2017 - YEAR 2 / ISSUE 03 WWW.PUGTIMESMAGAZINE.COM PUGTIMESMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM
And more
How We Deal With Elderly Pugs Cesarean Section: Do or Don’t?
LEISHMANIASIS
THE IMPORTANCE
OF BEING INFORMED
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EDITORIAL
OUR MAGAZINE GOES ON, AND IMPORTANT ISSUES ON THE PUGS ARE NEVER TOO MUCH!
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T
radicional Chinese Medicine tells us about the importance of prevention: health before sickness. A manual to keep our Pugs happy and healthy. Dream or reality? Yes, it is perfectly possible, as long as we answer to their needs. Still on prevention, we could not miss an article about dealing with Elderly Pugs. As we have previously approached in social media, this topic is always current and some cautions are indispensable so that they can age with quality of living, because only surviving is not enough.
INDEX
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A G R E AT A D V E N T U R E
EASTERN MEDICINE
INVESTING IN THE PUG’S HEALTH The breeder section brings us Inge Wilmsen, Judge from FCI and a Pug breeder, with relevant topics, such as morphology selection aiming at improving the health of Pugs. Does producing a Pug with a longer muzzle and smaller skin folds mean better breathing? “It happened to me” brings another moving story of a Pug owner and how a single fact drastically changed her life. Doctor Tiago Vaz Lopes wrote to clarify the usual doubt: how to know if our Pug can give birth normally, and when does she need cesarean section? The boys Finn and Sebastian tell us their amazing adventures with Bandito, the Pug, and Luigi the Cat. You cannot miss it! Finally, in face of many cases of Pugs diagnosed with Leishmaniasis in endemic regions for the disease, we decided to devote the Letters from our Writers section to this theme, in two issues in our magazine. Professor Joziana Muniz de Paiva Barçante, Professor Thales Augusto Barçante and Doctor Stephanie Karolina Pereira Passos answer our various questions and advise us on how to protect our dogs from this sad reality.
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WESTERN MEDICINE
CESAREAN SECTION: DO OR DON’T? BREEDER’S EXPERIENCES
INTERVIEW WITH: INGE WILMSEN (LIMISENGI’S PUGS)
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EDITORIAL
FINN, SEBASTIAN, BANDITO THE PUG & LUIGI THE CAT
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H OW TO D E A L
HOW TO DEAL WITH
ELDERLY PUGS
I T H A P P E N E D TO M E
BY SARITA CONSTANZI
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LEISHMANIA SIS SPECIAL
SPECIAL EDITION ABOUT LEISHMANIASIS - #1
S TA F F Editor-in-Chief and Director: Angela Nabuco Cover shot: Angela Nabuco / Nabuco’s Dona Flor - 14 years old. Photos: All dog photos are properties from Nabuco Kennel, or sent and authorized by the owners. Associates in this Issue: Sebastian Smetham, Finn Paus, Inge Wilmsen, Profa. Joziana Muniz de Paiva Barçante, Sarita Constanzi, Dra Stephanie Karoline Pereira Passos, Prof. Thales Augusto Barçante, Dr Thiago Vaz Lopes e Dr William Costa Estellai English Version: Ramon Xavier Monteiro Art direction, design and illustration: Inhamis Studio Ads, suggestions and claims: pugtimesmagazine@gmail.com
A good reading to all of you, eternal Pug lovers! C O N TAT O
Angela Nabuco Editor
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A G R E AT A D V E N T U R E
A great adventure S E B A STI A N S MET H AM & FI NN PAU S
A G R E AT A D V E N T U R E
FINN, SEBASTIAN, BANDITO THE PUG AND LUIGI, THE CAT
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inn and Sebastian made a life changing journey walking 1500km across Spain as the ultimate modern family, 2 guys and their beloved and oh so cute pets, a previously unknown Pug and Cat. After meeting 9 years ago in Sitges, Spain, and working there until the end of 2015, what the boys realized was that they were not living their dream anymore. Late nights and seasonal bar work did not have the allure it once did. So they sold their belongings and gave notice on their beach front apartment. Motivated by the recent death of Finns parents they figured that life is too short.
MOTIVATED BY THE RECENT DEATH OF FINNS PARENTS THEY FIGURED THAT LIFE IS TOO SHORT.
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A G R E AT A D V E N T U R E
The plan was to walk across Spain, taking a dog trolley and everything they now owned, most importantly Bandito the Pug and Luigi the Cat. That is exactly what they did. Following the historic Camino to Santiago route, a pilgrimage which some 200.000 people take each year in the North of Spain to the Sierra Nevada mountains in the South.
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Their journey quickly became a hit on social media as the first people to do it with their pets. The family of 4 had adventure after adventure as the animals grew to love their new life and got used to all the walking! Crossing plateaus, forests and the Spanish plains in all types of weather. Sun, rain, wind and even snow, it made for an epic journey. One that has attracted attention for upcoming books, merchandise and if the boys are brave enough, to one day publish their personal diary of the journey!
A G R E AT A D V E N T U R E
The family stopped walking after 1500km and 3 months living in a tent.
The family stopped walking after 1500km and 3 months living in a tent, to their new home, the place they had been dreaming of, in the rolling hills behind Marbella away from all of the bright lights and glamour and where the 4 of them could settle with their small vegetable patch and easy living. Since completing the walk, Sebastian and Finn lead a simple and secluded lives in their home just outside Marbella. They have a true love for each other and as their following on social media continues to grow, they are giving inspiration to pug lovers, cat lovers and couples worldwide.
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EASTERN MEDICINE
INVESTING IN THE PUG’S HEALTH BY D R. WI L L IA M COSTA ESTELLA I
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ntil very recently, the expression “Animal well-being” was solely associated to livestock. Their owners always trying to enrich the environment upon discovering their animals were not at their highest production potential, especially due to physical distress. Gradually, this health concept is reaching dogs and cats as well. And the best way of providing well-being to our pets is to know their needs. Every breed has genetic predispositions. Dachshunds, for example, are prone to having spine problems. To avoid this, we must work
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preventively, which can (and must) be done both through Western Veterinary Medicine and Chinese Traditional Medicine. In order to act preventatively, we must know the individual and his characteristics. A good way of achieving this in Traditional Chinese Medicine is through the theory of Constitution. Dog breeds can be associated to the Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood. And the association of a specific breed to a specific Element is called Theory of Constitution and it involves the individual nature in relation to his dominant Element, expressed according to his personality.
EASTERN MEDICINE
FreeImages.com/Michael & Christa Richert
Knowing the constitutional type helps to understand the animal, his fundamental needs and the treatment of his unbalances that, within time, will become diseases. Generally speaking, breeds fit in behavioral types that are compatible with one of the Five Elements, despite individuals within the group behave differently. A few great authors have written about the Theory of Constitution in Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, none of the books I could reach mentioned the Constitution of the Pug. My living with Pugs makes me believe that they are of Wood Constitution. The way they respond to challenges makes me perceive that
way, especially due to two meaningful facts: their strong personality and how they are annoyed when thwarted.
“Wise men prevent disease instead of treating it, keeping themselves in order instead of correcting disorder.� Ancient Chinese Saying
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MEEADSI T C EI NR A N O M RE IDEINC TI N A EL
Main characteristics/relations of Wood Element O RGAN / VI SCER A Liver/Gall Bladder
SEA SO N
COLO R
CO S MI C E N E RGY
Spring
Green
Wind
FLAVO R
FEELIN G
ST R U CT U R E S
Acidic/Sour
Anger
Ligaments, Tendons, Muscles, Eyes, Joints, Nails, Immune system, Female Reproductive System
estrus, tendon retraction or disruption, joint problems, lax ligaments, many eye problems, blurry eyes, nystagmus, steatosis or hepatic failure, alteration in hepatic enzimes, stroke, convulsions, nail problems, twitches, digestive problems.
Liver (Gan) is the organ associated to the Wood Element. It’s attached to the Gall Bladder. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the main energetic functions of the Liver are: keeping the Qi (Vital Energy) flow free to give support to the vital activities of the body, store the Blood and help in the digestive function of Spleen/Pancreas and Stomach. It is said that Liver opens up in the eyes and shows up in the nails. Pugs being of Wood Constitution, when dissonant, they can present one or more of the following problems: excessive irritability and aggressiveness often unjustified, irregular
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Among living being, humans are considered the top of the evolutionary chain, with the highest capacity of adaptation to adversity; then come animals and finally plants.
THE BALANCE TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AIMS NEEDS TO HAPPEN IN THREE FRONTS: THE INDIVIDUAL WITHIN ITSELF, THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE ENVIRONMENT IT IS INTEGRATED, AND THE INDIVIDUAL WITH THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH IT LIVES.
VIDEO
Dogs are not responsible for their choices. They depend entirely on the will and initiative of their owners to fulfill their most basic needs. This is important, because FRUSTRATION is the feeling that causes the unbalance in Wood Constitution. Pugs need to have their physical and mental expectations met in order to restore balance. They need space to move and Interact with nature, primary needs of the Wood Element. The well-being of Pugs comes through basic and fundamental conditions: good nutrition, cool water as much as they want, physical activities, social interaction with other dogs, contact with nature, and comfort where they live, especially thermally. These terms will bring balance to Wood Constitution individuals, consequently providing health. Providing well-being to our four-legged friends is more than an option, it is a duty for those who chose to have a Pug. In order to do so, it is fundamental to offer what they need and even what we are not interested in giving.
EASTERN MEDICINE
The fight proneness are explained by the Pug constitution, related to the Wood Element, but a balanced and fulfilled group rarely fights, being able to live together.
FRUSTRATION is the feeling that causes the unbalance in Wood Constitution.
Prevent and invest in health or medicate diseases? It’s your choice!
William Costa Estellai Veterinarian Doctor – CRMV/MG 10356 Postgraduated in Veterinarian Acupuncture Juiz de Fora – MG w.estellai@hotmail.com
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WESTERN MEDICINE
CESAREAN SECTION:
DO OR DON’T?
BY D R. T H I AGO VA Z LOP ES
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hen implementing a model of dog breeding, specially brachycephalic, there are many extremely important points, more importantly to newcomers to the art; being some as listed sanity, nutrition, genetics, installations, bioclimatology, and the worries about the breeding management in these dogs is of great relevance, because all the dedication towards genetic enhancement ensues the breeding of specimens that are the best representations of the breed in the roster, both in genotype and phenotype, according to their standards. The breeding not only for bitches, but also for females in every species, is seen as a “luxury”, physiologically, so what does that mean? It means that they need to be in their own comfort zones; well served nutritionally, with stress factors minimized to the most. All being balanced, they will cycle. The efforts for a successful pregnancy are countless; having the best moment for an artificial insemination or mating, then the final process of the entire endeavor comes. As days go by, a concern comes by and it usually becomes a doubt; “natural birth or cesarean?” Cesarean is the art of surgical medical intervention, performed when there are constraints for the natural birth, especially when the mother or the puppies are at risk for any given cause. Literature approaches this procedure as of emergency, which in fact is, in veterinary clinic routines.
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In breeding, especially Pug breeding, when inseminating the bitch, we already start to think about the cesarean date and the post-surgery, not too far from what has been happening in human medicine. This procedure has excelled the natural, showing an inversion, when it should be episodic but it is routine, instead. It is common to hear laypeople say “was this breed created in laboratories?”, “why is natural birth so difficult?”. The prompt answer to the first questioning is a sound NO, but the breed is the result of a series of crossbreedings that for decades have selected characteristics that are very prominent in the breed today, and in this development process, we can state that the ability of being a mother was lost or not selected, maybe even because of anatomic conformation, what explains the high number of surgical interventions for birth. Even though the resource of intervention is not cast aside, it is expected to be evaded, because natural birth must always be prioritized. The aid of technology, such as ultrasound, are of extremely importance for the follow-up of the breeder regarding birth, as well as other assisting techniques, always demanding a veterinary doctor to be on call around this period, in case natural birth is impracticable, an emergency intervention will be at hand.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO STRESS THAT, IF THE AFOREMENTIONED ASPECTS ARE NOT MET, THE BEST COURSE OF ACTION IS AN ELECTIVE SURGERY, SO THAT THE LITTER IS NOT COMPROMISED AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE MOTHER. This follow-up has, in my experience as a breeder, enabled me to know and realize which are my bitches that are capable or not of performing natural birth, not only helping me to direct the next selections, but also programming upcoming births. The breeders must follow up these bitches intimately and gently, so that the time between the first uterine contractions and the threshold of fetal viability is never overtaken, and
only after the natural birth is considered infeasible, must then the cesarean be undertaken. Some fetal maturity cues have to be noted and taken into consideration when opting for cesarean procedure, such as skull diameter, heart rate that was around 230 bpm (beats per minute), start to fall close to birth, and a rate lower than 170 bpm can already be taken as fetal distress which is, in other words, more than time enough to retrieve them feasibly. In this stage, the intestinal loop distortions happen, and motility can be present; alongside these, we have the body temperature of the bitch as a great marker, because in the twelve hours prior to birth, the average temperature drops 1o C (1,8o F), bringing to the world these “little things” that love us unconditionally.
WESTERN MEDICINE
Even though the resource of intervention is not cast aside, it is expected to be evaded, because natural birth must always be prioritized.
Thiago Vaz Lopes Veterinary Doctor Pug breeder University Professor Master by the Universidade Federal de Pelotas - UFPel Doctorate in animal breeding by the Universidade do Acre – UFAC Managing director of Kennel Clube de Rondônia and forming judge of CBKC
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BREEDER’S EXPERIENCES
Inge Wilsem with Limiseng’s Poison Ivy, a hope for the future, 4 months old.
I N GE W I L S E M Belgium Pug breeder since 2004, onwer of the kennel Limisengi’s Pug and FCI Judge.
MY EXPERIENCE AS A PUG BREEDER 1. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BREEDING PUGS AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE BREED? I am breeding Pugs since 2004, that is the age my first litter was born. I was following the breed in books, magazines and on dog shows since the early nineties. I fell in love with them because of their clownish appearance and behaviour. However, I soon noticed their poor health condition. No walks, obesity, knees and vertebral problems, breath and heart issues, 14
just to name some of them. I was born in a ‘breeders nest’ (my parents used to breed Schnauzers) and I was tempted to improve Pug’s health, while not loosing their exterior. I did use lines that were unknown in our country and beyond, and I had quite a hard time showing in the beginning, but judges started to appreciate our type soon enough and it is wonderful to enter a ring with a cheerful and healthy pug who can move properly. That is the main reason why I started to breed.
As already reveled in the first item, it is not easy to find ‘the whole package’, not as an exhibitor, neither as a judge. We need proper pug temperament, typical head, good conformation and super movement. Without any doubt, the best heads are found on the English type of pugs. As is the coat, short and fine. However, they are not the number one in body and movement, which obviously come together. I personally - that is my opinion and my preference - prefer body and movement on the American type of Pugs. Unfortunately, they come with a longer and thicker coat, missing the ‘smooth’. What concerns temperament, just like us, a dog is born with bag that is half filled up. We, as owners - exhibitors, can still change a lot. But as I said, the bag is half filled and I’ve noticed that some lines produce rather timid dogs. It is very hard to improve this quality.
3. IN YOUR OPINION WHICH ARE THE MAIN HEALTH PROBLEMS OF THE BREED? HOW DO YOU PREVENT AND DEAL WITH THEM? Most health problems we see over here are very poor condition because of a narrow trachea and long soft palate, knee problems and hemi vertebra. Once in a bleu moon we hear of a Pug who passed away of PDE, but it is something to consider carefully. In breeding, my pugs are DNA-tested on PDE, so that we can consider the issue in breeding.
This doesn’t mean that all PDE carriers have to be excluded, I’d rather consider it as a handicap to improve. PDE s/n okay, but in breeding only to be mated with a PDE n/n specimen. PDE as I already said, is not a major problem in our country, but long time ago (in 2002 to be precise) I lost my second pet Pug to PDE. None even heard of the disease at that moment, I allowed my vet to send my little darling to the biggest vet university of our country to do an autopsy on him. And then we knew, he died of PDE. It is the most horrible death one can imagine and for, as far as I can do something about it (we are not God!), no puppy buyer of us will see his or her dear friend die in his or her arms of this illness.
BREEDER’S EXPERIENCES
2. TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH PUGS ON THE RING, AS AN EXIBITOR AND AS A JUDGE. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO ONE WHO WANTS TO SHOW HIS PUG?
Next to that we test eyes, endurance (breath and heart), knees and vertebrae. If any doubts about a line we would like to introduce, we test hips.
But it is an illusion to breed a pug with perfect A-hips, who also has the proper slight rolling movement. Point is to find a good way in the middle.
4. WHAT IS MORE PLEASANT AND WHAT IS MORE DIFFICULT ABOUT BREEDING PUGS FOR YOU? The most pleasant in breeding for me is to see our pug children grow up in a nice family, as a real family member. Nothing makes me happier than getting mails or messages from our puppy buyers telling me how happy they are with their Pug (and vice versa), or how their vet complimented them on their Pug’s health, or about the 10th birthday party they had with Pug, family and friends. My first litter will be 13 years old in August, except one (they were six) all still living. 15
BREEDER’S EXPERIENCES
Limisengi’s No Cure For Crazy, BOB and BIG #5 today, handled by my daughter Jolien who does all the handling since I am a judge.
Of course, what also makes me happy is to see good show results, which breeder wouldn’t? The hardest is to keep on working to improve health and conformation, putting the first at the first place. We have to fight on one side to avoid breed’s exaggeration, and at the other side the breed’s destruction by those who think they can improve Pug’s health by giving them a nose, read ‘snout, longer muzzle’.
I aim to breed good noses with big open nostrils, but a Pug is a Pug, it is the breed we fell in love with, and his appearance should not be changed.
5.WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR THE BEGINNER BREEDER? I would recommend new Pug owners or exhibitors to take time before making any 16
decision. Take time to look around, to visit dog shows, talk to owners and breeders, even judges, to really watch pugs at a show, on events etc. Contact breed associations whatever, and then decide if the Pug is the right choice. Also, when they feel good with a certain breeder, be patient, wait until he or she has a puppy available, even if it takes one or two years. Having a good feeling about a breeder is so important, because he or she will be your family for the rest of his/her Pug’s, maybe even his or her life. While purchasing a Pug to exhibit, I would advise to look for lines with the right temperament, and good conformation. As I said, it is not easy to have the whole package, though that is what we aim. Look for lines with good heads, cobby square bodies with good angulations, smooth movement and good coat and pigmentation. It might take a while, but I’ m sure excellent dogs can be found. It is you who makes him a winner.
H OW TO D E A L
HOW WE DEAL WITH ELDERLY PUGS BY A N G E L A NAB U CO
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his is not the first time we talk about the subject but, due to its importance, we always come back to it when we think it’s best.
Pugs not always age healthily. Being a sensitive, habit-driven breed, they start showing their handicaps more frequently at the age of seven. Our Pugs age with us, and we get used to noticing changes even at an early stage, having better chances of overcoming the situation. An elderly Pug has been through many hardships of being a Pug. Even those who were loved and cared for have had respiratory distress, a skin condition, many have a poor sight (or no sight at all), others are deaf, some
have moving or urinary problems or some other kind of ailment, or were stricken by cancer, which is very common in dogs, especially older ones. On top of that, we know Pugs are emotional. How much they rely on our company, how jealous they are for loving so much and how much they somatize (that is, bring to their physical build) all these emotions. And take notice that we are talking about beloved and cared Pugs. What can we say about the ones who were neglected, poorly cared or had no love whatsoever? That didn’t receive the care and attention a Pug deserves throughout his life? Or those used for breeding and discarded at an advanced age? When given for donations, the beloved adopters have to deal with this constantly. 17
H OW TO D E A L
massages and home treatment have also been useful , like soaking the paws with warm water , coarse salt and sage or comfrey , for joint pain . Soaking the paws with warm water
As it is with humans, the sadness coming from rejection lowers the immune system and this usually takes a toll on the old dog, because for life to be desired and meaningful, it must provide the love of those dear to us. Like humans, the elderly Pugs feels very safe in their routine, in the house where they live, with the people they know and love. Therefore, avoid changing their bed, food or water spot. They must have their scheduled hours for meals and rest, for a calm and replenishing sleep. If they do not have a good sight anymore, avoid moving the furniture, for they move well when they know where the obstacles are. Many do not like going out to the streets anymore and feel insecure and anxious, be it because of poor sight, joint pain, little energy or just answering to their nature, choosing not to be vulnerable to predators (if Pugs still carry any trace of instinct). If they are not walking partners anymore, let them rest at
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home, respecting their choice to curfew, rest and their sleeping hours. Moving house or having a different owner is even more difficult for an older than to a younger Pug, and this should only happen when life genuinely demands it, or in case of a rescue. For the latter, living definitely in the temporary home would be ideal for them, whenever possible. A change could be experienced as a loss. If you are a breeder and see better standard of living for retired Pugs at homes where they will be unique, do not donate them after seven years of age, because before that it is easier for them to adapt. The ideal is for them to be with the owners for as long as they live, but if donation is mandatory, worry about making a thorough choice. It is imperative to pick a peaceful home, where they will be loved and with a pace that respects the needs of an elderly Pug: a home full of children is not the best choice. The family should also be able to afford the many expenses of the Pug’s late age.
It is important to keep them away from overweight. In order to do so and also for health in general, it is important that they exercise within their own choice and limits. Natural balanced diet is essential, especially in this age group, supplemented by multivitamins. After taking natural diet, our old ones started to live longer, with better quality of living and disposition, even those who had ailments commons of advanced age. Veterinary clinic admission only when it is indispensable for survival. Some have aggravated conditions and do not resist being away from home, without their owners. Elderly Pugs usually do not endure invasive treatment. Alternative treatments are less aggressive. Whenever possible, prefer using them, keeping in mind there is a time for traditional Medicine to be used. Prevention is much easier than treating a disease. Our experience with acupuncture and phytotherapy have been very favorable. Massages and home treatment have also been useful, like soaking the paws with warm water, coarse salt and sage or comfrey, for joint pain. Neutering, spaying and teeth cleaning must not be postponed, because in a near future they might not have clinical conditions for being anesthetized. The bacteria from gum diseases
can strike the heart, then causing many other problems, and castration also prevents future complications in the reproductive system. Avoid making or letting your old one go up and down stairs, or Being jumping the sofa (which is alert every day also not advised for the is essential, for an young ones). A non-adherearly identification of ent floor might bring serious joint complications, or any changes in feces, aggravate already existing urine, breathing and conditions.
H OW TO D E A L
Pugs are generally very heat sensitive. An older one is also cold sensitive, which compromises their joints and respiratory issues. Avoid overheating, protecting them in lower temperatures with warm clothes, and allowing them to live near you, in a safeguarded place.
locomotive system.
Being alert every day is essential, for an early identification of any changes in feces, urine, breathing and locomotive system. There are issues that come up overnight and must be promptly resolved. And finally, all the love and attention. It is what keeps them happy and willing to live, when their small bodies are more demanding about the conditions to stay healthy in comparison to their younger years. Every measure that intend to protect the elderly Pug is welcome, keeping in mind that they – much more than before, when they were young – need all the love we can dedicate to them.
Exercise
VIDEO
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IT HAPPENED
TO ME IT HAPPENED TO ME
BY S ARI TA CONSTANZ I
I
t was a single blow. He didn’t suffer. But we felt a grief that would never end. He followed my son Lucas, crossing the street, in his way to grandmother Albina’s house. The driver was innocent. Our beloved Gugu, the world’s most gorgeous Pug, left at eighteen months of age. He was charming, lovely, and was obtained in a kennel from my city, in Santa Catarina. I started to seek comfort in rescue groups of many kinds, including Pug ones and that was when I started to understand about stud dogs and bitches, and how they are exploited in irresponsible kennels, without any care. It had been three months since the tragedy, we still felt a lot, when grandpa Pedro and grandma Albina presented us with another Pug puppy, the beautiful Gugu II. A short time later, we bought a Boxer puppy, dear Thunder, and both are still with us, six years old each, good-looking and healthy.
I then decided to apply for the donation of a rescued Pug. Jack showed up in São Paulo and Nega in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul. I chose Jack, who was closer (2,500 km or 1550 miles on a round trip), and I thought I would never be chosen as the adopter. But I was.
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The moderator of a rescue group asked if we could give Nega a ride to São Paulo. After laughing about it, we accepted to do so. However, we hired a pet taxi that traveled for 800 km (500 miles) on a round trip that brought her to me. She arrived at night, so weak and helpless, and we could do everything she needed, so we did.
IT WAS MY FIRST CONTACT WITH A RESCUED PUG. SHE GAZED AT US WITH HER SHINY EYES, CHARMED BY THE LOVE SHE WAS GIVEN, SOMETHING SHE HAD NEVER FELT IN HER LIFE ON A KENNEL OF NEGLECTFUL NON-LOVING OWNERS. In the following day, we set off at five a.m., Lucas, Nega and me, on our way to Sao Paulo, to hand her to the new owner and bring Jack, the rescued Pug we had chosen. I felt uneasy during the trip, with a sense of guilt sinking in my chest, for not choosing her. As arranged, we met at the parking lot of a mall in Sao Paulo. I got Jack and handed Nega, with my heart broken. Despite my suffering, I went back to the car feeling my job was done, because the love of the new owners was plain to see. It was a burdensome trip, but from it, I could understand that everything is worthwhile for a greater good: taking them from a horrible place so they can be loved and respected like every animal deserves. As far as I can tell, Nega (now Lola) lives a very happy and loving life.
IT HAPPENED TO ME Sarita and Jack, her rescued Pug
“Today I am one of the moderators of the group SOS PUGS, in which we rescue Pugs from risky situations, a volunteer job I am glad to do. They are unbelievable stories; no one can fathom what a human being is able to do due to indifference and greed.”
Life goes on and today I am one of the moderators of the group SOS PUGS, in which we rescue Pugs from risky situations, a volunteer job I am glad to do. They are unbelievable stories; no one can fathom what a human being is able to do due to indifference and greed. Sometimes it is a race against time, like when Frederico, a beautiful and strong Pug, that would be euthanized
on that afternoon, for being diagnosed with leishmaniosis, a controllable disease. Adopters were found at the last minute, and they received him with arms wide open. There are cases in which rescued Pugs in advances stages of malnutrition, with severe diseases that pass away despite all efforts. Still the majority survives, to meet love, overcome traumas and live happy, making up for the hours of labor, the shorter sleeping hours, the tears shed and the financial difficulties to afford great health expenses from the rescued Pugs. For love, and with the help of so many friends, it is absolutely worthwhile!
Sonia Blanco Carreiro Sarita Constanzi “mother” to the Mortadela gang and Physiotherapist and moderator owner of Anita Bonita crafts of the group SOS PUGS
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SPECIAL: LEISHMANIASIS
LEISHMANIASIS:
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING INFORMED PART 1
BY ANGEL A NA BUCO
Advisors Prof. Thales Augusto Barçante and Prof. Joziana Muniz de Paiva Barçante The rescued Pugs in the photos are under treatment, with good quality of life
I
n face of the rising number of Pugs rescued with the visceral leishmaniasis diagnosis, we acknowledge that it would be very important to guide readers about this disease that inflicts dogs, human beings and other urban and wild mammals. Leishmaniases are parasitic diseases caused by the protozoa of Leishmania species, that can manifest in two different forms: visceral and cutaneous. Both ones are namely zoonoses, that is, affect both humans and animals. In this article, we will focus the visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar, for being a more severe manifestation of the disease and for its importance in Human and Veterinarian Medicine.
Visceral Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease, in the sense that it mainly affects poor populations in regions of precarious sanitary conditions and mainly the outskirts of towns. The research for new drugs for the treatment is not of interest for studies and investment in pharmaceutical industries. However, cases in
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metropolitan areas, with a high Human Development Index, have also been often reported, in both humans and animals. The main form of transmission occurs through the involvement of the infected female sandfly (phlebotomus), also known in Brazil as cangalinha, polvinha, birigui, asa dura, among other common names. This insect breeds in wet organic matter (garbage, food litter piled on the ground, leaf debris in the yard, feces of animals raised around the house, like chicken, piles of fruit in orchards). When the mosquito draws the blood of infected animals, it gets infected too. As the skin of the infected dog hosts the parasite, the insect carrier that bites an infected dog has high chances of being infected and then transmitting the parasite to other mammals, humans included. In such context, the domestic dog is the main vessel for the parasite, and it works as a source of infection for the sandfly in the urban environment, even though it is not the only one. For instance, in the World Congress on Leishmaniasis – Worldleish 2017, the role of rabbits and hares in an urban outbreak in downtown Madrid (Spain) was discussed. Other forms of transmission include sexual and vertical (mother to unborn pup).
SPECIAL: LEISHMANIASIS
leishmaniases are parasitic diseases caused by the protozoa of leishmania species , that can manifest in two different forms : visceral and cutaneous .
to its relatively high cost, which, in terms of public health, does not shape a solution.
In Brazil, the public policy for disease control is based on the diagnoses of early cases, the control of the insect, treatment of infected humans and the euthanasia of infected dogs, even when they have not produced symptoms yet. The disease cannot be parasitologically cured, but it can be kept under control, with quality of living for humans and animals, under appropriate medication, depending on the stage in which treatment is started. Visceral Leishmaniasis, when untreated, may cause the death of infected individuals, both humans and dogs. The arrival and release of the substance miltefosine brought an alternative to canine euthanasia. However, treatment is only viable to a small part of the population, due
The use of miltefosine in Brazil is still very new. Presumably, it keeps the disease under controls, leaving little to no parasites on the skin of the dog, resulting in the reduction of its role as source of infection for the carrier. Besides the use of oral medication, dogs under miltefosine treatment must do a series of tests every four or six months, to assess clinical evolution and the presence of parasites on the skin. Miltefosine is liberated for veterinary use, and it shows restrictions for dogs that already present renal and hepatical lesions. It is important to stress that, even under miltefosine treatment, the animal needs to have his collar soaked in insecticide or use another long-term topic treatment, to avoid insect bites. No isolate individual measure is 100% effective.
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SPECIAL: LEISHMANIASIS
Mosquito palha, Leishmaniasis Transmitter
Female
A The main form of transmission occurs through the involvement of the infected female sandfly (phlebotomus). VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS IS A DISEASE THAT HAS MANY IMPORTANT ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS THAT MUST BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION:
1 - TRANSPORTING OF INFECTED DOGS TO DISEASE-FREE ZONES. Considering that the sandfly has a wide geographical spread, it is important that infected animals are not taken to free zones, in order to avoid a potential transmission spot. In case transport is necessary, it is mandatory to use insecticides (collars or topical insecticides) so they are not bit, taking the disease to that area. Whenever possible, maintenance of the dog in meshed spaces with specific ultra-thin mesh, and to avoid night walks (highest activity of the insect).
Male
Measuring 2mm, the mosquito palha usually goes unnoticed to the human eye.
2 - NON-INFECTED DOGS IN VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS TRANSMISSION ZONES. If your dog lives in an area that is infected, it must benefit of every means to avoid infection by leishmania. Insecticide-soaked collars or long duration topical products, and specified vaccination are essential.
3 - BREEDING OF INFECTED ANIMALS. Unfortunately, due to the high commercial value of many breeds, like Pugs, some owners have been using visceral leishmaniasis positive animals to mate. We consider this posture to be coward to the animals, and it is also a crime to public health. Mating and breeding are vetted for infected animals. Vertical transmission (from mother to unborn pup) is real, so
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LEISHMANIASIS: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Article written to our magazine by Veterinarian Doctor Stephanie Karoline Pereira Passos, with technical detail, in the fashion of a Q&A about leishmaniasis.
the breeding of infected females can generate a maintenance cycle for the parasite, leading to severe consequences, such as a heightened public health risk (including to the owner/ breeder and his/her family), suffering for the dogs and emotional distress for the owners of potentially infected puppies. It is important to stress that canine Visceral Leishmaniasis might not present symptoms in many animals. Therefore, for an appropriate assessment of the animal, the owner must look for a veterinarian doctor with technical competence on the subject, to indicate the most adequate ethical and clinical conduct for each case. The subject will continue in our next issue, addressing leishmaniasis treatment and prevention in-depth, including vaccination, due to its great importance for us humans and for the dogs.
Information is our first weapon in the fight against such a cruel disease that can be avoided, but not cured. Let’s spread the word.
Consultants for this article: Professor Joziana Muniz de Paiva Barçante Graduated in Biology Science by UFJF PhD in Parasitology by UFMG Post-doctorate in immunoparasitology by UFMG Professor of the Health Science Department at the Federal University of Lavras (UFLA) Head of Chancellor Office at UFLA Professor Thales Augusto Barçante Graduated in Biology Science by UFJF PhD in Parasitology by UFMG Professor of the Health Science Department at UFLA Chief of the Health Science Department at UFLA http://pre.univesp.br/urbanizacao-e-leishmaniose#.WSRzldy1uM8 http://www.ufla.br/ascom/2017/04/04/leishmanioses-conheca-as-principais-informacoes-e-o-historico-do-trabalho-que-vem-sendo-desenvolvido-em-lavras/
SPECIAL: LEISHMANIASIS
Light trap used for researching the mosquito palha.
BREEDERS, OW N E R S & EVENTS V E T E R I N A RY D O C TO R S S E RV I C E S
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THE FIRST PUG AND CAT
TO WALK ACROSS SPAIN!
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PUGMAG PU
Hand-wrapped and sent from the boys at their home in Spain!
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Find out more, and get your own unique PUG & CAT T-Shirt at www.pugandcat.com !
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Sebastian, Finn, Bandito and Luigi made a life changing journey walking 1500km across Spain as the ultimate modern family, 2 guys and their beloved and oh so cute pets, a previously unknown Pug and Cat.
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Stephanie Passos CRMV- 14123
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