PETS Magazine | May/June 2015

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MAY/JUNE 2015 | $4.95 | www.petsmagazine.ca

Guide to

PREVENTIVE HEALTH • • • • •

Choosing the right diet Avoiding summer dangers Household toxicity horrors Oral health Vaccines & deworming

HOW TO CHOOSE

THE RIGHT KENNEL

SURVIVING

LYME DISEASE

PLUS: COPING WITH NOISE PHOBIAS • HEARTS, LOST AND FOUND

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PETS M A G A Z I N E WWW.PETSMAGAZINE.CA M AY/ J U N E 2 0 1 5 , V O L . 3 2 , N O . 3

SIMMONS PUBLISHING LTD. Publisher

John Simmons john.simmons@petsmagazine.ca

Managing Editor

Brad Hussey brad.hussey@petsmagazine.ca

Advertising Sales

Glenn Ward glenn.wardmediapartners@rogers.com

Art Director Billing/Administration Circulation

Mark Tzerelshtein markintoshdesign.com Linda Simmons linda.simmons@petsmagazine.ca

EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Kristina Cooper, RVT, Cooper Kennels, Ancaster, ON Dr. Dieter Kohlmaier, Westoak Animal Hospital, Oakville, ON Dr. Darren Low, Kennedy Animal Hospital, Sydney, NS Kerry Vinson, Animal Behaviour Professional, Roseneath, ON Dr. Christina McRae, King Street Cat Hospital, Whitby, ON Dr. Cliff Redford, Wellington Vet Clinic, Markham, ON PETS Magazine is published six times a year by Simmons Publishing Ltd. ISSN: 0831-2621 To subscribe to PETS, contact Linda Simmons Toll Free: 877-738-7624 or visit us on the Web at:

www.petsmagazine.ca Subscription Rates: Canadian 1 year: $23.00 (plus applicable taxes) 1 year U.S.: $30.00 (U.S.); Single Copy: $4.95 GST#857545362

Publications Mail Agreement #41305514

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Simmons Publishing Ltd. 32 Foster Crescent Whitby, Ontario L1R 1W1 (905) 665-9669: Fax (905) 665-9249 E-mail: circulation@petsmagazine.ca Contents of PETS Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written consent of Simmons Publishing Ltd. The publisher shall not be liable for any of the views expressed by the authors of articles or letters published in PETS Magazine, nor shall these opinions necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Printed in Canada.

C O N T E N T S

FEATURE

DEPARTMENTS

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How to Choose the Right Kennel Hitting the open road this summer and can’t take your pets with you? Here are some tips on finding the best place for them to have their own vacation.

Making Tracks PETS Marketplace The Healthy Bond Joyful Tails Paws for Reflection

Guide to

PREVENTIVE HEALTH

8 Don’t Skip the Annual Health Checkup Your veterinarian team is your #1 resource for preventing illness.

10 Keep Your Dog Safe this Summer Top tips for enjoying the outdoors together.

11 Give Prevention a Shot: Vaccine Basics Science proves it — short-term pain brings long-term gain.

12 Minimize Disease Vectors in Your Yard Here’s what you need to know to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

13 The Toxic Household Be extra cautious when dealing with possible toxicities around the house — some may surprise you.

14 Deworming: Essential for Your Pet’s Health (and Yours) Parasites are a fact of life for our pets and have to be dealt with — some can pose a human health risk.

15 Oral Health is Whole Body Health Dental care is as important for the overall health of pets as it is for people.

16 Beat the Heat with Indoor Games The best time to walk your pup in summer is in the early morning and in the evening when temperatures are cooler — but that doesn’t mean you and your dog can’t have fun in between!

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M A K I N G

T R A C K S

NEWS | PRODUCTS | REVIEWS

HUMAN MEDICATIONS TOP THE LIST OF ASPCA ANIMAL POISON CONCERNS >> The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and its Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) recently revealed that human medications again top the list of toxins most commonly ingested by pets, according to cases handled by the APCC. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, headquartered in Urbana, Ill., handled more than 167,000 cases in 2014 involving pets exposed to possibly poisonous substances. Nearly 16% of those calls were from owners whose pets got into medicines intended for human use, putting this category at the top of the toxin list for the seventh straight year.

“Just like children, our pets explore the world with their mouths. Unfortunately, our pets are much stronger and agile, with the ability to chew right through pill containers or jump to typically out-of-reach hiding places,” said Dr. Tina Wismer, medical director of the APCC. “It is so important to keep all potential toxins completely out of reach, and to take your pills behind a closed door away from your pets,” Dr. Wismer advises. “If you drop your medication, your dog can scoop it up quicker than you can say ‘poison’.”

The top 10 calls into the APCC in 2014 involved the following toxins, ranked in order of call volume:

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• Human prescription medications topped the list again with 16% of all calls. The types of medications pets are most often exposed to appear to correlate with the most popular medications prescribed to humans.

• Over-the-counter medications, which includes herbal and other natural supplements, attracted greater concern this year than in previous years resulting in approximately 25,000 calls. This category is exceptionally large, encompassing over 6,900 different products.

• Insecticides dropped to the third slot this year, with 9.1% of the calls to the APCC (15,000 cases). These products can be very dangerous if the label directions are not followed.

• Household items were the cause for concern in more than 13,500 cases. Paints and cleaning products are the most common items for this category of calls.

• Human foods are especially appealing to pets, especially dogs. Dogs can get into serious trouble by ingesting onions, garlic, grapes, raisins and xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be life-threatening for animals. Approximately 13,200 cases involved human foods in 2014.

• Veterinary medications made up 7% of total cases in 2014. People need to be aware that chewable medications are very tasty and pets might ingest an entire

bottle if it is not kept out of their reach.

• Chocolate ingestion is very common (this is the only category with one item in it).

At the APCC, chocolate calls make up 6% of their total call volume — over 30 calls a day! The darker the chocolate, the more potential it has to do harm.

• Plants represent approximately 5% of the calls to the APCC and moved up a spot since 2014. Most of these calls involve cats and houseplants.

• Rodenticides are made to kill mice and rats, but they can also kill pets if ingested.

APCC handled more than 7,500 cases involving rodenticides last year.

• Lawn and garden products round out the top ten, accounting for about 2.7% of all calls. Many of these exposures occurred because people did not store lawn and garden products out of the reach of pets.

In addition to sharing its list of the top toxins of 2014, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center also released a new mobile app — APCC by ASPCA. Featuring a searchable database of more than 275 toxins, as well as helpful information for owners of dogs, cats, horses and birds, the free app helps pet owners quickly and accurately identify common household hazards, toxic and nontoxic plants, potentially harmful medications, as well as warm and cold weather hazards.

The app also features high resolution images, potential symptoms for each identified toxin or substance, a built-in rodenticide poison calculator and a chocolate wheel to help determine if your pet has gotten into dangerous amounts of chocolate. In addition, the app also gives pet owners one-touch access to the Animal Poison Control Center’s telephone hotline, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Information in the app is provided by expert toxicologists at the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, which handles more than 165,000 cases each year of pets exposed to potentially toxic substances. The app is a free download for all iPhone and Android users from app stores.

For more information about the top toxins of 2014, and other household items that could harm your pet, visit www.aspca.org/apcc. If your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s 24-hour APCC hotline at 1-888-426-4435 (valid in Canada).

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NEWS | PRODUCTS | REVIEWS

CANINE INFLUENZA INFORMATION >> From the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association

M A K I N G

T R A C K S

MR. SPOT DOG CAMP AN ALL-INCLUSIVE SUMMER ALTERNATIVE >> Dog owners thinking about a vacation, and wishing they didn’t have to leave their dog at home, can wish no more. Instead, check out this new week-long camp from July 12-18, 2015 on the grounds of St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ont. With over 20 activities daily, Mr. Spot Dog Camp is for dog owners who love to have fun with their canine companion.

Camp Director Genevieve Landis has designed a complete program of recreation and learning.

Genevieve has been involved with dogs for the past 15 years, as a breeder and competitor in rally obedience and conformation. Her dogs have earned conformation and rally obedience titles in Canada (CKC) and the U.S. (AKC).

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is reporting that the ongoing canine influenza outbreak in Chicago and parts of the Midwest has been traced to a different strain of the virus than originally believed. This marks the first identification of the H3N2 subtype outside of Asia, according to U.S. researchers.

A post called “More on Canine H3N2 Flu” from a blog called the Worms & Germs suggests the following: • Keep your dog away from other dogs if it is sick. Influenza viruses are only shed for a short period of time, so keeping sick dogs away from other dogs for seven to 14 days can be useful.

• Keep your dog away from other dogs if it has been exposed to dogs that might have been infected. It doesn’t matter if your dog is healthy. Peak flu shedding can occur very early in disease, and many viruses can be shed in the 24 hours before the dog starts to show signs of illness. So, keeping exposed animals away from others for seven to 14 days after exposure is a good idea.

• Don’t travel out of an endemic region with your dog. Don’t take your dog on a trip if you live in an area where H3N2 is active. Your dog could take the virus to a new region if it was infected before leaving.

• Don’t import dogs from shelters, puppy mills or other high-risk facilities from areas where H3N2 is active.

• Decrease dog-to-dog contact if the virus is active in your area. Staying away from places where lots of dogs congregate can reduce the risk of exposure.

• Don’t rush it to your vet if you think your dog might have canine flu. It might need to go to the vet, but that depends on severity of disease. Regardless, the best approach is to call first and mention the potential for influenza so the vet clinic can take precautions.

For further information visit the Worms & Germs Blog, an educational website coordinated by Drs. Scott Weese and Maureen Anderson: www.wormsandgermsblog.com

GEAR UP FOR TAKE YOUR DOG TO WORK DAY 2015 >>

Pet Sitters International (PSI), creator of Take Your Dog To Work Day®, encourages businesses to start planning now for the 17th annual event scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2015. Businesses interested in participating in TYDTWDay can download the free 2015 Action Pack from the event website at www.takeyourdog.com.

The 2015 TYDTWDay Action Pack is a planning guide for participants and provides step-by-step instructions for planning an office event. It even addresses common management concerns and includes a sample dogs-at-work policy and event participation forms.

“Camp is an incredible bonding experience for a dog and their owner,” says Landis. “It’s an opportunity to discover what you and your dog enjoy doing most, from agility to obedience and lure coursing, and more. Best of all, your four-legged companion gets to spend the day with their favourite human — you!”

The schedule includes something for all dogs, big and small, junior and senior, purebred and mixed breed, in one convenient location. Because of the many activities offered, owners can take up to six different classes a day, or select a few and spend the rest of the day enjoying the scenery!

St. Lawrence College is ideally situated across from Lake Ontario Park, Kingston’s largest urban waterfront park (perfect for summer walks), and only minutes away from the historic city of Kingston, home of Canada’s first prime minister.

Dogs and owners stay in an air-conditioned residence suite, with private bathroom and mini refrigerator. The camp registration fee includes six nights’ accommodation, classes and all meals from Sunday evening to Friday evening.

For information, contact Genevieve Landis (613) 3776955; (613) 530-7768; info@MrSpotDogCamp.com

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PHOTOS: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

ONE FINE STAY: HOW TO FIND A GREAT KENNEL

ot every trip you take is appropriate for your dog to tag along on, even if you’d love to show them the best of Europe or Disney World.

And the last thing you want when dining in Paris or being turned upside down on a roller coaster is to worry about the friends you had to leave behind.

PETS Magazine asked Best Boarding Kennels owners and staff for tips on making the kennel experience a good one for your pets. Here are their insider tips.

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SELECTING A KENNEL • Asking friends and family for recommendation is an obvious place to start your search. If you are looking online,

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be sure to check for recent, positive testimonials.

If you are travelling by air, consider a kennel closer to the airport for convenience.

Tour the boarding kennel you are interested in before you board your pets to get an idea of where your dog will be sleeping, playing, etc. Do the size and variety of their runs and play areas strike you as appropriate for your dog?

Ask the kennel when is the best time to visit them, to ensure that the staff have plenty of time to show the facility and answer all of your questions.

Ask the boarding kennel any and all questions you have. The kennel

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should be more than happy to answer your questions, no matter how long it takes.

Is there flexibility for feeding certain types of food at particular times?

Ask about their cleaning practices.

How often are the rooms cleaned/ disinfected? How often are the blankets/beds/food dishes washed?

Make sure their cleanliness is up to your standards.

Ask the kennel if you can email or phone periodically to check on how your pet is enjoying their stay.

Ask how long the kennel has been in business. Is it licenced and operating legally?

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YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES AS AN OWNER • Make sure your dog’s required vaccinations for boarding are up to date. If they are expired, ensure that the vaccinations are redone a minimum of three weeks prior to your trip (ideally longer) to ensure that any side effects are monitored before boarding and that the vaccine has had time to take effect.

• Ensure that you have prepared all proof of vaccinations for the boarding kennel to keep on file. If you cannot find the paperwork, ask your veterinarian to fax or email.

• Bring more than enough food or medication for your pet’s stay, just in case your vacation gets prolonged.

• If your dog is on medication, be sure that the boarding kennel knows the medication name, reason for needing it, dosage amounts and timing. It is also a good idea to let the staff know how you do the medication at home (e.g., wrapping a pill in a small amount of cheese) so that the dog will be more comfortable.

• Check with the kennel beforehand as to what will be expected of you when you

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drop off the dog. What paperwork will there be for you to sign? How long is the check-in process?

Typically kennels require a signed contract — ask for one in advance and read the fine print.

Ask the kennel what procedures they take in emergency situations. Make sure to give them an emergency contact if it won’t be you.

If your pet has pet insurance, it is a good idea to let the kennel know the policy number in case of any emergency. Make sure they keep your pet’s veterinarian’s contact info on file.

If your dog has any health conditions whatsoever, let the kennel know.

Certain health problems/concerns could possibly put other dogs in the kennel at risk.

If your dog has any health concerns, ask your veterinarian if the dog is suitable for boarding.

Best Boarding Kennels Inc. can be found in Mississauga, ON: 888-868-3772 www.bestboardingkennels.com bestco@sympatico.ca.

Best Boarding Kennels Inc. 320 Derry Rd. West, Mississauga, ON L5W 1N6 Tel: 1 (888) 868-3772 or (905)670-7387 • Animal Loving, Family owned, professionally trained staff in business for 29 years.

• VIP, Economy, long term, short term, and home boarding, along with bathing, grooming & daycare for Dogs, Cats & other pets, all at competitive prices. See our price match policy.

• Pickup, drop off transportation services available for boarding or shipping clients.

• Canadian Owned, fully Licensed, insured & secured facility • Conveniently located close to Pearson Int’l Airport on approx 12 acres • Thousands of extremely satisfied customers • Largest indoor & outdoor runs in Canada (according to our customer survey) • Huge 200 X 100 ft fenced outdoor exercise ring • Large 150 X 80 ft. indoor exercise arena

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! SEE OUR PRICE MATCH POLICY

• Home for US Customs Dogs & the Gov’t Service dogs for the Int’l airport for over a decade • Offering group rates for special events for pet owners attending wedding parties, boarding during insurance claims, renovations, family gatherings/dinners & more • We offer viewing, boarding and grooming reservations on line.

• 29 years of pet relocation experience for individuals, moving firms and corporations with 100% success rate.

• Experts in the professional relocation and transportation of pets within Canada and Internationally.

(Specialists to Australia, N. Zealand, UK, Europe, Hong Kong, Singapore). Short distance and long distance ground transportation available using comfortable, safe, climate controlled transportation methods.

TESTIMONIALS AND MORE INFORMATION: WWW.BESTBOARDINGKENNELS.COM MARCH/APRIL 2015

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PHOTOS: INGIMAGES.COM

GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

ATO PREVENTIVE HEAD-TO-TAIL GUIDE HEALTH CHECKUPS A

nnual veterinary checkups are as important as food and love to a pet’s health and well-being. Many pet owners are either too busy or just skip annual checkups and veterinarians are seeing increases in pet obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis and heart disease among pets — conditions that can shorten our pets’ lives. A yearly checkup is the best

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way to keep your pet as healthy as possible — because it’s much easier to prevent disease than to treat it.

Only veterinarians have the training to identify and treat preventable diseases and conditions that can lead to better, less costly outcomes for pets. With regular checkups, your veterinarian can spot problems at their earliest stages, when issues

can often be addressed simply and cost effectively. Remember: pets age faster than we do, so missing even one yearly checkup can be like us not visiting a doctor for over five years!

A veterinary checkup is about way more than shots. From nose to tail, here are some things your veterinarian looks for during an annual checkup:

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH MOUTH: Bad breath can lead to more than

• What’s the best way to brush my pet’s teeth?

• What’s the best way to deal with fleas, ticks and other parasites?

• How can I keep my pet active?

a no-kisses policy. Your veterinarian will check for tartar, inflammation and infections that can make your pet sick or cause tooth loss.

EYES: Who can resist those eyes? Your veterinarian looks for signs of cataracts, glaucoma, infection, jaundice, allergies and more.

ADULT (3 TO 6 YEARS) • • • •

Is my pet at the right weight?

Is it time for a dental cleaning?

What vaccinations does my pet need?

Are there things I can do to keep my pet even healthier?

• What’s the best way to deal with fleas, ticks and other parasites?

EARS: Your dog hears the treat cupboard open from a kilometre away. Your cat hears the can opener and comes running. Your veterinarian can help keep it that way with checks for infection and other ear problems.

MATURE (7 TO 10 YEARS)

BODY: When your veterinarian gives Fido or Kitty a rub down, she’s checking body muscle tone, weight and for enlarged lymph nodes that can be a sign of infection or disease.

ABDOMEN: It’s more than a belly rub! Your veterinarian is trained to feel for tumours, signs of pain and enlarged organs.

about what you can do to keep your best friend happy and healthy. Here are some questions to ask at your next checkup.

And remember, if you ever have a specific question or concern about your pet’s health, call your veterinarian right away!

SKIN AND COAT: Your veterinarian will

PUPPY/KITTEN (0 TO 12 MONTHS)

check your furry friend for fleas, ticks, mites, skin infections and lumps and bumps.

• If my kitten will be an indoor cat, do I need to spay/neuter?

• When is the best time to spay/neuter?

• Should my puppy/kitten be microchipped?

• What and how often should I feed him? How much?

• Is there an optimal vaccination schedule?

• Are there behaviours I should encourage…or discourage?

• Is there anything special I should know about my puppy’s breed?

• How can I get my puppy/kitten comfortable with the car? With his carrier?

With tooth brushing?

• What should I know about setting up a proper litter box for my kitten?

• Should I get a scratching post or toys for my kitten?

UNDER THE TAIL: It’s not pretty, but your veterinarian checks under the tail for anal gland issues, tapeworms and tumours.

JOINTS AND SPINE: Just like us, pets feel their age. Your veterinarian will check the joints and spine for signs of pain and tenderness — so you can take a proactive approach to pain management.

HEART AND LUNGS: When your veterinarian gets out the stethoscope, she’s listening for heart murmurs and irregular beats. She’s also making sure Fido’s or Kitty’s lungs are clear.

THE SAMPLES: Why does your veterinarian ask for a stool sample? To check for intestinal parasites. Blood work and urinalysis may also be ordered to confirm your pet is healthy and free of heartworms.

WHAT TO ASK YOUR VETERINARIAN: It’s important to talk to your veterinarian

JUNIOR (13 MONTHS TO 2 YEARS) • Do I need to change my pet’s diet?

• What should my pet weigh?

• My cat is an indoor cat. What vaccinations do I need?

• Does my pet need a fecal exam?

• • • • • • •

What signs of aging should I look for?

Should I change my pet’s diet?

Does my pet need a dental cleaning?

What vaccinations does my pet need?

Is my pet the right weight?

How much activity does my pet need?

What physical and behavioural changes should I watch for?

• What’s the best way to deal with fleas, ticks and other parasites?

• Does my pet need any special blood tests or urinalysis?

SENIOR (11 YEARS +) • Should I change or supplement my pet’s diet?

• Does my dog need a dental cleaning?

• Are there things I can do to keep my pet in better physical shape?

• Does my pet need any special blood tests or urinalysis?

• What physical and behavioural changes should I be looking for?

• Do I need to modify my cat’s litter box?

• What’s the best way to deal with fleas, ticks and other parasites?

So, whether your dog frolics at the park with all the neighbourhood pups, or the closest your cat gets to the great outdoors is a sunny windowsill, every pet needs to see their veterinarian — at least once a year! For more information on pet health, visit HealthyPetCheckUp.org.

From the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, an Associate Member of Partners for Healthy Pets. www.canadianveterinarians.net

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE THIS SUMMER

By Kristina Cooper, RVT >>

W

armer weather brings a lot of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. Here are some ways you can keep your dog safe this summer while you enjoy the outdoors together.

SAFETY IN YOUR YARD Nicer weather often means your dog spends more time outside. Regular yard checks to ensure there are not any breaks in the fence, toxic substances available for accidental consumption or sharp objects in the grass can avoid an emergency visit to the vet. It is a great idea to make sure your dog is wearing current identification while spending time outside in case they stray from the property.

SAFETY ON A HIKE It may be tempting to let your dog roam through the hiking trail, but dogs are safer hiking while on a leash. Off-leash adventures in the forest can lead to altercations with wildlife and other animals, slips and

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falls off of steep cliffs and into caves, as well as the risk of being considered lost and taken home by another hiker if you become separated. When hiking with your dog always make sure they have identification.

SAFETY TRAVELLING IN THE CAR What would summer be without a trip to the cottage? Most dogs travel well in the car and enjoy the cottage experience just as much as their pet parents. Ensuring your dog has a lot of potty breaks, access to food and water on long trips and is secured in a crate or with a seatbelt while the vehicle is moving will help contribute to a safe trip. Access to fresh air is great too, but preventing your dog from hanging out the window or riding in the flat bed of a pickup truck is best to prevent injuries with sudden vehicle swerves, stops and flying debris.

SAFETY AT THE LAKE Once you’re at the lake your dog will likely have as great of a time in the outdoors as

you! Water safety is important for dogs visiting the lake, too. Pet parents that enjoy spending time on the water with their dog are encouraged to consider a dog life vest. Exposure to direct sunlight can also affect your pet while on the boat for the day, causing heat exhaustion and sunburn. Ensure drinking water is always available, as well as dog-friendly sunscreen when needed and a place for them to rest in some shade.

Kristina Cooper is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and proud member of the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT). She has previously worked in both small animal practice and a municipal animal shelter.

With a special interest in the relationship between animal and human health she is currently the Provincial Manager of the OAVT Public Health Rabies Response Program and an active One Health Initiative advocate. She can be reached by email at krizzteena@hotmail.com

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

GIVE PREVENTION A SHOT: VACCINE BASICS

By Kristina Cooper, RVT >>

WHAT DISEASES SHOULD MY PUPPY BE VACCINATED AGAINST? Your veterinarian will assess the disease risk level of your puppy (depending on where you live, what daily interactions your dog will have and the immediate risks of disease in your area) and devise a vaccine protocol to suit your dog’s specific needs. Your puppy’s vaccine protocol will include “core” vaccines that will provide protection against diseases that are known to have a high fatality risk. Your puppy may also receive supplemental “non-core” vaccines for diseases that may be encountered due to their lifestyle (i.e., use of grooming salons or boarding kennels, hiking in known tick endemic areas and exposure to wildlife latrine areas, etc.).

THE FOLLOWING ARE A LIST OF AVAILABLE VACCINES FOR PUPPIES: COMMON CORE VACCINES • Distemper — An often fatal viral disease causing respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.

• Adenovirus Type 2 — Cause of a respiratory condition called Kennel Cough.

• Infectious Canine Hepatitis — Acutely fatal disease that destroys the liver.

• Parvovirus — A serious disease that causes destruction of intestinal cells leading to gastrointestinal symptoms and suppression of the immune system.

• Rabies — A fatal virus that can be transmitted to all mammals and affects the central nervous system. Rabies vaccinations are required by law.

NON-CORE VACCINES • Parainfluenza Virus — Cause of a respiratory condition called Kennel Cough.

• Bordetella Bronchiseptica — Bacterial cause of a respiratory condition called Kennel Cough.

• Lyme Disease — Bacterial disease, transmitted by deer ticks, that can cause fever, behavioural and neurological symptoms.

• Leptospirosis — Bacterial disease that may cause kidney and liver failure and can be transmitted to humans.

• Giardia — Parasitic disease causing gastrointestinal symptoms that can be transmitted to humans.

WHAT DISEASES SHOULD MY KITTEN BE VACCINATED AGAINST? All cats and kittens should be vaccinated, whether they leave the house or not, as you can bring some diseases home to your cat.

Your veterinarian will help you to decide the diseases for which your cat is at risk, and what to vaccinate against, but here is some general information.

Calicivirus and rhinotracheitis are two viruses that cause severe flu-like symptoms in cats. Distemper (panleukopenia) is a virus that causes severe diarrhea and death. All three of these viruses can be spread indirectly, meaning that you can bring them inside on your shoes, hands or clothes from touching another cat, or even from being where another cat has been.

PHOTOS: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

V

accinations are solutions that contain dead, live or modified live forms of viruses or bacterium called antigens.

These solutions are injected into an animal to stimulate an immune system response that creates antibodies to protect against a particular virus or bacterium, without actually causing the disease. Antibodies provide immunity to disease by acting as a line of defense if an animal encounters a particular disease in an active, infective state in the future. When peak immunity levels of these antibodies are present within an animal’s body they provide protection by fighting infection when they attach themselves to the invading antigen, causing it to weaken and be destroyed.

Feline leukemia is a virus that affects the immune system and is always fatal.

Although feline leukemia virus is most often spread by direct contact with an infected animal, there have been cases where it has been spread through items in the environment (food bowls, water dishes, etc.) when shared with an infected animal.

Rabies is a neurological disease that is spread by bite wounds and is fatal to both animals and humans. Rabies virus is only spread by direct contact with an infected animal; however, because rabies is a human disease as well, all cats and kittens should be vaccinated, regardless of their risk.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners has experts that review the scientific evidence and then make recommendations for vaccinations for kittens and cats. Their recommended core vaccines include those for panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus (FHV-1/FCV) and rabies. The full recommendations for kittens’ core and non-core vaccines can be found at: www.catvets.com.

Ask your veterinarian about which vaccines are right for your pet, and when!

With files from Kristina Cooper, RVT (Cooper Kennels, Ancaster, ON) and Dr. Christina McRae (King Street Cat Hospital, Whitby, ON).

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

BACKYARD HAZARD SERIES:

HOW TO MINIMIZE DISEASE VECTORS IN YOUR YARD

By Kristina Cooper, RVT >>

T

he One Health Initiative (www.onehealthinitiative.com) is a global movement that highlights the importance of the relationship between human, animal and environmental health.

The Backyard Hazards series of articles focuses on the diseases that you or your pet may be at risk of contracting.

animals or people. As warmer weather invites us to spend more time with our pets in the yard, it also increases our risk of encountering disease vectors. The following list provides you with areas of concern in your backyard that you can address to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

WHAT IS A DISEASE VECTOR?

STANDING WATER

A disease vector can be an animal, microorganism or person that is responsible for carrying and transmitting disease.

These diseases may be transmitted to other

Standing water can be found on top of pool covers, in ponds and birdbaths. These stagnant pools of water are a favourite breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are a wellknown vector of both heartworm disease and West Nile virus, which both people and animals can get. Dumping and preventing standing water helps to decrease your risk.

EASIER TO AVOID FLEAS AND TICKS THEN TO TREAT DISEASE With today’s cutting edge flea preventive treatments available through your veterinary clinic it is much easier to prevent diseases spread by these pests then to treat them. Some flea and tick control products, which can be applied topically as infrequently as once a month, will actually kill fleas and ticks when it comes in contact with your pet’s hair, before they can bite. Treating preventively during the warmer months of the year when fleas and ticks are most active — from the last frost in the spring to the first frost of the fall, or all year long depending on your climate — should also lower the chances of your pet being bitten.

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DECKS Decks can provide den sites for many animals including racoons, which can transmit a form or intestinal parasite, called roundworm, that can infect both humans and animals. Ensuring that your deck is well maintained and completely closed in can help to decrease the chance a raccoon will den there.

SHEDS Sheds offer great protection to animals seeking a space to get out of the elements.

Making sure that doors are kept closed when not in use will discourage animals from using your shed as a nice place to stay. The foundation of a shed can also be an area animals like to stay. Skunks are great at digging den space under cement

pads that support sheds. Skunks can also be a vector of distemper, which can be transmitted to your pet. Keeping an eye on this area of your property, to detect early signs of digging, allowing you to deter it, can help prevent a strong smelling resident later.

WASTE STORAGE AREA Prevent supplying an all night buffet in your yard by ensuring your garbage, green waste and recycling are stored away to prevent access by backyard critters. Accessible food waste will attract raccoons, skunks, foxes and coyotes, to name a few — all of which can transmit the rabies virus.

BIRD FEEDERS Bird feeders are great for attracting beautiful wild birds into your yard for viewing; but, did you know that spilt seeds attract rodents like rats and mice to your yard?

These pests can be troublesome as they can carry diseases, such as leptospirosis, that people and dogs can get, too.

TALL GRASS Unkempt areas and tall grass are a favourite place for ticks that can carry Lyme disease that can be transmitted to either you or your pet. Keeping your property maintained and eliminating tall grass will help to prevent ticks in your yard.

PREVENTION FOR YOUR PETS Your veterinarian has great tools available to keep your pet protected from vectorborne diseases, including vaccinations

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

for such diseases as distemper, rabies and leptospirosis. Preventive medications for flea, tick, heartworm and intestinal parasites are also available to ease your mind knowing your pet can safely enjoy the outdoors the warmer months. Now is a great time of year to contact your vet to make sure your pet is protected this summer!

Kristina Cooper is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and proud member of the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT).

She has previously worked in both small animal practice and a municipal animal shelter. With a special interest in the relationship between animal and human health she is currently the Provincial Manager of the OAVT Public Health Rabies Response Program and an active One Health Initiative advocate. She can be reached by email at krizzteena@hotmail.com

HEARTWORM DISEASE Heartworm disease is most commonly caused by an infection of the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, a type of roundworm that when mature will reside in the hearts and lungs of infected animals. Both dogs and cats can contract it if they are bitten by a mosquito that is carrying the immature larva of the heartworm. Infected pets can show symptoms including coughing, decreased exercise tolerance, lethargy and poor appetite, which can also result in weight loss. If left untreated, heartworm disease can be atal.

Heartworm disease can be detected with a simple blood test. Tests will only show accurate results six months past the last exposure to mosquitoes as it takes that amount of time for heartworm larva to mature inside the pet’s body to a stage where they are detectable by testing.

To prevent heartworm disease, a medicated monthly chewable tablet, treats or topical product applied to the skin can be given to keep your dog Heartworm free. Heartworm preventives act by killing off microfilaria, preventing them from maturing into adult heartworms. The key to heartworm prevention is owner compliance with giving the medication on time for the entire season. Even missing one dose can increase your dog’s chances of encountering heartworm disease.

AVOID HOUSEHOLD TOXICITIES

Although we may be extra cautious when using household cleaners, automotive products or pest control products in our homes and gardens, it may come as a surprise that the tasty morsel we just dropped while preparing dinner could endanger our best friend.

Chocolate can be found lying around the majority of households, especially during holidays. Depending on the size and type of chocolate, it can be very dangerous to your pet’s health if consumed. Make sure that your children are aware of this, as they might think they’re treating Fido by sneaking him a piece of chocolate cake under the dinner table. If your dog does get a hold of some, chocolate is absorbed within about an hour, so you should call your veterinarian immediately.

“Additionally, grapes and raisins can cause renal failure in dogs if eaten,” said Dr. James Barr, assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “The exact cause of this is unknown, and the amount that needs to be consumed in order to be poisonous is unknown as well.”

While the toxicity of many food items may surprise you, the assumption that rat poison will only eliminate rats is a misconception. Rat poison can be lethal to both cats and dogs when ingested. If you have pets in your home, it is best to opt for another pest control method.

One of the most common and dangerous household items that is poisonous to pets is antifreeze. “Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is very toxic to animals,” Barr said. “Toxicity can be treated, but only if treatment is instituted quickly.”

Using plants as décor can often liven up the backyard and even the inside of your home. However, there are many plants that cause health problems if eaten by your pets. Sago palms, for instance, can cause severe liver damage and even death if eaten.

“Lilies also have a strange effect when eaten in cats,” said Barr. “It causes kidney failure that is particularly difficult to treat.”

If your pet does ingest any harmful foods or household items, it is best to play it safe and contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center; they can help you determine if your pet needs to be seen by a doctor and if they consumed a toxic dose.

“Always be aware of the dangers of the things your pets have access to. If they are unsupervised, a safe assumption is that they might eat anything they are in contact with,” said Barr. “Have a discriminatory eye, and try to avoid having those items in your home.”

There is no harm in being extra cautious when dealing with possible toxicities around the house. Be sure to keep these particular items out of your pet’s reach at all times and to call your veterinarian or poison control center immediately if they do come into contact with them.

College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

DEWORMING ESSENTIAL FOR PET AND HUMAN HEALTH

By Dieter Kohlmaier, DVM >>

M

ost people are disgusted by the mere mention of parasites, such as worms, but they are a fact of life for our pets and have to be dealt with. Some worms even pose a human health risk. Evolution has given them an ingenious design that ensures their survival despite our attempts to eradicate them — at best, we can only control them.

There are many different worms that can infect dogs and cats. I am going to concentrate on the most common intestinal worms that your pet may encounter.

Ascarid worms (often referred to as roundworms) are by far the most common of all the intestinal parasites found in dogs and cats. They also represent the most prevalent parasitic risk to human health. Typically, they are white in colour and between one and 10 cm in length. Adult roundworms generally live in the small intestines of cats and dogs, absorbing nutrients through their thin outer membranes or by sucking blood and vital nutrients directly from the body. The goal of any parasite is not to kill the host (though it is a possibility), but rather to peacefully coexist, robbing the host of vital nutrients and enabling the parasite to reproduce. Most often, a roundworm infestation will result in diarrhea, but it can also slow a pet’s growth rate and produce a dull coat.

Adult roundworms lay microscopic eggs that are eliminated in the feces of our pets and spread in the environment, where they undergo several more changes before becoming infective. Some of these parasites may enter the muscle tissue of the host, where they remain dormant. Triggers in pregnant cats or dogs will activate the parasites just before the puppies or kittens are born, and may pass them on either

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through the placenta or via breast milk. In this way, the parasites can easily be passed on to a whole new set of hosts, thus ensuring the survival of the species. Some of the eggs may also be picked up by rodents, inside which they will develop into infective larvae in muscle tissue, remaining dormant until the animal is eaten, at which time it develops into an adult. Elapsed time from egg to maturity can be as little as a few weeks.

Tapeworms belong to a different class of intestinal worms that can grow to two metres in length. They anchor to the intestinal wall using a combination of hooks and suckers, and then they absorb nutrients through their lining. The body consists of many segments, the last of which are filled with eggs. Once mature, these segments are released; they can cling to the fur around the pet’s anus and fall off when they sit down, or they can be deposited in the feces. Most tapeworms require an intermediate host that ingests the eggs, whereupon they develop into larvae. Common hosts are mice, rabbits and, for one type of tapeworm, fleas. If one of these hosts is eaten, the tapeworm can repopulate the intestine of your pet.

The risk to human health from these unwanted visitors is a serious one. Pets harbouring intestinal parasites can contaminate the soil with millions of eggs in a matter of months — eggs that are extremely resistant and can easily live for several years. Humans can become infected in several ways, the most common being the ingestion of contaminated soil, which is most likely to occur in younger children. Hookworm larvae can penetrate through skin to enter the body and, less commonly, some of the larvae can be passed if a pet licks its hind end then licks someone’s face.

What happens if a human ingests a parasite egg? In most cases, nothing; however, in some circumstances the parasite can damage vital organs such as the liver or invade the eye, resulting in blindness.

Sometimes, it can enter the brain tissue and lead to serious neurological disease.

Fortunately, we have the necessary tools for prevention and treatment of parasites in our pets. Sometimes our pets may pass adult worms in their stool allowing for identification, but often only the eggs, which are invisible to the naked eye, are shed. Routine analysis of your pet’s feces is extremely important and will help in identifying parasitic invaders. However, it must be known that a single fecal test may not reveal an infection, as the parasites may be dormant (or there may not be any active eggs shed at that particular time). Strategic deworming for your pet is an essential way of preventing them from acquiring new infections. This will begin with the young pet, who should be dewormed every two weeks until it is three months of age, and then monthly until six months of age.

Adult pets that are outdoors should be dewormed monthly during the warmest months of the year, when infections are more prevalent. Speak to your veterinarian about an appropriate schedule and the right products for your pet.

Pet ownership comes with many responsibilities, and ensuring that they are free of internal parasites is an essential component of that. It will not only maintain their health, but also the health of the whole family.

Dieter Kohlmaier, DVM, owns and operates Westoak Animal Hospital in Oakville, ON. He can be reached at westoakanimalhospital@gmail.com

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

ADDRESS PET DENTAL NEEDS EARLY AND ROUTINELY

By Sarah Netherton >>

D

ental care is as important for the overall health of pets as it is for people. Dr. Katherine Kling, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana, says periodontal disease, which refers to the breakdown of the support structures around the tooth, is extremely common in pets.

“By the age of two, approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will have periodontal disease,” says Dr. Kling.

“As in human oral health, periodontal disease develops when the microscopic plaque biofilm on the teeth triggers inflammation leading to the loss of the tooth’s attachments.”

Periodontal disease occurs in stages. In the earliest stage, called gingivitis, the gums are inflamed. This stage of the disease is reversible, so it is important to identify and treat the disease before it progresses. In this stage, only the gums are affected.

When periodontal disease progresses beyond what is reversible, the bone and ligament that surrounds the teeth are affected. Even though periodontal disease at this state is not reversible, the progression can be slowed with regular home care and professional cleanings under general anesthesia every six to 12 months. The best home care is daily tooth brushing.

According to Dr. Kling, owners may not be able to tell whether their pet has dental

disease just by looking in the pet’s mouth.

The amount of buildup on the teeth is not necessarily indicative of disease. For this reason, Dr. Kling recommends having a tooth-by-tooth exam under general anesthesia performed by your veterinarian, and this exam should include dental radiographs or X-rays. In addition to detecting dental disease, a yearly exam by a veterinarian will catch tumours or other abnormalities of the mouth.

“Small breed dogs, brachycephalic breeds (animals with short noses), and cats should have their teeth examined and cleaned once a year,” says Dr. Kling. “Smaller breeds have the same number of teeth as their larger counterparts, but crowded into smaller mouths. This crowding can pave the way for periodontal disease. Large breed dogs should have their teeth examined and cleaned every 12 to 24 months.”

The procedure for cleaning teeth is much the same for people and pets. Each tooth is examined and probed, and X-rays of the full mouth are taken to get a clear picture of what is going on. An ultrasonic scaler is used to remove the plaque biofilm from the surface of the teeth, and then the teeth are polished to deter the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Unlike a routine dentist visit for a person, a veterinary dental cleaning is performed while the animal is under general anesthesia with the airway protected.

Because prevention is key for a pet’s dental health, Dr. Kling recommends that owners brush their pet’s teeth to help prevent periodontal disease. The important part about brushing is that it needs to be consistent; brushing daily is best.

Of course, your pet also has to be willing to let you brush his or her teeth. It’s very important that the pet enjoys tooth brushing; a negative experience will not be helpful to establishing a routine.

Dr. Kling advises owners to be patient.

“Let your pet get used to the experience gradually. Let them lick some toothpaste from your finger and feel they are getting a special treat,” she says.

Only toothpaste marketed for pets should be used. Human toothpastes contain fluoride, which can be toxic to pets.

“Since pets are living longer today, dental care is imperative to help improve an animal’s quality of life by promoting a pain-free mouth,” says Dr. Kling.

For more information about dental care for pets, contact your local veterinarian and follow the recommendations for safe dental care products found on the website of the Veterinary Oral Health Council (www.vohc.org).

From Pet Health Columns, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: http://vetmed.illinois.edu

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GUIDE TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH

KEEPING YOUR DOG COOL WITH INDOOR GAMES

From the OSPCA >>

S

ummers in Ontario are known for being very hot and very humid, making a few minutes outside feel like much longer. While the best time to walk your pup is in the early morning and in the evening when temperatures are cooler, that doesn’t mean you and your dog can’t have fun in between! There are lots of games, both store-bought and homemade, that you can play inside the house to keep your dog physically and mentally stimulated this summer.

THE FIND-IT GAME: The find-it game is a classic. Show your pet its favourite toy or a tasty treat, then say “find it!” and toss it somewhere on the ground. Challenge your dog by throwing it slightly further each time, or play a variation where you ask your dog to stay, then hide the prize somewhere in the room or toss it in another room. Release your dog from the stay command and let the game begin!

HIDE AND SEEK: Playing hide and seek with your dog is a great way to review the sit, stay and come commands. Ask your dog to sit and stay in one room while you hide in another room. When you’re ready, ask your dog to come and reward your successful dog with either praise or a treat.

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ARRANGE A DOGGIE PLAY DATE: Games are more fun when they’re shared with others! Why not invite one of your dog’s pals over for a play date? Then the next time, you can have the play date at the other pup’s house.

INTERACTIVE TOYS: There are lots of store-bought games and interactive toys where dogs have to move around pieces to try and find the hidden treats. These toys not only keep your pet busy, but you’ll be helping to stimulate your dog’s mental activity.

MUFFIN TIN GAME: The muffin tin game proves that some games just need a little creativity and some household items.

Take a muffin tin, or an empty coffee cup tray, place a few treats in the cups, and

cover some of the treats with tennis balls.

Your dog will then start to uncover the treats one-by-one by pushing the tennis balls out of the way. You can make the game increasingly harder by placing treats under only some of the tennis balls and using a larger muffin tin.

If you’re stumped at what games your dog would most enjoy, you could start by assessing its breed. Dogs like retrievers tend to like fetching games like find-it, while most hounds enjoy sniffing games like the muffin tin game.

For more indoor game ideas for dogs, check out this episode of the OSPCA’s Animal’s Voice Pawdcast: http://ontariospca.ca/blog/ indoor-activities-for-dogs-animalsvoice-pawdcast/

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TREADMILL: Just because your dog can’t run outside, doesn’t mean he can’t burn off some energy indoors. When introducing your dog to a treadmill, remember to take it very slow, be patient and always keep a close eye on your dog. The treadmill is a great source of exercise once in a while, but shouldn’t completely replace your pet’s outdoor walks.

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T H E

H E A LT H Y

B O N D

with Dieter Kohlmaier, DVM

COPING WITH

Dieter Kohlmaier, DVM, owns and operates Westoak Animal Hospital in Oakville, ON. He can be reached at westoakvet@gmail.com

А

s a child, we had to drive to a specific place in town to watch fireworks on holiday weekends.

Now, with fireworks seemingly available on every street corner, we are “serenaded” with loud snaps, crackles and pops for days and even weeks around each holiday. I can’t help but empathize with all the pets who, like myself, aren’t fond of all that racket.

Have you ever been frightened by a loud noise? Imagine the potential effects loud noises might have on an animal whose hearing is much more sensitive than ours, and who lacks the ability to understand what caused the noise and thereby overcome fear of it.

Noise phobias have both a genetic and a learned component, and represent an all-too-common behavioural problem in pets.

While they can often be prevented, once developed they can only be managed, as cures are difficult.

Fear is a natural response when an animal perceives or experiences pain or danger. A phobia is defined as an irrational fear of a specific item or phenomena. There are many different noises that can evoke irrational fear, and generally the louder the noise, the

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more frightening it is. The most common noises that instill fear in animals are thunderstorms, which may be enhanced by the change in the pressure and electricity in the air, as well as fireworks and gunshots.

Many other common noises can frighten animals, such as vehicles, horns, door chimes, vacuum cleaners, screaming children and even the telephone ringing.

Did you ever wonder where the term “gun shy” came from? It was used by hunters who trained retrieving dogs, who found that a percentage would react negatively to the sound of gunshots. In some cases, their fear was so great that the dogs could never be used for hunting again.

As with many other behavioural problems, prevention is the key. Early conditioning to noises can help most animals overcome their fears — it is best to condition your pet between eight and 16 weeks of age. After this timeframe, you can expect to spend more time correcting problems while expecting smaller gains in return.

How do you condition or desensitize your pet to loud sounds? First, you want them to perceive various noises in a positive manner. You may wish to engage your pet in play, give them verbal praise or give them a food reward while the noise is occurring. Also, it is best if the noise is experienced at a low volume — a thunderstorm in the distance, the

vacuum is running in the next room or the local playground at a distance of 100 metres. Training can be done within the confines of your home (especially if it is winter) by playing a sound effects CD at low volume while you engage your puppy or kitten. In subsequent sessions, gradually increase the volume while continuing to reward your pet, and they eventually will be conditioned to the various noises.

What do you do if your pet has already developed a noise phobia? Get your pet to a safe, quiet place where their anxiety is minimized. If your pet is afraid of thunder, keep them in the basement with the lights dimmed. You can also turn on the television or play some music to drown out the noise of the thunder. I always suggest a combination of desensitization and counterconditioning.

Counterconditioning is reprogramming your pet to associate the noise with something pleasant. When you know the noise may occur, begin an activity that your pet enjoys, such as playing fetch with their favourite toy. By doing this you are stimulating their brain and allowing them to focus on something they relish while the unwanted noises occur in the background. You can also use food rewards and touch or praise as a way of rewarding your pet when they modify their behaviour. In some cases, it may not be effective, and the pet’s phobia may be so severe that medical therapy is necessary. There are a variety of medications available, ranging from herbal products to pheromones and antianxiety drugs.

It is best to consult with your veterinarian if your pet has a noise phobia to formulate an action plan to treat this problem — the earlier, the better.

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NOISE PHOBIAS

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J O Y F U L

T A I L S

with Jennifer Skiff

INSPIRING STORIES OF THE PROFOUND IMPACT DOGS CAN HAVE ON OUR LIVES

Jennifer Skiff is an awardwinning television producer, journalist and author of The Divinity of Dogs. She lives in Australia and the U.S. Jennifer is an animal advocate and a trustee of the Dogs’ Refuge Home in Australia. www.jenniferskiff.com

HEARTS, LOST AND FOUND he greatest gifts ever bestowed upon me have come from the animals I’ve been privileged to know. They’ve taught me how to be patient, grateful, courageous, happy, compassionate and a million other wonderful things. I believe each one of them entered my life at the perfect time, when I needed them the most. But when their time has come to go, it’s never been easy and it’s never seemed right.

A friend of mine from Vancouver, Shannon May, reminded me recently that a pet’s love can extend far beyond life as we know it. This is her story: “Sonoma, my Golden Retriever, had a beautiful energy. I always felt she understood me completely, not just my words but also my moods, feelings and emotional energy. She was my beacon of love.

At 10 years old she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and passed away suddenly. The weeks afterward were so hard. I couldn’t

T

make sense of her unexpected death, how everything changed so fast. My husband and I cried constantly, feeling the emptiness in our house and hearts. Her love had been immeasurable.

As fate would have it, my nephew’s friends had a litter of Retrievers. So, two months after Sonoma’s death I travelled from Vancouver to Winnipeg to pick up the puppy and also to spend the weekend with my family.

It was a very happy time. Our puppy, Napa, got to work mending broken hearts and I had a wonderful visit with my Mom and family.

But sadness was to intervene again. Six weeks after bringing Napa home, my mother passed away unexpectedly. After an emotional call with my sister, I hung up the phone and sat in disbelief. I had just been with her.

I went to the photos and video I’d taken on the visit and realized I’d made incredible memories on that last trip. I’d taken pictures of Mom with Napa. I’d also filmed her sharing

stories with my sister that we’d never heard before; beautiful pieces of her past with our father.

As I dried my tears and was putting everything away, a photograph fell out of a book. I picked it up and staring back at me with those big, beautiful brown eyes was Sonoma. In that moment, I felt her spirit with me, letting me know she was still there.

A week later I took little Napa for a walk in the woods on Sonoma’s favourite trail and amidst the trees my mother had loved. It’s funny how I felt the two of them crossing paths as they drifted in and out of my mind.

Suddenly it hit me. If Sonoma hadn’t passed, I wouldn’t have made the trip to Winnipeg and wouldn’t have seen my mother that one last time before she died.

It was there, amidst the sadness and heartache of what was lost, I found a deep, eternal gratitude to our beautiful dog whose unexpected passing resulted in giving me a precious, priceless gift.”

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PAWS

FOR

R E F LEC TION

STORIES FROM THE FRONT LINES OF VETERINARY CARE

JENNY TAKES

with Darren Low, DVM Darren Low, DVM, practices companion animal medicine and surgery in Sydney, NS, where he lives with his wife, son and 10 four-footed family members. He writes a weekly column for the Cape Breton Post.

THE LONG ROAD TO HEALTH J

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Still, I needed to run a few tests to be sure.

Her blood chemistry profile came back perfectly normal for a six-year-old dog, which was certainly a relief for all, but her complete blood count showed an elevated white blood cell number, indicating she was fighting an infection. We also keep an

PHOTO: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

enny lives in a village called Meat Cove, tucked away in the farthest reaches of northern Cape Breton. With a population of 65, and an eight-kilometre drive on an unpaved road after the surfaced road ends, it’s remote to say the least.

Jenny, although not officially recorded on the latest population census, is known by everyone who calls Meat Cove their home. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting her, too, for her initial puppy vaccinations, and again during the summers for her annual exams. Though it's not always easy for Jenny’s family to get the beautiful German Shepherd dog in to see me, they make every effort to get her the best veterinary care, despite the journey it requires.

This winter, one of the worst in memory with near-record snowfall and freezing temperatures, saw Jenny spending most of her days indoors. Despite the natural tendency for hibernation-like behaviour, Jenny’s family found her slowing down a little too much. She became depressed and reluctant to move, and showed little interest in food. She even yelped in pain a few times for no apparent reason. So, despite the deep snow still walling the entire road to the village, a spring trip to the vet was deemed a necessity.

Jenny mustered a wag from her long, gorgeous tail when she saw me, but that was about it. I quickly got to the job at hand and started my examination, as I knew something was up. It didn’t take long to guess what — as I ran my hands down her legs, most of her joints felt swollen and warm to the touch, and she had a slight fever. Jenny never complains, but she winced as I flexed her swollen joints.

antibody blood test for Lyme disease in our laboratory, and that returned with a strong positive result, confirming my suspicion.

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is spread by the bite of an infected tick. The disease in dogs is generally not seen for several months after they acquire it. Ticks are active when outside temperatures are consistently above four degrees, which means Jenny likely acquired it from a tick bite last season, which was concerning. The longer dogs have the disease, the greater the chance of developing chronic problems. In rare instances, dogs can develop heart issues, kidney failure and even brain-related complications. But with Jenny’s reassuring blood tests and no signs of any neurological changes, I gave her a good prognosis.

Antibiotics are the treatment of choice, and most dogs show a very quick response.

The challenge is to make sure you treat long enough. The bacterium that causes Lyme disease is a slow, multiplying one, which actually makes it a little tougher to treat, needing at least four weeks of therapy.

I talked to Jenny’s family about daily tick checks and safe tick removal, and sent them home with enough monthly tick repelling product for Jenny to last her the upcoming season.

Although I do love seeing her, I wanted to keep Jenny up north, safe and happy where she belongs.

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