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The Pet Gazette • 1
Publisher Letter This issue is packed with so much veterinarian knowledge, from head to paw (or crown to toe if that may be the case), and we tried to cover as many body parts as we could in between. I also continue to be amazed at the transformations that people go through because of pets and the selflessness they inspire. We have included a few of these stories. Want more? We can only fit so much in these pages, so Google is your friend for deeper knowledge about any one topic. Or feel free to reach out to us at info@thepetgazette.com and we will do our best to Google it for you ;) We could also pose your question to the thousands of pet professionals who receive The Pet Gazette. Either way, we’d love to hear from you and we will do our best to help you out. Just yesterday I had someone write in and ask for a referral for someone who could help them keep their dog from escaping their yard. I know The Pet Gazette has referred a few people to Freedom Fence and the owner Hal has been willing to advise anyone, even if they live in another state and there is no chance of them being a client. You can’t know everything, so it’s nice to have lots of friends who know different things that you can ask when necessary. Google is great though and you can call up a few people who have dedicated their lives to pet health and try to get some opinions. And good luck with your own health. A good first step is having a pet, so congrats. Send us a picture of your hyper blood pressure reducing pet and we’d love to feature them on our website, our social media and in our App. Let us know how your health is better because of your pet.
Catering to US pet owners and pet businesses. New features now available daily online at ThePetGazette.com and via The Pet Gazette App.
Editors: Jaydeep Kacha, Dean Klatsky, Jason Klatsky Writers/Contributors: Dr. Karen Becker, Dr. Gayle Block, Dr. Jane Cho, Dr. Klein, Jone Bouman, Sherry Butter, Philippe Daurenjou, Dana Humphrey Graphic Design: InMotion Media Digital Publication Founder: Jim Dempsey Publisher: Jason Klatsky PO Box 432, Somers, NY. 10589 info@thepetgazette.com, 914-273-9721
2 • The Pet Gazette
Inside this Issue... Pg. 4-6 Eye Love My Pet Pg. 8-9 What Is Going On In That Mouth? Pg. 10-11 No Body Likes Fleas, Ticks & Heartworm Pg. 12-14 Know The Pet Nose Myth Pg. 15-16 Pain in the Tail Pg. 17 First “Smart” Litter Box for Cats Pg. 18 Health Tips for Feral Cats Pg. 19 Waggle Foundation Tackles Economic Euthanasia Pg. 19 The Power of a Pet Pg. 20 14 Health Reasons to Sleep with Your Pet Pg. 21 Fur Coats Don’t Protect from Everything Pg. 23 Out & About If you would like your business to be a part of our distribution, send a request to: Jason Klatsky, jason@thepetgazette.com We accept photos, opinions, short articles, stories, poems and drawings from the general public. We assume no responsibility for failure to publish a submission or for typographic errors published, or incorrect placement. The content of the magazine consists of copyrightable material and cannot be reproduced without the expressed permission of the publishers.
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The Pet Gazette • 3
Eye Love My Pet
by Dr. Jane Cho
W
hat do you see when you look into your pets’ eyes?
Likely love, affection, beauty, trust... all the things that made you fall in love with your pet the first time you saw him or her. But did you also know you could help the health of your pets’ eyes by just looking at them? Owner observation for changes in the eyes is a great way to get an idea of whether or not a trip to the vet is in order. Your pet depends on you to notice problems, and careful observation of the way your pet looks and acts is a critical first step of responsible pet care. When looking at the eyes, you should look for things like: Asymmetry – Do the eyes look like each other? Are the face and head symmetrical when comparing right to left? Unusual discharge – which can be tears, mucus, crusts, etc. and vary in color from clear to red, yellow, green, brown, black or white. Often, some degree of discharge may be normal Color changes – including redness, cloudiness, or any other abnormal color to one or both eyes Bloodshot appearance – check this by gently lifting up the upper eyelid of the eye and look at the whites of the eyeball. Compare this color to the color of the whites of the other eye Squinting – especially if squinting is persistent, or if it involves just one eye. Of course, there are certain normal circumstances when a certain degree of squinting is to be expected, such as sudden bright light Rubbing – any behaviors that might indicate eye discomfort Behavior changes – including hesitation, bumping into things, an inability to react to things he/she used to, especially if persistent 4 • The Pet Gazette
With time, you will be able to get an idea of what is normal for your pet. Remember that sometimes there are previous issues that cause asymmetry or a “change” that is not necessarily a problem. But if you note new changes, especially if they are getting worse, or causing pain, a trip to your veterinarian should be scheduled. The more severe the changes, the sooner you should seek care. If you aren’t sure, a veterinary opinion can help reduce your fears, or at least get you on the path to treat a problem. Some of the more common eye problems that animals may develop include: Corneal Ulceration This is a break in the “skin” of the surface of the eye. An injury or other reasons may cause this skin to be removed, leaving a “bare” area. This may be just a small area, involve the entire cornea, or be some size in between. It may be infected or not infected. And there may be any number of other complicating factors. Corneal ulcers are typically quite painful, and may manifest
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The Pet Gazette • 5
as squinting, rubbing, tearing or other discharge, and a bloodshot appearance. The third eyelid, a fleshy membrane in the inner corner of the eye, may be elevated, causing the eye to appear “rolled back.”
can be the cause, though diabetes is another common cause of rapid and severe cataracts. The presence of cataracts can also cause secondary problems in the eye, sometimes severe. Cataracts alone should not be uncomfortable or cause the eyes to be bloodshot, so if the eye(s) look abnormally white, and especially if also bloodshot or uncomfortable, veterinary care should be sought. Elective cataract surgery may be an option for some animals, but whether this is possible for any individual is best determined by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Glaucoma This is a condition involving increased intraocular pressure, which causes pain and vision
More serious signs include cloudiness, a visible irregularity on the eye surface, and marked pain, or even eye rupture or vision loss. The spectrum of severity of this problem is wide, and so the prognosis, or chance of resolution/improvement, is also highly variable. Topical medications (eye drops and/or ointments) and eye protection are often minimally required, but sometimes surgery is needed, depending on the severity. Animals (particularly dogs) with flatter faces and more prominent eyes are especially predisposed to ulceration. Dry Eye This is a relatively common problem in dogs. In the most common form of dry eye, the water component of the tears is reduced, allowing lots of frequent mucus buildup and often scarring of the eyes as well. Redness, persistent discharge, and crusting around the affected eye(s) are common clinical signs, though discomfort is not typical. More cases will respond well to medications than not, however, even in those that do well with medications, lifelong topical medications are still generally required. Cataracts These are white opacity of the lens of the eye. The lens, located inside the eye behind the iris (the part of the eye that gives it its color), is normally optically clear, and helps the eye to focus. However, if a cataract forms, the lens becomes cloudy, thus blocking light from reaching the light-sensitive retina in the back of the eye. Like in people, if a cataract is opaque and extensive enough, vision loss can result. Cataracts may develop in one or both eyes to varying degrees. Most commonly, aging or a genetic tendency for cataract development 6 • The Pet Gazette
loss. This increase in pressure inside the eye is often marked and rapid in onset, making the changes sudden, severe, and dramatic. Typical clinical signs in this situation include an extremely bloodshot eye, cloudiness, third eyelid elevation, and vision loss. Pain, including squinting, rubbing, and a sensitivity to touching the head, may be noticed. After the disease has been present for some time, the eyeball may actually even enlarge, making it look bulgy and prominent. All of the above are potentially serious signs and warrant a visit to a doctor. There are many other diseases that can develop in the eye(s) and surrounding structures. Some eye problems are a sign of even more widespread disease. If an abnormality is seen, a veterinary visit is certainly warranted. Your veterinarian may even refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist, a specialist specifically trained and qualified in dealing with animal eye problems. Remember, observation by you is the first step – so next time you look into your pets’ eyes, pay a little more attention and make sure they look normal. Your pets’ eyes and vision depend on it! TPG thepetgazette.com
Offering the highest level of veterinary eye care for your pet by board certified veterinary ophthalmologists.
620 Commerce Street, ornwood, NY (easy to reach from all major roadways)
(914) 674-4141 www.vesny.com
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The Pet Gazette • 7
what is going on “ in that mouth? by Dana Humphrey
O
only 8 percent of dog owners and 3 percent of cat owners brush their pets’ teeth on a regular basis
“
ther than love, affection and treats (according to your pet) dental care is the most important thing you can do for your furry friend. Regular dental care can add years to your pet’s life.
Fortunately, because plaque is the starting point for tartar and gum disease, daily removal of it is key. Stop the plaque attack and you and your pet will have many reasons to smile including:
Unfortunately, it isn’t something that most pet parents think about. According to a pet dental poll, only 8 percent of dog owners and 3 percent of cat owners brush their pets’ teeth on a regular basis. Dental care is even less common for animals that live in cages, like birds or gerbils.
More Cuddles.
Since February is National Pet Dental Health Month, it is the perfect time to “brush up” on why pet dental care is so important and just how easy it can be! We’ve got some great tips and tricks to keep your pet’s teeth in tip-top shape. The Key Is Stopping Pet Plaque
Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria overtakes the mouth – and it all starts with plaque. Plaque is an unavoidable part of life for pets. This clear, sticky substance forms after every meal and can begin to harden into tartar within 72 hours. Tartar is a rock-hard substance (brownish or yellow in color) that’s packed with bacteria, which can infect and inflame the gums and give your pet that lessthan-fetching breath. Unlike plaque, tartar can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning. 8 • The Pet Gazette
According to a dental survey by Banfield Pet Hospital, 27 percent of dog owners say they avoid getting close to their pets because of bad breath. Better Quality of Life. In the advanced stages of
pet gum disease, the gums actually separate away from the teeth. This is as painful as it sounds. An animal’s instinct is to hide its pain, which means your pet could be silently suffering without you knowing it. More Years Together. Taking care of the teeth
and gums can add 2–5 years to a pet’s life. Save Money.
Tooth extractions from periodontal disease can be expensive. Annual dental cleanings to remove tartar can add up too, as it involves anesthesia. At-home dental care can help cut back on these costs.
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No-Brush Solutions to Fight Bad Pet Breath
Brushing teeth may not be realistic for some pets. There are many no-brush pet dental products on the market. Just be sure to do your homework first. Avoid products with alcohol, additives, xylitol, mints, tea tree oil and clove oil. These ingredients can sting a pet’s delicate tissues, only mask bad breath, and may cause harm with long-term use. One favorite of veterinarians and pet owners is the Oxyfresh line of dental products. Their products are USA-made, nontoxic, and free of alcohol, masking agents and other junk. Their premium pet dental products are formulated with a safe, innovative formula that neutralizes bad breath while fighting plaque buildup. They offer water additives, on-the-go dental sprays, and brush-free dental gel to make pet home dental care easy. TPG What about Birds?
Bad breath in birds is most often caused by a bacterial infection or Candidiasis (yeast infection). If your bird has bad breath, make an appointment with your veterinarian. A vet will
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be able to determine if the infection is coming from the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract or the oropharynx. The best thing you can do is be proactive against bird bad breath. Additive now comes in a smaller eight-ounce size which is perfect for smaller pets!
The Pet Gazette • 9
no
body likes Fleas, Ticks & Heartworm
L
eptospirosis and Lyme are two infectious diseases that can be life threatening to your pet, but there are ways to protect against them. Luckily, there are annual vaccinations for both. At many practices they are part of their core vaccinations, meaning they are recommended for all dogs because all dogs can become infected with either and both can be fatal. Leptospirosis is a disease that is usually contracted by coming in contact with infected urine. At first thought, you might think that it is easy to prevent, but not really. Infected urine from wild animals can be anyplace, including puddles you come across or water your dog swims in. It is treatable if caught in time, but it is preventable with an annual vaccine. Additionally, if your pet has been regularly vaccinated, most of the vaccine companies will pay for treatment, however, it would be very rare for a vaccinated pet to become infected. Lyme disease, as you probably know, is carried by ticks. But did you know that this untreated disease can result in kidney failure and can be fatal? It is so important, especially in wooded areas, to vaccinate
10 • The Pet Gazette
by Dr. Gayle Block
for both Lyme disease and use effective tick control. And, flea/tick prevention should be practiced year round. There hasn’t been a winter for years that has not had some days that are warm enough for the ticks to be active and even mosquitoes to be viable. Heartworm is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is not spread from animal to animal. Since so many pets are adopted from the south, the incidence of heartworm has greatly increased. There are a percentage of pets form the south, where heartworm is very prevalent, and although they are tested heartworm negative, the life cycle takes 6 months to see a positive test. It is therefore recommended that if you adopt a pet from an endemic area they should be tested prior to arrival and again 6-7 months later. One vet who has been practicing for 30 years has never treated a dog that was consistently on heartworm preventive. It is very effective and safe. Similar to the manufactures of the Leptospirosis vaccine, the different manufacturers of heartworm preventive will pay for heartworm treatment if your pet becomes infected while on consistent preventive medication. Heartworm prevention can be applied as a topical, given orally, or as an injection. The topical and oral are monthly and the injectable will last for 6 or 12 months. Many vets recommend the injectable for those who have difficulty being consistent with monthly prevention since it is so important. Heartworm treatment is quite long and can be very difficult on your pet. Even when treatment is effective, meaning all of the adult heartworm has been killed, there can be permanent damage to your pet’s heart and lungs. thepetgazette.com
Most veterinarians test all dogs annually for heartworm disease and the three most common tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease. While the in-office test does test for heartworm disease, it only tests for exposure to the tickborne diseases, not an active disease. Your vet should always confirm with an outside test if their in-office test is positive. If your pet is positive for Lyme, a C6 test to see if in fact it is an infection or just exposure is recommended. And, even if it is just exposure, it is recommended to analyze a urine sample to be certain there are no issues with protein in the urine from a previous infection. If your pet is positive for Anaplasma or Ehrlichia (the other 2 tick borne diseases), a routine blood panel will reveal if treatment is necessary. There are over the counter flea and tick preventives that are topical, however, be aware that
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they are not all the same. On the other hand, there are a number of all oral flea and tick preventives that have been shown to be quite effective. They last from 1 month to 12 weeks depending on which you use. Remember though, the most effective flea, tick, and heartworm preventives are those that you will be consistent with. Your veterinarian can help you decide which is best for you. TPG
The Pet Gazette • 11
M
by Dr. Becker
ost pet parents have been told that if a dog’s or cat’s nose is warm or dry, it means they’re sick. Actually, that’s a myth. A warm dry nose by itself doesn’t mean that your pet has a fever or is sick. Dog and cat noses go from moist and cool to warm and dry and back again quite easily, and it’s perfectly normal and healthy. However, if your pet has symptoms of an illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or lethargy, then her warm, dry nose is probably an additional symptom of an underlying condition. What you definitely want to watch out for and what may warrant a trip to your veterinarian are changes in the texture of your pet’s nose, for example: • if it becomes flaky or crusty • if the color changes • if the nose is not only dry but the skin is cracking • if it’s losing pigmentation (getting lighter in color) • if you can see scabs, sores, non-healing cracks, fissures or other types of skin irritation.
Why Your Pet’s Nose May Change Color The color of a dog or cat’s nose is determined by genetics and can be black, If there’s a scrape pink (which some breeders or abrasion on your call a “Dudley nose”), liverpet’s nose, it can colored or the same color turn pink as it heals as the coat. Some pets have then darken up as a very normal and natural the scab falls away. condition called either “snow nose” or “winter nose,” which means their nose color fades during the colder months and returns to its normal darker color when the weather warms up. Certain dog breeds have noses that go from black to brown or pink as they get older. This is thought to be a result of the breakdown of tyrosinase, which is an enzyme that produces pigment. Since tyrosinase 12 • The Pet Gazette
is a temperature-sensitive enzyme that works more efficiently in warmer weather, this could also explain the winter nose color some dogs get when the weather gets cold. Some pets, including many calico cats, develop black spots on the nose and lips as they age. This is a totally normal and harmless change called lentigo simplex. It’s simply a pigmentation change that occurs as part of the normal aging process. Sometimes an animal’s nose will lighten up when he’s sick and return to its normal darker color once he’s back in good health. If there’s a scrape or abrasion on your pet’s nose, it can turn pink as it heals then darken up as the scab falls away Contact dermatitis can also cause your dog or cat to lose pigment on the nose. Some pets are sensitive to plastic food and water bowls, and continued exposure can cause the nose to lighten in color. Sometimes the lips will also become red and irritated. That’s one of the reasons I recommend stainless steel food and water bowls, because aside from the potential for plastic hypersensitivities, plastics wear down over time, and toxins can leach into your pet’s food and water. Finally, there’s an immune-mediated skin disease called vitiligo that can turn your dog’s nose pink, but there are usually other signs of the disorder occurring at the same time, such as random white hairs or entire patches of white hair on your pet’s body. With vitiligo, the immune system attacks the pigment-containing cells of the body that are thepetgazette.com
responsible for color. There are certain breeds that are more prone to the condition, including Dobermans, German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Dachshunds. If your dog’s nose is pink or has turned pink, you’ll need to protect it from sunburn, which is a very real concern during the summer months as well as on sunny winter days. You’ll want to apply a non-toxic, safe sunscreen before your pet goes outside. When to Seek Veterinary Care If you notice nasal discharge, swelling, or an unpleasant odor from your dog’s nose or the area around it, or if she seems to be having trouble breathing or is making abnormal respiratory sounds, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian. These symptoms may indicate there’s something going on inside the nose, such as the presence of a foreign body, an infection or even a nasal tumor, which is actually more common than you might think. Other signs of nasal issues include sneezing, pawing at the nose, nosebleeds, noisy breathing, or a visible bulge or a lump on either side of your pet’s nose or face, which is sometimes caused by a tooth root abscess. Diseases of the Nose There are several medical conditions that can effect your pet’s nose. • Pemphigus Complex is a group of serious autoimmune skin diseases that affects both dogs and cats. There are two main types of pemphigus: pemphigus foliaceus and pemphigus erythematosus. Both start with patches of red skin on the face, including the nose and ears. The foliaceus variety often spreads to other parts of the body, including the feet, central body, core and paws. Pemphigus erythematosus involves only the face, head and footpads. The red patches quickly turn into blisters, and then pustules that can become crusty and cause the hair to stick to them and eventually fall out. Areas of skin depigmentation are also seen with both these types of pemphigus. facebook.com/ThePetGazette
There is a third type of pemphigus called pemphigus vulgaris, which is rare. Blisters and ulcers can form on the lips, nostrils and eyelids, and can also involve the nail beds, which can cause the nails to fall out. • Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is another autoimmune disease that occurs in dogs, but not in cats. It’s most common in certain breeds, including Collies, German Shepherds, Huskies, Shetland Sheepdogs and Brittany Spaniels. It is thought to be a milder version of the systemic form of lupus, and is limited to the face. First, the nose loses pigmentation, and then often it develops cracks and sores, non-healing fissures, and crusting. • Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis is another type of nose disorder. It’s caused by a zinc deficiency and is prevalent in Huskies, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes and Alaskan Malamutes. Dogs with this condition have thin hair and often a scaly rash on the face around the nose, eyes and mouth, and even in the ears. Crusting can also appear on the elbows and hocks in some of dogs. These areas can become quite callused and crack easily. It’s important to make sure your dog has a confirmed case of zinc-responsive dermatosis before supplementing with zinc. This isn’t a common condition, and zinc toxicosis can develop when someone assumes their dog has the disorder and begins supplementing without a blood test to confirm blood levels of zinc are abnormally low. Every dog I’ve seen with zinc-responsive dermatosis has been fed an unbalanced homemade diet. The likelihood that your dog has a zinc deficiency is very low unless you, too, are feeding an unbalanced homemade diet. Other nutritional deficiencies can also cause changes in nose tissue, especially omega-3 fatty acid deficiency, which is very common and can cause the nose tissue to become thickened and dry. • Nasal Solar Dermatitis (“Collie Nose”) is a condition most often seen in areas of the U.S. that get a lot of sunshine. It primarily affects herding The Pet Gazette • 13
breeds, including Collies, Aussies and Shelties. With exposure to sunlight, the skin between the nose and muzzle first becomes quite irritated looking, then the hair falls out, then the skin begins to ooze and crust over. Dogs and cats are nose breathers when at rest — their mouths are typically closed.
With repeated sun exposure, the skin actually breaks down. In serious cases, the nose can become a big non-healing wound that’s incredibly painful for the dog, and increases the risk of skin cancer. If you have one of these breeds and his nose is scabby, don’t ignore it. There are other systemic conditions that can affect the health of your dog’s nose. The most common is hypothyroidism, which leads to a thickening of the skin of the nose and a leathery appearance. Caring for Your Pet’s Nose Get acquainted with the normal, healthy look and shape of your dog’s nose so you can immediately identify any change that occurs. Keep an eye out for any unusual signs like nasal discharge, and also stay alert for excessive dryness, crusting or loss of pigmentation. I also recommend you watch the nose as your pet breathes. Dogs and cats are nose breathers when at rest — their mouths are typically closed. If your pet’s nostrils flare more than normal, it could be she’s having some trouble breathing. If you notice anything unusual about your pet’s nose, especially if there are other signs of illness, it’s time to make an appointment with your veterinarian. In my experience, topical ointments applied to a dog’s or a cat’s nose are often useless, because they get licked off within seconds. The only thing I recommend you apply to your pet’s nose while you’re waiting for your vet appointment is natural vitamin E or coconut oil. You can open a vitamin E capsule, squeeze out the contents, and apply it or a dab of coconut oil to your pet’s nose until you can be seen by your veterinarian. TPG Mercola, J. “Your Pet’s Nose Is a Barometer of Health (Don’t Fall for This Myth)” Retrieved April 15, 2018, from www.healthypets.mercola.com 14 • The Pet Gazette
Dr. Samantha Corrado, DVM
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Pain
in the Tail
by Dr. Becker
Believe it or not, there are many things that can go wrong with your pet’s tail. Unless you’ve been there and done that, it can be a pretty scary experience. The tail tends to be injury-prone because it’s an unprotected and frequently moving body part. Injuries are much more common in dogs than in cats, However, it’s not unheard of for a kitty to harm her tail as well. Tail damage can range from a simple pinch, such as when a pet’s tail gets accidentally stepped on or is caught in a closing door, or it can be a very serious issue, involving significant bleeding or nerve damage. Depending on how much pain is involved, your dog can literally yelp in agony with a tail injury. And with certain types of injuries, his normally wagging tail may just hang limply, which is also quite alarming - especially if you have a generally happy dog who uses his tail to express his emotions. The tail is actually an extension of your pet’s spine – it’s simply more mobile and flexible. It is attached to the sacrum, which is a bone at the base of the spine. It contains bones called caudal or coccygeal vertebrae that get progressively smaller along the length of the tail. There are small joints and discs between each bone that cushion them. There are blood vessels and nerves all along the length of the tail, as well as muscles that control the movement of the tail and also play a role in the pooping process for both dogs and cats. facebook.com/ThePetGazette instagram/thepetgazettemagazine
Tail Abrasions Feral cats and free-roaming pets are often the victims of tail scrapes and hair loss during the winter months, because in an effort to stay warm, they tend to climb up into the engine area of parked cars. The car owner comes out, jumps in the car and starts it up. The cat resting under the hood tries to escape and winds up with an injured or broken tail. This is why I always recommend knocking on the hood of your car before you get into the driver’s seat and start the engine during the cold months of the year. It’s a good way to make sure any animal, including birds or other wild creatures, are able to escape before you put the key in the ignition. If your pet’s tail suffers an abrasion, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. If there’s heavy bleeding or loss of skin or hair, a trip to the emergency animal hospital may be needed, especially if you can’t get the bleeding to stop. In cases where the skin on the tail is severely or extensively damaged, healing may take quite awhile, and the injury can be quite painful for your pet until the skin or hair grows back. Tail Fractures Trauma is almost always the cause of a fracture in a dog’s or cat’s tail. Examples include being hit by a car, getting the tail caught in a closing door, or getting it stepped on, or even when a pet falls off The Pet Gazette • 15
a bed or a couch or hits the floor wrong when he jumps down. The good news is that a simple fracture at the end of your pet’s tail often heals well on its own, without the need for a cast or surgery. On very rare occasions, a severely damaged tail with crushed or separated tailbones may need to be amputated. After the tail heals, there might be a kink or bump at the location where the fracture occurred. Frequently, the area will remain sensitive, which you’ll notice if you try to stroke your pet’s tail. If there’s residual pain, your dog or cat will guard the area, which is your cue to leave that part of the tail alone. Damage to Nerves in the Tail Nerve damage to a dog or cat’s tail is often the result of being pulled. This is known as an avulsion injury, and it can impact the nerves and muscles that move the tail and also control urination and defecation. Nerve function can return over time, but a pet with this type of injury often needs help to relieve himself in the interim. You should take your pet to the veterinarian if he’s unable to move his tail, or is unable to pee or poop after a tail injury. Happy Tail Syndrome Happy tail syndrome is a nickname for an unhappy condition seen most often in large dogs with thin, smooth tails that wag them so wildly they get injured. The caudal vertebrae in your dog’s tail consist of between 5 and 20 small bones. When you couple those tiny bones with a good supply of blood vessels, cover them with a long tail covered only in short hair or thin skin, and attach it to the backend of a large dog, you can wind up with happy tail. The force with which a large dog can wag his tail, hitting hard surfaces over and over or for a prolonged period of time, can cause serious damage, especially to the tip of the tail. The skin around the tip can take such a beating that it starts to bleed. And if it happens often enough, the tail injury can turn into a non-healing bleeding ulcer. If your dog’s tail has cuts or gashes from thumping against hard or sharp-edged surfaces, you should 16 • The Pet Gazette
consult your veterinarian because the tail may need to be bandaged or even sutured. In addition, these wounds can become infected. Bandaging the tail can help it heal and prevent further injury. Limber Tail Syndrome Limber tail syndrome is also called cold water tail, swimmers tail, and dead tail. It’s a relatively common condition of sporting breeds, including Labrador and Golden Retrievers. Limber tail syndrome is very painful and causes the tail to hang down limply from its base. Alternatively, sometimes it’s held at a horizontal angle for 3 or 4 inches and then straight down. The condition comes on very quickly and causes the dog a lot of pain, especially when someone tries to stroke his tail or tail base. Fortunately, other than the pain, it’s a relatively benign disorder that resolves on its own within a few days to a week. Limber tail syndrome occurs most often after swimming, but can also happen after a day of intense exercise, including hunting or other outdoor activities. Any activity in which your dog is using his tail a lot can trigger a limber tail. If your dog has this condition, it can look like her tail is actually broken. However, the damage isn’t actually to the bones of the tail, but to the muscles. It’s a muscle injury typically brought on by overexertion of the tail. While a limp tail can indicate an actual fracture, spinal cord injury or other problem, with limber tail, the onset is sudden – the dog’s tail was fine one minute, and then after swimming or intense exercise, it wasn’t. Sudden onset is a good indication your dog is suffering from a muscular condition that is temporary. Generally speaking, limber tail syndrome resolves by itself within a week or so. However, if your dog is hurting, I recommend proteolytic enzyme therapy for pain management. Homeopathic aconitum and arnica are also great remedies to expedite healing in these situations. TPG Mercola, J. “Pet Tail Injuries You Should Not Ignore” Retrieved March 27, 2016, from www.healthypets.mercola.com
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First “Smart” Litter Box for Cats
by Philippe Daurenjou
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uring a vet visit both the animal and the owner can be equally stressed, and because of this stress the results of an examination might not be accurate. But did you know that a simple urine analysis can provide insightful information of the animal’s health and can also detect chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure and liver disorders? Armed with this information, a French startup created Caremitou, a connected litter box designed to check and track a cats health and wellness by observing their behavior, weight and carrying out biological analysis all in the comfort of your home. Basically, Caremitou monitors your pet’s health and shares the results with your vet remotely.
Additionally, through a mobile application, you can stay in contact with your vet for the screening test, the follow-up or any emergency. Your vet can also have an analysis follow-up, check any medical treatment in progress and schedule appointments. In order to transfer the collected data, the owner simply needs to pair, via Bluetooth, his smartphone with the e-litter. If the results exceed the limits defined previously by the vet, a notification will be sent, allowing him to send the results to the vet for interpretation and follow-up. Caremitou is really discreet, on a daily basis, and informs both sides only in case of abnormal activity. Very fur-turistic!! TPG
TPG
It is the first patented medical veterinary product available on the market. This innovation allows you to observe the behavior of your pet on a daily basis and get an analysis of your cats biological data. With Caremitou owners can: l Observe their cat without disturbing the behavior of the animal l Regularly check their cats weight via sensors l Check the frequency and duration of their cats visits in the litter box l Measure their cats temperature (the cat needs to be equipped with the electronic compatible chip) l Perform regular urine tests l Collect up to 14 usable samples for testing l Track any chronic diseases, such as kidney insufficiency and diabetes facebook.com/ThePetGazette
The Pet Gazette • 17
Health Tips for Feral Cats by Kathleen O’Malley, NYC Feral Cat Initiative, a program of Bideawee
Feral cats aren’t cuddly lap kitties – in fact they don’t really trust humans – but they still find their way into many people’s hearts. And even if we can’t touch or pet them, we can help feral cats live long and healthy lives in their outdoor homes. One thing that gives our feral cats far-reaching health benefits is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). Just as for pet cats, spaying or neutering feral cats limits the chance of serious health problems such as mammary cancer in females or testicular cancer in males. And since feral cats live outside in groups or colonies, spay/neuter prevents males from fighting over mates, the stress of pregnancy and nursing in females, and the sad reality of unwanted kittens. In TNR, cats are also vaccinated against rabies, supporting both their health and the public health. Many TNR clinics will also treat for fleas, ticks, roundworms and ear mites while they’re in for surgery. TNR also means providing food and water, warm and dry winter shelter, and ongoing healthcare. Good nutrition supports healthy immune systems, and wet food has distinct advantages over dry. It keeps kitties
hydrated and it’s easier to digest, which really helps in winter when ferals have to burn more calories to stay warm. But if we can’t keep wet food from freezing, dry food comes in handy. Other health concerns for feral cats include parasites and herpes infections. For healthy adults, these usually aren’t serious enough to need treatment. But changes in the colony’s environment, such as construction, can cause stress. And stress can make herpes infections flare up and cause weepy eyes or a runny nose, or make it hard for a cat to fight off fleas and other parasites. If it’s bad enough, the colony may need treatment. It’s good to have a veterinarian who understands feral cats, so you can ask them whether the colony needs medication or a trip to the animal clinic. The vet may be able to recommend oral meds that you can mix in the cats’ food. For fleas, there’s nitenpyram (Capstar) and lufenuron (Program), and for internal parasites there’s Pyrantel (Strongid) and fenbendazole (Panacur). We try to avoid adding to a feral cat’s stress by retrapping him and taking him to the vet, but it’s the best thing to do if DIY remedies aren’t helping. Health issues may not be avoidable, but prevention is great medicine. If your colony kitties are TNRed, well-fed and have warm and dry sleeping shelters, they’ll have less stressful, healthier lives. TPG
18 • The Pet Gazette
For more information on feral cat care, visit www.nycferalcat.org. thepetgazette.com
SELFLESSNESS & HOPE
Waggle Foundation Tackles Economic Euthanasia by Jone Bouman
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ore than 500,000 pets (a conservative estimate) are unnecessarily put-down each year because their guardians - either families/individuals, shelters or rescues - are simply unable to afford the cost of the medical treatment which would provide a healthy and happy life. Enter the Waggle Foundation and their mission to end this ongoing, and ever-growing, tragedy of economic euthanasia. They are making great strides in their efforts to bring much needed help to both the pet-in-need and the pet guardian, but they can use more help.
THE POWER OF A PET
by Sherry Butler
This story starts with Marika Meeks, a 41 year old wife and mother diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Living in Indiana, she traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona for a grueling, two-year treatment, including a lumpectomy, radiation and a mastectomy. Understandably, there were moments when she was certain she was going to die. Focused on simply surviving cancer, Marika had forgotten how to live and was immobilized with anxiety, guilt and isolation. The stress and anxiety of her illness affected her family, driving her youngest daughter to the brink of suicide.
Visit https:// pets.waggle.org/ petlist petlist to see and read about the many heartfelt stories of dogs and cats who received help and those who still need support. Filter your search with 100% funding to see all the pets who have received vital surgeries and are thriving (check out Chessie, Tippy and Tiny Tim’s stories). You can also read about and donate to the many other pets who are still in dire need (see Caira, Minnie and Captain).
Enter Sweetie Pie, a mixed-breed dog who gives Marika a hug and awakens something deep inside her. Her intuition was giving her a message and she knew that adopting a dog would help her and her family. She contacted an Indiana dog rescue and met Stella, a beautiful little seven-month-old carameland-white puppy who was abandoned on the side of a road left to die. Marika immediately felt a connection to Stella and the Meeks family decided to go through with the adoption.
Lastly, check out Waggle’s Pet Of The Month. Time is of the essence and Spencer needs our help. Spencer is an 11-year-old three-legged German Shepherd who needs $1,500 for chemotherapy. Thank you to the Waggle Foundation for setting up this much needed support for those in need. TPG facebook.com/ThePetGazette instagram/thepetgazettemagazine
We have seen examples of this time and time again. Pets are a conduit of hope and the power that pets have on our well-being is undeniable. See the Meeks family video story at http://bit.ly/ StellaTheDodo and check out more about Stella on Instagram and FB @incredibullstella. TPG The Pet Gazette • 19
The change in Marika and her daughter was almost instantaneous. They went from being totally self-absorbed, shipwrecked in a post-cancer sea of fear, worry, anxiety and guilt, to having a bright new focus with their new pup. Dubbed the Incredibull Stella, Marika was inspired to have a new life purpose. With the help of Stella she began to advocate for rescue and adoption shelters, prompt spay and neuter initiatives, and the rescue and fostering of puppies and adult dogs until a “forever family” can be found.
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Health Reasons To Sleep with Your Pet
01 Sleeping with Dogs Reduces Depression Contact with dogs increases the flow of oxytocin, the love chemical.
02 Promotes Theta Brainwaves The release of oxytocin from theta brainwaves, which occur during REM sleep.
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Sleeping with Dogs Increases Sense of Security Having a pet in the bed improved sleep quality for women in one study.
Sleeping with Pets Eases Insomnia Sleeping with a pet mitigates anxiety and reduces hyperarousal.
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Maximizes Comfort
Decreases Loneliness
Support animals diminished nightmares in PTSD patients.
41% of pet owners say sleeping with their pet provides companionship.
Sleeping with Dogs Improves Sleep Quality
Sleeping with a Pet Reduces Stress
Sleeping with your dog result in a higher sleep efficiency score.
74% of pet owners report improvement in their mental health from pet contact.
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Lowers Blood Pressure
Strengthen Bond with Your Pet During Nap Time
Promotes a Healthy Heart
Reduces Allergies Later in Life
The American Heart Association found a link between pet interaction and decreased hyper tension.
One study found infants who slept with their pets were less likely to develop allergies.
Human-dog interaction led to lower pressure readings when tested.
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Sleeping together helps with socialization and makes training easier.
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Get Better Overall Come On, It’s Your Pet! Health by Sleeping To play puppies (and your) with Your Pet advocate, if you wake at all Close contact with pets has an array of benefits like lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 20 • The Pet Gazette
in the middle of the night from your pet moving or making noises, you may want to consider having your pet sleep in a separate room.
WHEN CO-SLEEPING WITH YOUR PET DOESN’T MAKE SENSE
l If they aren’t house trained l If you have severe allergies l If you are a light sleeper l If you have a new pet l If you or your pet have health issues thepetgazette.com
Fur Coats Don’t Protect From Everything by Dr. Klein
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old weather presents a series of fun sports but also challenges to humans and also to our pets. The American Kennel Club (AKC®) highlights what to be careful of in frigid times:
Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol): Antifreeze is
a liquid that is added to a car’s radiator to prevent freezing. This is extremely toxic and can be deadly even in small amounts. It tastes sweet but can cause severe kidney damage and failure. Seek veterinary care IMMEDIATELY if suspected ingestion!
Wipe your paws: The snow and ice-melting
products used on sidewalks, driveways and roads are among the biggest threats to your dog’s paw pads. Ice-melting products aren’t just a threat to feet — if your dog licks his paws or gets into a container of de-icer the ingestion may lead to digestive system upset such as drooling, vomiting or diarrhea. To prevent your dog from ingesting de-icer and to reduce irritation to his paw pads, wipe off his paws with a warm, damp towel immediately after coming in or dunk them in a small bucket of water and thoroughly dry paws. A pair of well fitted dog boots is the best protection from the elements. Dogs don’t always take to them easily so start slowly, one paw at a time.
Pets get lost in winter more than any other time of year: After heavy snowfalls,
disorientation due to loss of landmarks, inability to smell certain scents, loss of boundaries (low fences, etc.). Make sure they are in a secure area or on a leash.
Dangers for cats too: Cats love to find a warm
place to sleep and sometimes that place is under the hood of your car. Consider knocking on the hood or honk the horn before starting the car. facebook.com/ThePetGazette
Be aware of what your pet can tolerate and is acclimated to: Young, old, small/toy,
health compromised pets have lower tolerance for very cold weather, especially in sudden changes. Consider well fitted sweaters for those dogs that may need them (older, small, recent haircuts, etc.). Use sweaters, boots, coats to provide added warmth for dogs who may need it but never leave them on your dog unattended.
Don’t leave pets unattended outdoors for an extended time: Hypothermia is a very real
concern because it slowly creeps up and can be life threatening. if a dog must be outside for any period of time, make sure there is adequate protection from the wind, have their beds elevated off the ground and make sure there is good bedding insulation such as straw or cedar shavings. TPG
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The Pet Gazette • 21
22 • The Pet Gazette
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Out & About To share your photos (or videos), please email info@thepetgazette.com
Coach, 9 years & Kona, 2 years
Ozzy, 4 1/2 years
Brando
Jet, 6 years old
6 months
Princess Mocha & Princess Latte
Capone, 2 years
Achilles, 9 years
Bosco, 12 years
Quality In-Home Care For Your Critters
13 weeks Dutchess
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In Memoriam To read stories of beloved pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge, please visit www.tpg.pet/inmemoriam
Tracks For local events, visit www.tpg.pet/local or scan the QR code using your iPhone camera or TPG app. facebook.com/ThePetGazette instagram/thepetgazettemagazine
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