Publisher Pet Genius LLC Editorial Editor In Chief: Adam Lazarus Executive Editor: Pamela James Contributing Editors: Adam Colwell, Brett Cordes DVM Art & Design Senior Graphic Design: Caryn Metcalf Magazine Layout: Caryn Metcalf Writers Contributing Writers: Adam Colwell, Brett Cordes DVM, Dr. Jim Humprhies, Pamela James, Dr. Ernest Ward DVM Marketing VP of Marketing: Adam Lazarus Finance Finance / Strategy: Suzanne Passalacqua Controller: Lance Martin Support Chief Executive Officer: Rod Dunmyre Chief Veterinary Officer: Brett Cordes DVM Vice President Operations: Crystal Lore IT Director: Josh Woolridge IT Support Specialist: Jennifer Grajeda Product Integration: David Dunmyre Client Services: Nicole Pierce, Kim Wilkinson Contact Letters: empower@petgenius.com Subscriptions: empower@petgenius.com Volume 2, Number 11. Pet Genius Wellness Magazine is published quarterly by Pet Genius, 4750 N. Oracle Road, Suite 214, Tucson, AZ 85705. Pet Genius considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible, although reporting inaccuracies can occur; consequently readers using this information do so at their own risk. Pet Genius Wellness Magazine is offered with the understanding that the publisher is not rendering pet protection, health and wellness advice. Pet owners should consult their veterinarian for the proper care and maintenance of their pet. Although persons and companies mentioned herein are believed to be reputable, neither Pet Genius Wellness Magazine, nor any of its employees accept any responsibility whatsoever for their activities. Pet Genius Wellness Magazine is published in the USA and all rights are reserved copyright 2013 by Pet Genius. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts and photographs will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All letters, emails, correspondence sent to Pet Genius Wellness Magazine will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication, copyright purposes and use in any publication or brochure, and are subject to Pet Genius Wellness Magazine‘s unrestricted right to edit and comment.
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18
6what’s inside? 22 6 14
What’s in the Bag
Choose your pet’s food with confidence
Poison Emergency
Pet Poison Helpline can be a lifesaver
16
Expect the Unexpected
Five pet emergencies that could wreck your finances
The Flea Battle
Fleas don’t have to conquer your pet… or your home
Crates and Kennels 101 How to choose the right carrier for your pet
Pets, Prescriptions, Pharmacies Save money on your pet’s medications
20
also
Winter Safety......................... 5 Deciphering the Labels.......... 8 Doggone Good Diet.............. 10 Kitty Cat Carnivore................ 12
16 18 20 22
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Winter
safety
Preparing your pet’s kennel for cold weather months. Cold weather is fast approaching and that means your pet needs additional protection to stay healthy and warm through winter. The first thing is to evaluate your pet. Was he bred for colder climates? Is he very old or very young? Does he have a full coat or is it kept closely clipped? Is he mostly an indoor dog? Remember, even if your pet lives primarily indoors, he still requires adequate shelter that protects him from the elements. And the quality of your pet’s outdoor housing
Waterproof – rainy environment? Line the kennel with waterproof material.
Repair – Fix any holes, cracks and worn areas
should relate directly to the amount of time he spends outdoors. Similar to choosing a kennel, your dog’s outdoor shelter should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. Anything bigger makes it difficult for your pet to use his own heat to warm his house. Take extra care with elderly pets. Just like you, their joints ache more when the weather turns cold. You may consider buying them a heated bed or a sweater to help
Brett the Vet them retain heat and stay comfortable. Puppies also have a much tougher time regulating their body temperature and should only be exposed to cold weather for short periods of time. If you have a shorthaired dog, buy him a sweater to wear when he’s outside. If your dog spends a lot of time outside he definitely needs a warm, dry home. As you prepare his outdoor kennel, consider the following:
Extra cold climate –Add cardboard or newspaper for additional insulation
Position– Face entrance towards wall to reduce drafts and rain Clean– Sweep out dust and debris. Wipe down floors and walls Bedding– Choose warm, soft, comfortable bedding
Remember, as the temperatures drop it is always a safer choice to keep your pets indoors as much as possible. Of course, your pet will need to go out to potty but be sure they don’t stay out for extended periods of time.
Towels– Place additional towels inside which you can remove and clean
www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
5
Health
What’ s in the
bag? by Dr. Jim Humphries
Choose your pet’s food with confidence.
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
for some geriatric pets. To determine your pet food’s life stage formulation, look for the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement on the label. If the nutritional adequacy statement reads “complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages”, the food has enough nutrition for pregnancy, lactation, growth, and maintenance. If the label states “complete and balanced for adult maintenance”, this food is appropriate for adult pets only.
Pets depend on us to keep them properly fed and in the best health. But for most pet owners, the abundance of pet foods and brands can be overwhelming. Add the opinions arguing which foods are “best” and its no wonder there is so much confusion about what to feed Fido and Fluffy. Accounting for life stages Different life stages mean different nutritional requirements. “The first thing to consider is her life stage,” said Dr. John Bauer, a veterinary nutritionist with Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine. “Is she a growing puppy or kitten or is she a mature adult trying to maintain body size?” A food adequate for all life stages may contain nutrients at levels inappropriate
Feeding trials “Another important consideration is if the food has undergone feeding trials,” said Dr. Bauer. Again, the AAFCO statement is helpful. Foods that have been fed to ani-
Who is AAFCO? The Association of Am
erican Feed Control Offi
cials
AAFCO establishes th
e nutritional standard
s for complete and ba lanced pet foods. AAFCO provides a fo rum for the membersh ip and industry repres achieve three main go entation to als: 1. Ensure consumer protection 2. Safeguard the he alth of animals and hu mans 3. Provide level and orderly commerce fo r the animal feed ind ustry The Association has no statutory authority to regulate pet prod to state feed control ucts, that belongs officials. And it is up to the manufacturer products according to formulate their to the appropriate AA FCO standards.
They also develop an d implement uniform and equitable laws, standards, definition regulations, s, and enforcement po lic ies to regulate the m distribution and sale anufacture, of animal feeds. For more details, vis
it www.aafco.org
mals before marketing to consumers will have a statement similar to: “AAFCO animal feeding trials substantiate…” or “Feeding trials show…”. This statement shows the company has invested time and research to ensure pets willingly accept the diet and stay healthy while on it. If the label simply states that “Brand X is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles”, then the food was not fed in any regulated manner to animals prior to its delivery to store shelves. Although this doesn’t mean that the food is bad or of poor quality, most would prefer that their pets eat food that has proved to do well for other animals. Company reputation Finally, the reputation of the company is an important consideration. Does the manufacturer use a veterinary nutritionist to help develop and maintain the diets or does the food just boast a celebrity endorsement? Does the company engage in beneficial nutritional research or do they follow the most recent dietary fad? The best source for nutritional information is your veterinarian. She has the necessary schooling and clinical experience to help you understand your pet’s dietary needs. Remember, your veterinarian understands your pet’s unique needs and is available to answer any questions about your pet’s food - make use of this valuable resource. Dr. Jim Humphries is a practicing veterinarian and founder of the Veterinary News Network.
Find more articles and tips about pet nutrition.
PetGenius.com
Health
Deciphering
labels
the
Finding the right diet for your pet begins with a conversation with your veterinarian. It also helps to understand, and be able to decipher, all the information contained on a pet food label. Every label features 8 required items. Brand and product name The way a product is named actually provides clues as to the percentage of that ingredient in the product. So, “Beef Dog Food” indicates a higher percentage than “Dog Food with Beef ” which is different from “Beef Flavor Dog Food.” The species for which the food is intended. This tells if the food is formulated for a cat, dog, hamster, etc. Each species has their own unique nutritional requirements. Quantity statement The net weight or net volume of the product. Guaranteed analysis Lists the percentage of each of the nutrients in the food. Guarantees for other nutrients may be required to support claims made in labeling. Ingredient statement Must be listed in order of weight, on an “as
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
Snacks:
path to a pudgy pet?
When you consider the size difference between you and your pet, snacks can have a huge impact on Fido’s health. A snack for you could be the caloric equivalent of an entire meal for your pet. For instance:
Hot Dog
One hot dog for a 20 pound puppy is the caloric equivalent of three hamburgers for one person.
= formulated basis.” The ingredient that makes up the highest percentage of the total weight as it goes into the product is listed first. The ingredients used must be “generally recognized as safe” approved food additives, or otherwise sanctioned for use in animal feeds. National adequacy statement Indicates the food is complete and balanced for a particular life stage or if it is intended for intermittent of supplemental feeding only. Feeding directions All pet foods labeled as complete and balanced for any or all life stages must include feeding directions that, at a minimum, state “Feed (amount) per (weight) dog/cat”. Feeding frequency must also be stated. Name and address Of pet food manufacturer or distributor. Other information found on a label may include: additional calorie content statements for any claims such as “lite” or “low calorie” that follow specified methods and format. The product must not exceed maximum calorie limits depending on the moisture content of the food and intended species. “Feeding trials,” indicates the food was fed to dogs to ensure they were willing to eat the food and remained healthy while doing so. Compiled from the official AAFCO website. To learn more, visit: petfood.aafco.org
Cheese
One slice of cheese = 1/3 of a small dog’s daily required calories OR 1/2 the daily caloric intake for a cat.
= Potato Chips
One potato chip for a 10 pound cat = 1/2 a hamburger for a human.
= Cup of Milk
One cup of milk for a 10 pound cat = 5 chocolate bars for a human.
= Jerky Strips
Three jerky treats for a small dog = his daily caloric intake with little nutrition.
=
Daily caloric intake
A few snacks can quickly translate to a pudgy pet. Ask your veterinarian, how’s my pet’s weight? Her answer may surprise you.
Doggone good d Health
Veterinarian insight on keys to serving up a balanced diet.
Does my dog need to eat a meat based diet? Dogs can meet their nutritional needs by eating a combination of plant and animal foods. The source of proteins and fats is less important than the quality and digestibility of these essential components. A well-balanced diet must also include an appropriate amount of minerals, vitamins, certain essential amino acids, and specific essential fatty acids. The necessary amounts vary somewhat with the dog’s stage of life.
What should I consider when choosing a dog food? A good rule of thumb is to feed your dog the highest-quality food you can afford. The difference between premium and budget food is found in the quality and source of ingredients. Two dog foods may each contain 27% protein but be vastly different in terms of digestibility. The best method to choose a food for your dog is to ask your veterinarian. Some general tips to help you decide what should go into your dog’s food bowl: Select whole-food ingredients. If the items listed are real, recognizable, whole-food ingredients—you’re on the right track. If the majority of listed ingredients is unfamiliar to you, find another diet. Select a low-calorie diet. Most adult, indoor, spayed or neutered dogs have low energy requirements. Your dog’s diet should contain a relatively small amount of calories per cup—ideally less than
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
350 calories. If your dog’s food contains 500 calories per cup and you have a 20-pound dog, the amount you should feed is tiny (and unsatisfying!). High-calorie foods mean even a few extra kibbles can really pack on the pounds.
more water or have special dietary needs, canned foods may be a better choice. Otherwise, most dogs will do fine on dry kibble.
How much should I feed my dog?
Final considerations
Your veterinarian can estimate your dog’s caloric needs based on his lifestyle and body condition score. The standard formula used to calculate the energy requirements of the average adult, indoor dog who gets light daily exercise and is spayed or neutered is: 30 X weight in pounds divided by 2.2 + 70 = daily caloric needs Few dogs are “average,” so this formula is merely a starting point. This daily caloric total includes not only your dog’s meals but also any snacks and treats.
How often should I feed my dog? For most, feeding once or twice per day is recommended. Many dogs will benefit from eating equally divided meals two to three times per day. Regardless of the schedule, keep your dog from vigorous exercise after consuming a large meal, especially if your dog eats its food rapidly. This will help minimize problems with bloat, intestinal obstruction or other serious digestive disorders.
Is dry or canned food better? In terms of nutrition and digestibility, there is no difference between dry and canned (wet) dog food. For dogs who need
Choosing a high-quality food from the hundreds of available can be challenging. Your veterinarian can help you select a diet that is backed by scientific principles and research to meet your pet’s individual needs. Contributed by Cheryl Yuill, DVM, MSc, CVH and taken from the Pet Genius Health & Wellness Library. © Copyright 2011 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.
Search our Health Library to find answers about your pet’s health.
PetGenius.com
diet
Q&A
Brett the Vet Genius Tip: If you need to switch your pet’s food, try Brett the Vet’s preferred approach:
Days 1-3 Mix 75% of your pet’s old food with 25% of your pet’s new food.
Days 4-6 Mix 50% of your pet’s old food with 50% of your pet’s new food.
Days 7-9 Mix 25% of your pet’s old food with 75% of your pet’s new food.
Day 10 100% new food. If your pet is having issues such as soft or loose stool, or if he simply hates the taste, you may need to change his diet again.
Health
Kitty cat
Q&A
carnivore! Thanks to evolution, cats have very specific dietary needs.
Do cats have special dietary needs? Yes, they do. There are two important factors that influence a cat’s diet. Cats require meat in their diet. Cats cannot be vegetarians because they lack the metabolism required for the proper digestion of vegetable matter. Some carnivores eat vegetation specifically to induce vomiting. Through evolution, cats have become dependent on specific nutrients found only in animal tissue. Examples include certain essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins (especially calcium, Vitamin A and niacin). These nutrients are not found in plant tissue in forms that can be used by cats. Equally important, cats require high levels of dietary protein with the appropriate balance of amino acids. Cats have evolved to be “obliged” to use protein as a primary source of daily calorie. By comparison, humans and dogs have evolved to use carbohydrates as our primary energy source. Cats are of desert origin. The second evolutionary fact unique to the domestic cat is that its ancestors were of desert origin. Because of this, cat’s conserve water very efficiently, Cats can drink less water per day than a dog of similar size. Fresh drinking water should always be provided for domestic
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
cats. However, do not be alarmed if your cat seems to drink very little.
What is a cat’s natural feeding behavior? Most domestic cats are “nibblers” and eat small meals frequently. Some will eat 12-20 meals a day – this is especially true for cats eating dry foods. Moist or canned foods are usually consumed quickly as one to three larger meals per day. Texture, odor, temperature and flavor are strong influences on a cat’s food preferences. Cats appear to prefer food with a strong odor. Food temperature influences odor, and since warm food has more aroma, cats eat it more readily. Warming up the food is a helpful tactic to entice a sick cat to eat.
What are some feeding tips for a cat’s life stages? With the unique nutritional requirements and feeding behavior of the domestic cat in mind, it is easy to appreciate practical recommendations for feeding. In all cases, your cat should have access to fresh, clean drinking water. Kittens Young kittens need to eat frequently. Although they need relatively large quantities of food, they have limited space in their tiny stomachs.
At eight weeks of age, they need to be fed about 5 meals a day. By 6 months, the need for food is decreased as kittens are about 75% of their adult size and can be fed 2 meals a day. Choose a good quality food formulated for a kitten’s demanding nutritional requirements. Because of rapid growth, any nutritional “mistakes” during kitten-hood could have severe consequences. For most kittens, growth is almost complete by six months of age. They can switch to “adult” cat food at 8-10 months of age. Kittens and cats do not need milk. In fact, by about 12 weeks of age most kittens lose the ability to digest milk sugar (lactose). While small amounts may be tolerated, too much milk can lead to intestinal upset and diarrhea. Adults A high-quality commercial adult cat food has been formulated to contain all the nutrients required. Dry or wet food can be used but care should be taken to feed the correct amount, especially when feeding canned diets since it is easy to overfeed a cat. The number of meals offered and the amount and type of food used will vary with individual preferences and activity levels. In addition, nutritional requirements and dietary preferences change over the cat’s lifetime. Cats with certain illnesses will benefit from a therapeutic or “prescription” diet
that may control symptoms and delay progression of disease. Choosing a high quality food from the hundreds of available brands can be challenging. Consult your veterinarian to find the right diet for your cat. Contributed by Ernest Ward, DVM and taken from the Pet Genius Health & Wellness Library. Š Copyright 2009 LifeLÂearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.
poison emergency!
Protection
Pet Poison Helpline can be a lifesaver.
The onions and garlic were on the kitchen counter for only a moment. But that’s all the precocious Labrador, Freddy, needed. Before his owner knew what happened, Freddy jumped up, grabbed the items and promptly scarfed them down. Thankfully, the owner called Pet Poison Helpline. Her alert response saved Freddy’s life.
Emergency scenario “When she called, Freddy seemed okay,” said Ahna Brutlag, veterinarian and associate director at Pet Poison Helpline. “What
she didn’t know was that onions and garlic can damage a dog’s red blood cells. We instructed her to induce vomiting at home, but it wasn’t enough. She took Freddy to the ER and ultimately he needed a blood transfusion. After a few days he was back to normal but he could have died from severe anemia had she not acted so quickly.”
How it works The owner’s interactive experience with Pet Poison Helpline is typical of the quick and personal attention callers receive. “First, we ask a few detailed questions: what the pet was exposed to and how the exposure took place. Next, we ob-
tain the animal’s age, breed and body weight along with any known health issues,” Brutlag said. “Then we determine the risk to the pet. If it’s low, we may advise the owner to induce vomiting or to monitor the pet for a set amount of time for specific symptoms. If it’s serious, we’ll advise the owner to take the pet to their veterinarian, who will contact us for further advice.” “Our veterinarians will walk them through steps of treatment. Pet owner and veterinarians can call back, as much as needed, with additional questions and concerns. All of this is included in the per-case fee,” she said.
Poison inventory As a general rule Brutlag says anything with a child-resistant cap is dangerous to pets. But many poisonings involve items— like garlic and onions—not thought of as poisonous. “We’re called most often about pets ingesting human medications.” Brutlag said. “Dogs cannot metabolize ibuprofen as well as humans. Amphetamines found in Attention Deficit Disorder medications cause seizures and tremors in dogs. Cats are especially sensitive to the acetaminophen in Tylenol. Beta-blockers slow the heart rate. Antide-
®
855.857.3440
pressants may cause severe sedation or seizures.”
“Taking simple steps – such as making sure your houseplants are non-toxic and storing medications in secure areas – significantly reduces the chances that your animal will come in contact with a poisonous substance,” Brutlag said. Pet Poison Helpline has categorized potentially poisonous situations by room or area of the home. “Pet owners can easily go through their home and eliminate situations that could result in a very sick pet,” Brutlag said. Pet Poison Helpline has lists of common toxic plants, human foods dangerous to animals, and more on its website, www. petpoisonhelpline.com. An iPhone app listing over 200 different types of poisons, the species of concern, and full color photos is also available for download.
“Never medicate pets with medicines used for humans unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian,” she said. Houseplants can also be harmful or fatal to certain animals.
Enjoy more helpful resources from Pet Poison Helpline.
PetGenius.com “Cut flower bouquets of lilies are highly toxic to cats, causing kidney failure,” Brutlag said. “It just takes a couple of bites, or simply the cat walking under the plant and licking the pollen off their coat, to be fatal. “Aerosol-type chemicals, even air fresheners, can be harmful to birds. Even Tefloncoated cookware, if allowed to burn dry, releases chemicals that can cause lung damage in birds,” Brutlag said. Common sense prevention is key to minimizing the dangers.
If you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic, call Pet Poison Helpline immediately, 1-855-857-3440. Adam Colwell is a staff writer with Pet Genius.
Seasonal poison
hazards Veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline recommend keeping pets away from these seasonal hazards.
Mushrooms While most are non-toxic, certain types can be very dangerous. It is wise to consider all ingestions of unidentified mushrooms as toxic until proven otherwise. Scour the yard frequently and get rid of any mushrooms.
Mothballs Typically they contain either paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene. While the old fashioned mothballs (naphthalene) are often considered more toxic, both can be deadly.
Antifreeze
POISONED? The signs of poisoning can vary tremendously depending on what was ingested. Common signs, as provided by Pet Poison Helpline, include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Vomiting Diarrhea Drooling / hyper salivating Loss of appetite Nausea Coughing or vomiting blood Pale gums Racing heart rate Weakness or lethargy Collapse Excessive thirst or urination Absence or decreased urination Halitosis Black tarry stool Abnormal behaviors
As little as one teaspoon in a cat or a tablespoon or two for dogs, depending on the size of animal, can be fatal. Signs of early poisoning include acting drunk or uncoordinated, excessive thirst, and lethargy. Immediate treatment with an antidote is vital.
Mouse & rat poisons Place poisonous baits where your pet cannot reach them. “Rodenticides also pose the potential for relay toxicity,” said Dr. Ahna Brutlag, assistant director of veterinary services at Pet Poison Helpline. “If your dog eats a large number of dead mice poisoned by rodenticides, they can experience secondary effects.”
Compost bins or piles Decomposing and decaying organic matter and molding food products in compost piles may contain ‘tremorgenic mycotoxins’ – molds that cause tremors. Even small amounts ingested can result in tremors or seizures within 30 minutes to several hours.
www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
15
Protection
Expect the Emergencies pet insurance can help cushion.
unexpected by Jim Ray
The Boy Scouts have a celebrated motto, “Be prepared.” That’s also good advice for every pet owner because sooner or later you’re likely to face a significant expense. Considering the financial obligations in the midst of a crisis is difficult, both to your emotional state and your wallet. So, what are some common medical procedures your pet could face? Here are a few possibilities, the financial impact of which could be minimized with a little forethought and advanced planning:
erinarians. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and any ensuing complications. Many owners report invoices exceeding $5,000.
Eating foreign objects
Off-hours accidents
If your pet is a goat, you have a lot of leeway here. But other animals can and do eat things that will make them very ill – everything from dental floss to stuffed toys. Getting those things out if they block or become entangled with intestines can cost $2,000 or more.
Ligament and cartilage damage
ACL’s are not just for the NFL. Repairing a torn anterior cruciate ligament is a surprisingly common procedure for dogs and cats. Average cost: about $1,500.
Broken bones
By some counts, these are the most common injuries encountered by vet-
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
MRIs
If your pet has an internal injury or illness, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be indicated. We’ll approach this one from the veterinarians’ point of view: MRI machines cost upwards of $1 million. Accordingly, the fees they are forced to charge to pay for this equipment must necessarily be steep.
Emergency veterinarian medicine is more expensive for a whole host of reasons and, naturally, Murphy’s Law isn’t limited to normal business hours. Major pet care expenses are one of several categories of “predictable emergencies” that you should be prepared to face, Missouri attorney Mark Langworthy says. “Many people may think of their pets as people,” he says, “but there is no health care safety net for animals. Federal law requires hospitals to treat anyone whose health is in serious jeopardy, regardless of ability to pay. But veterinarians are under no such requirement – and if they treated all-comers,
they would quickly be out of business.” Unfortunately, many pets are humanely euthanized because owners can’t pay for major procedures. You can avoid this sad possibility by purchasing a good pet insurance policy or maintaining a dedicated savings account for emergencies. The time to prepare is now. Jim Ray lives in Nashville, TN and is a staff writer for Pet Genius.
Brett the Vet Genius Tip: Did you know many pet owners file claims soon after getting pet insurance? Get your free quote at PetGenius.com
Every
6 seconds
a pet owner is faced with a
$1,000 vet bill. Esurance
Each year on average pet owner spend
$1,135 per dog, and $792 per cat. spending statistics are gathered by APPA from various market research resources
Pet owners spend an average of
$11,000 per pet
during its lifetime. * American Pet Products Association, 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey
Protection
The
Flea Battle Fleas
don’t have to conquer your pet… or your home
Many pet owners enjoy snuggling up with their pets. And, despite misguided news reports detailing the health risks associated with this behavior, most owners will continue to do so. But, there is a risk of sleeping with pets and it has to do with diseases carried by our old enemy, the flea. It is important to remember that this enemy can survive temperatures lower than previously thought.
The common flea The most common flea in the U.S. is the Ctenocephalides felis, or the Cat Flea. These wingless insects feed by drawing blood from cats, dogs and even humans. Fleas are more than a pesky nuisance with an irritating bite; they can also transmit serious diseases. While Flea Allergy Dermatitis is the most common problem, fleas can also transmit Bubonic Plague, tapeworms and Feline Infectious Anemia. Winning the flea battle starts with understanding the flea’s life stages and then attacking all levels of the flea’s life cycle – even during cold weather months.
Proficient producers
Brett the Vet Genius Tip: Eliminate the guesswork and risk to you and your pet; make year-round flea prevention your standard of care.
A single female flea can create over 2000 fleas in her three-month life span. Just 25 adult female fleas can produce more than a quarter of a million fleas in only 30 days! The non-sticky eggs fall off the infected pet and end up in carpeting, pet bedding or furniture upholstery. Outdoor environments such as leaf litter, lawn or mulch in moist and shady areas are also ideal environments for egg incubation. Depending on the temperature and level of humidity, flea eggs hatch after 1-10 days into larvae. These larvae molt three times in a 5-25 day period before spinning a cocoon (pupae). The flea pupae then hatch in as few as 5-9 days to the fully formed adult. The flea pupae can also remain dormant for up to five months – only to reappear with a vengeance with the arrival of warmer weather. Adult fleas comprise only about 5% of the entire flea population. The remaining 95% consists of eggs, larvae and cocoons in the pet’s environment. It’s easy to see how the flea can quickly invade and even overrun a home.
Winning the battle Expert “Flea Guru”, Dr. Michael Dryden recommends a combination of products and procedures to win the battle against fleas. “You can beat the fleas, but you have to purchase the right products,” said Dr. Dryden.
Topically applied flea products have worked well in the battle against the flea as have orally administered pills. With the rapid life cycle of the flea, the product must have a kill ratio of 90-95% to be considered effective. Anything less will not do the job completely. Keep in mind, the wrong dose of a dog’s flea product can also have devastating and even life-threatening results if given to a cat. It may sound silly, but the EPA estimates that this mistake happens thousands of times every year!
Once the flea does appear, Dr. Dryden promotes a 3-part plan: Step one: eradicate the existing fleas
Proper product usage is very important and, remember, one dose won’t eliminate all the different stages. A monthly preventive can help eliminate the guesswork and reduce the risk of exposure for your pet.
Step two: rid the premises of the fleas
Use environmental products that contain Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) to kill flea eggs and larvae. All areas frequented by the infected pet must be cleaned regularly. The outdoor environment may need to be professionally treated, as well. It is important to treat all dogs and cats within the home, not just the affected pet. All pets should be treated year-round to ensure total elimination and to avoid reinfestation when the weather warms.
Step three: prevent new infestations
If even one cycle of flea prevention is missed, the battle will continue. Knowing how to combat fleas is really more than half the battle. Although fleas are hardy little critters, there are safe effective products to fight these bugs. Ask your veterinarian for product recommendations and advice. Dr. Jim Humphries is a practicing veterinarian, Founder of the Veterinary News Network and the American Society of Veterinary Journalists
Find an expanded selection of Flea & Tick Protection plus, member discounts & free shipping.
PetGenius.com www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
19
Protection
Brett the Vet Genius Tip: For multi-pet households, crate-feeding pets is a great way to limit conflict and monitor diets.
101
Crates & kennels
Crate training your pet – cat or dog – provides life-long benefits. A crate or kennel limits a young pet’s access while she learns the house rules. It offers a place of comfort, safety, and retreat from the bustle of a busy home. And, crates are perfect way to transport your pet for travel.
The introductions Introducing a crate may take some time and will depend largely on your pet’s age, temperament and past experience…patience is key. Training involves a series of small steps designed to build familiarity, trust and comfort. Remember, the crate should always have a pleasant association.
Familiarize Place the crate in an area where you spend time. Pets are social – you don’t want her to associate the crate with isolation. Place her bedding, favorite toys and even a treat inside. Leave the door open and allow her to go in and out as she desires. If your pet refuses, use treats over the course of several days to slowly coax her inside. Place small treats near the crate. Next, place treats just inside the door. Finally, place the treat all the way inside.
Feed-time Once she is comfortable, offer regular meals near the crate. If she’s doesn’t mind going inside, place the food dish in the back of the crate. Close the door when she begins eating. Open the door as soon as she’s finished. With each meal, leave the door closed a few minutes longer.
Build trust and familiarity Once she demonstrates no signs of fear or anxiety, you can increase her time inside the crate. 1. Call her over to the crate for a treat. Provide a command to enter such as “Kennel Up!” Encourage her by pointing to the inside of the crate with a treat in your hand. 2. Praise her when she enters, give her the treat and close the door. Sit quietly near the crate for five to ten minutes and then go into another room for a few minutes.
Choosing a
crate
There are several types of crates available today. As you make your selection, keep these factors in mind:
Size – your pet should have enough room to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. Any more room than that and your pet may decide she has enough room to create a potty space.
Brett the Vet Genius Tip: Crate your pet for small time periods when you’re home to avoid her associating her crate with being abandoned.
Physical needs – does her heavy coat make her hot? A wire crate offers good ventilation. Does she like a cozier environment? A plastic crate may be a good option. Lifestyle – do you road trip, camp or enjoy drives with your pet? A lightweight, soft-sided crate might work well. Will your pet be a frequent flier? Choose a crate that is airline approved. You can always upgrade your pet’s crate to adapt to changing needs. The classified are a great place to find used crates and kennels – just disinfect thoroughly.
3. Return, sit quietly for a short time, and let her out of the crate. Repeat this process several times a day. Gradually increase both the time she’s inside the crate and the time you’re out of sight. When she can stay quietly for about 30 minutes without seeing you, you’ve neared the home stretch. So, what’s next?
Away and Overnight To begin this phase, start by leaving her crated when you leave the house. 1. Place her in the crate using your regular command and a treat. You might also want to leave her with a few safe toys. 2. Don’t make your departures emotional and prolonged, but matter-of-fact. Praise her and then leave quietly. 3. Keep your arrival low-key. When you return home, don’t reward her for excited behavior by responding in an enthusiastic way. There is plenty of time to show her love. When extended stays no longer bother her
you can start to crate her overnight. Place the crate in your bedroom, initially, especially if she’s a puppy or an older dog – each have special needs. Once she sleeps through the night you can move the crate to your preferred location.
Travel time Once your pet is cozy with her crate, introducing crate travel is fairly easy. As always, start slow; build her trust and familiarity. Begin with short rides and increase their length as her comfort grows. Monitor her stress levels and make it an enjoyable experience. Crate training your pet will take time, love and lots of patience but the long-term benefits are worth it. Contributed by Adam Colwell, Kim Wilkinson and Pamela James.
Download our Travel Guide for more kennel tips.
PetGenius.com www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
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Protection
Pets, prescriptions,
pharmacies Save money on your pet’s medications.
If your pet is living with a chronic health condition, you know firsthand how quickly expenses can pile up. According to the Animal Health Institute, in 2009, consumers spent $3.8 billion on medications for their animal companions. That’s a lot of kibble. For many, finding innovative ways to save on pet health care is a priority.
Changing landscape Historically, veterinarians have prescribed and dispensed pet medications almost exclusively in-office; and pet owners had
few alternatives. However, that has slowly changed. Preventives once dispensed exclusively at the veterinarians, such as heartworm and flea and tick control, are now available at a variety of outlets. Another contributing factor is the increase of pet medications with a generic equivalent. Savvy consumers understand that the veterinarian’s office is just one place to fill pet prescriptions.
Rise of generics Today’s generic offerings are fairly modest, at just 10%, but that number continues to rise. It is estimated that within a decade, as more patents expire, 50% of pet medications
will have a generic equivalent. A survey published by DVM360, May 2013 found: • 87% of pet owners would like generic options for their pet prescriptions. • 73% would like to hear all their options not just in-clinic dispensing. Veterinarians who help pet owners save money earn their trust and loyalty. • 68% say being offered cheaper alternatives increases respect for their veterinarian. • 70% indicate it increases their loyalty to their veterinarian. • 62% say it makes them more likely to buy additional veterinarian services. If saving money on a pet’s prescriptions translates to more veterinarian visits, that is a win for all parties involved – the client, the veterinarian and the pet. So, what does this all mean for you and your pocketbook?
Identifying savings If you pet is currently on medication, start by having a conversation with your veterinarian. Ask about your options: Is there a generic available? If not, is there an alternative prescription available that could help you save money?
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www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
If you identify prescriptions you can fill at a retail pharmacy, keep the following in mind. • If the pharmacist suggests substituting your pet’s prescription, contact your veterinarian. • If the pharmacist suggests a diff erent dos- age, contact your veterinarian. • If your pet begins to show signs of an adverse reaction, contact your veterinarian. No changes should be made to your pet’s prescription unless the pharmacist has discussed the change directly with your veterinarian. There are a variety of ways to save on pet prescriptions. Talk with your veterinarian and identify any medications you can fill at retail pharmacies. Then, visit PetGenius.com and download your Rx Savings Card to enjoy additional discounts. Discover how easy it is to save on prescriptions for your pet. Pamela James is a staff writer for Pet Genius.
What are
generic drugs?
A generic drug is identical – or bioequivalent – to a brand name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. Although generic drugs are chemically identical to their branded counterparts, they are typically sold at substantial discounts from the branded prices. Taken from the Food and Drug Administration website.
Are generic drugs as effective as
brand-name drugs?
Yes. FDA requires generic drugs have the same high quality, strength, purity, and stability as brand-name drugs. Not every brand-name drug has a generic drug. When new drugs are first made they have drug patents. Most drug patents are protected for 20 years. The patent, which protects the company that made the drug first, doesn’t allow anyone else to make and sell the drug. When the patent expires, other drug companies can start selling a generic version of the drug. But, first, they must test the drug and the FDA must approve it. Taken from the Food and Drug Administration website.
www.PetGenius.com • Fall 2013
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Saving on your pet’s prescriptions just got easier‌ Thanks to the Rx Savings Card.
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