, you may not experience much bleeding. Cats have hypodermic-like teeth that can easily pierce soft tissues. This mechanism creates a tiny break that heals rather quickly – trapping the bacteria under the skin. This is bad.

How Do You Treat Cat Scratch Fever?

In most instances, Cat Scratch Disease clears up on its own without treatment within a few weeks. Most cases of cat scratch fever are mild – a doctor may not always have a prescribed treatment plan.

To help alleviate pain and discomfort at home, an over-the-counter pain reliever can be taken, such as Ibuprofen or naproxen. Applying a heat compress to the affected area may also bring some relief.

If your symptoms are moderate to severe and don’t go away in a month or two, antibiotics (or any other medical interventions) may be required. In rare cases, the CSD infection can travel to your bones or other organs. This requires more aggressive medical care.

Conclusion

The hand is an extremely vulnerable part of the body. It contains many important structures – such as tendons, joints, blood vessels and nerves – covered only by a thin soft tissue sheath. So, it should come as no surprise that the needle-like, canine teeth in cats – infused with various types of bacteria – can cause serious damage. In extreme cases, a deep, skin-penetrating bite can lead to serious medical consequences – including death.

As the ER physician of our client made perfectly clear – if this happens again, DO NOT WAIT TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP!

Hard lesson learned.

How well do you know your canine cutie?

Perhaps you feel that your dog is the sweetest, most adorable canine on the planet – likely true, but you may be surprised to find that there’s a lot to learn about your beloved furry friend.

Humans took a keen interest in dogs (wolves) a very long time ago – enough time to develop some considerable, era-spanning myths about our canine companions. A startling amount of misinformation and half-truths have been repeated enough times about dogs to make it appear like conventional wisdom.

As pet lovers, we assume the responsibility to provide our furry friends with the best care possible. To do that, we need to understand our dogs’ needs and debunk misconceptions – we need to know how to keep them healthy and happy.

We don’t plan to address ALL dog myths, but our Top 7 seems like a good place to start.

QUICK LINKS: 7 Dog Myths Debunked

1. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
2. When my dog eats grass, it signals an upset stomach.
3. Garlic is an excellent remedy for fleas and ticks.
4. Rescue dogs are damaged – that’s why they’re rescue dogs.
5. I’m the pack leader – I need to show my dog who’s boss.
6. Dogs are colour blind – they only see the world in black and white.
7. Rubbing a dog’s nose in his “mess” prevents indoor “accidents”.

Myth #1:  You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

One of the oldest – and most recognizable – myths in the book!

This well-known saying has existed for hundreds of years, being used not only in relation to dogs, but also when describing human habits! This common phrase is used to explain why older humans may feel stuck in their ways and find it more difficult to learn than younger folk. There is a modicum of truth in this or it wouldn’t have prevailed for as long as it has. However, this myth is a not true when it comes to dogs.

It’s true that puppies’ brains absorb information like a sponge and acquire good habits (or bad!) quickly. This doesn’t mean that adult dogs can’t be trained – it just takes a bit more time.

Our canine pals are highly food-motivated, especially for savoury, protein-rich treats like chicken or beef – food that a dog’s scent can pick up immediately. This is a great way to reward good work.

All dogs crave mental stimulation, regardless of their age. Teaching your senior dog a new talent is a gratifying experience for them, as it strengthens their bond with you and provides their brain with much-needed exercise. However, you do need to take other factors into consideration that generally don’t apply to puppies. These factors may include less energy, degraded physical health and/or mental health issues.

Adult dogs may require a bit more patience, but they are more than capable of learning new skills – from housebreaking to advanced directives. Make training sessions fun and keep them positive – just be aware of their physical needs and limitations.

Myth #2:  When my dog eats grass, it means they are sick.

She’s just been fed…so why is my dog eating grass?

It’s true that some dogs have a tendency to eat grass and then vomit shortly thereafter. It’s a common concern of pet parents, as some believe that dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit in an attempt to get rid of something nasty they’ve consumed. Some dogs will eat poop!

Others believe grass eating is a sign that they’re lacking of important nutrients from their diet, but studies have shown this is not the case and incidentally, grass isn’t particularly nutrient-rich anyway.

However, research shows that only a small percentage of dogs will vomit after eating grass. Some dogs simply enjoy the taste and texture of grass, especially in the springtime when it’s green and fresh. Chances are, they’re much more likely to eat grass because it tastes good.

If your dog is ingesting soil and/or stones with their grazing habits, this may be a behaviour to take more seriously. This disorder may be associated with Pica – this condition can be caused by a nutritional deficiency, stomach sensitivities or even boredom. If your dog constantly eats grass to vomit, it’s a good idea to have your pet examined by our veterinarians to look for any digestive issues or underlying illness.

Grass-eating by your canine friend is relatively benign, as long as it hasn’t been sprayed with harmful pesticides.

Myth #3:  Garlic is an excellent remedy for fleas and ticks.

Garlic is one of the best ways – allegedly – to stop a vampire but it is certainly NOT an effective flea and tick treatment for dogs.  Unfortunately, this is a myth that is widely circulated on the internet.

Not only will garlic have zero effect in ridding fleas and ticks from your dog, but garlic has also been known to cause hemolytic anemia.  Although relatively rare, this condition occurs when the body attacks and destroys its red blood cells. This is bad.

Treatment for this condition is VERY expensive and generally requires several days of hospitalization with frequent blood transfusions. Not all dogs who eat garlic will suffer from this condition, but if you feed your pet garlic, you’re unnecessarily risking your dog’s health.

Myth #4:  Rescue dogs are bad because they’re all damaged. There’s a reason they are a rescue dog.

Rescues aren’t damaged – just people’s attitudes towards them are. 

The ASPCA estimates that nearly 8 million dogs and cats arrive in US animal shelters each year as strays or are relinquished by the owners.

Many people believe rescue dogs are surrendered primarily because of behavioural issues. This may be true in some cases, but there are other (more likely) reasons for this:

• Puppy Mills: thousands of dogs are rescued each year from illegal puppy mills
• Life Changes: death of an owner, or owners not physically able to provide proper care
• High Cost: many pet parents underestimate the cost of ownership or can’t afford unexpected medical treatments.
• Lack of Time: job obligations and/or changed life circumstances, such as divorce, new job
• Housing Restrictions: landlords may not allow tenants to have dogs – or certain breeds – in a new residence
• Stray or Abandoned: most noticeably seen in 3^rd world countries, but occurs everywhere on earth

Not knowing the full history of a rescue dog should not be a deterrent from adopting. Getting an older dog has a lot of advantages. Adult dogs’ personalities are already formed, so when you meet one at your local SPCA or Human Society, you can make sure they’re the right pet for you. Also, dogs adopted through the Ontario SPCA will be spayed/neutered, fully vaccinated, treated for any parasites and microchipped before they get re-homed.

Deciding to adopt a rescue or shelter dog is an important decision. There are a lot of considerations – both expected and unexpected – to take into account when preparing yourself and your home for a soon-to-be re-homed dog. In most cases, the rewards of adopting a rescue far exceed the unjustified concerns many people have about adoption.

Myth #5:   I’m the pack leader – I need to show my dog who’s boss.

Cesar Milan – the Dog Whisperer – is wrong.

Up until quite recently, negative reinforcement was considered the tried-and-true standard of training. This promotes the theory that pet parents should act as the ‘alpha’ dog. As of late, this method has come under intense scrutiny, and many pet parents and trainers have abandoned it entirely as a training technique.

Where did this outdated training technique originate?

Dominance-based, ‘alpha’ dog training was based on studies of captive wolves in the 1970’s. These studies propagated the idea that ‘alpha’ wolves become the leader of the pack by being aggressive towards other wolves. Because dogs descended from wolves, humans started to apply this philosophy to dog training. Further studies have since shown that (non-captive) wolf families are similar to human families in that the ‘leaders of the pack’ are the parents taking care of their cubs.

Thankfully, science always moves forward and this theory has now been debunked.

Practice positive reinforcement.

Remember the satisfaction you felt when you received a dollar from your parents for every ‘A’ on your report card? That made you want to get more of them, we suspect? That’s positive reinforcement.

Like humans, dogs care about rewards. This could be praise, or most likely, treats or toys. Positive reinforcement training uses a reward to promote desired behaviours. Because the reward makes them more likely to duplicate the behaviour, this training method is a powerful tool for shaping your dog’s behaviour.

Pet parents are responsible for helping their dog become a well-mannered and sociable member of society. This does NOT mean you need to pull rank – your dog isn’t competing with you for status. Just your love and affection. And food.

Myth #6:  Dogs are colour blind – they only see in black and white.

Why do people think dogs are colour blind?

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), this myth began with dog enthusiast, Will Judy. He was a veteran of World War I and devoted his life to educating people on the spiritual bond connecting the human and canine species.

Judy was a publisher of Dog Week Magazine since its inception in the 1930’s and asserted that dogs had poor vision. He went even further with this claim, stating that dogs could only see single shades and tones, and just general outlines of objects. The exact quote from his 1937 training manual read:

“It’s likely that all the external world appears to them as varying highlights of black and gray.”

The quote was generally accepted in the scientific community for decades. Even until the 1960’s, it was believed that the only other mammals that could differentiate colour – like humans – were other primates. We now know this is not true. Debunked!

Although they can’t see the world in full technicolour like most humans, dogs can see some limited colours. Humans have three types of cones in their eyes that allow them to detect a full range of colours, but dogs only have two. This means that dogs can see shades of yellows, blues, and violets – they cannot distinguish reds, greens and oranges the way we can. Their perception is similar to humans with colour blindness.

You would think this partial colour blindness would negatively affect their ability to navigate the world. Not so, since this is offset by their unique eye physiology, allowing for keener night vision and motion detection, not to mention their heavy reliance on their highly-attuned smell-o-vision.

Busting this myth may affect pet parents’ decisions when it comes to training and deciding which products (toys!) to buy. You might prefer to get your dog a yellow ball – instead of red – as it will show up more clearly in the grass. Although this could be a consideration, dogs primarily rely on their sense of smell, often overriding their limited colour vision. Your dog likely doesn’t care what colour of toy you decide to buy, as long as they’re having fun!

Myth #7:  Rubbing my dog’s nose in his ‘accident’ teaches him not to do his ‘business’ inside the house.

Many pet parents still think this myth is an effective training method, firmly believing that their dog understands what it means.

This method is mean and most certainly unhygienic. It might make you feel good, but as a retaliation technique, it has zero benefit in correcting the behaviour. At its worst, adhering to the rub-their-nose-in-it myth can cause a severe breakdown of communication, leaving your dog with enduring behavioural issues.

Dogs learn from association, so if your dog has an ‘accident’ in the house, they can’t make the link with the punishment (nose pressed in urine/feces) and the crime (accident in the house). This is negative reinforcement at its worst.

Modern dog training is founded on a theory called Operant Conditioning, with thanks to B.F. Skinner. Simply, the consequence of an action dictates whether the dog wants to repeat that action.

Rubbing your dog’s nose in his feces well after the incident is not a reaction to an action, because the action has happened. Although some dogs show a perception of time, they rarely have an understanding of ‘cause and effect’ like humans. This is why punishing a dog for having an accident in the house is not very effective if you don’t catch them in the act. Furthermore, it can also lead to irrational habits like eating feces, as they may try to suppress the evidence to prevent further punishment.

Proper housetraining your dog should only involve reprimanding when you catch them in the act. A sharp voice command (no!) and quick trip outside is the ideal plan of action. This requires patience and tolerance. Another effective technique is rewarding your pup every time he goes in the right place.

Conclusion

Myths about dogs get passed down through many generations of pet parents. While dog myths are fun to demystify, unaddressed “common sense” can cause actual harm to your furry friend. This miscommunication between pet parents and their dogs can leave them in potentially unsafe situations. It’s important to determine what’s true (and what’s not) – sometimes conventional wisdom and common sense requires closer examination.

Is my Pet overweight?

The love of a pet does NOT equate to giving them more food.

Many pet parents conflate food with love, causing them to feed their pets too much – think routine access to table scraps and treats.

Unfortunately, these genuinely heartfelt intentions have unintended consequences: a lower life expectancy for your furry friend. Obesity imparts a heavy burden on pets, regardless of species and can lead to all kinds of health issues. Pet obesity has seen a steep, steady rise in recent years.

Is pet obesity an epidemic?

It’s likely approaching the dictionary definition. For our canine friends, clinical obesity has been diagnosed in more than 54% of all dogs in the United States – a figure is likely similar for Canadian pets. That’s a large number.

From a health perspective, obesity is one of the most complicated, challenging and more importantly – controllable – medical conditions in veterinary medicine.

Looking at it from a financial perspective, our pet insurance partner – Trupanion – has presented research that reveals:

1. Policyholders with overweight dogs or cats spend as much as five times (5x) more than policyholders with average weight pets for musculoskeletal conditions such as cruciate ruptures, lameness and limping.
2. Overweight pets are more likely disposed to diabetes. Policyholders with obese dogs or cats spend over 10 times (10x) more on diabetes treatment than pet parents of pets at an average weight.

Pet obesity affects nearly all pet parents and their furry family members in some detrimental way. It costs many millions (billions?) in medical bills, reduces life expectancy and deprives pets from living their best life.

That’s why the battle to acknowledge – and address – pet obesity is so important.

What is pet obesity? Is my pet overweight or obese?

Quite simply, obesity in pets is an accumulation of additional body fat. Body weight and body fat tend to complement each other, so most overweight – or obese – pets will have an excess body fat.

It’s no surprise that body weight is the measure used when assessing if a pet is overweight or obese. Pinch-an-inch does not apply, as this method measures subcutaneous fat (sits under the skin) and not visceral fat (accumulates around internal organs).

Dogs are considered to be overweight when they weigh 10-30% above their ideal body weight. Obesity is diagnosed when their weight exceeds 30% of their ideal body weight. Cats follow a similar standard. It’s important to keep in mind that there is no universally accepted veterinary definition for obesity in pets. While obesity is loosely defined as 30% above ideal body weight, just being marginally overweight can impact the health of your pet.

Perhaps the biggest (no pun intended!) challenge is that many pet parents simply do not recognize there may be an issue. If there was a better understanding of how costly this can be for their pet’s health – and their wallet – then, perhaps we could see a decline in this preventable epidemic.

Why is my pet gaining weight?

There are several reasons why your pet could be overweight, but the root cause is an imbalance between the energy intake and usage. In other words, pets are consuming more calories than they can expend. They key is to find the right balance for your pets breed, age and activity level.

Common reasons why your pet’s weight can increase over time:

• Overfeeding – THE #1 reason: consumption of excess portions, high-caloric diets, frequent treats and/or table scraps.
• Aging – a decrease in activity/exercise due to arthritis and/or some other aging condition, not to mention a natural slowdown in their metabolism.
• Hypothyroidism – a common disease in pets in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroxine. This hormone regulates metabolism and slows it down.
• Insulinoma – rare in cats, a tumour on a dog’s pancreas that results in excessive amounts of insulin being produced – weight gain is a common side effect.
• Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease) – a tumour on the pituitary or adrenal glands causing an overproduction of hormones – usually cortisol – being released causing increased appetite.

What are the benefits of keeping my pet at a healthy weight?

We’re often asked why it’s important to maintain a healthy weight for my pet. The answer is simple: an appropriate weight for your pet’s age, size and breed gives them the best chance of a longer, healthier and pain-free life.

Four (4) Benefits for Maintaining a Pet-Friendly Weight.

• Reduced risk of health issues. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight lowers the risk of kidney disease, high blood pressure, respiratory disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis and some forms of cancer.
• Better quality of life. A healthy weight means that your dog is much more able to stay active, such as long walks or playing with their pals at the local dog park. For cats, playing with toys, employing a cat tower and/or regular catnip indulgences help them burn calories. Extra weight can greatly limit your pet’s mobility and energy levels.
• Longer Life expectancy. A long-term study by Purina of Labrador retrievers from the same litter exhibited that dogs that maintained at a healthy weight lived an average of two years longer than those who were obese. This is closely related to a better quality of life.
• Lower veterinary expenses. Lower risk of health issues can greatly reduce the amount of money needed to treat obesity-related health issues.

What are the health risks associated with obesity in pets?

Why is pet obesity a problem? Plenty of evidence now exists showing that excess weight and fat deposits in dogs and cats is associated with many serious health complications. The most noteworthy consequence of pet obesity is a shorter life expectancy and lowered quality of life. The following list of ailments do NOT necessarily exist in isolation – these conditions can be one link-in-the-chain leading to other adverse medical conditions.

Eight (8) medical conditions common to overweight or obese pets:

 1. Osteoarthritis

Extra weight puts extra pressure on a pet’s joints. When a joint is overloaded, the cartilage breaks down, resulting in arthritis. Pain medications help but weight loss offers more effective, long-lasting relief.

2. Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

Obese pets have fewer working insulin receptors, which leads to a lack of sensitivity to insulin. The relationship between insulin, obesity and longevity is closely entwined. As a general rule, when a pet’s insulin resistance increases, lifespan decreases.

3. High Blood Pressure

Based on current evidence, it’s clear excess weight in dogs and cats can lead to high blood pressure, or hypertension. Having been studied closely for more than 25 years, the link between obesity and high blood pressure is not fully understood.

4. Kidney Disease

Hypertension directly affects the kidney, mostly because it receives nearly one-quarter of the blood pumped by the heart. The exact role obesity plays in kidney disease is still unknown – preventing pet obesity is currently the best treatment advice.

5. Respiratory Disease

Excess fat along the chest wall and abdomen may alter the normal breathing patterns, resulting in uneven and jerky breathing. Many dogs or cats will pant excessively after even a short walk in a desperate attempt to gain more oxygen.

6. Cancer

The relationship between obesity and certain cancers has been growing. At least 13 types of cancers are currently linked to obesity in humans. Animal models used in cancer research and current evidence suggests that obese pets may also be at greater risk for developing cancer.

7. ACL Tears

Carrying too much weight is a well-known risk factor for tearing the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), an important ligament in the knee affecting mobility.

8. Skin Conditions

Overweight pets can have additional skin folds, which can cause irritation (rubbing) and infection (via bacteria). This may lead to scratching and skin redness.

How can I help my pet lose weight? 14 tips to help your overweight pet lose those extra pounds.

This is the eternal question for all pet parents. How can I prevent my pet from becoming overweight? We intuitively all know the answer to this: reaching and maintaining a healthy weight requires a commitment to a healthier lifestyle that achieves a balance between the calories consumed and the calories used by the body for normal functions and activity. Basically, it means decreasing calories and increasing activity levels.

Sounds easy enough on the surface, eh?

What makes this seemingly simple premise challenging is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach or magic pill that will help your pet lose excess weight. What works for one pet doesn’t necessarily work for another pet. What DOES work is a commitment from pet parents to make the change.

Where to start?

 First, helping your pet lose weight is not about you. Our veterinary team’s honest evaluation of your pet’s weight isn’t meant as a judgment – or assessment – of your own level of health or a statement about your pet parenting skills. Our veterinarians have your pet’s best interests in mind and recommendations are based on a commitment to your pet’s optimal health.

Secondly, put your pet’s interests first. All pet parents should have a singular focus: a dedication to their pet’s health and longevity. Does your pet have any medical conditions caused by excess weight? Is there a higher risk of disease or problems because of your pet’s weight? Our veterinarians will provide a professional, candid assessment of your pet’s current health and weight status and will make recommendations on diet and exercise programs.

14 tips to help your overweight pet lose those extra pounds.

1. Regular Exercise.  Our pets are innately energetic. For dogs, activity levels vary by breed but a daily walk of 30 to 60 minutes is a great place to start for optimum health. For indoor cats, toys, laser pointers and cat trees can go a long way in keeping those calories burning.
2. Avoid the temptation to overfeed.  Both dogs and cats are known for their prolific begging skills, but giving in to those sad, puppy eyes or plaintive meows isn’t a good thing for their waistline. Btw, starving a pet is just as bad as overfeeding.
3. Maintain a nutritious and healthy diet.  There are a multitude of healthy diet alternatives and brands to choose from, but a consultation with our veterinarian about the best diet based on your pet’s condition is the best place to start.
4. Eliminate table scraps and high-calorie treats. At the very least, keep these to a minimum and focus on healthier diets and treats. Make no mistake, it’s hard not to give in!
5. Reduce snacks between meals. Calories in treats for pets can really add up. It’s been suggested that they should only make up about 10% of your pet’s caloric intake. As a treat alternative, cut up small pieces of pet-friendly fruits and veggies for tasty treats with fewer calories.
6.  Set realistic goals. When working with our veterinarians, you can develop realistic goals for reducing your pet’s weight over time. Rapid weight loss is NOT healthy, so ask our vets for healthier eating and exercise programs that give a sensible – and safe – rate of weight loss.
7. Make exercise fun. Living a healthy lifestyle benefits everyone in the family, even if you’re a family of one. Finding pleasurable activities you can experience with your pet will always be more fun for everyone.
8. Portion control.  A discussion with our veterinarians about your pet’s dietary requirements is a great place to start. Free pouring or ‘eye-balling’ food portions isn’t going to cut it. Consistently measured portions is a reliable, pet-friendly way to keep the recommended caloric intake steady.
9. Maintain a regular feeding routine. By feeding your pet at the same time every day, they will learn to expect food at that time and be less likely to beg for food throughout the day.
10. Distractions to control appetite. When your pet begs for food, avert their attention to some other activity they enjoy. This could be going for a walk, playing with a toy or simply receiving some love from their favourite pet parent – they never grow tired of this! Correction: some cats do…
11. Don’t eat where you sleep. Leave your pet’s food dish far-removed from their favorite place to relax – this gives them a reason to get up and move during the day.
12. Make them work for their food. To slow the rate of your pet’s food consumption, there are several playthings that you can fill with kibble. The result? It will make your pet put in some effort to obtain their meal. These toys keep them busy and stop them from wolfing down their entire dinner in record time.
13. Monitor progress. Always monitor – and record – your pet’s progress. All weight loss programs, come with successes and the occasional lapse. By monitoring and recording, you can determine what’s working (and what’s not) and make necessary adjustments to the program.
14. !!! Follow veterinary advice !!!. Anytime you make changes to your pet’s diet or lifestyle, it’s imperative to check with our Cabbagetown vets first. Certain breeds, current age, lifestyle and underlying health conditions generally require special dietary and activity considerations when it comes to executing a successful weight loss program.

Conclusion

Deep down, we all know of the risks of carrying a few extra pounds. Despite the awareness of health risks associated with overindulging, poor food choices and lack of exercise, we still tend to ignore – or at least delay – simple tactics we know can benefit our overall health and wellness.

Eat less, exercise more.

However, we shouldn’t let our lack of action and inattention affect the ones that truly depend on us the most – our cherished pets. We simply need to have the awareness and the motivation to act. Hopefully, the motivation of having a happy and healthy pet is enough.

Schedule an appointment with our vets today – we can provide you with the tools and expertise to help your pet live a long and happy life.