Reference Materials

Our knowledgeable staff has a wide range of materials we use to complete our mission of helping pets and people. From basic pet care questions to medical advice, it’s available in our reference library.

Please click on the article you are interested in reading.

Aging

How Do I Know When My Dog Is Getting to Be a “Senior”?
Most dogs are considered a senior pet when they reach the age range of seven to ten years.  Larger breeds can be considered seniors earlier than smaller breed dogs.  Many dogs can exhibit a graying of their fur as they age, but there are other signs of aging that you might not notice as much.

Some of the other subtle signs you might notice:

• Their hearing might not be as acute as it once was
• Thinning fur
• It may take them longer to get up and going in the morning
• Sleeping more than they used to
• Tiring more quickly during activities

How Often Should My Older Dog See the Vet?
It is important that all dogs have an annual checkup or “wellness” visit with their vet.  This is even more important as they age, so talk to your vet about whether such visits should become more frequent.  Your vet may recommend that your healthy senior dog come in for a check-up every six months.

What Health Issues Are Common in Older Dogs?
There are many health issues more common to aging dogs, including:

• Kidney and liver disease
• Intestinal problems
• Cancer
• Testicular
• Mammary
• Reproductive issues
• Prostate disease
• Infected uterus
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Joint disease
• Cognitive problems

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Allergies

What Are Allergies?
Dogs can show allergic symptoms when their immune systems begin to recognize certain everyday substances as dangerous. Even though these allergens are common in most environments and harmless to most animals, a dog with allergies will have an extreme reaction to them.

What Are the General Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs?

• Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
• Increased scratching
• Itchy eyes, back or base of tail, ears
• Ear infections
• Sneezing
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Snoring caused by an inflamed throat
• Paw chewing/swollen paws
• Constant licking

Allergic dogs may also suffer from secondary bacterial or yeast skin infections, which may cause hair loss, scabs or crusts on the skin.

Which Dogs Are At Risk for Getting Allergies?
Any dog can develop allergies at any time during his life, but allergic reactions seem to be especially common in Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, and flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.

What Substances Can Dogs Be Allergic To?
A few common allergens include:

• Pollens
• Mold
• Dust and house dust mites
• Dander
• Feathers
• Cigarette smoke
• Food ingredients
• Prescription drugs
• Fleas and flea-control products
• Perfumes
• Cleaning products

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Food?
Yes, but it often takes some detective work to find out what substance is causing the allergic reaction; your veterinarian will be able to help you figure this out.  Please note that food allergies may show up in dogs at any age.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Allergies?
Visit your veterinarian. After taking a complete history and conducting a physical examination, he or she may be able to determine the source of your dog’s allergic reaction. If not, your vet will most probably recommend skin or blood tests, or a special elimination diet, to find out what's causing the allergic reaction.

How Can Dog Allergies Be Treated?
The best way to treat allergies is to remove the offending allergens from the environment.

• Fleas
• Prevention is the best treatment for allergies caused by fleas.
• Start a flea control program for all of your pets before the season starts.
• Outdoor pets can carry fleas inside to indoor pets.

• See your veterinarian for advice about the best flea control products for your dog and the environment.

• Dust
• Clean your pet's bedding once a week
• Vacuum at least twice weekly—this includes rugs, curtains and any other materials that gather dust.
• Weekly bathing may help relieve itching and remove environmental allergens and pollens from your dog’s skin. Discuss with your vet what prescription shampoos are best, as frequent bathing with the wrong product can dry out skin.
• If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, she’ll need to be put on an exclusive prescription or hydrolyzed protein diet.
• Once the allergy is determined, your vet will recommend specific foods or a home-cooked diet.

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Arthritis

What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is caused by the breaking down of smooth cartilage that covers and protects the bones that form a joint.

What Are The Symptoms Of Arthritis In Dogs?
Dogs that have canine arthritis may exhibit the following signs:

• Stiffness
• Limp or favor certain limbs
• Display lameness in certain limbs
• Pain
• Suffer loss of flexibility in their joints
• Be hesitant to jump, run or climb stairs

How Is Canine Arthritis Diagnosed?
A veterinarian may conduct a physical exam, take x-rays and perform other tests to help determine the cause of your dog’s pain. He or she will also check your dog’s medical history for previous injuries and consider other possible conditions.

What Causes Canine Arthritis?
Canine arthritis can occur as a result of:

• Joint infection or dislocation
• Trauma
• An inherited condition, such as hip dysplasia
• Immune system problems
• Obesity
• Ligament, tendon or muscle injury
• Fracture of bone that involves a joint
• Aging and natural erosion of cartilage

Note: If a larger dog suffers any injuries or sprains during his growth period, this can cause him to develop arthritis later in life.

Which Dogs Are Prone To Canine Arthritis?
Although certain larger breed dogs such as Mastiffs and Great Danes are susceptible to arthritis, the condition can develop in all breeds and mixed breeds.  Elder dogs also often develop arthritis as a result of aging.

Can Canine Arthritis Be Prevented?
Keeping your dog fit with exercise and proper nutrition may, in some cases, help prevent arthritis, or possibly slow its progression once the condition has set in. In fact, if your dog is a larger breed, it's necessary to monitor the type and amount of food given when his bones are still growing.  Arthritic conditions cannot always be predicted or prevented, especially those that are inherited.

How Can Canine Arthritis Be Treated?
Once symptoms of arthritis set in, there is no cure. It’s important for you to work with your veterinarian to create a program to minimize your dog’s pain while keeping him healthy. Some general treatment options may include:

• Possible use of medications
• Possible use of nutritional supplements to help replenish cartilage
• Healthy diet and regular, low-impact exercise
• Weight loss, if necessary

Note: Please do not give your dog human medication without first checking with your vet.

Are Dogs with Arthritis Able to Exercise?
Generally, dogs with arthritis should engage in daily low-impact exercise such as walking or, if possible, swimming.

How Can I Make My Dog More Comfortable?
If your dog has arthritis, here are a few ways that you can make her more comfortable.

• Give her soft bedding.
• Short, gentle play sessions.
• Provide her with gentle massages and physical therapy.
• Place food and water bowls on a low table or crate, or in a raised feeder, to avoid neck and spine strain.
• Groom the areas of her body that may be hard for her to reach.
• Buy her a firm, orthopedic foam bed.
• Get a portable dog ramp to allow her access to the car or other areas where she’ll have to jump or climb.

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Canine Flu

What is the Canine Flu?
Canine influenza is a contagious viral infection of dogs, caused by Influenza Virus A subtype H3N8.

Did this virus come from the Bird Flu?
No—the canine influenza virus is not a mutation of avian influenza, commonly known as Bird Flu.  Canine influenza is actually more closely related to the horse or equine influenza virus, and likely mutated from this strain.

What does the Canine Flu do to dogs?
The canine influenza virus can cause mild to severe illness.

• Mild effects include:
• Soft, moist cough with or without a low grade fever that lasts 10 to 30 days despite treatment
• Yellow/green nasal discharge if a secondary bacterial infection occurs.
• More severe illness can result in:
• High grade fever
• Rapid/difficult breathing

Is Canine Flu fatal?
Typically, most infected dogs develop mild to moderate signs that resolve within 10 to 30 days without problems. As with other flu viruses, fatalities can potentially occur, but are not common and are generally due to secondary complications such as bacterial pneumonia.

Is the virus just in a few states, or is it all over?
Canine Flu is currently considered to be an endemic virus, meaning that outbreaks have occurred sporadically in certain areas.  Outbreaks in pet dogs have occurred in California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, the state of Washington, and Washington, D.C. These cases occurred in animal shelters, rescue groups, pet stores, boarding kennels and veterinary clinics.

How easy is it for my dog to catch?
The virus is contagious—spread via aerosolized respiratory secretions, meaning, when a dog sneezes or coughs the virus can be spread through the air.  The risk of infection in a canine who does not attend dog shows or frequent kennels is fairly low. However, because this is a recently emerged disease, there is no natural or vaccine-induced immunity—so all dogs are susceptible.

I think my dog may have caught Canine Flu. How do I know for sure?
The symptoms of canine influenza closely resemble those seen with other respiratory diseases, such as kennel cough. Because of this, kennel cough can potentially be mistaken for canine flu. 

While there is currently no reliable rapid test available to veterinarians for diagnosing canine influenza, tests are available at certain diagnostic labs.

Can people get Canine Flu?
To date there is no evidence demonstrating that the Canine Influenza Virus can be spread to humans.

What can people do to help prevent spreading Canine Flu from one dog to another?
Any dog infected with Canine Flu or as any other respiratory disease should be kept away from other dogs until the illness completely resolves.

Solutions as simple as soap and water are effective disinfectants for eliminating the virus from surfaces. To help reduce the risk of spreading the virus, gloves should be worn when handling infected dogs or cleaning contaminated cages.

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Cataracts

What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is an cloudiness in the lens of a dog’s eye, causing him to have blurry vision. If the cataract is small, it won’t likely disturb the dog’s vision too much, but cataracts must be monitored because the thicker and denser they become, the more likely it is they will lead to blindness

What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts can develop from:

• Disease
• Diabetes
• Old age
• Trauma to the eye
• Inherited conditions are the most common cause.
• Cataracts may be present at birth or develop when a dog is very young—between one and three years of age.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Is Developing Cataracts?
If your dog’s eyes look cloudy or bluish-gray, you should take him to the vet for an exam. Be aware, though, that it’s natural for a dog’s lens to become cloudy, or gray, with age.  Any cloudiness at all in your pet’s eye is a sign for you to take him to the vet.

What Happens When a Cataract Goes Untreated?
An untreated cataract may “luxate” or slip from the tissue that holds it in place, freeing it to float around in the eye where it may settle and block natural fluid drainage. This can lead to glaucoma, which can cause permanent blindness. Cataracts may also begin to dissolve after some time, causing deep, painful inflammation in the eye.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Cataracts?
Though dogs of all ages and breeds can develop cataracts, they are more commonly found in Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, Terriers and Golden retrievers. Dogs with diabetes are also especially prone.

How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?
A preliminary eye exam by your veterinarian will tell you whether you are dealing with a cataract or another condition that causes cloudiness in the eye. You should then consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist to determine the extent of the cataract and what steps to take to manage the problem.

How Can I Help Preserve My Dog’s Vision?
In most cases, cataracts cannot be prevented, but there are steps to take to ensure that your dog’s vision can be preserved, especially if they are caused by a medical condition like diabetes.

• Examine your dog’s eyes regularly.
• Take your dog to the vet if his eyes look cloudy or bluish-gray.
• Take your dog to the vet if you suspect she’s having trouble seeing.
• If possible, find out the medical history of your dog’s parents, since cataracts are often inherited.
• Be aware of any conditions your dog has that may cause cataracts, such as diabetes or eye trauma.

How Can Cataracts Be Treated?
Vision loss due to cataracts can often be restored through surgery.
Note: If your pet has an underlying condition such as diabetes, treating the underlying condition may lessen the chances that cataracts will develop.

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Dehydration

What Is Dehydration?
Dehydration is a lack of water in the body, and can cause serious complications for pets and people alike.

What Causes Dehydration in Dogs?
Dehydration occurs when fluid levels drop to less than normal. This is due to either reduced water intake or increased fluid loss. Fluid loss can be due to overheating in hot weather or a bout of vomiting or diarrhea, especially in puppies.

What Are the General Symptoms of Dehydration in Dogs?

• Sunken eyes
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Depression

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Is Dehydrated?
Dehydration may indicate a serious underlying problem. If you suspect that your dog is dehydrated, take him to a veterinarian immediately.

You may be able to detect dehydration at home by gently lifting the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulder blades—unless your dog is seriously overweight or very thin, it should immediately return to a normal position. If he is lacking in fluids, the lifted skin may not quickly return to normal. Often, however, the signs of dehydration are not obvious, and only a veterinarian can provide proper diagnosis and treatment.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Dehydration?
Dogs most at risk for dehydration are those who suffer from various illnesses such as:

• Kidney disorders
• Cancer
• Infectious disease
• Diabetic dogs whose condition is not regularly monitored

Or who are:

• Elderly
• Pregnant or nursing

How Is Dehydration Treated?
A veterinarian will administer intravenous or subcutaneous fluids, and run additional tests, if necessary, to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

How Can I Prevent Dehydration?

• Provide clean water at all times
• Change it frequently to ensure freshness
• Wash your pet’s water bowl every day to prevent bacteria from forming
• Monitor your dog’s water intake
• Generally, a dog needs at least one ounce of water for each pound of body weight per day
• If your dog is not drinking an adequate amount of water, seek veterinary advice.
• Monitoring water intake is especially important if he’s recovering from diarrhea, vomiting or other illnesses.
• Purchase a water bowl with a weighted bottom to prevent your dog from knocking it over.
• Bring extra water when you’re traveling or exercising with your dog.
• If you notice your pet is drinking less than usual, check his mouth for sores or other foreign objects, such as burrs or sticks.
• Avoid chaining a dog outside, since he may get tangled up, preventing him from accessing his water bowl.

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Diarrhea

What Is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose or liquid bowel movements. It can be caused by something as simple as a change in diet or a more serious illness or infection.  A single bout of diarrhea is generally not a cause for concern in dogs—but if it persists for more than a day, it can lead to dehydration and may indicate an underlying health issue and should be checked out by a veterinarian.

What Causes Diarrhea in Dogs?

• Change in diet or food intolerance
• Ingestion of non-food, garbage, spoiled food, and poisonous items
• Allergic reaction
• Bacterial or viral infection
• Internal parasites
• Disease, colitis, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
• Certain medications
• Stress

What Are the General Symptoms of Diarrhea?
Loose or liquid, frequent stools are the most common symptoms of diarrhea in dogs. Other signs include:

• Flatulence
• Blood or mucus in stool
• Changes in volume of stool
• Straining to defecate

The following may also accompany diarrhea:

• Lethargy
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased urgency to defecate

If your dog’s diarrhea is black, he could be experiencing internal bleeding of the stomach or small intestine and should be examined by a vet immediately.

When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?
Bring your dog to the vet if his diarrhea continues for more than a day, or if you observe:

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Dark-colored or bloody stools
• Straining to defecate
• Decreased appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice your puppy has diarrhea, as it can be an important indicator of serious diseases in young dogs.

How Can I Prevent Diarrhea?
Keep in mind that even perfectly healthy dogs will sometimes get diarrhea. Here are tips to reduce the likelihood of occurrence:

• Keep up to date with your dog’s vaccinations.
• Make sure your dog is free of parasites by following your veterinarian’s recommendations.
• Don’t let your dog have access to garbage, spoiled food, etc.
• When walking your dog, watch that he does not eat anything off the street, does not eat plant material or drink from puddles.
• Minimize stress in your dog’s environment.
• If you decide to switch your dog’s food, it’s a good idea to introduce it gradually, mixing it with his current food to ensure an easier transition for your pet’s GI tract.

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Distemper

What Is Canine Distemper?
Canine distemper is a virus that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, and conjunctival membranes (white part) of the eye.

What Are the General Symptoms of Canine Distemper?
The first signs of canine distemper include:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Thick mucus coming from the eyes and nose
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Sudden vomiting and diarrhea
• Depression
• Loss of appetite

How Do Dogs Get Canine Distemper?
The virus is passed from dog to dog through direct contact with fresh urine, blood or saliva.  Sneezing, coughing and sharing food and water bowls are all possible ways for the virus to be passed on.

When Is it Time to See the Vet?
Immediately! Please see your vet right away if you suspect your dog has been infected with the canine distemper virus. The virus spreads rapidly and must be aggressively treated as soon as it’s discovered.

How Is Canine Distemper Diagnosed?
Canine distemper tests do exist, but the results alone are not always reliable. Rather than just testing for the infection, your vet has to look at the whole picture, including a dog’s specific symptoms and health history. Positive results can help confirm an infection, but a dog can still be infected even if test results are negative.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Canine Distemper?
Puppies and adolescent dogs who have not been vaccinated are most vulnerable to the distemper virus. They are typically rescues with unknown vaccination histories or have been bought from pet stores.

Serious infections are most often seen in puppies or adolescent dogs. Puppies younger than seven weeks, born to mothers who haven’t been vaccinated against the virus, are extremely susceptible.

Once infected, puppies are severely weakened. Often the virus travels to the brain, causing:

• Seizures
• Shaking
• Trembling
• A weakened immune system leaves an infected dog open to secondary infections like pneumonia.

How Can Canine Distemper Be Prevented?
Make sure your dog has completed his series of vaccinations. The vaccine for dogs is called the distemper shot. If you have a puppy, make sure he gets his first vaccination at six to eight weeks of age. Be sure to keep him away from any possibly infectious dogs or environments until he’s finished with his vaccinations at four or five months old.
Also, routine cleaning and disinfecting your home (or kennel) will ensure that the virus is not in your dog’s living environment.

How Can Canine Distemper Be Treated?
There is currently no available medication that can destroy the virus that causes canine distemper. Rather, supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. Veterinarians can offer intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and antibiotics to ward off secondary infections while the infected dog builds up his immune response. Some dogs are able to survive the infection, while for others canine distemper can be fatal.

Are There Lasting Health Issues?
Dogs who recover from canine distemper may have seizures or other central nervous system disorders that may not show up until many years later—sometimes in their old age. They may also be left with permanent brain and nerve damage, and these symptoms also may not show up until years later.

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Ear Infections

How Do Dogs Get Ear Infections?
Canine ear infections are most often due to bacteria or yeast.  Ear mites, growing hair, trapped water, a tumor, or a foreign body in the ear canal can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast.  Infections may also develop when the following are present: allergies, hypothyroidism, or an excessive amount of ear wax.  The following can also lead to ear infections: frequent bathing, swimming, and incorrect cleaning methods.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has an Ear Infection?
The following symptoms may indicate that your dog needs to have his ears checked by a veterinarian:

• Ear scratching
• Brown, yellow or bloody discharge
• Odor in the ear
• Redness and/or swelling
• Crusted or scabby skin on the near ear flap
• Hair loss around the ear
• Wiping the ear area on the floor or furniture
• Head shaking or head tilt
• Loss of balance and/or unusual eye movements
• Walking in circles
• Hearing loss

Which Dogs Are Prone to Ear Infections?
Dogs that are prone to allergies or have floppy ears can be especially vulnerable. These include: Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles.  Also, dogs that tend to grow hair in the inner ear canal, such as Schnauzers are also susceptible to ear infections.

How Are Ear Infections Diagnosed?
A veterinarian can usually diagnose an ear infection by examining the ear canal and ear drum with a magnifying ear cone similar to devices used on people.  A sample of ear discharge may be examined to look for bacteria, yeast and parasites. A vet may also suggest bloodwork and allergy tests to determine the root causes.

It’s important not to self-diagnose ear problems, as improperly treated infections may lead to chronic pain or deafness in dogs. Please always allow your vet to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms.

How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Many ear infections can be treated with a professional cleaning followed by regular cleaning and medication given at home. Your veterinarian may prescribe topical and/or oral medicine. For severe or chronic cases, anesthesia and ear flushing—or even surgery—may be necessary.

How Can Ear Infections Be Prevented?

• Check your dog’s ears regularly for:
• Discharge
• Odor
• Swelling
• If his ear canal appears dirty, clean with a cotton ball dampened with a solution suggested by your vet—but don’t clean so often or deeply that you cause irritation.
• After baths and swimming, be sure to dry your dog’s ears as thoroughly and carefully as you can.
• If your dog is prone to infections, ask you vet if there are any products you should have on-hand.
• If your dog grows hair in or around the opening of his ear canals, periodically tweeze it away (if your dog tolerates it) or request that your groomer do so.

Inner-ear skin is delicate, so ask your vet to demonstrate the proper method for maintaining your dog’s ear health.

When Is It Time to See the Vet?
If your dog is showing any of the symptoms described above see the vet as soon as possible. Please also bear in mind that even though dogs in pain don’t always show it with outward signs, a sudden increase in aggression can be an indicator of physical pain. Such behavioral changes should also prompt a veterinary exam.

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Ear Mites

What Are Ear Mites?
There are several types of mites that can live in your dog’s ear, but the most common are tiny, eight-legged parasites that feed on the wax and oils in a dog’s ear canal. An individual mite has a three-week life cycle, and is barely detectable by the naked eye. Causing irritation and inflammation, ear mites can infect the external and internal canal, and lead to more serious skin or ear infections if left untreated.  Infection usually produces a characteristic dark discharge; in some cases, the ear canal can become entirely obstructed by this coffee ground-like debris.

What Causes Ear Mites in Dogs?
Highly contagious, ear mites are most common in outdoor cats, which can infect their canine companions. They are most often passed from pet to pet in casual contact at home or outside. Humans are generally immune to ear mites.
 
What Are the General Symptoms of Ear Mites in Dogs?

• Excessive scratching and rubbing of ears
• Head shaking
• Black or brown waxy secretion
• Strong odor
• Inflammation
• Obstruction of ear canal with coffee ground-like discharge

What Are Some Complications of Ear Mites in Dogs?
In addition to the development of skin infections, ear mites can cause blood vessels inside a dog’s ear flap to rupture as result of his intense scratching and head shaking. This will cause the ear flap to appear swollen and is painful to the pet. An ear-flap hematoma, as it’s known, often requires surgery to correct.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Ear Mites?
Ear mites can affect dogs of all ages.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Ear Mites?
It is important to bring your dog to a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis. Your veterinarian will take a sample of ear discharge and evaluate it microscopically to confirm the presence of ear mites. Avoid self-diagnosis, since certain types of bacterial infections can mimic the symptoms of ear mites.

How Are Ear Mites Treated?

• Ear mites can be treated with products your veterinarian will prescribe that are applied directly in the ear or parasite medications that are applied right to the skin.
• If the ears have infections or build-up of debris, gentle cleaning may be required with cotton and a canine ear cleaner. (This may require sedation, depending on the dog’s temperament and the severity of build-up.)
• Your veterinarian may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or an antibiotic to resolve infections.
• A dog will start to feel relief soon after treatment begins, but please complete the full cycle of treatment and remember that all animals in a household need to be treated to ensure full eradication.

How Can I Prevent Ear Mites?
A routine ear cleaning once a month can inhibit the presence of ear mites. If your pet has recently recovered from ear mites, be sure to thoroughly clean his bedding and check your other pets for infection.

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Estrus or Heat

 
What Is Estrus?
Estrus, or heat, is the stage in a female dog's reproductive cycle during which she becomes receptive to mating with males. At this time, estrogen levels first increase and then sharply decrease and mature eggs are released from the ovaries. Ideally, your dog should be spayed before she enters her first heat cycle.
 
When Does A Dog Experience Her First Estrus?
First estrus generally occurs when an un-spayed female dog is between six and 24 months old. It tends to occur earlier for small-breed dogs and later for large-breed dogs.
 
How Often Do Dogs Go Into Heat?
Although it varies with different breeds and individual dogs, an un-spayed female usually goes into heat twice yearly, about every six months.

How Long Does a Dog Stay in Heat?
The time during which male dogs are attracted to a female dog is variable, approximately 18 days. However, females are receptive to males for only about half of this time.
 
How Can I Tell if My Dog Is In Heat?
During estrus, your female dog may appear:

• Nervous
• Easily distracted
• More alert than usual.

She may also:

• Urinate more often than she normally does

You’ll most probably notice changes in her behavior; this is caused by a shift in her hormone balance. When a female dog is ready to be bred, she may:

• Initiate sexual interactions with other dogs by:
• Elevating her hind quarters toward males when they approach
• Deflecting her tail to one side
• Tensing her rear legs

At first, vaginal discharge is blood-tinged and the vulva is swollen. When the female is receptive to males, vaginal discharge decreases in amount and is straw-colored.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Going Into Heat?
It is highly recommended that you get your female dog spayed, not only to prevent estrus and accidental pregnancy, but to protect her against mammary cancer and diseases of the reproductive system.

At What Age Can I Have My Dog Spayed?
Generally, a veterinarian can spay a dog when she is as young as two months old. However, it is best to consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations regarding the best time to spay your dog.

Why Should I Spay My Dog?

• It takes a lot out of your dog to give birth to a litter and raise pups
• The number of homeless animals who are euthanized each year makes it an irresponsible decision to allow your dog to mate.
• Though many people have heard that there are health benefits in allowing a dog to have a litter before she is spayed, this belief is unsubstantiated.
• In fact, the rigors of giving birth and raising pups can lead to premature aging and, in some cases, death.
• It has also been shown that dogs that are spayed prior to their first heat cycle have a much reduced risk for mammary gland tumors.

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Fleas

What Are Fleas?
With nearly 2,000 species and subspecies, fleas thrive in warm, humid environments, and feed on the blood of their hosts. Dogs play host to the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), whose dark brown or black body is usually one to three millimeters in length.

Why Are Dogs Susceptible to Fleas?
Fleas are hearty and nimble, and when searching for a host, they can jump 10,000 times in a row (the length of three football fields). Three pairs of legs make for excellent leaping capabilities (up to two feet), and a laterally flattened body allows for quick movement in a dog’s fur.

Where Will I Find the Fleas?
With a complete life cycle ranging anywhere from 16 days to 21 months, depending on environmental conditions, fleas are most commonly found on a dog’s abdomen, at the base of their tail, and/or on their head.  With heavy infestations, however, fleas can thrive anywhere on the body. They feed once every day or two, and generally remain on their host during the interim.

What Are Some Signs of Fleas in Dogs?

• Droppings or “flea dirt” in a dog’s coat
• Flea eggs on dog or in dog’s environment
• Allergic dermatitis
• Excessive scratching, licking, and/or biting at the skin
• Hair loss
• Scabs and hot spots
• Pale gums
• Tapeworms

What Are Some Complications of Fleas in Dogs?
Since fleas can consume 15 times their own body weight in blood, they can cause anemia or a significant amount of blood loss over time. This is especially problematic in young puppies, where an inadequate number of red blood cells can be life-threatening to some dogs. Signs of parasitic anemia include pale gums, cold body temperature, and listlessness.

When a dog has a heightened sensitivity to the saliva of fleas, just one bite of a flea can cause an allergic reaction. This condition is known as flea allergy dermatitis and causes intense itching and discomfort for your dog. Some signs of this condition are: generalized hair loss, reddened skin, scabs and hot spots.  Flea allergy dermatitis often leads to skin infections.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Fleas?
Dogs that live in warm, humid climates, where fleas thrive at temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees, and those who live outdoors are most vulnerable to fleas.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Fleas?
Consult your veterinarian, who will confirm the diagnosis and discuss appropriate treatment options. It is important to tailor your treatment to your pet and his environment, since certain products in combination can be toxic. Your veterinarian can also determine the best plan for preventing fleas in the future.

How Do I Treat Fleas?

• It is important that all of your pets are treated for fleas, including indoor and outdoor cats, and that the environment is treated as well.
• Speak with your veterinarian about choosing the right flea treatment product. Common options include: topical, liquid treatment applied to the back of the neck, shampoos, sprays, and powders
• Some products kill both adult fleas and their eggs, but they can vary in efficacy.
• It is very important not to use products on your dog that are intended for cats (and vice versa).
• Prescription products are generally more effective and safer than over-the-counter products.
• Thoroughly clean your house, including rugs, bedding and upholstery. (Remember to discard any vacuum bags.)
• In severe cases, you might consider using a spray or fogger, which requires temporary evacuation of the home.

How Can I Prevent Fleas?
Using a flea comb on your dog and washing his bedding once a week will go a long way toward controlling flea infestation. Also, it is important to treat your yard as thoroughly as your house. Concentrate on shady areas, where fleas live, and use an insecticide or nematodes, microscopic worms that kill flea larvae.

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Heartworm

What Is Heartworm?
A heartworm is a parasitic worm that lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of an infected animal. The worms travel through the bloodstream—harming arteries and vital organs as they go—ultimately completing their journey to the vessels of the lung and the heart chamber about six months after the initial infection. Several hundred worms can live in one dog for five to seven years. Heartworm disease is serious, and can be fatal.

What Causes Heartworm?
Heartworms are transmitted from animal to animal by mosquitoes. The lifecycle of the heartworm is complex.

• An animal must carry at least two heartworms (a male and a female) in order for female heartworms to reproduce.
• Females produce babies, called "microfilariae," which are shed into an animal’s bloodstream but are not capable of directly causing heartworm without first passing through a mosquito.
• The microfilariae must be taken up by biting mosquitoes, and transform into infective larvae over a two-week period inside the insect.
• When the mosquito next bites a susceptible animal, the infective larvae enter the tissues and begin a migration into the blood vessels.

Heartworms enter an animal’s bloodstream as tiny, invisible larvae, but can reach lengths of more than twelve inches at maturity.

What Are the General Symptoms of Heartworm?
Symptoms of heartworm infestation can include:

• Labored breathing and/or coughing
• Vomiting
• Weight loss
• Listlessness
• Fatigue after only moderate exercise.

However, some dogs exhibit no symptoms at all until late stages of infection.

How Is Heartworm Diagnosed?
Heartworm disease is diagnosed by examination, x-rays or ultrasound, and a veterinarian-administered blood test. All dogs should be routinely screened with a blood test for heartworm either annually in spring, at the start of mosquito season, or before being placed on a new prescription for a heartworm preventive.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Heartworm?
Heartworm infestation can happen to any dog (as well as cats and some wild animals), but since mosquitoes are their carriers, dogs who live in hot, humid regions—conditions in which mosquitoes thrive—are at the greatest risk. The disease has been seen in every state except Alaska, but is most common in or on the East Coast, southern United States and Mississippi River Valley.

How Can Heartworm Be Prevented?
The good news is that heartworm is easy preventable with an inexpensive, chewable pill available with a vet’s prescription. The pills—highly palatable to most dogs—are usually administered monthly and manufactured by several companies. The pills can be given to dogs under 6 months of age without a blood test, but older animals must be screened for the disease prior to starting medication. You can opt to give your dog a pill only during mosquito season (spring through first frost), but the most recent recommendation from the American Heartworm Society is to keep giving them all year—not only does this avoid errors, but many of the products also prevent other intestinal parasites. There are also topical products available that you can apply to the skin.

How Is Heartworm Treated?
After diagnosis, a thorough examination of the infected dog should be conducted to evaluate the best course of treatment and the potential risks involved. The most common course of treatment is a series of injections of drugs called adulticides into the dogs’ muscle. This cure has a high success rate and usually requires hospitalization; in certain circumstances, however, it may be performed on an outpatient basis. However, all treatment protocols require several weeks of exercise restriction after treatment and are not without risk. Disease prevention is a much better and safer option. After treatment, your dog should be placed on a preventative medication to reduce the risk of infection.

When Is It Time to See the Vet?
If you notice that:

• Your dog’s energy has decreased
• She seems ill
• She’s exhibiting any of the general symptoms described above; please contact your veterinarian immediately.

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Hip Dysplasia

What Is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition resulting from an improperly formed hip joint. Because the joint is loose, the dog's leg bone moves around too much, causing painful wear and tear.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has Hip Dysplasia?
Some cases of hip dysplasia are so mild there are no symptoms, but if your dog seems:

• Stiff or sore in the hips when getting up
• Hesitant to exercise, stand on his hind legs, or climb stairs.
• If he’s limping or bunny-hopping, a visit to the vet is in order.

When Do Dogs Develop Hip Dysplasia?
Each case is different, depending on the dog. Hip dysplasia can begin to develop in puppies of five months old and worsen as they age—or not show up at all until a dog has reached geriatric years. In many cases, though, the condition becomes visible in dogs in their middle or later years.

How Is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed?
An evaluation for hip dysplasia will likely include a physical examination, x-rays and manual tests on your dog’s hip.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia commonly affects larger breeds of dogs, including: German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Retrievers, Great Danes, and      St. Bernards.  However, dogs of all breeds and all sizes are susceptible to this inherited condition.

How Can Hip Dysplasia Be Treated?
Because hip dysplasia is caused by an inherited defect, there are no products that can prevent its development. There are several surgical options, including a complete hip replacement. However, a combination of:

• Healthy diet
• Maintaining a normal weight
• Exercise
• Massage
• Warm and dry sleeping areas
• Joint supplements
• Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication

… can help manage the condition. Your vet will help you with a daily pain-relieving program that is right for your dog.

Should Dogs with Hip Dysplasia Exercise?
Talk to your dog’s veterinarian about a good exercise program. Walking and moderate running can help strengthen the muscles around the joint.

Can Proper Diet Help Alleviate Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia?
Weight plays an important role in the comfort of your dog’s hips. Extra weight can add stress to hip joints, so make sure your dog is on a healthy diet, especially if he's a large breed. You can work with your vet to find the right eating regimen for your dog.
What Else Can I Do to Ease My Dog’s Pain?
Talk to your vet about the following tips:

• Apply a warm water bottle for 15 minutes twice a day.
• Massage the muscles around his hip joints, gently rubbing in a circular motion with your fingertips for ten minutes at the most. (Pay attention to his response. If massage seems to irritate your dog’s hip, don’t continue.)
• Buffered aspirin may take the pain away, too, but speak with your vet first about proper dosage, administration and side effects. There are many newer prescription painkillers available as well to help keep your dog pain-free.
• Keep your dog out of damp, chilly weather.
• Provide traction on slippery floors: Dogs with hip dysplasia often have a hard time on slippery floors, so lay carpet down, and if he needs to climb stairs or jump up into the car, a carpeted ramp will make it a lot easier on him.
• Provide a firm, orthopedic bed for your dog.

What Are Some Other Health Issues Associated With Hip Dysplasia?
When a dog has hip dysplasia, the looseness of the hip can cause painful wear and tear on the joint that can result in arthritis. So if your dog has hip dysplasia, it’s important to keep up a daily regimen to relieve pain and help prevent the condition from progressing.

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Hot Spots

What Are Hot Spots?
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are: red, moist, hot, irritated lesions that are typically found on a dog’s head, hip or chest area.

Hot spots often grow at an alarming rate within a short period of time because dogs tend to lick, chew, and/or scratch the affected areas further irritating the skin. Hot spots can become quite painful.

Why Do Hot Spots Occur?
Anything that irritates the skin and causes a dog to scratch or lick himself can start a hot spot. Hot spots can be caused by:

• Allergic reactions
• Insect, mite, and flea bites
• Poor grooming
• Underlying ear or skin infections
• Constant licking and chewing prompted by stress or boredom.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Developing Hot Spots?
Dogs that are not groomed regularly and/or have matted, dirty coats can be prone to developing hot spots; as can dogs who swim or who are exposed to rain.  Additionally, dogs with hip dysplasia and anal sac disease can start licking the skin on their hind end.  Thick-coated, longhaired breeds are most commonly affected.

When Is it Time to See the Vet?
You should visit your vet for an exam as soon as you notice any abnormality in your pet’s skin, or if your pet begins to excessively scratch, lick and/or bite areas on his fur.

How Are Hot Spots Treated?
First, your vet will attempt to determine the cause of hot spots. Whether it is a flea allergy, an anal gland infection or stress, the underlying issue needs to be taken care of. Treatment may also include the following:

• Shaving of the hair surrounding the lesion, which allows air and medication to reach the wound
• Cleansing the hot spot with a non-irritating solution
• Antibiotics and painkillers
• Medication to prevent and treat parasites
• E-collar or other means to prevent self-trauma as the area heals
• Balanced diet to help maintain healthy skin and coat
• Dietary supplement containing essential fatty acids
• Corticosteroids or antihistamines to control itching
• Hypoallergenic diet for food allergies

How Can I Help Prevent Hot Spots?
The following tips may aid in the prevention of hot spots:

• Make sure your dog is groomed on a regular basis.
• You may also want to keep your pet’s hair clipped short, especially during warmer months.
• Follow a strict flea control program as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Maintain as stress-free an environment for your pet as possible.
• To keep boredom and stress at bay, make sure your dog gets adequate exercise and opportunities for play and interaction with his human family and, if he enjoys it, with other dogs.

How Can I Make My Dog Feel More Comfortable?
Your veterinarian will best be able to prescribe the care and medications needed to make your dog more comfortable and allow the hot spots to heal. He or she may also recommend the use of an Elizabethan collar around your dog's neck to keep her from biting and licking the lesions. Such a collar should not be used as a sole means of treatment, since the skin lesions will continue to be painful if left untreated.

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Kennel Cough

What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a term used to describe a complex of infections—both viral and bacterial—that causes inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe. It’s a form of bronchitis and is similar to a chest cold in humans. Though it usually clears up on its own, kennel cough is highly contagious to other dogs.

What Are the General Symptoms of Kennel Cough?
A persistent dry cough with a “honking” sound is the main clue your dog’s caught kennel cough. In most cases, she’ll appear healthy except for the cough. Her appetite and activity level usually won't change, but don’t be alarmed if she gags and coughs up a white, foamy phlegm—these signs are often worse after exercise, or if she’s excited or pulls against her collar. Some dogs may also develop a fever and nasal discharge.

What Should I Do if I Think My Dog Has Kennel Cough?
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, immediately isolate her from all other dogs and call your veterinarian.

How Did My Dog Catch Kennel Cough?
Dogs can catch kennel cough in several ways. It can spread through aerosols in the air, directly from dog to dog, or through germs on contaminated objects. Kennel cough is often spread in enclosed areas with poor air circulation—while boarding in a kennel or an animal shelter, for example, or through direct contact while sitting in a vaccination clinic, training class or dog-grooming facility.

Kennel cough is so contagious that your pet might even catch it from sharing a water dish at the dog park or by simply greeting another dog. Most kennels will not board your pet without proof of a recent vaccination against Parainfluenza and Bordetella, two of the main causes of kennel cough.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Kennel Cough?
Most often, dogs who have frequent contact with other dogs, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, are most prone to becoming infected. Young and unvaccinated dogs are also at higher risk.

How Is Kennel Cough Prevented?
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to prevent exposure. Vaccinations are also available for several of the agents known to be involved in kennel cough, including parainfluenza, bordetella and adenovirus-2. Ask your vet if these are recommended, and how often—but please keep in mind that vaccinations aren’t useful if a dog has already caught the virus.

How Is Kennel Cough Treated?
It’s smart to see your veterinarian if your dog develops a cough. In some cases, you may be advised to simply let kennel cough run its course and heed the following:

• Dogs with kennel cough should be isolated from other dogs.
• A humidifier or vaporizer can provide some relief. You can also allow your dog into the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help soothe her irritated breathing passages.
• Avoid exposing her to cigarette smoke or other noxious, irritating fumes.
• A cough suppressant or antimicrobial may be prescribed. Your vet can be able to determine if they would be helpful to your dog.
• If your dog pulls against her collar while being walked, replace it with a harness until the coughing subsides.
• Supportive care is very important—be sure your dog is eating, drinking and in a stress-free environment.

How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?
In most cases, the signs of kennel cough gradually decrease and disappear after three weeks. Young puppies, elderly dogs and other immunocompromised animals may take up to six weeks or more to recover. In some cases, animals may remain infectious for long periods of time even after the symptoms have cleared up.

When Is It Time To See The Vet Again?
You should see some improvement in your dog’s condition within one week of treatment, but be alert to how long the symptoms last. If your dog has nasal discharge, is breathing rapidly, refuses to eat or seems lethargic, take her to the veterinarian right away. Serious cases of kennel cough can lead to pneumonia if left untreated.

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Mange

What Is Mange?
Mange is a skin disease caused by several species of tiny mites.  Some mange mites are normal residents of your dog’s skin and hair follicles, while others are not. All mites can cause mild to severe skin infections if they proliferate.

What Causes Mange in Dogs?
Sarcoptic mange is transferred easily between hosts. Sarcoptic mange is also known as canine scabies.

All dogs raised normally by their mothers possess demodectic mange mites, which are transferred from mother to pup via cuddling during the first few days of life. Most dogs live with their mites, never suffering any consequences.

There are three types of demodectic mange that affect canines.

• Localized occur in one or two small, confined areas on the dog’s body. This results in isolated scaly bald patches—usually on the dog's face.  Localized demodicosis is considered a common ailment of puppyhood, and approximately 90% of cases resolve with no treatment of any kind.
• Generalized demodectic mange affects larger areas of skin or a dog’s entire body. Secondary bacterial infections make this a very itchy and often smelly skin disease. This form of mange could also be a sign of a compromised immune system, hereditary problem, endocrine problem or other underlying health issue.
• One of the most resistant forms of mange, demodectic pododermatitis is confined to the foot and accompanied by bacterial infections.  Deep biopsies are often required to locate these mites and make a proper diagnosis.

Is Demodectic Mange Contagious to Humans or Cats?
While there are still different theories about dog-to-dog transmission of Demodex mites, it is accepted that mites cannot be transmitted to humans or to cats.

What Are the General Symptoms of Mange in Dogs?
The symptoms of mange depend on which type of mite is present.

Demodectic mange tends to cause hair loss, bald spots, scabbing and sores.  Humans cannot get demodectic mange from dogs.

Sarcoptic mange tends to cause intense itching. It can result in restlessness and frantic scratching.  It also can result in hair loss, reddened skin, body sores and scabs.  When passed to humans, sarcoptic mange causes a rash of red bumps, similar to mosquito bites.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Mange?
Take your dog to a veterinarian, who will perform a physical exam, analyze skin scrapings and try to confirm the presence of mange mites with a microscope. It can be difficult to identify mange mites if they’re buried deep in a dog’s skin, so your vet may rely on clinical signs or your pet’s history to make a final diagnosis.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Mange?
Puppies and dogs less than 18 months old are especially prone to developing localized demodectic mange, which often clears up on its own.  Generalized demodectic mange, the more serious kind, can be hereditary in dogs. Old English Sheepdogs and Shar Peis are prone to a severe form of demodectic mange affecting the feet. Older dogs that have an underlying illness may also be more prone.

How Is Mange Treated
Depending on the type of mange and the breed of your dog, medication may be given orally or applied topically, by injection, or via shampoo and dip.

Is There a Cure for Mange?
Younger dogs often recover fully from mange, but adult dogs often require long-term therapy to control the disease. Dogs with demodectic mange should not be bred, as this condition is thought to be hereditary.

How Can I Prevent a Recurrence of Mange?

• If your dog has been diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, you’ll need to thoroughly clean or replace his bedding and collar and treat all animals in contact.
• If you suspect a neighbor’s dog may be infected, keep your pets away to keep the disease at bay
• Bring your dog to the vet periodically as recommended for recheck skin scrapes to ensure the mites have been eradicated

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Parvovirus

What Is Parvovirus?

• Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can produce a life-threatening illness.
• The virus attacks rapidly, most severely affecting the intestinal tract.
• Parvovirus also attacks the white blood cells, and when young animals are infected, the virus can damage the heart muscle and cause lifelong cardiac problems.

What Are the General Symptoms of Parvovirus?
The general symptoms of parvovirus are lethargy, severe vomiting, loss of appetite, and bloody, foul-smelling diarrhea that can lead to life-threatening dehydration.

How Is Parvovirus Transmitted?

• Parvovirus is extremely contagious and can be transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes in contact with an infected dog's feces. 
• The virus can live in the environment for months, and may survive on inanimate objects such as food bowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors. 
• It is common for an unvaccinated dog to contract parvovirus from the streets, especially in urban areas where there are many dogs.

How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed?

• Veterinarians diagnose parvovirus on the basis of clinical signs and laboratory testing.
• A test kit can be used to detect parvovirus in a dog’s stools, and is performed in the vet’s office in about 15 minutes.
• Because this test is not 100% sensitive or specific, your veterinarian may recommend additional tests and bloodwork.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Parvovirus?
Puppies, adolescent dogs, and canines who are not vaccinated are most susceptible to the virus.  Breeds at a higher risk are Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, American Staffordshire Terriers and German Shepherds.

How Can Parvovirus Be Prevented?

• You can protect your dog by making sure he’s up-to-date on his vaccinations.
• Parvovirus should be considered a core vaccine for all puppies and adult dogs.
• It is usually recommended that puppies be vaccinated with combination vaccines that take into account the risk factors for exposure to various diseases. 
• Consult with your veterinarian about how often your dog will need to be revaccinated.
• Because parvovirus can live in an environment for months, you will want to take extra care if there has been an infected dog in your house or yard. 
• Parvo is resistant to many typical disinfectants. A solution of one part bleach to 32 parts water can be used where organic material is not present.
• The infected dog’s toys, food dish and water bowl should be properly cleaned and then disinfected with this solution for 10 minutes.
• If not disinfected, these articles should be discarded.
• You can also use the solution on the soles of your shoes if you think you've walked through an infected area. Areas that are harder to clean (grassy areas, carpeting and wood, for example) may need to be sprayed with disinfectant, or even resurfaced.

How Can Parvovirus Be Treated?
Although there are no drugs available that can kill the virus yet, treatment is generally straightforward and consists of aggressive supportive care to control the symptoms and boost your dog’s immune system. 

• Dogs infected with parvovirus need intensive treatment in a veterinary hospital, where they receive antibiotics, drugs to control the vomiting, intravenous fluids and other supportive therapies.  
• Should your dog undergo this treatment, be prepared for considerable expense—the average hospital stay is about 5-7 days.
• Please note that treatment is not always successful—so it’s especially important to make sure your dog is vaccinated.

What Are Some Home Treatment Options?
Because parvovirus is such a serious disease, it is not recommended to attempt home treatment. Even with the best veterinary care, this disease is often fatal.

When Is it Time to See the Vet?
If you notice your dog experiencing severe vomiting, loss of appetite, depression or bloody diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What Are Some Other Health Issues with These Same Symptoms?
A puppy with a bloody diarrhea could have a parasite problem, a virus other than parvovirus, stress colitis, or may have eaten something that disagreed with him or injured and blocked his digestive tract.  It’s crucial that you see your vet for an accurate diagnosis.

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Rabies

What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a virus that may affect the brain and spinal cord of all mammals, including dogs, cats and humans. Though preventable, there is good reason that the word “rabies” evokes fear in people.  Annually, rabies causes the deaths of more than 50,000 humans and millions of animals worldwide. Once Rabies symptoms appear, the disease results in fatality.

How Would My Dog Get Rabies?

• Since animals that have rabies secrete large amounts of virus in their saliva, the disease is primarily passed to dogs through a bite from an infected animal.
• It can also be transmitted through a scratch or when infected saliva makes contact with mucous membranes or an open, fresh wound. The risk runs highest if your dog--or any pet--is exposed to wild animals.
• The most common carriers of the rabies virus in this country are bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes.
• In the United States, rabies is reported in cats more than in any domestic species. If there are also cats in your household, it’s important to make sure they are vaccinated and kept indoors.

What Are the General Symptoms of Rabies?

• Initially, a dog that’s become infected may show extreme behavioral changes such as restlessness or apprehension, both of which may be compounded by aggression.
• Friendly dogs may become irritable, while normally excitable animals may become more docile. A dog may bite or snap at any form of stimulus, attacking other animals, humans and even inanimate objects.
• They may constantly lick, bite and chew at the site where they were bitten. A fever may also be present at this stage.
• As the virus progresses, an infected dog may become hypersensitive to touch, light and sound.
• They may eat unusual things and hide in dark places.
• Paralysis of the throat and jaw muscles may follow, resulting in the well-known symptom of foaming at the mouth.
• Disorientation, incoordination and staggering may occur, caused by paralysis of the hind legs.
• Other classic signs of rabies include loss of appetite, weakness, seizures and sudden death.

How Long After Infection Do Signs of Rabies Show?
It is usually two to eight weeks before signs are noticed. However, transmission of the virus through saliva can happen as early as ten days before symptoms appear.

How Is Rabies Diagnosed?
There is no accurate test to diagnose rabies in live animals. The direct fluorescent antibody test is the most accurate test for diagnosis--but because it requires brain tissue, it can only be performed after the death of the animal.

How Is Rabies Treated?
There is no treatment or cure for rabies once symptoms appear. Since rabies presents a serious public health threat, dogs that are suspected of having the virus are most often euthanized.

How Can Rabies Be Prevented?

• Keeping your dog up to date with vaccinations is not only essential to prevention, it’s the law.
• Check with your veterinarian about the right vaccine and vaccination schedule for your dog.
• In many areas of the country, it’s mandatory that all domestic dogs and cats are vaccinated after the age of three months.
• Vaccinating your pet not only protects him from getting rabies, it protects him if he bites someone.
• Dogs that have bitten humans are required to be confined for at least 10 days to see if rabies develops, and if the animal’s vaccination records are not current, a lengthy quarantine or even euthanasia may be mandated.
• If you’re not sure of the laws in your town, consult your local animal affairs agency.
• Avoiding contact with wild animals is also necessary to prevention. You may greatly decrease chances of rabies transmission by walking your dog on a leash, and supervising him while he’s outdoors.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Had Contact with A Rabid Animal?

• Call your veterinarian for an immediate appointment!
• Report the incident to your local health department and follow their recommendations.
• You’ll also need to contact local animal control officers if the animal that bit your pet is still at large; they will be best able to safely apprehend and remove the animal from the environment.
• After having contact with a rabid animal, the rabies virus may remain alive on your pet’s skin for up to two hours.
• It is best not to touch your dog during this time.
• If you must handle your dog, wear gloves and protective clothing.
• A dog who is up to date with his vaccinations and who has been bitten by a possibly rabid animal should also be given a rabies booster immediately and kept under observation for 45 days.

What Should I Do If I Think I’ve Been Bitten by a Rabid Animal?

• Call your doctor immediately for instructions!
• You may need to get a series of injections in order to protect your health.
• Also, contact your local health department to report the bite.
• Note:
• Do not attempt to handle or capture a wild animal, especially if he is acting strangely (i.e., a nocturnal animal who is out during the day, an animal who acts unusually tame).
• Report the animal to local animal control officers as soon as possible.

What Should I Do If I Come Across A Wild Animal?
Please do not attempt to capture any wild animals. In fact, it is wise to safeguard your home against wild animals in the following ways:

• Cover or stuff holes larger than a quarter and caulk cracks that are 3/8-inch wide or larger.
• Make sure your screens have no rips or holes.
• Install chimney caps.
• Use screens to cover attic vents and make sure all doors are securely shut.

Contact your local animal control or fish and wildlife department for suggestions on how to handle nuisance wildlife. If you find a dead wild animal in your home, call your local animal control agency or use thick work gloves to place the animal in a small box. Seal the box with strong tape and contact your local health department for information about where to take the animal for rabies testing.

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Ringworm

What Is Ringworm?
Although the name suggests otherwise, ringworm is not caused by a worm at all—but a fungus. This highly contagious infection can lead to patchy areas of hair loss on a dog, and can spread to other animals—and to humans.

What Are the General Symptoms of Ringworm?

• Classic symptoms of ringworm include lesions that typically appear on a dog’s head, ears, paws and forelimbs.
• These lesions can cause patchy, crusted circular “bald spots” that sometimes look red in the center.
• In mild cases of ringworm, there may be just a few broken hairs, while bad cases of ringworm can spread over most of a dog’s body.
• It’s also possible for a dog to carry the fungus and not show any symptoms whatsoever.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Ringworm Infection?
Puppies less than a year old are most prone to infection, but malnourished, immunocompromised and stressed dogs are also at a greater risk than healthy animals. And because transmission of the ringworm fungus can occur via contact with infected animals and bedding, dishes and other materials in the environment where infected hair or scales may collect, ringworm can quickly spread in kennels, shelters and other places where there are many dogs in a close environment.

How Is Ringworm Diagnosed?

• Because this fungal infection can potentially spread over a dog’s body and infect other animals and people, it’s important that you see your vet for an accurate diagnosis if your pet is showing any signs of a skin problem.
• Your vet may use an ultraviolet light called a Wood’s lamp to examine your dog’s hair, look at suspect hairs under a microscope, or take a culture of the affected area in order to diagnose ringworm.

How Is Ringworm Treated?

• Treatment of ringworm depends on the severity of the infection.
• Please note, it is important to treat your dog for as long as recommended by your veterinarian. Even though the skin lesions may have cleared up, this doesn’t mean your dog is cured or can’t infect another animal or person. Certain diagnostic tests may need to be repeated in order to ensure cure. And unfortunately, there is no guarantee that re-infection won’t occur!

How Can I Prevent Ringworm from Spreading?

• If your veterinarian has diagnosed your pet with ringworm, he or she will explain what you must do to prevent the fungus from spreading to your other pets—and to the human members of the household.
• This is especially important because the fungus is difficult to kill and can live in the environment for several months.
• Your vet may recommend baths with a medicated shampoo for all your pets, and will likely suggest washing, disinfecting or even discarding the infected animal’s bedding, equipment and toys. 
• Since ringworm can survive on hair and skin that your pet sheds, frequent vacuuming can help prevent transmission of the infection—but don’t forget to change the vacuum bag!
• As a commonsense precaution, it is a smart idea to thoroughly wash your hands after you bathe or touch your dog. Good personal hygiene and environmental decontamination are essential to keep the disease from spreading to humans.

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Spay-Neuter

What Is Spaying and Neutering?
Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures performed by veterinarians that render dogs incapable of breeding by removing their reproductive organs.

• When a female dog is spayed (also called an ovariohysterectomy), the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus are removed.
• Neutering commonly refers to the castration of males and the complete removal of their testicles.

What Are the Health Benefits of Spaying and Neutering?

• Spayed dogs are less likely to develop breast cancer and will not be at risk for ovarian or uterine tumors. 
• Neutered male dogs will not get testicular cancer and they will have a decreased chance of developing prostate enlargement.
• By neutering male dogs, you lessen their desire to roam, thus decreasing their risk for injury and transmission of infectious disease.

Why Should I Spay or Neuter My Dog?
In addition to the many health benefits, spaying or neutering your dog ensures that he or she won’t contribute to the pet overpopulation problem. Even an unsterilized dog that lives primarily indoors may escape or break away from a leash on a walk and could mate and produce puppies. Each year, millions of homeless dogs are euthanized or end up in shelters simply due to a lack of good homes.

What Are Some Behavioral Issues Associated with Dogs Who Aren’t Spayed or Neutered?

• Both male and female dogs will show general behavior signs such as howling, barking and urine marking.
• There is also a strong need to roam and find a mate, often leading to fighting.

When Is the Best Time to Spay or Neuter My Dog?
It is generally considered safe for puppies as young as eight weeks of age to be spayed or neutered. In animal shelters, surgery is often performed at this age so that puppies can be sterilized prior to adoption. In an effort to avoid the start of urine marking in male dogs and eliminate the chance of pregnancy, it’s advisable to schedule the surgery before your dog reaches six months of age. It’s possible to spay a female dog while she’s in heat, but not always recommended since she may be susceptible to increased blood loss. Though older dogs can be good candidates for sterilization surgery, your vet can best determine if the procedure can safely be performed. Please check with your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your pet.

What Happens When My Dog Is Spayed or Neutered? Will He or She Act Differently?
After sterilization, your dog may be less likely to exhibit certain behaviors, but his or her personality will not change. Spayed and neutered dogs may be predisposed to weight gain, but proper body condition can be maintained with appropriate diet and exercise. Your vet can help you chose a proper diet for your dog.

How Do I Prepare My Pet for Surgery?

• Your veterinary clinic will provide pre-surgical advice for you to follow.
• In general, you should avoid giving your dog any food after midnight the night before surgery.
• A puppy, however, needs adequate nutrition, and your veterinarian may advise that food not be withheld.
• Water should generally not be withheld from any canine patient prior to sterilization surgery.

What Is the Recovery Process for Recently Spayed or Neutered Dogs?
Your veterinarian can provide post-operative instructions for you to follow. Although your dog may experience some discomfort after surgery, your vet can take various measures to control pain. Depending on the procedure performed, medication for pain may be sent home with your dog. Here are tips for a safe and comfortable recovery:

• Provide your dog with a quiet place to recover indoors and away from other animals.
• Prevent your dog from running and jumping for the first few days following surgery.
• Discourage your dog from licking the incision site, which may cause infection, by distracting your pet with treats or by using an Elizabethan collar.
• Avoid bathing your dog for at least ten days after surgery.
• Check the incision site daily to confirm proper healing.
• If you notice any redness, swelling or discharge at the surgery site, or if the incision is open, please contact your vet.
• Also call your vet if your dog is lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is vomiting or has diarrhea following surgery.

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Ticks and Lyme Disease

What Are Ticks?
Ticks are external parasites that feed on the blood of host animals. Like mites and spiders, ticks are arachnids. The brown dog tick and the American dog tick, examples of ticks that commonly affect dogs, require three feedings to complete their life cycles.

How Are Ticks Transmitted to Dogs?
Ticks are most active in from spring through fall and live in tall brush or grass, where they may attach to dogs playing on their turf. These parasites prefer to stay close to the head, neck, feet and ear area. In severe infestations, however, they can be found anywhere on a dog’s body.

How Do I Know if My Dog Has Ticks?

• Ticks are visible to the naked eye.
• During the warmer months, it’s a good idea to check your dog regularly for these parasites.
• If you do spot a tick, it is important to take care when removing it. Any contact with the tick’s blood can potentially transmit infection to your dog or even to you!
• Treat the area with rubbing alcohol and pluck the parasite with tweezers, making sure you’ve gotten the biting head and other body parts.
• Since it may only take a few hours for disease to be transmitted from an attached tick, it is ideal for your dog to be evaluated by a veterinarian soon after any ticks are found.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Ticks?
Ticks can be found all over the world. But dogs that live in warm climates and certain wooded areas of the Northeast, where ticks are particularly prominent, might be more prone due to increased exposure.

What Are Some Complications Associated with Ticks in Dogs?

• Blood loss
• Anemia
• Tick paralysis
• Skin irritation or infection
• Ticks can also transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• all of which can cause serious complications and are potentially fatal without prompt and proper treatment.

My Dog Has Been Bitten by a Tick! What Should I Do?
Remove the tick, as noted above, and consult with your veterinarian, who will help you to prevent future infestation. Your vet may also perform blood tests to rule out diseases transmitted by ticks.

What Is Lyme Disease?

• Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can affect humans, dogs, cats and other mammals.
• Its primary carrier is the deer tick, which often feeds on rodents in its early stages.
• Later, the tick can attach to a dog or human and transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
• Clinical signs include depression, swelling of the lymph nodes, loss of appetite and fever, as well as lameness and swollen, painful joints. Renal failure can also be a consequence of Lyme disease.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Lyme Disease?
Bring your pet to a veterinarian, who will evaluate your dog for Lyme disease. This includes a physical exam, blood tests and possibly radiographs.

How Is Lyme Disease Treated?
Your veterinarian can best determine the optimal treatment plan for your dog. Canine Lyme disease is most often effectively treated with antibiotics. With prompt, proper treatment, your dog’s condition should start to improve within 48 hours.

How Can I Prevent Tick Infestation?
Many of the same products on the market that treat fleas also kill ticks and protect against future infestation. These topical treatments are especially recommended for those dogs that live in areas with high tick populations. Speak to your vet to select the best product for your dog.

The key to any successful tick control program lies, literally, in your own backyard. Ensure a tick-free lawn by mowing it regularly, removing tall weeds and making it inhospitable to rodents by keeping garbage covered and inaccessible.

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Vaccinations

• Vaccinating your dog has long been considered one of the easiest ways to help him live a long, healthy life.
• Not only are there different vaccines for different diseases, there are different types and combinations of vaccines.
• Although vaccination has the potential to protect pets against life-threatening diseases, vaccination is not without its risks.
• Recently, there has been some controversy regarding the duration of protection and timing of vaccination, as well as the safety and necessity of certain vaccines.
• What does this all mean for your dog?
• Vaccination is a procedure that has risks and benefits that must be weighed for every dog relative to his lifestyle and health.
• Your veterinarian can determine a vaccination regime that will provide the safest and best protection for your individual dog.

Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions regarding vaccines:

What Exactly Are Vaccines?

• Vaccines contain antigens, which look like the disease-causing organism to the immune system but don't actually cause disease.
• When the vaccine is introduced to the body, the immune system is mildly stimulated.
• If a dog is ever exposed to the real disease, his immune system is now prepared to recognize and fight it off entirely or reduce the severity of the illness.

How Important Are Vaccines to the Health of My Dog?

• Vaccines are very important in managing the health of your dog.
• However, not every dog needs to be vaccinated against every disease.
• It is very important to discuss with your veterinarian a vaccination protocol that’s right for your dog.
• Factors that should be examined include age, medical history, environment, travel habits and lifestyle.
• Most vets highly recommend administering core vaccines to healthy dogs.

What Are Core Vaccines?

• In 2006, the American Animal Hospital Association’s Canine Task Force published a revised version of guidelines regarding canine vaccinations.
• The guidelines divide vaccines into three categories—core, non-core and not recommended.
• Core vaccines are considered vital to all dogs based on risk of exposure, severity of disease or transmissibility to humans.
• Canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis and rabies are considered core vaccines by the Task Force.
• Non-core vaccines are given depending on the dog’s exposure risk.
• These include vaccines against Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi and Leptospira bacteria.
• Your veterinarian can determine what vaccines are best for your dog.

What Vaccines Should My Puppy Get?

• Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations with a combination vaccine product that protects against parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis.
• Your puppy must also be vaccinated against rabies.
• There are a variety of other vaccines that may or may not be appropriate for your pet.

Are Any Vaccines Required By Law?
Each state has its own laws governing the administration of the rabies vaccine. Some areas require yearly rabies vaccination. Other areas call for vaccines every three years. An up-to-date canine rabies vaccination is a legal requirement. Be sure to keep proof of your dog’s rabies vaccines with his medical records.

How Often Should My Adult Dog Be Vaccinated?
Your veterinarian can best determine a vaccination schedule for your dog. This will depend on the type of vaccine, your dog’s age, medical history, environment and lifestyle. Some adult dogs might receive certain vaccines annually, while other vaccines might be given every 3 years or longer.

When Should My Puppy Be Vaccinated?

• If his mother has a healthy immune system, a puppy will most likely receive antibodies in mother’s milk while nursing.
• Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at six to eight weeks of age.
• A veterinarian should administer a minimum of three vaccinations at three- to four-week intervals.
• The final dose should be administered at 16 weeks of age.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Vaccines?

• Immunizations mildly stimulate an animal’s immune system in order to create protection from specific infectious diseases.
• This stimulation can create mild symptoms, ranging from soreness at the injection site to fever and allergic reactions.
• Another less common side effect is the development of immune mediated disease following vaccination.
• That said, it is important to realize that vaccines have saved countless lives, and play a vital role in the battle against canine infectious disease. Additionally, rabies vaccinations have saved the lives of countless dogs—and many humans as well. In some developing countries, hundreds of people die each year due to rabies contracted from dog bites.
• As with any medical procedure, there is a small chance of side effects. In most cases, the risks are much smaller than the risks of disease itself. But it is important to talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s medical history before he is vaccinated.

What Symptoms Should I Look For?
Most dogs show no ill effect from vaccination. Vaccine reactions may be minor and short-lived or require immediate care from a veterinarian. Clinical signs include:

• Fever
• Sluggishness
• Loss of appetite
• Facial swelling and/or hives
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pain, swelling, redness, scabbing or hair loss around the injection site
• Lameness
• Collapse
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures

It is best to schedule your dog’s appointment so that you can monitor him for any side effects following administration of the vaccine.

What Should I Do if I Think My Dog Is Having an Adverse Reaction to a Vaccine?
If you suspect your dog is having a reaction to a vaccine, call your veterinarian immediately.

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Vomiting

Why Do Dogs Vomit?
A dog may vomit simply because he’s eaten something disagreeable or consumed too much food, too fast. But vomiting can also indicate something far more serious—your dog may have swallowed a toxic substance, or may be suffering from a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Vomiting can also be associated with gastrointestinal and systemic disorders that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

What Might Cause A Sudden, or Acute, Episode of Vomiting?

• Bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract
• Diet-related causes (diet change, food intolerance, ingestion of garbage)
• Foreign bodies (i.e. toys, bones, pieces of chewies) in the gastrointestinal tract
• Intestinal parasites
• Acute kidney failure
• Acute liver failure or gall bladder inflammation
• Pancreatitis
• Post-operative nausea
• Ingestion of toxic substances
• Viral infections
• Certain medications or anesthetic agents
• Bloat
• Heatstroke
• Car sickness
• Infected uterus

Vomiting that occurs sporadically or irregularly over a longer period of time can be due to stomach or intestinal inflammation, severe constipation, cancer, kidney dysfunction, liver disease or systemic illness.

What Should I Do If My Dog Vomits Frequently?
An occasional, isolated bout of vomiting may not be of concern. However, frequent or chronic vomiting can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colitis, intestinal obstruction or parvovirus. If your dog’s vomiting is not an isolated incident, please bring him to the vet right away for a complete examination and diagnostic testing.

What Other Symptoms Should I Watch For?
The causes of vomiting are so varied that sometimes obtaining a diagnosis can be difficult, so it’s important to give your veterinarian as much information as possible and indicate if other signs are also occurring. What to watch for:

• Frequency of vomiting.
• If your dog vomits once and proceeds to eat regularly and have a normal bowel movement, the vomiting was most likely an isolated incident.
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Lethargy
• Blood in vomit
• Weight loss
• Change in appetite
• Increase or decrease in thirst or urination

When Is It Time To See The Vet?
Please see your vet if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, if your dog vomits more than once during the course of a day, or if vomiting persists past one day.

How Will My Vet Determine What is Causing the Vomiting?
Depending on your pet’s age, medical history, physical examination findings and your dog’s particular symptoms, your veterinarian may choose to perform various diagnostic tests (bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound, fecal examination, endoscopy, biopsy or even exploratory surgery) in order to make a diagnosis.

What Are Some Treatment Options?
It is best to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding appropriate treatment.