How to Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

Happy Holidays from Companion Animal Hospital! 

With the holidays fast approaching, we know what a busy time of year this can be.  By taking a few precautions, you can make sure that everyone in your family (including your furry friends) enjoys the holidays! Below are some ideas to help avoid timely and expensive emergency visits to the vet.

1. Keep your holiday plants away from your pets. While there are many beautiful plants we associate with the holiday season, some of these can be quite toxic to our pets. Holly and mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and even abnormalities with the heart. Ingesting only a small amount of certain types of lilies can cause kidney failure. If you suspect your pet has consumed a toxic plant, seek veterinary attention immediately.
2. Be very careful about feeding table scraps. While it is never a good idea to feed your pets table scraps, some of the foods we associate with the holidays can be especially dangerous. For example, turkey bones can pose as choking hazards or obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. Fruit cake may contain grapes or raisins, which can cause kidney failure. Chocolate can cause an array of symptoms ranging from vomit and diarrhea to death. Also, we see a spike of “pancreatitis” (inflammation of the pancreas) around the holidays because of pets often getting fatty scraps; this disease is quite uncomfortable for your pet!
3. No alcohol! In addition to avoiding table scraps, be careful your pet doesn’t get into the alcohol. Alcohol can cause dangerously low drops in blood pressure, blood glucose, and body temperature.  Even some desserts made with alcohol (rum cake for example) can cause these signs, along with GI upset from ingesting the dessert!
4. Firmly anchor the tree. A nosey pet can potentially knock a Christmas tree down if not firmly anchored, which can injure your pet. Also for those of you with live trees: be sure that your pet is not able to assess any water you may have in the base, as this may contain fertilizers that can be toxic to your pet.
5. Consider skipping the tinsel on the tree. What cat doesn’t love something shiny and stringy to play with?? Unfortunately, your cat may decide that the tinsel is a fun toy. If your pet ingests the tinsel, there is little risk of toxicity but a big risk that it can block up their intestines and result in an expensive surgery to remove it!
6. Have fun! The holidays are a wonderful time to enjoy time with your pet. Consider getting them a stocking and fill it with appropriate treats (talk to your veterinarian if you need recommendations on what to fill it with!). Maybe take your pet for pictures with Santa. Play in the snow. Do whatever makes you and your pets holiday season merry and bright and SAFE!

 References:

1. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/holiday-safety-tips
2. http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owners/seasons/winter-holiday-pet-poison-tips/

article written by:

Erin Walsh, DVM

Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect

Why is it so hard to get an appointment with your vet right now?

Why is it so hard to get an appointment with your vet right now?

Detect & Prevent Heat Stroke in your Pet

The summer heat is officially here!

While that means lots of fun activities outdoors, be sure to be extra careful when

including your canine companions. Dogs can quickly suffer from “heat stroke” or extremely high body temperatures. A dog’s normal temperature is between 99-103 degrees; heat stroke occurs when body temperatures are at or above 106 degrees. When the dog overheats, the blood vessels dilate in attempt to cool the body and the heart beats faster. This leads to low blood pressure, shock, and then death of organ tissues. Treatment can be costly and may not be effective, depending on extent of damage. In one study, 50% of dogs with heat stroke did not survive despite treatment. We want to avoid this becoming an issue for your pet, so below are some tips on how to enjoy the heat safely!

1. Don’t leave your pet outside during the day for extended periods of times. It is especially important that when your pet is outside that they have access to water and shade. Remember, dogs do not have the same type of sweat glands that we do, so they can only pant so much to compensate for the heat
2. Don’t leave your pet confined in the sun. Many heatstroke deaths occur due to dogs being left in hot cars. It can get incredibly hot inside a car on a sunny day very quickly. It is best to leave your dog at home in the AC if you will be running errands that require you to leave them in the car.
3. Be extra cautious if your animal is a breed at increased risk of heat stroke. Some breeds have a harder time panting properly to compensate for the heat. These breeds have short snouts (“brachycephalic”) and include shih tzus, bull dogs, pugs, and boxers.
4. Exercise with caution! Even if your dog is usually a great running mate, try to limit exercise to cooler times of the day. Dawn and dusk are good times to consider a walk or run in the summer. The other perk is that the concrete or asphalt is not as hot at these times- remember that dogs can burn their pads when the ground is too hot!
5. Dogs can get heatstroke even when swimming or playing on the beach. It’s great if your pet enjoys playing in the water, just be sure to limit their play time and give them a break in the shade or AC!
6. Consider the age and health of your pet. Very young pets and senior pets may not be able to tolerate the heat as well as healthy adult dogs might. Dogs with heart or lung disease will have a harder time in the heat as well. 

If you think your pet might have heat stroke, do not delay in contacting your vet! Your vet will be your best resource for helping you decide appropriate next steps if your dog is suffering from heat stroke.  Some signs that may indicate your pet is suffering from heat stroke include: 

• Heavy/ excessive panting
• Lethargy
• Unresponsive
• Dark red gums
• Rapid heart beat

If you have specific questions on your pets and their exposure to heat this summer, please contact your vet. We hope you have a happy and safe summer with your pets!

If you have specific questions on your pets and their exposure to heat this summer, please contact your vet. We hope you have a happy and safe summer with your pets!

Reference:

Bruchim Y, Klement E, Saragusty J, et al: Heat stroke in dogs: A retrospective study of 54 cases (1999-2004) and analysis of risk factors for death. J Vet Intern Med 2006 Vol 20 (1) pp. 38-46.

http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/cardiovascular/c_dg_heat_stroke

article written by:

Erin Walsh, DVM

Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect

How to Prepare Your Pet for Fireworks: Tips to help calm their anxiety

How to prepare your pet for fireworks

In the midwest, summer is full of celebrations involving fireworks. We LOVE our fireworks! Unfortunately, most of our pets do not.  Some aren’t upset by the explosions, while others are so scared they may injure themselves.  We have seen pets that have jumped through plate glass windows from their fear of the explosions.  Other times, we discuss the fear that sends our four legged friend cowering under the covers.  

Signs of Anxiety

Signs of anxiety can include pacing, trembling, panting, drooling, attention-seeking (vocalizing, pawing, nuzzling, and climbing on people), hiding, and bolting. Hiding in closets, basements, and bathrooms is common. Because the source of the noise is confusing, inside dogs may want to escape to the outside, and outside dogs may be frantic to get inside.

How to be prepared for fireworks:

1. Keep your pet on a secure leash whenever outside, even in a fenced-in yard.  Even the best trained dog may bolt from fear of the exploding sound and lights.  Pet advocacy groups report the number of escapees around Independence Day is so high that it is the busiest day of the year in shelters.  Worse, your pet could be injured or killed after escaping and fleeing from fear.
2. Make sure your pet is wearing identification.  Permanent identification, such as a microchip, is best.  Visible identification, such as tags, should be worn at all times.
3. Try to be home with your pet during the busiest fireworks times.  That's not always possible, so plan ahead before leaving them alone.
4. Allow your pet to hide in a safe place.  For example, If your pet feels more comfortable hiding in the bathtub, provide him/her with cushions/blankets.  Be prepared ahead of time and put their usual bed in the preferred hiding space.
5. Some pets find relief by increasing the white noise in the house, drowning out the fireworks.  Music or white noise players are options.  Not all pets will find relief from more noise.
6. Synthetic phermone sprays such as Feliway (for cats) and Adaptil (for dogs) are available online and in pet stores.  This natural remedy can provide extra sense of security.
7. Some pets feel comforted by pressure wraps, such as a Thundershirt.  Ear muffs or calming caps are also available, and some pets find them helpful.
8. Herbal supplements, such as Rescue Remedy or Composure Chews can provide extra relaxation.  These are most effective if given prior to the noisy event.
9. Prescription medications are available for severely anxious pets.  Please plan ahead and make an appointment to discuss medications with your veterinarian if you think your pet would benefit from use of these medications.

Long Term Relief

For more permanent, long term relief, veterinary behaviorists recommend behavior modification, classical counter conditioning, and teaching a desirable coping response.  Please discuss a proper behavior modification plan with your regular veterinarian.  In severe cases, referral to a veterinary behaviorist will be recommended.   

In behavior modification, controlling the intensity of the fireworks is necessary.  This is challenging during the event, so this part of training should be accomplished in the “off months.”  Acquiring recordings of fireworks can be accomplished via YouTube, or CDs, or other recordings are available for purchase.  Start by playing the recordings at a very low level, and then while performing counter conditioning, gradually (over weeks) increase the intensity of the noise.

Classical counter conditioning teaches a positive association with fireworks.  Give high-value food rewards (canned food or peanut butter), offer your pet his favorite toys or food puzzle toys, or have your pet practice his tricks with you. The goal is for him to learn that fireworks result in highly pleasant rewards.

You can also teach a desirable coping response. The appropriate response for a dog facing something frightening is to retreat to a safe place until the frightening event ends. Providing a safe retreat, such as a crate or a closet, will give security and confidence. Selecting the location is up to the pet. Blankets to muffle the sound and a pheromone diffuser will provide natural motivation for the dog to seek this location. Being able to cope when the world becomes overwhelming is a life skill essential for both people and dogs!  Hiding is not a sign of a problem, if the pet quickly returns to a normal behavior when the fireworks are over.

You have many choices of how to help your pet cope with fireworks stress.  Talk to your veterinarian about what is best for your pet. Hopefully, everyone in the family will then be able enjoy the holiday!

Amanda Schnitker, DVM

excerpts obtained from Veterinary Partner

Two cats and a dog in the US have tested positive for COVID 19- what does this mean??

Two cats and a dog in the US have tested positive for COVID 19-

what does this mean??

Last week, we learned that two cats in different areas of New York tested positive for COVID 19 - then this week we learned that a pug in North Carolina tested positive as well. Many people are understandably wondering what this means for them and their pets. We’re here to help break down what we know so far and help guide you through this.

•       How many pets have been affected by COVID 19 so far?

◦       While the news seems to be mentioning new cases all the time, to date (as of 4-29-20) we have SIX total confirmed pets in the world with COVID 19! Compared to the millions of human cases, this is a very small number. The six include: 2 dogs and a cat in Hong Kong, and now 2 cats and a dog in the US. There was also a cat in Belgium, but there are questions regarding the testing methods and its possible the cat may have been suffering from another illness.  

•       What happened to those COVID 19 positive pets?

◦       Of the Hong Kong animals, all three of them never showed signs of respiratory disease; they were only tested because their owners were positive. One of the Hong Kong dogs did pass away after being released from quarantine, but the dog was 17 and had ongoing health issues prior to testing positive. The cat in Belgium made a full recovery from possible COVID 19. The dog in North Carolina showed only mild signs for a few days and is now recovered. The New York cats are also expected to make a full recovery.

•       What might COVID 19 look like in a house cat?

◦       In the case of the 2 New York cats, they had mild respiratory signs. While not explicitly stated, this might look like coughing, nasal discharge, or increased respiratory effort. Remember that any noticeable respiratory changes are cause for seeking vet attention ASAP. There are many other causes of respiratory disease and your vet will help you decide next steps for your pet.

•       What signs did the owners notice in the North Carolina dog that tested positive?

◦       It is important to note that this dog was tested as part of a study out of Duke University, not because he was showing clinical signs. As part of the study, they tested all members of the household (the mom was a doctor, the dad worked in an ER, and they had 2 children), as well as their 4 pets (2 dogs, a cat and a lizard). Three of the humans tested positive (mom, dad, and one child), but only one animal tested positive (their pug, Winston). The family noted he did seem to be “gagging” for a couple of days and his appetite was down, but he has since recovered.

•       Do we need to get our pets tested for COVID?

◦       Routine testing for COVID 19 in pets is not available or recommended at this time. If you believe your pet is suffering from COVID 19, you should seek vet attention and they can contact authorities to authorize testing once more common issues have been ruled out.

•       Where did these pets get COVID 19 from?

◦       In the case of the Hong Kong pets, they were all in the care of someone with confirmed COVID 19. It was recommended that the pets be put into quarantine when the owners tested positive, and that was where the testing was done.  One US cat was in the care of a COVID 19 infected person, but the other had no known contact with anyone symptomatic for COVID 19. This means that it was likely passed to the cat by an asymptomatic carrier.

•       Do I have to worry about getting COVID 19 from my cat or dog?

◦       The answer is very likely no! There is no proof that pets are spreading COVID 19 to humans; more likely, humans are spreading it to pets. Some important things to consider:

▪       Keep your cat inside to prevent them from interacting with people and animals outside the home

▪       Keep your dog on a leash when walking and maintain 6 feet distance from other people and animals

▪       Avoid public places like dog parks

•       Do I need to worry about giving my pet COVID 19?

◦       The short answer is possibly, however before you panic, remember that good hygiene practices will make this extremely unlikely. There is no evidence that an animal should be removed from the home of a person infected with COVID 19 unless it poses a risk to the pet (i.e. you are too sick to care for your pet).  Try to have someone else care for your pet if you become infected. If that is not possible, then wear a face mask when interacting with your pet, wash your hands before and after, and avoid close contact (no hugs, snuggles, etc).

Written By: Dr. Erin Walsh, Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/sars-cov-2-animals-including-pets

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s0422-covid-19-cats-NYC.html

https://www.wral.com/coronavirus/pug-with-coronavirus-first-dog/19074499/

FAQs About Pets and COVID-19

With new information still continuously coming out, our team of highly educated & trained veterinarians are here to keep you informed and help answer your questions regarding your furry companions and COVID-19. 

Can my cat or dog infect me with COVID-19?

o      As of now, there is no proof that pets (including cats and dogs) are capable of infecting humans with COVID-19. A large commercial lab (Idexx) tested thousands of animal samples from the US, South Korea, Canada, as well as some European countries and found no positives. This testing involved over 5,000 samples from 17 countries.

Can I get my pet tested for COVID-19?

o   At this time, the USDA and CDC do not recommend testing pets. Additionally, the Idexx PCR test used to test thousands of samples is not available for the public, but Idexx will make it commercially available if leading medical authorities find it clinically relevant to start testing pets.

o   If your pet is showing signs of respiratory disease, contact a veterinarian immediately. It is important to remember that there are many, many causes of respiratory disease in cats and dogs, but thus far COVID-19 does not appear to be one of them. However, be sure to let the vet staff know if your pet was exposed to a person with COVID-19. 

What does it mean that a tiger at the Bronx zoo tested positive? What about the cat in Belgium or the dogs and cat in Hong Kong??

o   There is ever changing info on COVID-19, so we will continue to update as more info is available. At this time, these isolated cases are not a cause to panic or rehome your animals. While there is some evidence that cats and ferrets may have a low susceptibility to the virus, there is no evidence it can be transmitted to a human from these animals. More likely, the humans handling these animals infected the animal. There is no evidence it can be passed back to a human.

o   Specifically in the case of the Hong Kong dog, there is more to this story. There were two dogs living in the house. One dog consistently tested negative, while the other tested “weakly” positive. At no point did either dog show any signs of respiratory illness. While the weak positive dog passed away 3 days after being released from quarantine, this dog had ongoing health issues prior to COVID-19 test; these pre-existing issues likely lead to this geriatric dog’s death. (https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/sars-cov-2-animals-including-pets)

Do I need to do anything different with my pets if I am healthy?

o   The short answer is no. Continue to practice good hygiene (i.e. washing hands after interacting pets, their food, and their waste).   While it may be tempting, be cautious to not over indulge your pet while in quarantine with them. This means not feeding them too much food AND not suddenly increasing their exercise significantly. Try to avoid any abrupt changes in routine that may upset your pet or interfere with their health.

What do I do with my pets if I am diagnosed with COVID-19?

o   You should limit your interaction with pets if you are diagnosed with COVID-19. If possible, have someone else in the house care for the pets. If this is not possible, then wear a facemask while interacting with them and minimize any touching, meaning no snuggling or hugging. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after any handling of your pets.

o   It is a good idea to have a care plan in place for your pet should you need to be hospitalized. Consider making arrangements with another member of the household or arranging for the pet to be cared for at another home or boarding facility.  You should have at least 2 weeks worth of food and medications your pet may need during this time.

o   If your pet has an emergency and needs veterinary care while you are sick with the virus, have a healthy friend or family member transport your pet to the vet for emergency care. Any non-emergent vet visits need to be postponed until you are well to avoid exposing the essential personnel at your vet’s office.

Written By: Dr. Erin Walsh, Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect

Resources:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/sars-cov-2-animals-including-pets

https://www.idexx.com/en/about-idexx/covid-19-resources/#faq

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/news/sa_by_date/sa-2020/ny-zoo-covid-19

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html

Fact or Fiction

FACT OR FICTION

 A Dry Nose Means That My Dog/Cat is Sick. False!

It is normal for dogs and cats to have a dry nose. In fact, their nose can vary from wet to dry depending on their activity level

and environmental surroundings. Some breeds may have a drier nose than others but it does not necessarily mean they are sick.

 Dogs See Color. True!

Dogs actually do see in color however their range of color variation compared to humans is much less. Research suggests their vision  is similar to a person who is red

green color blind. While their color range may be more limited compared to their human counterparts, dogs do have some

advantages as well. They have a broader range of peripheral (side to side) vision since their eyes are further off to the side compared to people. Another advantage Fluffy has is their ability to see better in dim light and can detect smaller or more subtle movements with increased accuracy compared to their human parents.

 A Wagging Dog = A Happy Dog. False!

For the most part, when a dog wags his or her tail they are happy. However,  sometimes a wagging tail can also mean they are over stimulated, anxious, fearful, frustrated, or defensive over a situation. Therefore, we have to examine the rest of Fluffy’s body language to determine their mood. As a general rule of thumb,  the position of the tail can help give us an insight into how they are feeling. Typically, a tail that is of a middle height position suggests Fluffy is relaxed, attentive, and happy. If the tail is more vertical, this suggests Fluffy is over confident, over stimulated, or possibly feels threatened. If the tail tends to be down or tucked, this is a sign of submission, fear, anxiety, or defensive.

A Purring Cat = A Happy Cat. False!

While cats due purr when they are happy and content, they also purr for other reasons as well. Purring can also be due to a self soothing behavior if they are anxious, scared, in pain, or feeling ill. Cats will also tend to purr when nursing their young.

written by:

Aisha Kung, DVM

Companion Animal Hospital, Oak Park