Delmarva Unleashed Spring 2013

Vol. 5 Issue 2 - Spring 2013

Unleashed Delmarva

Complimentary

DU’s Open Cover Call

Bark

of the Town Cover Dog,“Magnum” Veterinary Wellness Visits Keep Pet Costs Down An Adoption Primer

Taking a Closer Look My Pet Ate Something. Is It Toxic?

From Our Facebook Page...”Open Cover Call”

Fenway

Willow

Diesel

Seventy-nine dogs competed for the title of “DU Cover Dog,” in our most recent contest. Turn to page 10 for more dogs.

contents Vol. 5 Issue 2 Spring 2013

3 Bark of the Town 4 Spring Events 5 My Pet Ate Something. Meet Levi, new cousin to the DU Canine Staff. Proudly owned by Is It Toxic?

George & Betty Phillips of 6 Taking a Closer Look Selbyville, DE 7 Tailwaggers 8 Adoption Primer 10 DU’s Open Cover Call 16 Veterinary Wellness Visits Keep Pets Costs Down

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Delmarva Unleashed Publisher Sandy Phillips Editor Lou Ann Hill-Davis Creative Sandy Phillips Contributing Writers Carol McConnell, D.V.M., MBA John Maniatty, V.M.D. Advertising Info (410)726-7334 Cover: Magnum, canine host of Ayers Creek Adventures, in Berlin. Looking for something to do with your dog?

Explore the shore in a kayak!

Call ahead for reservations, not all excursions are pet friendly.

888-602-6288. Tell them DU sent you!

Bark of the Town Does your dog have hotspots?

Beach Etiquette for Dog Owners

Check your dog food for wheat or corn. They the most common offenders. Many dogs are allergic to fleas, be sure to institute a good preventive program. Grass is a big offender for many dogs and is the most difficult to contend with. If you think your dog may have grass allergies, talk to your vet about a possible solution for your individual situation.

Weekend Get-Away?

Looking for a weekend get-away before the crowds come to the shore? These OC hotels will be delighted to accommodate both you and your pet.

Madison Beach The Barefoot Mailman 410-289-6900 410-289-5343 The Knights Inn Clarion Fountainbleau 410-289-6900 410-524-3535 Safari Comfort Suites 410-289-6411 410-213-7171 Windjammer Condos Fenwick Inn 410-289-9409 410-250-1100 Dogs are also welcome at Frontier Town and Fort Whaley Campgrounds!

The crowds are thin before the start of the beach season and there is still time to head to the beach with your dog. No longer confined to the “doggie” beaches, you can run for miles along the shore. What could be more fun on a spring day than a romp on the beach? Whether your dog enjoys chasing the waves, running the shoreline, or just rolling in the sand, the cooler days at the beach were made for fetching by the sea.

Ocean City and Bethany Beach permit furry four legged visitors on the beach during the off season, through April 31.

There’s more room to run, and frisbee’s are much easier to catch, when there are not sun bathers to navigate.

Although these etiquette tips apply in most social situations, they come into particular play when at the beach.

1. Scoop your poop - Always pick up immediately after Fido makes a deposit and then dispose of the waste in a garbage receptacle. Nothing is worse than enjoying the day barefoot on the beach and stepping in doggie doo. Clean up laws are strictly enforced at our beaches.

2. Obey the leash laws - Some dog-friendly beaches and boardwalk areas are “on-leash” only. This helps to prevent unwanted confrontations between other dogs and people. Look for signs in the area you are visiting.

3. Be sure your dog is under control at all times. Your dog must reliably respond to your voice commands, particularly off-leash.

Do not allow your dog to approach other people or pets unless invited to do so. Not everyone welcomes an enthusiastic greeting by a wet and sandy dog.

4. Know when it’s time to go home – An hour at the beach can be exhausting, even for a high-energy pooch, particularly if they are doing a great deal of swimming and ball chasing. If your dog shows signs that he’s tired or has just plain had enough interaction, call it a day. Leave while your dog is happy and let him look forward to your next trip to the beach!

Spring 2013

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Spring Events April 27

May 11

Boardwalkin’ for Pets The Worcester County Humane Society is hosting its 13th Annual Boardwalkin’ for Pets event on Saturday, April 28, rain or shine, on the Boards at the Inlet in Ocean City. The event is from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Participants collect pledges from family, friends, co-workers etc.. and walk with their dog either 2.5 miles or a 5 mile course on the boardwalk. Dog bandanas and t-shirts are available for different pledge amounts. Prizes are awarded for the top fun raisers.

There are also contest to participate in, including Largest Dog, Smallest Dog, Best Dressed Pet, Best Trick and more. Prizes are awarded to the winners in each category. Activities begin at 9 a.m. with pet contests starting at 9:30 a.m. Pet contests include Largest Dog, Smallest Dog, Best Dressed, Pet and Owner Look alike, Best Trick, and Sloppiest kiss. Prizes are awarded to the winners.

There will be raffle tickets for large cash prizes and seperate raffles for a Ravens beach bike donated by Ken and Joanne Hixon, as well as a tackle box donated by Fish Tales.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Worcester County Humane Society, a non-profit, no-killer shelter heavily dependent on donations. Fund are used for the care of the animals, including veterinary care. For more information contact the shelter at 410-213-0146.

Cause for Paws The Wicomico Humane Society will host it’s annual Cause for Paws, Saturday, May 11. This event is rain or shine and will take place at the Humane Society at 5130 Citation Drive, Salisbury.

Pledge sheets are available at the shelter and online at www.wicomicohumane.org. Prices are awarded for the top fundraising team and to the team with the most creative T-shirt.

There will be plenty of food, craft vendors, pet costume contest, professional dog demonstrations and raffles.

All proceeds benefit the Wicomico Humane Society and help support 1000’s of dogs that come through their door each year.

Local Dining With Your Dog We are often asked at DU about places to take your dog for dinner. The unfortunate answer is that there are no restaurants on the shore that allow dogs inside of the building to dine. Many restaurants that offer outside dining also frown upon Fido joining you for dinner.

The good news is, there may be a change on the horizon. We’ll keep you posted. For now, our dogs will have to enjoy the backyard barbeque. Follow us on Facebook for any updates occuring before our next issue.

Quality, climate controlled lodging with 24 hour care.

Flexible hours by appointment only Because your pets deserve the best.

410-835-BARK (2275) www.southpawwillards.com

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Ocean City Ocean View & Animal Hospital Animal Hospital Quality Medicine with a Caring Heart

John Maniatty, V.M.D. Anne Flood, D.V.M. MaryHelen Staruch, V.M.D. Brendan Moulder, D.V.M. 410.213.1170

11843 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City

www.oceancityvet.com

Available M-Th. 24 hrs.

Open Fri. & Sat. Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets & pocket pets.

302.539.2273

118 Atlantic Ave., Suite 101, Ocean View, DE

www.oceanviewanimalhospital.com

My Pet Ate Something. Is It Toxic?

by John Maniatty, V.M.D.

T

his is one of the most common calls we get at the veterinary hospital.

When a person calls, we need to know how much was ingested, ingredients, and how long ago did it occur. The last part is usually tough to gauge because it usually happens when pet owners have been out of the home for a while. Once we know these details, we can then devise a treatment plan.

Some of the common toxic foods we encounter are chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes/raisins, xylitol, coffee, macadamia nuts, and moldy foods. Chocolate contains both caffeine and theobromine, which are classified as methylxanthines.

The purer the chocolate, the higher the quantity of methylxanthines, i.e. Bakers chocolate is greater then semi sweet, which is greater then milk chocolate.

If ingested in high enough quantities, we can see tremors, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, urination, seizures and even death. Emergency treatment is to induce vomiting, activated charcoal to decrease absorption, medicines to lower heart rate if elevated, and fluids. Caffeine is reabsorbed in the bladder from the urine, so a urinary catheter may Onions and garlic raw, cooked, or powdered are toxic to both cats and dogs.

Garlic is more potent then onion and concentrated powdered forms. Garlic powder, onion powder, and onion soup mix are more potent then raw garlic itself. They contain a chemical which causes oxidative damage to the red blood cells and they could burst. This results in anemia which can be life threatening. Treatment is to induce vomiting if recent ingestion, activated charcoal, and if needed, a blood transfusion. We monitor red blood cell counts and do blood smears to determine if damage is still being done, for 5 days. In 10-14, the red blood cell county is typically back to normal.

Grapes/Raisins in sufficient quantity will cause kidney failure in dogs and cats.

The portion of the grape/raisin which is toxic, and why it affects the kidney is unknown at this time. This makes it difficult to determine what grape products; i.e. grape seed extract, grape peel extract, grape juice, are toxic. I have seen many dogs receive supplements with grape seed extract with out problems, but this could be due to such a low quantity at the dosing prescribed that it is not toxic but at greater quantity could be.

Clinically we see within 6-12 hours vomiting and depression. Blood work may show elevated renal values, and treatment is to induce vomiting if recent ingestion and IV fluids for 48 hours. Rechecking kidney values at 24 and 48 hours, and 48 hours after discharge.

Xylitol is sugar substitute found in many brands of sugar-free gums, candies, cakes, and cookies. Toxicity has been noted in dogs only causing excessive insulin release which results in low blood sugar. It also damages the liver. Clinically we see vomiting, lethargy, weakness, collapse, seizures, and coma. Treatment like other toxins is induce vomiting if recent ingestion and not already occurred, activated charcoal, and IV fluids.

If blood sugar is low, the fluids will contain sugar to raise the value back to normal.

Treatment of the liver damage is based on severity and clinical symptoms.

Coffee beans, plain or chocolate covered, and unused grounds contain caffeine. As in chocolate the caffeine is the toxic component. Clinical signs and treatment are the same as chocolate.

Macadamia nuts are eaten plain, in cookies, or in candy and the toxic mechanism is unknown and is only toxic to dogs. Presenting complaints are dogs that are weak, lethargic, vomiting, febrile, and tremors. Symptoms occur with in 12 hours of ingestion.

Treatment is similar to the others with induce vomiting, activated charcoal, and supportive care. With in 24-48 hours your dog should be back to normal.

Moldy food can also be toxic depending on the type of mold growing. Certain molds produce mycotoxins. Symptoms of mycotoxin toxicity are muscle tremors, ataxia, and convulsions. Depending on the amount and potency of the mycotoxin, these symptoms can be mild to life threatening. Treatment consists of inducing vomiting, activated charcoal, diazepam (valium) to control seizures, and methocarbamol to relax the muscles so the tremors will stop, and supportive care.

If caught early enough, and with aggressive treatment, the prognosis is good for all these toxicities. Preventative care is the best medicine. Put food away or high enough that they cannot reach it, and make sure to place garbage in closed areas which your pet cannot open.

Spring 2013 Delmarva Unleashed 5

Taking a Closer Look

by Sandy Phillips

A

fter losing two dogs to cancer in 18 months, I began to take a closer look at the environment where our dogs reside. I have always been a stickler about their diets, feeding them only high-quality food. In fact, this past year Marla and Max have only eaten high quality “grain free.” What to feed your dog remains a very controversial topic, but with all the research I have done regarding their diet, I don’t think diet is a real contributing factor to the health crisis. First we ruled out their water, as they only drink distilled. There is the off chance that we just had the unfortunate situation twice, but I’m now taking a closer look at doggie lifestyle here on our farm, if only for peace of mind, making certain we’re doing everything we can to provide a healthy environment for our entire family.

My vet suggested I take a look at the chemicals we use.

Truth is, it was an easy task, since we mostly use a holistic approach for all of our animals. However, we are guilty of using two chemicals, one which is sprayed about six inches around the perimeter of our barn, annually for crawly things, and a weed killer for our drive. Since I’m sure I have never seen the dogs directly along the barn wall, the weed killer became the suspicious culprit.

We read the “safe for pets” label clearly and use it according to the instructions. We also confine the dogs to the house until the product has had time to dry, at least an hour. Case closed?

You can search the internet time and time again, and will always find an animal that is allergic or sensitive to a variety of products, but known carcinogens are repeat offenders.

While the weed killer company promotes the main ingredient, glyphosate as “safe” according to the FDA, I have discovered that contamination levels by known carcinogens can occasionally be found in the product. This brings up the question about quality control, and a question regarding the testing for contaminants. Even if they are monitored for carcinogens, how do they correlate to canines? To small or toy breeds? What about repeated exposure? What is the rate of absorption via the paw and skin? Does the chemical reactivate after rain? Does the waiting period for your dog to frequent the treated area begin all over again if the weed killer has been reactivated with water? I understand that some canine oncologists can identify groups of dogs with a variety of cancers, where all dogs in the

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group are living in developments with lawns treated on a regular basis with weed killer. Stats don’t lie.

There are just too many questions for my comfort level. I watched two painful cancer-related deaths, one from Mast Cell and the other a brain tumor. My goal now is to eliminate the one potential problem from our farm. Could there be other hidden contributing factors? Of course, science learns more each day about cancer and carcinogens, and there may always be something lurking about to derail your dog’s health.

The good news is there are alternative choices. Common household vinegar can be used as an effective weed killer. Great for sidewalks and driveways, household vinegar contains 5% acetic acid and works by degrading the waxy layer on the weed’s leaves.

It can be used in combination with lemon juice or salt and applied during the heat of the day for maximum effectiveness. This mixture will kill grass, so stick to the sidewalk and drive with this mixture. Also, if you make the switch to an all-natural weed killer, start with a brand new sprayer. Your old one containing the chemical weed killer is contaminated.

Salt is another weed killer. It essentially burns the tissue of the weed and causes it to die. Rock salt allows you to specifically target the weed itself, so you don’t kill nearby grass. Hot salt water will work too, but again should not be broadcast when grass is nearby.

According to Iowa State University, Corn Gluten Meal is becoming a popular alternative to chemical weed killers. With careful timing, and before the emergence of a mature plant, corn gluten meal inhibits the seedlings ability to properly form a root system, resulting in the death of the weed. Corn gluten meal also provides beneficial nitrogen to the soil and serves as a natural “weed and feed” product.

I’ve spoken with many dog owners lately who have witnessed the tragedy of losing a dog to cancer. They are a great deal of similarities in their battles and quest for answers. It’s the very same in humans. “Why” is always top of mind. While we cannot protect our pets from everything, we can review diet and environmental factors which may be contributing factors, and keep their risk of exposure to carcinogens to a minimum.

Tailwaggers

"Death ends a life, not a relationship." _Jack Lemmon

New from Cloud Star Cloud Star, the leader in USA-made, all natural pet products and makers of Buddy Biscuits®, is pleased to announce its newest treat line, Dynamo Dog™ Functional Treats. Dynamo Dog Functional Treats are formulated for a dog’s specific needs and infused with specially-selected vitamins, minerals, fruits, vegetables and herbs to help support joint function, digestive health, or skin and coat health. MSRP for a 5oz resealable bag is $6.95 and a 14oz resealable bag is $15.95.

New from Planet Dog The Cosmos collection features three dog balls of different shapes, sizes and colors: Sol.; Luna.; and Ringo. They may be inspired from out of this world, but they are made in the USA and are doggie-durable, buoyant, bouncy, minty, recyclable, non-toxic and 100% guaranteed.

Designed for bigger dogs and representing the sun, the 5” translucent orange Sol. is the largest ball in the Cosmos collection. Planet Dog offers the moon to medium and smaller sized dogs with the 4” glow-in-the dark Luna. Any dog will be star struck by the unpredictable bounces of the 3” emerald green Ringo. with its Saturn-style ring. MSRP: Prices vary with size.

With all the water on the shore this winter, we checked out an alternative solution to the stack of towels near the back door.

From Soggy Doggy Productions, a great doormat! This attractive rug, made from microfiber chenille, soaks up water and dirt like a sponge. It’s exceptionally durable, yet velvety-soft and complete with a non-slip backing. Machine wash and dry on low. Available in a variety of colors and sizes. Prices vary with size. Look for Soggy Doggy towels too!

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Spring 2013

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An Adoption Primer

by Sandy Phillips

Delmarva Unleashed Presents Cover Model Search at Bark in the Park!

May 5 Delmarva Shorebirds Bark in the Park

“Like” us on Facebook for more details.

Save with a Model Search & Stadium Ticket Combo available only in advance at DelmarvaUnleashed.com 8

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T

wo years ago, when it was time for a new dog in our family, we made the decision to adopt. Since we had purchased our first dog from a breeder, we were very new to the adoption process and weren’t really sure what to expect. I visited a local shelter to see the available dogs and was pleasantly surprised to find puppies. Puppies are popular with many people who embrace the experience of raising a puppy, but there were also a lot of mature dogs that could steal your heart. Adult dogs are plentiful in shelters and do have great perks; they have already been house broken and have some level of social skills and training. Many are there through no fault of their own, and for a variety of reasons, such as difficult financial situations, military moves and more. Of course there are strays and dogs that have been removed from homes where they were not properly cared for.

The process begins when you browse the available dogs. Most of the area shelters have prospective pets online. There you will find a photo or two of the dog and often with a paragraph where the shelter shares information they already know about the dog.

Some area shelters have an extensive foster program and can offer information about how adoptable dogs interact with children, cats and other dogs. They can also provide more accurate information about personalities, habits and preferences of individual dogs.

If you find a dog online you would like to meet, call the shelter to arrange a visit. Shelter hours vary, and you will want to be sure there is no pending application on that particular animal. At the shelter, you will have the opportunity to interact with the dog.

Many shelters suggest bringing an existing canine family member to meet the prospective dog. It’s much better to discover rivalry issues before taking home a real challenge.

If you find your existing dog is not a fan of your number one adoption choice, keep an open mind. Family harmony is of great value and there are lots of dogs to choose from.

There is an application process. This form will ask questions about your home, yard, other pets living with you, children, etc. You will also be required to provide character references and the name of your existing vet, if you have other pets. Shelters are looking for responsible adults which will provide optimum care for their adoptees.

The process takes about 48 hours at most shelters. You will make your application based on a particular dog, and the evaluation process takes a look at how that particular dog will fit into your family. Little things come into play, like whether or not your choice of dog is suited to your situation. Some breeds need lots of room to run and might not do as well in an apartment. Others don’t do well with children and might not be a fit if you have young ones at home.

Staff in charge of adoption at shelters have lots of experience placing dogs and have everyone’s best interest at heart.

The cost of adoption is nominal when you take a close look at what you get for your money. Prices range depending on the animals age. Puppies are often a bit more expensive, but your fees include 1 or 2 sets of puppy shots and spay/neuter. Pets in shelters are tested for parasites, including heartworm in dogs and illnesses like FIV in cats. Some shelters will foster dogs during heartworm treatment and adopt them after the process is complete. Most of all they will fill you in on the details and you will take home a healthy dog. All of these expenses are included in the cost of adopting the pet and would, in most cases, cost you a great deal more a la carte.

Fees also cover micro-chipping, in case your pet becomes lost, and some shelters include a county license as well. At the Delaware SPCA in Georgetown, your adoption fee also covers a “well check” at a participating vet 7-10 days after your new family member has setteled in. It offers you peace of mind that your pet is healthy and provides the shelter with valuable feedback about some of the services they provide.

Dog or pet adoption is not something you do on a whim. You need to take a close look at your family and home dynamic and take time to explore the wide variety of dogs available for adoption.

Visit shelter web sites frequently. Candidates available for adoption can change on a daily basis. Shelters never know what will come through the door on any given day. Facilities also transfer dogs and cats for maximum exposure and optimum home placement. What you see today online may be very different tomorrow. There are also national sites like petfinder.com which allow you to explore shelter residents outside of our area. We recommend paying attention to their rules; some will only adopt within a stipulated radius of the shelter. Other shelter or rescues will fly dogs to local facilities within a network, for a fee.

Our adoption process, with DU dog Marla, was a wonderful experience. DU dog Max joined us for the visitation and the staff of Wicomico Humane was just wonderful. They allowed us to interact with several puppies and offered suggestions based on their observations of dog interaction. It was a warm and friendly environment where you could clearly see that everyone involved genuinely cared for the shelter residents and wanted to see an optimum outcome.

When Marla came home, she and Max hit if off beautifully. We feel it’s because we took the time to get to know her a bit beforehand and prepared for her to join our family. I’m confident careful review will provide the same outcome for your family when it’s time for a new family member in your home.

While adoption is not for everyone, it should be an option when considering a family addition. Worcester County Animal Control adopts dogs who have not been claimed by their owners and often pick up purebred strays. While we can’t explain why someone would not be looking for these dogs, it does broaden the adoption options and dispels stories that you can only adopt mixed breeds at shelters.

To begin the search for your new pet, refer to the side-bar here for more information.

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Local Shelters Delaware SPCA Georgetown www.delspca.org—302-856-6361 Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary www.safehavende.org—302-856-6460 Talbot Humane www.talbothumane.org—410-822-0107 Wicomico Humane www.wicomicohumane.org—410-749-7603 Worcester County Animal Control www.co.worcester.md.us/wsco/animalctrl.aspx 410-632-1340 Worcester Humane www.worcestercountyhumanesociety.com 410-213-0146 Spring 2013

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D

DU’s Open Cover Call

elmarva Unleashed recently held an “Open Cover Call.”

Readers were asked to submit a photo of their dog for the competition. This was a true popularity contest held on Facebook. Very simply, the dog with the most “likes” won. Contest winner, Clubber Bubber will appear on the cover of a future issue of DU. Not only did he win the title, “DU Cover Model,” but a professional shoot with photographer Kyle Hughes of Next Wave Studios. It was a great deal of fun, lots of great dogs with cover potential, unfortunately only won winner. Thank you to all of our participants!

DU would like to extend special recognition to those dogs with a very impressive showing.

Koda 384

Seal 292 10

Delmarva Unleashed

Tyson 189 Spring 2013

Lincoln 111

Molly 105

Tank 131

Buoy 100

Winner and DU Cover Model Clubber Bubber with 626 “likes.”

Pip

Toby Keith

Ozie

Snoopy

Yanda Bo

Eilee Bella

Trimper

Sophia Nanners Spring 2013

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Abby

Grubbs Leah

Mandy

Porter Barcus

London Freckles Macy

Maiya Rascal

Lucy Lou Ares

Sadie Diesel

Darby

Rasin 12

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Marley

McDonald

Bailey

Dixie Maddie Lynn

Jazzy Biloxi

Lulu

Ginger

Coco Pickles

Cash

Drake Charcoal Armani

Lulu

Auggie Doggie Spring 2013

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Winchester Raina

Maggie

River

Samantha

Harry Winston

Dillinger

Doop

Sable

Ruger

Darby

Gauge 14

Delmarva Unleashed

Maya Spring 2013

Abby

Riley Rae Baretta

Lizzie

Jazzabelle

Onyx Remington

Boss

Buck Rusty

Chloe

Torque

Bailey

Spring 2013

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Veterinary Wellness Visits Keep Pet Costs Down

by Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA

P P

et owners can save hundreds and even thousands of dollars on veterinary costs each year by taking pets to their veterinarian for routine examinations. Preventive care is one of the most important factors for pet owners to maintain their pet’s health, and has the added benefit of minimizing total expenses on veterinary care. Nose-to-tail wellness examinations are an excellent way of catching any potential - and likely expensive - problems early on. Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, recently sorted its database of more than 485,000 insured pets to determine costs associated with the most common preventive canine and feline conditions in 2012. Following is a cost analysis of the five most common ailments that can be avoided through preventive care: Dental Diseases Definition: Diseases caused by, or directly related to inflammation or infection of the gums or teeth due to overgrowth of bacteria.

Examples: Tooth infection or cavity and periodontal disease.

Average cost per pet to treat: $531.71 Average cost per pet to prevent: $171.82 Prevention tips: Routine dental care, such as brushing teeth or feeding pet foods designed to help reduce dental tarter, can result in improved overall health. The most effective preventive treatment for dental disease is a professional teeth cleaning which will remove plaque buildup and tarter before it leads to more serious oral issues, such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Internal Parasites Definition: A parasite is a plant or animal that lives within another living organism (called the host). Pets may acquire conditions caused directly by a parasite or the pet's response to the parasite living within its body.

Examples: Round worms, tape worms and giardia.

Average cost per pet to treat: $179.93 Average cost per pet to prevent: $29.51 Prevention tips: Keep your pet and the environment free of fleas. Clean up your pet's feces immediately, and eliminate exposure to the feces of other animals when your pet goes for a walk. As recommended by your veterinarian, annual fecal exams and preventive medications can greatly reduce the chance of a parasitic infestation.

16 Delmarva Unleashed Spring 2013

External Parasites Definition: A plant or animal that lives upon another living organism. Pets may acquire conditions caused directly by a parasite or the pet's response to the parasite or its bite. Some conditions are the result of a toxin or organism (e.g. bacteria, virus, etc.) transmitted by the parasite which can cause an illness.

Examples: Heartworms transmitted by mosquitoes, Lyme disease transmitted by ticks and flea allergic dermatitis.

Average cost per pet to treat: $180.67 Average cost per pet to prevent: $84.89 Prevention tips: Keep your pet and the environment free of fleas and ticks. Thoroughly check your pets after outdoor activities and remove any ticks you find with a pair of tweezers. As recommended by your veterinarian, use preventive medications and vaccines to limit your pet's exposure to fleas, ticks and the diseases they carry.

Infectious Diseases Definition: Conditions transmitted via bite or contact with another animal which carries a transmittable or communicable disease (virus, bacteria, fungi, etc). Transmission of disease can occur in various ways including physical contact, contaminated food, body fluids, objects, airborne inhalation, or through biological vectors (any agent that carries and transmits an infectious pathogen into another living organism).

Examples: Parvovirus, Lyme disease and feline leukemia virus.

Average cost per pet to treat: $678.24 Average cost per canine to prevent using core vaccines: $85.14 Average cost per feline to prevent using core vaccines: $73.52 Prevention tips: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent contraction of common canine and feline infectious diseases. A vaccination protocol will be recommended by your veterinarian, which may include additional vaccines based on your pet's exposure risk (e.g. outside cat, area with high prevalence of ticks, etc). Keep your pet and the environment free of fleas and ticks to limit exposure to organisms that external parasites carry. In addition, keep your pet away from any other animals that may be sick.

MILLVILLE’S Reproductive Organ Diseases Definition: A reproductive organ is any of the anatomical parts of a pet's body which are involved in sexual reproduction. Pets may develop conditions caused by, or directly related to, the pet having intact reproductive organs.

Examples: Pyometra (infection of uterus), prostatitis (infection or inflammation of prostate gland) and ovarian neoplasia.

Average cost per pet to treat: $531.98 Average cost per pet to prevent: $260.69 Prevention tips: Spay (removal of the ovaries and uterus of a female pet) or neuter (removal of the testicles of a male pet) your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.

“As the data above shows, regular pet preventive care can significantly lower potential costs,” said Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “Similar to ensuring that all members of the family see their doctor regularly for wellness visits, it’s just as important for pets. Taking preventive measures can avoid more serious and expensive medical conditions from arising down the road and helps keep our furry, four-legged family members on track for a long and healthy life.”

PET ST P

The One Stop for All Your Pet Supply Needs Your Premiun Pet Food Store

Open 7 Days a Week Mon.-Fri. - 9:00a.m. to 7:00p.m.

Sat. & Sun. - 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. ffer We O g too!

35167 Atantic Ave/Rt 26, Millville, DE min Groo

302-539-9382 millvillepetstop.com

The Wicomico County Humane Society Presents...

19th Annual Cause for Paws

• • • • •

Saturday May 11th,

10-1 Wicomico Humane Society

food craft vendors pet costume contest raffles K-9 demonstrations

Pledge sheets will be available at the shelter by March 15 or online at www.wicomicohumane.org

• Walk with your friends • Form a team at work Form a team with your family • Collect donations • Walk with or without a pet For more information, contact the Wicomico County Humane Society

5130 Citation Drive, Salisbury

• Help support 1000’s of animals that come through our door every year!

• Prizes for the top fundraising team & the most creative T-shirt.

410-749-7603 © Delmarva Unleashed

Spring 2013

Delmarva Unleashed

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