July 10, 2008

“Feline Urinary Blockage”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

A fairly common, life-threatening complication to urinary tract infections in male cats is urinary blockage.  The blood, mucus and crystals that develop in the bladder form a plug at the tip of the cat’s penis, blocking the urine flow.   If the blockage continues, then toxins can build up resulting in death.

The male cat will often sit in the litter box and vocalize while straining to urinate.  Signs of pain, loss of appetite, and vomiting can occur.  Your veterinarian can make the diagnosis by feeling a large, hard bladder in which no urine comes out with gentle pressure.  Bloodwork is usually done to assess the extent of the toxin build up.

The patient is usually sedated and a urinary catheter is placed, relieving the obstruction.  The catheter is usually left in place for 12 to 24 hours to facilitate the passage of debris.  The cat will usually receive IV fluids to correct kidney and electrolyte problems.  Antibiotics are started to stop infections and pain medications are begun.

If you own a male cat, you need to be aware of the signs of urinary blockage and seek immediate medical attention if you suspect this condition.  Most felines are placed on a special diet to prevent urinary obstructions from reoccurring in the future.

July 3, 2008

“How Old is Your Pet, Really?”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

A common question that veterinarians are asked is “How old is my dog/cat in relation to human years?”  The old seven-year rule does not apply anymore.  Below is a helpful guide which will assist you in determining just how old your pet really is.  You will notice that the smaller the pet, the longer the lifespan.  There is definitely a correlation between size and age.

(Chart developed by Dr. Fred L. Metzger, DVM, State College, PA. Courtesy of Pfizer Animal Health.)

June 12, 2008

“Know the Signs of GDV”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

While on duty at the Animal Emergency Clinic in Conroe this Saturday, I was presented with two back-to-back cases of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).  This condition is often referred to as “bloat” or “gastric torsion.”  If the client does not recognize that this is occurring and rush the pet to a veterinarian, the patient will die.

Deep-chested breeds (German Shepherds, Great Danes, Irish Setters) are more commonly affected.  The true cause is unknown, but air accumulates in the stomach (gastric dilation) causing the stomach to twist (volvulus).  Thus, the esophagus and small intestine outflow is obstructed and more gas accumulates.  Return blood flow is stopped leading to organ failure, shock, and death.

Signs to watch for are excessive drooling with retching (unproductive attempts to vomit).  The pet will appear restless and have abdominal pain.  The classic sign is an obvious distention, air-filled stomach but this is not always evident at the beginning of the episode.

Your veterinarian can make the diagnosis based on an x-ray.  Intravenous fluids and stomach decompression are started immediately.  Medication is administered to prevent shock and infection (steroids and antibiotics).  If the stomach is twisted, immediate surgery is necessary.

As of the time of writing this article, both patients were doing well.  These clients were very quick at identifying that their pet had a problem and got medical attention immediately.  The staff at the Animal Emergency Clinic in Conroe diagnosed and treated the patients rapidly.  GDV is considered the “mother of all emergencies” because time is truly of the essence for a successful result.

June 5, 2008

“Heatstroke”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist) 

Heatstroke is a condition that is more common during the summer months. The rectal temperature rises above 105 ̊F which leads to failure of vital organs and possibly death.  It is caused from excessive activity, airway obstruction, and unfortunately, from pets being left in vehicles with closed windows.  Puppies and older dogs, overweight pets and short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are at greatest risk.

Common signs are noisy breathing with excessive panting.  The pet might appear altered mentally and have a bright red gum color.  They get very weak and collapse.  Seizures can also take place.  Contact your veterinarian immediately if there is even a remote possibility of a heatstroke.  History and physical exam will usually lead to the diagnosis.  Blood work is performed to assess the organs and electrolyte status.

The intensity of the treatment varies based on the severity of the pet’s presentation.  Fans and cool water baths are used immediately.  Intravenous fluids are initiated to keep the organs from shutting down.  Supplemental oxygen is often used.  Sometimes steroids are used to prevent shock and antibiotics are started to prevent secondary infections.  DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) is a body-wide failure of blood clotting that happens secondary to heat strokes.  Most pets die if this occurs.

To prevent heatstroke, minimize your pet’s activity on hot, humid days and exercise in the mornings or evenings only.  Make sure to provide plenty of water.  And finally, NEVER leave a pet in a vehicle (windows partially opened or not) for even for a short period of time.

May 29, 2008

“Lick Granuloma”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

A lick granuloma (also referred to as an acral lick) is a common condition in which a dog excessively licks an area of the body.  Usually, the lower front leg is the location.  Mature, male, active, large breed dogs (German shepherds, Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers) are generally affected.  The area is licked until a raised, firm, ulcerated lesion is formed.  Secondary infection occurs making the spot more irritated and itchier, which perpetuates the problem.

Allergies to the environment, fleas or food, can be the cause.  Pets might lick secondary to pain or arthritis.  Commonly, boredom or an emotional/behavioral problem is the instigator.  Your veterinarian can make the diagnosis based on physical exam.  Sometimes, skin scrapings, cultures or biopsies are performed to rule out other conditions.

Lick granulomas are frustrating to treat.  No therapy is uniformly successful.  Various methods may need to be attempted.  If allergies are the cause, they should be addressed.  Boredom can be corrected with an increase in exercise and playtime.  Sometimes getting another pet will help, but this may be the source of the problem.  Antibiotics are regularly used for a long period of time.  Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications are prescribed.  Bitter tasting ointments are routinely applied to affected area.  Just remember, do not give up because most of these spots can eventually be resolved.

May 22, 2008

“Urinary Incontinence”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

The loss of voluntary control of urination is referred to as urinary incontinence.  This is most common in middle-aged, medium to large size, spayed female dogs.  A circular muscle at the opening of the bladder, called the sphincter muscle, keeps most pets from leaking urine.  When this muscle weakens, incontinence occurs.  The signs that your pet has this condition include a dripping of urine, finding wet spots where the pet sleeps, and sometimes, irritated skin from continued contact with urine.

Other medical conditions can cause frequent urination and must be distinguished from incontinence.  Urinary tract infections can be diagnosed by your veterinarian.  A metabolic problem that causes increased thirst and urination (example: diabetes) can be detected with bloodwork.  Bladder stones or tumors can be excluded with radiographs or ultrasounds.

The most common prescribed drug used to increase the tone of the sphincter muscle is phenylpropanolamine.   A hormone, diethylstilbestrol (DES), is also used to treat incontinence.  Most cases of urinary incontinence can be controlled with medication.

The occurrence of pet urinary accidents in the home can test even the best owner’s patience.  Frustration can lead to placing the animal outside to live, and in some cases, euthanasia is considered.  Before making such desperate decisions, please consult your veterinarian for assistance with your pet.

May 15, 2008

“Senility”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Advances in medicine have enabled people as well as their pets to live longer.  With the increase in life expectancy, changes take place in all organ systems, including the brain.  Senility (also referred to as cognitive dysfunction) is a growing concern for pet owners whose dogs have passed the age of 10.

Not all pets show every sign of senility and the disease is considered progressive (as time goes on, the disease worsens).  Reduced activity with increased sleeping is noted.  They have diminished response to commands with apparent deafness.  Confusion and disorientation might occur with the inability to recognize loved ones.  Some geriatric dogs exhibit loss of bladder and bowel control.  There might be difficulty in navigating previously familiar environments.  Some senior pets appear agitated or bark for no particular reason.

Deprenyl (Anipryl®) is a medication used to reverse the clinical signs of cognitive dysfunction for a period of time in many pets.  A prescription diet is also available to assist in continuing the patient’s quality of life.  If your pet exhibits these signs, a veterinarian should be consulted for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

May 8, 2008

"Snakebites"

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

During this time of year, it is not unusual for dogs and cats to be bitten by poisonous snakes.   These are most commonly water moccasins, copperheads and the occasional rattlesnake.  Poisonous snakes are distinguished by a triangular head and  a pit located between the nostril and eye (called “pit vipers”).  The severity of the bite is related to the type of snake, the size of the animal bitten, and the amount of venom injected.

Most snakebites occur in outdoor dogs and cats during the spring and summer on the legs and head, especially the muzzle.   This happens when the pet plays and investigates in an area where snakes live.  The pet will often cry out and dart away from the area it was exploring.  Within minutes, there will be swelling at the site of the bite.  Pain, oozing blood, drooling, rapid breathing and weakness are common signs.

All pets that are bitten should be taken to a veterinarian immediately for prompt treatment.  Therapy varies depending on the signs of toxicity displayed.  Diphenhydramine (benedryl) is typically given to reduce the signs of allergic reaction.  Anti-inflammatories are administered to decrease swelling.  Pain medications are given to make the pet more comfortable.  Antibiotics are used to prevent secondary infections.  Hospitalization with intravenous fluids is recommended in severe cases.

May 1, 2008

“Cuterebra”      

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

A cuterebra is a fly whose larval (worm) stage infests the skin of small mammals, especially cats.  The fly is rarely seen by people and does not search for animals.  They lay eggs on plants where outside cats tend to roam and investigate.  When the animal’s head and neck come into contact with these eggs, they stick to the pet’s hair.  The egg hatches into the larval form and enters the body through open wounds, mouth or nostrils.  The larvae incubate in a subcutaneous (below the skin) area.  Eventually, a breathing hole forms.  After about a month, the larvae will surface from the hole and fall to the ground.   In time, an adult fly forms and the cycle begins again.  Infestations are more frequent in the summer and fall seasons.

Pet owners usually observe swelling and matted hair in the infected area.  Diagnosis of a cuterebra is determined by spotting the breathing hole and worm.  Some cats display fever and pain in the area.  Removal of the larvae should only be performed by a veterinarian because serious side effects can occur if the extraction is not done properly.  Usually under anesthesia, the breathing hole is enlarged and the worm is removed in one piece.  The area is flushed and the pet is put on antibiotics and sometimes pain medications.  Once the larva is removed, the affected area will heal on its own.

April 24, 2008

“Diabetes Mellitus”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Diabetes mellitus (often referred to as sugar diabetes) is a condition of cats and dogs.  Affected animals can not produce enough insulin (the hormone necessary for sugar or glucose metabolism in the body).  Middle-aged to older female dogs and male cats are more often affected.  Obesity, recurring pancreatitis and steroids are contributing causes.

Classic signs of diabetes are increased thirst and need to urinate.  Weight loss, despite a good appetite, occurs.  Also, blindness, lethargy and poor body condition are often seen.  Urine and blood tests will show high levels of sugar and exclude other diseases.  The therapy consists of one or two daily injections of insulin.  This is readily accomplished at home by most pet owners.  A special, often high-fiber diet as well as regular exercise are needed.  Your veterinarian will make adjustments in insulin therapy based on periodic blood glucose curves and/or fructosamine tests.  Owners need to observe for the resolution of the excessive thirst, urination, and appetite.  A client must be very careful with treatment because insulin overdose can cause blood sugar to be too low resulting in disorientation, weakness, and seizures.

A dedicated, committed and educated pet owner (with proper veterinary guidance) can result in cats and dogs leading a long, quality life with diabetes.

April 17, 2008

“Heartworm Disease in Dogs”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Heartworm Disease is extremely common in many parts of the world.  The worm Dirofilaria immitis settles in the blood vessels leading from the heart to the lungs.  In tropical regions where mosquitoes reside, baby heartworms are injected into dogs as they are bitten.  These worms become adults in the heart in 3 to 4 months and cause the heart to be overburdened.  Heartworm disease is most prevalent in outside dogs, but those that live entirely indoors (as well as cats) can be infected.

Symptoms can develop within months to years after the infection.  These signs can be very mild or severe and lead to heart failure.  Pets will usually cough (sometimes blood).  Heavy breathing and exercise intolerance can occur.  Distention of the belly with fluid is common.  Decreased appetite and weight loss is also a common complaint.

Your veterinarian can diagnose heartworms with a simple, quick blood test.  Radiographs (x-rays) and more blood tests will assess how far the disease has progressed and enable a treatment plan to begin.   Some pets are placed on medicines (steroids, diuretics and antibiotics) prior to treatment.  Treatment consists of injections of an arsenic-like compound in the muscles of the back.  Strict exercise limitations are required for successful treatment, but this process is not without risk.

Heartworm disease is practically 100% preventable.  Monthly oral and topical preventions are readily available through your veterinarian.  Many of the preventative medications also prevent intestinal worms as well as fleas.

April 10, 2008

“Taking Care of Your Pet’s Teeth”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Proper dental care is necessary for keeping your pet healthy and happy.  Although frequently unnoticed, pets can experience the same types of dental issues as humans; including severe pain, infection, and tooth loss.   By learning about the basics of tooth care and working closely with your veterinarian, many dental problems can be prevented and if they do occur, they can be solved. 

Most dental issues start small and form over time for pets.  Beginning at a very young age, food particles, bacteria and debris can accumulate at the gum line and below the gums to form plaque.  Without proper dental attention, plaque can solidify to develop into calculus and become a serious oral condition such as gingivitis, periodontitis and stomatitis.  Veterinarians also believe that bacteria linked to tooth and gum disease can travel to internal body systems and cause infections in organs like the heart, liver and kidney.  Therefore, a dental prevention program could even help lengthen a pet’s life.

 Periodontal disease is a very common disease of small animals in which pets often suffer quietly.  Your veterinarian may recommend a dental cleaning or a tooth extraction to alleviate the pain.  Regular dental care can brighten your smile and your pet’s smile, too.

April 3, 2008

“Ehrlichiosis”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Ehrlichia is a small microscopic organism in the rickettsial family, different from both bacteria and viruses.  The disease is spread by ticks.  It can be seen in any age and breed of dogs, but middle-aged, purebreds (especially German Shepherds) are most susceptible.

There are three phases of illness.  The first phase occurs 1 to 3 weeks after the tick bite.  During this time, the platelets (particles in our blood responsible for clotting) decrease in number.  The dog will be listless, anorexic, and have a fever.  In the second phase, the pet appears normal as the ehrlichia organism hides in the spleen for months to years.  In the third phase, the pet gets sick again.  Bleeding tendencies, arthritic signs and kidney disease can occur.

Diagnosis is made by your veterinarian based on clinical signs, a low platelet count and often mild anemia.  A positive blood test for antibodies to the organism implies exposure but not always active infection.  Therapy depends on the severity of clinical signs.  Antibiotic therapy with doxycycline is the mainstay of treatment.  Intravenous fluids and blood transfusion are sometimes indicated.  Prevention is possible by decreasing tick exposure through spot-ons and tick collars.

March 27, 2008

“Lipomas”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contibuting Columnist)

A lipoma is a soft, round, somewhat moveable lump of slow-growing cells of fat usually found under the skin.  They are usually spotted by owners when petting or grooming their pets.  They do not cause pain or hair loss and are usually harmless.  Lipomas are common in middle-aged, overweight dogs but they can also appear in cats.  Common breed tendencies are cocker spaniels, dachshunds, poodles and golden retrievers.  They grow slowly and do not spread or metastasize.  Occasionally, large lipomas can interfere with movement (if in the groin or armpits) or hamper movement (from friction at the breastbone/chest).

Your veterinarian can examine lumps on your pet to make the diagnosis of a lipoma.  This is done by aspirating the growth with a needle and examining the contents under a microscope.  A true biopsy is sometimes needed to confirm the diagnosis.  It is not uncommon for pets to develop multiple lipomas in many locations.  Lipomas can be removed surgically.  This is frequently done when pets are scheduled for other anesthetic procedures such as a dental cleaning.

Most lipomas sit in a pouch or case separated from surrounding tissue.  Occasionally, some lipomas invade underlying muscle tissue (then referred to as infiltrative lipomas).  These are more common in the extremities (limbs).  This type of lipoma is more difficult to control, but still should not progress to other areas of the body.

March 20, 2008

“Ringworm”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Contrary to popular belief, ringworm is not caused by a worm but is really a fungal infection of the skin.  It is considered contagious from animal to animal and from animal to human.  Direct contact can spread the disease, but it can also be contracted from contaminated objects.  Contributing factors are high stress environments (shelters and catteries), lowered immune systems (from feline leukemia and feline AIDS) and poor nutrition.

The classic sign of ringworm is a circular area of hair loss; however, any change in the hair coat may be consistent with the fungus.  The skin might appear scaly and inflamed.  Itching is sometimes noted.  It must be remembered that some cats will suffer from severe skin disease and others will have only minor lesions to none at all (carriers).  Your veterinarian can diagnose the problem based on physical exam as well as a DTM (fungal culture).  A fluorescent Woods lamp exam can detect ringworm in some instances.

To effectively cure ringworm, the pet and the environment must be treated.  Some cats can resolve an infection spontaneously over several months but treatment is recommended.  The main two oral medications used are griseofulvin and lufenuron.  Topical treatment consists of lime sulfur dips, medicated shampoos, and topical sprays or ointments.  The pet’s environment needs to be frequently and thoroughly cleaned.

March 13, 2008

“Parvovirus”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Parvovirus is a virus which infects and destroys the cells of the intestines resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.  In addition, the bone marrow is invaded causing a decrease in the white blood cell count producing an increased susceptibility to bacterial infections. The disease can vary from mild to fatal.  Parvovirus is extremely contagious to other dogs but not to cats and humans.  Infection occurs after ingestion of material contaminated by dog feces.  Direct dog contact is not necessary as the virus lives for months to years.  Canines at highest risk are puppies which have not completed their initial vaccine series, but all dogs can be infected.  Especially susceptible breeds are Doberman Pinchers, Rottweiler and Pit Bulls.

Parvovirus is an acute and serious disease.  Co-infection with parasites, bacteria, and other viruses increase susceptibility.  Symptoms occur 3 to 14 days after exposure and consist of depression, loss of appetite and vomiting.  The classic symptom is foul-smelling, bloody diarrhea.  A very reliable fecal test is available to detect the virus.  In addition, a CBC (complete blood count) will usually indicate a very low white blood cell count.  Therapy is variable and dependent upon the severity of the clinical symptoms.  Dehydration is controlled with IV (intravenous) fluids or SQ (subcutaneous) fluids.  Antibiotics are used to control secondary bacterial infections.  Antiemetics are administered to control vomiting.  Gastrointestinal protectents are used to slow down the diarrhea.  Pain medicine may also be administered.  Fifty to seventy-five percent of affected dogs will survive if the disease is detected early and treated aggressively.

February 28, 2008

"Ear Hematoma"

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

An ear hematoma is an accumulation of blood within the cartilage layers of the ear.  This condition is more common in dogs, but can occur in cats as well.  They appear as fluid-filled swellings on the underside surface of the ear.  The ear flap may partially or completely swell with blood.  This swelling may be so large that the opening of the ear canal is closed off.  The extra weight is uncomfortable, and when left untreated may lead to permanent damage in the appearance of the ear.  A very important point is that a hematoma is a secondary result of an underlying ear disorder.  Any condition that leads to head shaking or ear scratching can cause them.  Your veterinarian can determine the exact cause (allergy, bacterial infection, ear mites, or tumor) and repair the hematoma.

There are many ways of correcting ear hematomas.  If left alone, it will resolve itself, but excessive scarring will occur leading to an ear which is not cosmetically appealing (a cauliflower ear) and which is more prone to infection in the future.  Simple draining of the hematoma usually will not work because it leaves the space to readily refill with fluid.  A common surgical procedure involves making an incision and draining the fluid, then suturing the skin to the underlying cartilage.  Sutures are left in place two to three weeks to prevent refilling from occurring.  A newer technique involves inserting a tube or cannula into the ear tip to drain for several weeks.

February 21, 2008

“Giardia”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Giardia is a worldwide protozoan parasite which infects humans and animals.  Infections are most common in young animals and those pets in confinement (kennels, shelters, pet stores).  Infective cysts are passes in the feces and can remain viable in the environment for months.  Pets are infected by ingesting these cysts in contaminated water from puddles, streams, lakes, and wells.

Giardia causes disease by damaging the intestines which leads to vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and flatulence (gas).  Your veterinarian can often diagnose this parasite with a fecal exam.  It must be remembered that a positive fecal is conclusive evidence, but this test may be negative in infected animals.  There is also an ELISA test which detects substances given off by Giardia which can aid in the diagnosis.

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is widely used to treat Giardia in pets and people.  It has reasonable efficacy and the added advantage of being effective against other organisms that also cause diarrhea.  Fenbendazole is a dewormer that kills hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms but also is very effective against Giardia.  Pet owners should remove feces from kennels, runs, and yards.  Avoid allowing pets to drink from puddles, streams, and lakes.   In addition, regularly bathe animals to remove infected feces from the hair coat.

February 14, 2008

"Safety Around Pets"

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

It is very common for us to include our pets in most aspects of our daily activities.  We must always be aware of their presence and take extra care that they are not injured (like you would with a child).  I present the following two cases to illustrate this point.  The owner is a friend of mine and a very caring pet owner who just happed to have his dogs in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“Toby” is a four-year old, 113 lb, male Labrador Retriever.  The owner was cutting down a tree which according to him measured two feet in diameter.  The tree inadvertently fell on “Toby” and pinned him down.  The pet was taken to the Animal Emergency Clinic in Conroe where radiographs (x-rays) confirmed two broken bones in the arm and one in the shoulder.  “Toby” will have surgery to correct the fractures.

“Rocky” was sleeping in the garage (the owner is a mechanic in Willis).  The lift was accidently lowered and a vehicle came down on the dog.  Fortunately, only minor scrapes and pain occurred, and with the help of medications, “Rocky” did fine.

The bond between pets and their owners is often very strong and we enjoy their company.  Please be very careful so that you can avoid similar instances like that of “Toby” and “Rocky”.

February 7, 2008

“Seizures”

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Seizures are a fairly common disorder in pets.  The entire body is involved in stiffness, followed by a loss of consciousness, and often resulting in urination or defecation.  The actual seizure is typically followed by a post-ictal period in which the pet is disoriented and often blind.  This period can last seconds to hours.

There are many causes of seizures.  They can result from trauma, tumors, infection, low blood sugar and toxins.  If a cause is not determined, these are called epileptic seizures.  Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles are breeds which are predisposed to seizures.  If your pet has a seizure, it should be taken to your veterinarian immediately.  A comprehensive exam, blood tests, and possibly a referral to a neurologist for a CT scan or MRI are performed.

Not all pets with seizures are treated.  Usually medication is started when cluster seizures (those that happen over and over) occur, or when the incidence is more than once a month.  Phenobarbital is an inexpensive drug that has been used for many years for seizures.  Common side effects (which are often temporary) are sedation with excessive thirst and appetite.  Liver values need to be monitored to assess safety, and blood levels need to be checked to make sure the therapeutic dose is being administered.

Another prescription commonly used is KBR (potassium bromide).  This medication is theoretically safer, but takes longer to reach levels to control seizures.  KBR can be used by itself or in combination with Phenobarbital.

January 31, 2008

Obesity

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)

Obesity is the excessive accumulation of body fat.  Between 23 and 40 percent of our dogs and cats are considered obese.  Many owners don’t recognize that their pets are overweight because they have become obese slowly over time.  Signs of obesity include difficulty breathing, slow ambulation, lack of want to exercise and heat intolerance.

There are several causes of obesity.  This might result from simply over-eating (the main cause) in which more calories are taken in than are used.  Lack of exercise also leads to obesity.  Some medical conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism can lead to obesity.

Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s body condition score to determine if obesity is a concern and then establish the ideal weight for your pet.  The daily intake of food (meals, treats, and table food) should be analyzed and an exercise program will be recommended.  Sometimes, bloodwork is performed to diagnose any associated medical condition.

Weight loss can be achieved, but this must be a family effort.  First, admit the pet is obese, and then commit to weight loss. Rechecks, every 4 to 6 weeks, will aid in monitoring the weight loss progress.  An eight to twelve month time period is realistic for your pet to reach its ideal weight.

January 24, 2008

Myths

By Brian Hablinski, DVM

(Contributing Columnist)