Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs

Did you know that some of the larger breeds dogs (i.e. the Golden and the German Shepherd) can develop muscle related illnesses as they age? A common illness is known as DM or Degenerative Myelopathy. This is an incurable disease that affects the nerve and spinal cord and eventually causes loss of movement and a loss of feeling or numbness in the legs. Some have compared it to ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease. DM in dogs can be fatal, chronic, progressive and (as the name suggests) degenerative with an ultimate ending of paralysis. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s mobility and look out for signs like trouble moving, getting up and down, taking stairs, or even the lack of want to move. The disease often occurs later in life. With no treatment available, your veterinarians Westminster, MD may prescribe medication to keep your dog comfortable.

Fly Control for Horses

Flies can be pests. They not only bother people and pets, but they also bother livestock including horses, cows, donkeys, alpacas and more. If you own a horse then it’s very important to make sure you have adequate fly spray for your horse. Before shopping for spray, talk to your vet to find out if he has any specific recommendations. If you’re looking for all natural, check your grain store and livestock stores and check online at horse outlet stores and horse suppliers. Most horses will do well with a regular spray that is water and sweat resistant and has a lifespan of about 14 days. This means you don’t have to spray it on every day as it won’t wear off or wash off. Look for sprays that treat gnats, stable flies, mosquitoes, black flies, and ticks. These will be the best bet for an all around fly spray. Ask your veterinarian Mt. Airy, MD for help as well.

Did You Know? The American Bobtail

Bet you didn’t know that the American Bobtail is a favorite pet among long distance travelers and even long distance truck drivers. That’s right, this cat loves car rides and loves to travel. If you spend a lot of time on the road for work or fun and you want to add a feline friend to the mix then check into the American Bobtail. The key, of course, is to introduce him to the road at a young age. But even if you don’t, this breed takes to new things pretty well. The American Bobtail also enjoys a nice day at home and going nowhere. They get along well with people of all ages and love to hang out with fellow felines and canine companions. The bobtail is playful, affectionate, and loves to be part of the crowd or on his own. They breed is easy going. Talk to your veterinary clinic Riverbend, ON to learn more.

Can Diabetes Occur in American Bobtails?

Sadly, feline diabetes doesn’t really care what kind of cat you are or how many lives you have left. Feline diabetes can affect cats of all ages and all breeds including the American Bobtail. The diabetes disease can happen in cats when their body isn’t producing the right amount of insulin. Insulin is a hormone in the body that’s used to regulate the body’s energy levels, blood sugar levels, etc. When insulin isn’t produced, the glucose is no longer regulated correctly through the bloodstream and into the cells of the body. When this happens the body breaks down fat and proteins instead. Cats with diabetes may lose weight suddenly, stop drinking, drink more, become lethargic, etc. If you are concerned with your cat getting diabetes, make an appointment with your veterinarians London, ON. Your vet will most likely run a urinalysis and run blood work to determine a cause and provide treatment.

Choosing a brush for your cat

You have a cat in your life who loves being able to spend her time in your care. This means taking the time to meet her needs so she can stay content in this space. This makes you wonder – what should you consider when choosing a brush for her so you can get the job done right?

Your pet needs to be able to understand the fact that there are a ton of different brushes out there but only a few will be ideal for her. Consider her fur type and preferences when looking at your options. You can narrow them down further by considering your own likes and dislikes when it comes to how the brushes feel in your hand and how they perform. Your local veterinarian Newmarket, ON can help you care for your pet. Learn more here.

Is your cat uncomfortable around guests?

You have a feline friend in your life and you want to make sure you are able to offer her a home she can be comfortable in. However, your little fur ball seems to disappear when you have guests over. How can you help her during these times?

Your pet needs you to understand that there are some times when she is feeling unsure of herself, and being in new situations and around new people can impact her sense of security. You can help her with this by making her feel at ease in your home and by encouraging your guests to interact with your pet in a way she will be comfortable with. This may mean having them give her some space until she is ready to interact with them. Your local Newmarket, ON vet clinic can help you better understand what your pet needs from you.

Dangers Of Second-Hand Smoke For Pets

Second-hand smoke refers to smoke that smokers’ exhales into the air which can then be inhaled by everyone around, including pets. On the other hand, third-hand smoke is the residue that sticks to fur, skin, clothing, etc. The smoke residues remain long after the air has been cleared of smoke. Both secondhand and third-hand smoke are referred to as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).

Studies have shown that there is an increased risk of developing malignant lymphoma in cats that are exposed to ETS. The risk was 2.5 times higher in cats living in households with ETS exposure compared to cats living in smoke-free households. The risk relatively increases with the length of exposure to ETS. There is also strong evidence that suggests a strong link between the occurrence of oral cancers in cats and exposure to third-hand smoke. Cats can get smoke residue that have attached to their skin which damages their oral tissues eventually leading to oral cancer.

Sudden changes in your pet’s health and/or behavior should warrant an appointment with your veterinary clinic Cherry Hill, NJ.