JHN_All About Pets_031624

Paws off! Practice pet poison prevention

(Metro Creative Connection)Companion animals typically do not understand that certain items in their environments can be harmful. Pets’ innate curiosity coupled with unique aromas produced by common household items can put them in jeopardy of potentially deadly poisoning.

According to veterinary experts at WebMD Pet Health Center, an estimated 232,000 cases of pet poisoning occur annually in the United States. In March 2022, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline fielded 22 percent more calls stemming from incidents of pet toxicity than in 2021. The following are some steps pet owners can take to protect their companion animals against poisoning.

• Don’t leave out human food. Dogs, cats and other animals may be lured by the sweet temptation of their owners’ food. Many food scraps can be toxic to pets, including alcoholic beverages, chocolate, coffee beans, moldy foods, and raisins, among others.

Keep the kitchen tidy and trash cans (indoor and outdoor) secured.

• Be careful with houseplants. While they may look beautiful and filter indoor air, certain houseplants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Before

bringing any new plants into your home, check the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant Guide. Lilies may be pretty, but they also are quite toxic. The smallest nibble can be fatal to cats.

• Keep medications locked away. Be sure that over-the-counter and prescription medications are locked away and cannot be accessed by curious pets. Even seemingly mild medications, like human pain relievers, can be toxic to pets.

• Be safe when spring cleaning. Keep pets out of rooms when they are being cleaned by chemical products or when using insecticides. Wait a day or more before letting pets back into the area. Store products beyond a pet’s reach when they’re not in use.

With diligence, a significant percentage of pet poisonings can be prevented. Pet owners should do their homework about toxic items in and around their homes and do their best to keep pets safe.

Common pet poisons

(Metro Creative Connection) - Pet poisoning is serious and almost entirely preventable. With diligence, pet owners can keep their companion animals safe.

Various household substances and foods found in a typical house can be poisonous to pets, and such items include:

• chocolate

• grapes/raisins

• xylitol (artificial sweetener)

• alcoholic beverages

• rodenticide

• acetaminophen/ibuprofen

• antifreeze

• macadamia nuts

• onions

• houseplants

• mushrooms

• aloe

• cleaning products

• avocado

• flower bouquets

• veterinary medicines (when eaten in bulk and not used as directed)

• recreational drugs

Anyone who suspects a dog has ingested something toxic can contact their veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately.

In the event that a vet or poison control organization suggests inducing vomiting, pet owners can follow this formula for making an emetic to make dogs vomit. Hydrogen peroxide is an irritant to a dog’s intestinal tract and typically works within 10 to 15 minutes of being ingested. The proper dosage, according to the American Kennel Club, is one teaspoon of 3-percent hydrogen peroxide per five pounds of the dog’s body weight by mouth, with a maximum dose of 3 tablespoons for dogs who weigh more than 45 pounds. Only induce vomiting under the guidance of an expert and within two hours of the dog consuming the substance. Use a syringe to squirt the solution between the dog’s back teeth, being careful not to let the pet inhale the substance. Do not let the dog eat the vomit, which some pets are bound to try. Vomiting can cause dehydration, so make sure the dog has plenty of access to fresh water if the vet advises no further action.

Hydrogen peroxide is not typically effective at inducing vomiting in cats, and poisoning may require further consultation with a professional health care provider.

Characteristics to consider when looking for a new dog

(Metro Creative Connection) - Dogs have been faithful companions to humans for hundreds of years. Dog owners know their canine companions can be friendly, affectionate and entertaining. Dogs also are quite intelligent and can perform various jobs that help them stay focused and healthy.

Anyone considering bringing a dog home might be wondering which dog is best for them. Every dog is unique, and a breed that is a perfect fit for one person or family may not be the right choice for another. The following are five characteristics to consider when searching for a new dog.

1. Energy level

Dogs require different levels of exercise and are sometimes classified by how much energy they are likely to exert. A working breed like a German shepherd, for example, may need more exercise than a dog that is known to lounge more often, such as a basset hound. Talk through exercise expectations and be realistic on how much time can be devoted to walks and play sessions before narrowing down breeds.

2. Size

The larger the dog, the more indoor and outside space the animal will require. Larger dogs also will need more food and larger toys and sleeping spots. They also may be more difficult to walk if they are particularly large and strong compared to the individual doing the walking. Some people may want a dog that can be easily transported in a carrier when traveling. Therefore, size is an important consideration when looking for a new dog.

3. Health predispositions

Though predisposition to certain health issues may not be too great

a concern with mixed-breed dogs, purebred animals are another story. For example, RSPCA Pet Insurance says pugs and bulldogs, as well as other brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds, may experience overheating because they have trouble panting to cool off. Some brachy dogs are predisposed to skin, eye or oral health conditions. Other dogs may be more prone to allergies or hip dysplasia. It’s important to do your homework on breeds and identify potential health issues a given dog may be predisposed to.

4. Grooming needs

Coat will determine how often or how much grooming a dog will require. Dogs with double coats may need to be brushed regularly to avoid matting and to help with the shedding process. While certain dogs are billed as hypoallergenic, this really isn’t a thing. Allergies often form from exposure to dog dander or the oils on their skin, so reduced propensity for shedding will not remove the chances for allergic reaction entirely.

5. Personality

It is important to read the breed standards on dog disposition. While personality will be affected by breeding and how the animal was raised, inherent traits may make some dogs act a certain way across the board. Dogs bred to be watchdogs may be more aloof or weary around strangers. Dogs that are bred to do jobs like herding may be more independent. Other dogs are family-oriented and bigger lovebugs, which is why Golden retrievers are so popular among families. Speak with a qualified breeder or veterinarian about which dogs will best fit a particular lifestyle. Various characteristics merit consideration when shopping for a new dog.

Conditions that can affect pets’ oral health

(Metro Creative Connection) - A happy and healthy pet can be a wonderful addition to a home. The unconditional love that companion animals provide is often well worth the devotion of time and resources that goes into ensuring pets live happy and healthy lives.

Oral health care is one of the common areas of pet health that some pet parents overlook, but it is just as important as other wellness issues. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises that dental health is a very important part of pets’ overall health. Dental problems can cause certain issues, or they can be a byproduct of other health problems. Understanding some of the conditions that can affect pets’ teeth and gums may compel their owners to take swift action if such issues arise.

Gum diseases

Bacterial infections of the gums and other oral tissue can cause inflammation of the gums. If periodontal disease is untreated, Merck Veterinary Manual says tooth loss can occur.

Gum disease is caused by bacteria that leads to the formation of plaque at the gum line. Pet owners should be diligent in brushing their pets’ teeth to reduce bacteria. Eating crunchy foods and treats alone will not clean teeth. Veterinarians also may recommend routine dental scaling treatments, particularly for breeds that are at elevated risk for periodontal disease.

Broken teeth and roots

Broken teeth and roots are most often caused when pets bite into something that is too hard. The Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center says pet owners should employ the “fingernail test” on pet toys. In this test, one should be able to make a dent in the item with a fingernail to

mark it as safe as a chew toy. Antlers, hooves and bones may fracture teeth. Pets also should not be allowed to chomp down on ice cubes.

Teeth also may become fractured through rough play, such as a tug-of-war session with a toy. Pet owners should carefully gauge the pressure at which they play such games.

Tumors

Oral tumors are abnormal growths that can form in pets’ mouths. Some tumors are benign, while others are malignant and can spread. All unusual growths should be checked out by a veterinarian. VCA Animal Hospitals says male dogs seem to be twice as likely to develop oral cancer than female dogs. Also, Akitas, Cocker Spaniels, Boxers, Dachsunds, Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles are among the breeds that seem to be predisposed to oral cancers.

Bad breath

The most common cause of bad breath in pets is periodontal disease. Having pets’ teeth cleaned and staying current on oral hygiene can help.

Additional causes of bad breath may include poor kidney or liver health, as the pet may be having issues filtering waste out of its body, says Apple Valley Animal Hospital.

Routine vet visits can alert pet owners to potential oral health issues. Taking dental care seriously can help keep pets healthy.

What pet owners should know about heartworm

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go to great lengths to ensure their animal companions are happy and healthy. Nutritious diets and routine visits to a veterinarian are two ways to keep pets healthy. Pet owners also can educate themselves about various conditions that can adversely affect their pets’ health, including heartworm.

What is heartworm?

The American Heartworm Society notes heartworm is a potentially fatal disease caused by footlong worms that can live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of affected pets. A pet affected by heartworm can develop severe lung disease, heart failure and organ damage.

Are all pets vulnerable to heartworm?

The American Veterinary Medical Association® reports that heartworm primarily infects dogs, cats and ferrets. However, wild animals like foxes and wolves also can be infected, as can animals like raccoons and opossums that many people see in their backyards and local parks. Humans also have been infected with heartworm, though the AVMA® notes such instances are rare.

Heartworm and dogs

The AHS notes dogs are a natural host for heartworms. Heartworms that live inside a dog

can mature into adults and even mate and produce offspring while inside the dog. Numbers increase if the dog is not treated for heartworm. Even if a dog is treated, the effects of heartworm infection can linger after the worms are gone, contributing to lasting damage to the heart, lungs and arteries.

Symptoms of heartworm infection in dogs may not manifest early on. The AHS notes that it’s more likely symptoms will develop the longer the infection persists. Such symptoms may include:

• A mild, persistent cough

• Reluctance to exercise

• Fatigue after moderate activity

• Decreased appetite

• Weight loss

According to the AHM, active dogs, dogs with heavy heartworm infections or those with additional health problems frequently exhibit pronounced clinical signs.

Heartworm and cats

The AVMA notes diagnosis of heartworm in cats is more difficult than it is with dogs. Unlike dogs, cats are not natural hosts for heartworms, and the AHS reports most worms in cats do not make it to the adult stage. In fact, many cats with heartworm have no adult worms. That contributes to the difficulty of diagnosis, and it does not protect cats

against harmful side effects of heartworm, including a condition known as heartworm associated respiratory disease (HARD).

The AHS notes that signs of heartworm in cats can be subtle or very dramatic. Sadly, the AHS also reports that the first sign of heartworm in some cases is the sudden collapse or sudden death of the cat. If cats exhibit symptoms, those signs may include:

• Coughing

• Attacks that mimic an asthma attack

• Periodic vomiting

• Lack of appetite

• Weight loss

• Difficulty walking

• Fainting or seizures

• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen

Heartworm poses a potentially serious threat to cats and dogs. Pet owners are urged to speak with their veterinarians about heartworm prevention and what to do if a pet becomes infected.

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How to keep animals safe outdoors

(Metro Creative Connection) - Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for the body and even the soul. People realize this, which is why outdoor activity is encouraged; staying indoors all the time can quickly sap energy levels and diminish mood.

What is good for human beings also may be good for pets — within reason, of course. Domestic companion animals can benefit from time in the great outdoors. It provides them new sights and sounds, opportunities to explore, and new ways to exercise. Their owners just need to take precautions to make outdoor ventures safe for domesticated animals. The good news is there are steps to make time outdoors safer for pets.

Make the yard pet-friendly

Those who have the benefit of a yard will want to fence it in. Fences stop pets from running away, and they can limit the probability that predators will get inside the yard.

The yard should routinely be inspected for dangers, including poisonous plants (poison ivy, mushrooms) that pets may ingest, as well as other hazards.

Install a pet door

A pet door can provide convenient access to the outdoors when pets would like to get out-

side. Doors can be purchased with radio-signal locks that will disengage when a pet wearing an electric collar tries to go through; otherwise, the door stays closed for security reasons.

Prevent parasites

Work with your veterinarian to get a prescription for parasite preventatives. This includes flea and tick medication and worm medication. Pets may get heartworms from the bites of mosquitoes. Therefore, limit the number of mosquitoes on your property by draining standing water and potentially using repellents if mosquitoes are a nuisance.

Watch the weather

Pets will need ways to cool off or warm up when spending time outdoors. Extreme heat or cold could be dangerous, so avoid having pets spend prolonged periods of time outside if the weather is especially harsh.

Check in frequently

Pets should not be left entirely to their own devices outdoors. Fences may keep some predators out, but those that can fly or climb (or burrow) can make it inside. Keep tabs on pets while they are outside. Do not keep a dog tied up for a while, as the animal may get tangled and choke.

Use a leash

Walks around the neighborhood are made much safer with the use of leashes, or leads as they are sometimes called. A leash enables pet owners to restrain their pets if need be and prevent them from running loose and getting lost.

Avoid hidden poisons

Antifreeze, oil and even discarded trash can be dangerous to pets if ingested. Pet owners need to exercise caution on walks.

Exercise caution in stores

Certain retailers have relaxed their policies about letting pets inside. Others have not but seemingly turn a blind eye when pets come inside. By and large, only certified service animals are legally allowed to be in most retail stores. Bringing an “emotional support animal” or another pet in the store can compromise the ability of trained animals to properly provide care because they may become distracted by other pets. Non-service animals also may become injured by shopping carts or get under feet of shoppers if they are not properly leash-trained.

Pet owners can safeguard domesticated animals and pets in various ways when spending time outdoors.

Warning signs of cancer in pets

(Metro Creative Connection) - Few people may think of their pets when pondering a topic as serious as cancer. However, a significant percentage of cats and dogs will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Recognition of that reality on the part of pet owners could potentially save the lives of untold numbers of furry friends.

The National Cancer Institute reports that approximately six million dogs and roughly the same number of cats are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States. In fact, data from the Veterinary Cancer Society indicates cancer is the leading cause of death in pets who are beyond middle age. Much like with humans and cancer, pets have a greater chance of surviving a cancer diagnosis if the disease is detected in its early stages. Unlike with humans, pets cannot speak up when something is off with their bodies. That means it’s the responsibility of pet owners to learn to recognize potential pet cancer warning signs. The nonprofit, New York Citybased Animal Medical Center urges pet owners to be on the lookout for the following cancer warning signs and to report anything concerning to a veterinarian immediately.

• Lumps and bumps: The AMC encourages pet owners to have any skin mass examined by a veterinarian and to maintain a body map of lumps so new lumps are more easily recognized. The AMC reports that skin masses in cats are more likely to be malignant than those in dogs.

• Abnormal odors: Notably bad breath could be caused by a tumor in the mouth. Foul odors also may be a result of bacteria related to an infection or wound related to cancer.

• Abnormal discharge: An increased discharge from the pet’s nose, eyes or ears could indicate the presence of a tumor or another illness.

• Wounds that will not heal: Wounds that won’t heal on their own or with prescribed medications could indicate the presence of cancer.

• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. The AMC urges owners of pets who are overweight to avoid welcoming unexplained weight loss without consulting with a veterinarian. Unless a pet is on a diet, it is unlikely to lose weight.

• Changes in appetite: The AMC recommends pet owners monitor how much their pets eat, as an increase or decrease in appetite could indi-

cate the presence of cancer.

• Coughing or difficulty breathing: Changes in a pet’s breathing pattern or a reluctance to exercise should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. Cancer can affect a pet’s breathing in a number of ways, so these signs should not be taken lightly.

• Lethargy and depression: Lack of interest in daily activities, including walks and play sessions, could indicate the presence of cancer. In addition, cancer can increase the amount of time pets spend sleeping.

• Changes in bathroom habits: The AMC notes that excessive water consumption, blood in the urine, difficulty urinating or defecating, frequent diarrhea, or blood in the stool may indicate the presence of cancer.

• Pain: Pain may be linked to various ailments, including cancer. If a pet is limping, have the animal examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause of the limp.

Cancer affects millions of pets each year. Responsible pet owners can learn to spot potential warning signs of cancer to increase the chances their furry friends survive the disease.

How to get house cats some exercise

(Metro Creative Connection) - Cats make beloved pets for any number of reasons. Many pet owners love their cats for their quirky personalities, while others like the companionship of an animal that does not require the same level of hands-on attention as a dog.

In a testament to the love pet owners have for their cats, many would do anything to keep them safe, happy and healthy. Cat health can be easy to take for granted, as felines are generally quiet and many prefer to spend ample time alone. However, pet owners must take an active role in the health of their cats, and that includes ensuring the felines get enough exercise. The United Kingdom-based People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals notes that cats that stay fit and remain active are less likely to become obese and develop diabetes and arthritis.

Cat owners know that the very quirks that make cats such lovable pets also can make it hard to get them to do things they won’t necessarily want to do. But the following are some ways to ensure cats get enough exercise to stay fit and healthy.

• Determine which toys cats like best. Some pre-exercise observation can help lay a strong foundation for feline fitness sessions. The PDSA advises cat owners to identify which toys cats seem to like best and then use those toys during exercise sessions to entice participation. Use one or two toys each session and swap them every few days so cats do not grow bored with their fitness routines.

• Incentivize physical activity. Much like dogs respond to treats during behavior training, cats are more likely to engage in exercise when sessions end with a reward. PetMD notes some post-exercise praise and a few healthy treats can encourage cats to participate willingly in exercise sessions.

• Don’t overdo it. Cats are not humans, so felines’ fitness sessions don’t need to mirror their owners’ lengthy workouts. Play sessions intended to get cats to exercise can last between 10 and 15 minutes each. PetMD recommends limiting sessions to two or three per day for older cats, while as many as 10 sessions per day can be effective for younger cats.

• Let cats sink their teeth and claws into a workout. WebMD recommends letting cats sink their teeth and claws into toys during a workout. This type of engagement satisfies cats and will encourage them to embrace exercise sessions. Keep some replacements at the ready in case cats are especially enthusiastic.

• Employ a laser pointer. Cat owners are undoubtedly aware and likely amused by how much cats are drawn to laser pointers. Make the most of that inability to resist laser light by using a laser pointer during a cat’s workout routine. Cats will chase the pointer all over the room, all the while getting some beneficial exercise.

Cats can benefit from routine exercise just as much as their owners, and there are several fun and even some amusing ways to encourage felines to enthusiastically engage in physical activity.