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Pet Care News From Your Veterinarian 速

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WINTER 2010 | Volum e 8, No. 1

Shape Up! Pet Weight Solutions Laser Therapy to the Rescue The Facts about Dental Anesthesia Take Aim at Allergies

Winter 2011 | VOL.8, No 1

Picture-Perfect Pets Pet Care News From Your Veterinarian

IN THIS ISSUE 2

Unleash the complete

Fat and Happy? Maybe Not. Feeding tips to get your pet’s weight in check. All About Anesthesia Learn why dental anesthetics are safer than ever.

Maddie Sheeler Animal Hospital Apopka, Fla. Hershey and Sierra Angel Animal Hospital Bonita Springs, Fla.

Nina Midway Animal Hospital Seminole, Fla.

Light 9 Guiding Laser therapy to the rescue for arthritis.

killing force

1 2

against fleas and ticks.

Take Aim at Allergies Solutions for itchy and scratching pets.

Missy Cohen Veterinary Center Deltona, Fla. Sydney Poinciana Pet Clinic and Kissimmee Animal Hospital Kissimmee, Fla.

Pet Tales Separation anxiety in cats and more. Venus Sebring Animal Hospital Sebring, Fla.

Pet Quarterly® is an educational resource provided by your veterinary hospital.

G-Man and Newton Tavares Animal Hospital Tavares, Fla.

Comments are welcome at info@petquarterly.com ©Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Pet Quarterly® magazine does not make any representations as to opinions or facts as presented. Reproduction of contents in any form is prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher.

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Postmaster: Send address changes to: Pet Quarterly, 2951 34th Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33711

Poco West Kendall Animal Hospital Miami, Fla.

Miss Mini Nokomis Veterinary Clinic Venice, Fla.

Share your photos with other PQ readers. Email your best shot and the name and location of your veterinary hospital to PetQuarterly@yahoo.com. To be published, images should be at least 3 inches at 300 dpi. We’ll publish as many as we can.

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† Vet-dispensed, MDI

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 1

General Wellness

Fat and Happy?

Maybe Not.

Maybe you’ll include “lose five pounds” in your New Year’s resolutions. Could your pets benefit from that too? By Geneva Keene Acor, DVM

“She isn’t old, but she is acting old.” This was the concern of Tabitha and her parents for their pet Misty, a female Golden Retriever. She was purchased as a puppy to be a playmate for Tabitha, an only child. But now, five years later, Misty wasn’t interested in playing with Tabitha and could barely walk one block. Of course, there are many possible causes for such lethargy, and a complete physical exam and blood tests were necessary to identify any possible medical conditions. Blood tests were normal, but the physical exam noted that Misty was significantly overweight. The recommended weight for female Golden Retrievers is 55 to 65 pounds, and Misty weighed in at 118 pounds. The veterinarian recognized that obesity is a medical condition and that it could not only be the cause of Misty’s loss of interest in playing and lack of endurance, it could also lead to long-term medical complications such as arthritis and heart or respiratory disease. Fortunately, the veterinary office where Misty was a patient had a plan. Misty was evaluated for caloric needs and started on a program that included a feeding plan, exercise and weight-loss monitoring every other week. Over the course of six months, Misty reduced to 78 pounds—not in the recommended range, but a big improvement. Tabitha was an important part of the plan for Misty, and was thrilled with the results. “Misty is like a new dog,” Tabitha said. “Now she wants to go for walks and play again.” The program was so successful for Misty that she was recognized as winner of a national pet fitness challenge in 2009.

Just Chubby or Big Boned? Every week seems to bring a new report on obesity in dogs and cats. Current estimates say that about 30 percent of U.S. dogs and cats are overweight or obese. Obesity is defined as 20 percent over ideal or recommended weight. So if Misty’s recommended weight is 65 pounds, 78 pounds would be considered obese. In general, most cats are considered to be a normal weight at 8 to 10 pounds, so a cat of 12 pounds or more would be considered obese. Some breeds, such as the Maine Coon, are larger, so 14 pounds is considered a normal weight. Your veterinarian

2 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

can help you determine a recommended weight for your dog or cat.

It’s Genetic If you think your pet’s weight problem may be genetic, you may be right. Certain breeds are prone to obesity. Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, 5th Edition lists the following breeds as obesity-prone: Basset Hound, Beagle, Cairn Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Longhaired Dachshund, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Pug and Shetland Sheepdog. In cats, domestic shorthair and mixed-breed cats are the most likely to become obese. However, just because your pet has a predisposition to become obese or overweight, that does not mean it’s inevitable. It simply means that you need to be more >>

Key Points Obesity in pets can cause loss of interest in playing and lack of endurance. It also can lead to long-term medical complications such as arthritis, diabetes and heart or respiratory disease. Body Condition Score (BCS), an estimate of body fat, can be more accurate than weight in determining your pet’s overall body condition. If you are overfeeding your pet, try measuring the food and accounting for calories from treats. Pet foods made specifically for weight loss have fewer calories, but more vitamins and minerals. Your pet will still receive the recommended amount of nutrients.

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 3

General Wellness

diligent in monitoring and maintaining an appropriate weight or Body Condition Score (see charts).

So What, Chubby is Cute! The story of Misty, who no longer wanted to play ball or go for walks, illustrates that obesity can affect the quality of a pet’s life. Also, many diseases can result as a complication of obesity. Consider the following health benefits of maintaining a lean body weight: n After returning to a normal weight, obese cats with type 2 diabetes often return to pre-diabetic glucose levels and can discontinue insulin.

50 percent of dogs with signs of arthritis improved with weight loss as the only treatment. n Two groups of Labrador Retrievers were compared over their lifetimes. The group that was fed a limited amount of calories and maintained a lean BCS lived an average of two years longer than the group fed more and allowed to get slightly overweight. In addition, chronic diseases occurred later in life among the dogs in the lean group. We all want our pets to live a long, healthy life. Chubby may be cute, but lean is happier.

advantages to pet food made specifically for weight loss. The reduced amount of calories is compensated for by an increase in the percentages of vitamins and minerals, so although your pet is eating fewer calories, it is getting the recommended amount of vitamins, minerals and protein. Also, some weight-loss pet foods have specific formulas that have been shown to increase lean muscle mass and promote fat loss, rather than just weight loss. Many pet-food companies have both dry and canned pet food, as well as treats formulated for the best management of weight loss and maintenance of a healthy weight.

Get Help!

Under-Tall or Over-Fat? Garfield the cartoon cat says that he is not overweight, but “under-tall”; weight can indeed be relative. We use weight as an easy measure of body condition, but a better measure is the Body Condition Score (BCS), which is an estimate of body fat. In people, a similar measurement is the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is an estimate of the fat percentage of an individual. The goal in wellness is to maintain a healthy fat percentage. Look at the body profiles in the accompanying BCS charts to see where your pet may fit in the BCS guidelines.

More than 20% below ideal body weight

Between 10% and 20% below ideal body weight

20% above ideal weight

40% above ideal weight

Ugh, Diet Food!

You might cringe at the thought of switching your pet to a food designed for weight loss, but you may not have to change your current food at all. Your veterinary team can determine your pet’s caloric needs and current calorie intake. If you are overfeeding—which Dr. Geneva Keene Acor is a veterinary nutrition consultant. is very common with dry food when the bowl is always Her nine-year-old male Rottweiler, Loki, has a BCS of 3. full—or creating a “Halloween effect” of too many treats, the solution may be just a matter of measuring the current food and accounting for calories from treats. Also, you don’t have to give up canned food if your pet prefers that as all or part of its meals. In fact, the water content in canned food may help satisfy your pet’s Your dog might help appetite and has been recommended for you win the battle cats to promote urinary health. Measured amounts of canned food can also be used of the bulge. A study as a treat for either dogs or cats. However, conducted by researchers subtract whatever you use as a treat from at Northwestern Memorial the pet’s total calorie allowance for the day. If your pet returns to a normal weight, Hospital in Chicago found these steps may be all that are necessary. that people who exercise Do not restrict the amount of food you give with their pets are more your pet by more than 20 percent of the manufacturer’s recommendation, because likely than those who this could cause a significant decrease in exercise alone to lose required vitamins, minerals and protein, weight and keep it off. which could result in deficiencies. If weight loss is too slow or if the scale doesn’t budge at all with a change in the normal food, a specific weight-loss food may be indicated. There are several

Did You Know?

Source: Royal Canin

4 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

Diet and exercise helped Golden Retriever Misty win a pet fitness challenge in 2009.

There can be much confusion about what is best for your pet. Some products that advertise “reduced fat” or “reduced calorie” may not actually be weight-loss pet foods. Your veterinary team is most knowledgeable about a specific plan for either weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight for your pet. Some offices have a program for monitoring and encouraging you with scheduled weigh-ins and even group meetings. Circle your pet’s profile on the BCS chart and jot down questions you have for your veterinary team. Then commit to keeping your pet at a healthy weight for a long, happy life. n

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 5

Dental Health

All about Anesthesia Wary of anesthesia for your pet? Today’s drugs and monitoring make dental procedures safer and speed recovery times.

By R. Michael Peak, DVM, Dipl. AVDC

Do you have concerns about your pet undergoing a dental procedure that requires anesthesia? You’re not alone. The good news is that anesthetic practices have greatly improved over the last 10 to 15 years. Today, more veterinarians are trained in the latest innovations to make these procedures as safe as possible.

Why are today’s anesthetics safer? In the past, veterinarians used injectable anesthetics (alone) or barbiturates in combination with an inhalant (gas) anesthetic to anesthetize pets during dental procedures. Some had minimal analgesic (pain-reducing) properties, so large amounts were needed for surgical procedures. This meant the dog or cat would take longer to recover from the procedure. As anesthetic techniques have evolved, new drugs and lower amounts of medications have led to the development of “balanced anesthesia,” which uses pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, sedatives and local anesthetics to minimize the use

of general anesthetics. Administering these medications before anesthesia calms patients, minimizes pain and allows them to undergo anesthesia with less stress and discomfort. New anesthetic medications are also more quickly metabolized, so they clear out of a patient’s system faster, speeding recovery times. Today’s gas anesthetics, such as Isoflurane and Sevoflurane, also put less strain on the pet’s liver, kidney and other organs.

How are pets evaluated prior to anesthesia? One important aspect that is not new is the pre-anesthetic examination. No two patients are exactly alike, so the type and level of anesthesia need to be tailored for each pet. The patient’s health status plays a major role in this choice. Your veterinarian will physically examine your pet and run diagnostic tests to determine its risk for anesthesia.

How do you manage a pet’s pain? Just like human dentists, veterinarians use several methods to control pain in pets. Pre-anesthetic medications incorporate a number of analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. Dental nerve blocks desensitize specific regions of a pet’s jaw. They allow for use of lighter general anesthesia and block the transmission of pain to the brain. Another more recent addition to anesthetic protocols is the use of analgesic medications directly in IV fluids, >>

How are pets monitored while under anesthesia? Anesthetic monitoring has come a long way over the last few years. There are several relatively new ways for the veterinary team to keep track of the patient. One of the greatest advantages of anesthetic monitoring is the ability to keep patients in as light a plane of anesthesia as possible during a specific procedure. Monitors evaluate the oxygen level within the pet’s blood, blood pressure, patient temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate and rhythm, and in some cases, measure carbon dioxide levels given off in respirations by the patient. Blood pressure, for example, is a key vital sign the veterinary team will monitor. Keeping the pet’s blood pressure near normal limits helps keep blood flowing well and provides oxygen to all the vital organs during a procedure. If the pet’s blood pressure starts to drop, anesthesia can be adjusted to increase blood pressure back to normal levels. With newer anesthetics, this adjustment is quicker and easier than ever before.

Are there special considerations for dental patients? There are some special considerations dental patients deserve. One is thermoregulation, or maintenance of temperature. Typically, a pet’s oral cavity must be rinsed multiple times with water during a dental procedure. The oral cavity has generous blood flow in and around it, so rinsing the mouth with water cools this blood, which in turn can lower body temperature. Intravenous (IV) fluids used during procedures may have the same effect. Lower body temperatures tend to slow the body’s metabolism and may slow recovery. That’s why we use warming systems—such as warm 6 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

water blankets, warm air blankets, warm carbon fiber blankets and IV fluid warmers—to maintain the pet’s body temperature.

Key Points Using anesthesia is a safe, reliable way to clean a pet’s teeth and perform dental procedures. Your veterinarian will carefully review your pet’s health and conduct tests to make sure anesthesia is safe for your pet. Pets are carefully monitored and kept warm and comfortable throughout each dental procedure. Just like human dentists, veterinarians use pain medications and dental nerve blocks to control pain.

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 7

Dental Health

Senior Wellness

called “constant rate infusions.” This technique allows the veterinarian to use a lower amount of general anesthesia, and it also delivers optimal analgesia amounts both during and after a procedure. Post-operatively, analgesics with different modes of action (multi-modal therapy) can keep patients comfortable. Most of these medications are available in both pill and liquid form, making dosing for veterinary patients much easier.

How does this affect anesthesia? Pre-anesthetic analgesics, local nerve blocks, constant rate infusions and multi-modal approaches to pain control allow the use of lighter anesthesia. This means patients recover from anesthesia quickly and comfortably.

How do I know what approach my veterinarian uses? Just ask! Pet owners often are amazed to find that some of the same anesthesia protocols and monitoring equipment used in human hospitals are used at their veterinarian’s office, too. Veterinarians and technicians may be able to give you a general overview of their typical anesthetic protocol, but remember, your pet is an individual patient and may require examination or pre-anesthetic tests prior to the development of an actual anesthetic protocol.

What about “anesthesia-free” dental procedures? While it may be enticing to seek out dental procedures that don’t involve anesthesia, it is my opinion, and the opinion of the American Veterinary Dental College, that a thorough and complete oral/dental examination is just not possible without some form of sedation or anesthesia. Anesthesia also gives the additional benefit of allowing placement of a cuffed endotracheal tube. While this may sound technical, it is standard in most anesthetic procedures and significantly reduces the chance of bacteria, fluids or 1. This anesthetized patient is receiving light gas anesthesia, warmed IV fluids and a warm water circulating blanket. The dog is connected to a multiparameter monitor and is being visually monitored by a trained technician. 2. This monitor is evaluating electrical activity of the heart, pulse patterns, oxygen in the blood, respiratory patterns, carbon dioxide in respirations, temperature and blood pressure.

8 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

Pre-Anesthesia Checkup Your veterinarian will thoroughly review your pet’s health before any dental procedure requiring anesthesia. Simple tasks such as listening to the pet’s heart and lungs with a stethoscope are just as important as advanced tests such as echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart) to fully evaluate a patient. Not every patient will require advanced testing procedures, but common tests include: bloodwork to evaluate blood cell capabilities, chemistry profile to evaluate vital organ functions and electrocardiogram to check electrical activity of the heart.

Guiding

By Mary Scoviak

Light

Non-invasive laser therapy is brightening the future

tartar accidentally escaping into the pet’s lungs during dental procedures. Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats, and we need to use anesthesia to help treat and prevent it. Two of our best methods—a thorough probe around all of the pet’s teeth and dental radiographs (x-rays)—both require light anesthesia. With a light plane of anesthesia, we can clean and probe the pet’s teeth, take dental x-rays, detect lesions and complete treatment in a comfortable and reliable manner. The American Veterinary Dental College has a position statement regarding dental procedures without the use of anesthesia. For more information, visit: www.avdc.org/?q=node/25 n Dr. R. Michael Peak is a specialist in veterinary dentistry.

for pets suffering from osteoarthritis, injuries and more.

When a nine-month-old Labrador Retriever puppy walked, or rather limped, into the office of veterinarian Joanne Klingele, the dog’s prospects were bleak. Despite her young age, this well-loved pet already had severe osteoarthritis in her front legs. Until recently, the prescription would have been tough to take: lifelong pain medications, limited activity and isolation from the two fun-loving pups that shared her household to avoid possible injury. “You can imagine what kind of life that would be for a retriever puppy,” says Klingele, of Klingele Veterinary Clinic, Quincy, Ill. >>

Key Points Laser therapy is a new treatment for pain management, injury and wound healing. Laser therapy is non-invasive and approved for use in dogs and cats. Sessions usually last 3 to 10 minutes and are packaged in six-treatment courses.

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 9

Senior Wellness Fortunately, Klingele was able to offer an alternative: laser therapy. After one treatment, the dog was less reserved; after the second, she started to interact with her housemates and, after a third, she was ready for playtime. “It was great to see that Lab running around and playing like the other puppies,” says Klingele. “Laser therapy’s not a panacea. It’s not going to cure osteoarthritis, but it can drastically reduce the symptoms. In other words, it can revolutionize the pet’s quality of life.”

In addition to arthritis, common uses for this technology include post-surgical treatments to speed incision healing, and treatments for hot spots and other pain issues.

Low-Risk Alternative

From Star Wars to Main Street Although surgical lasers have been essential tools in veterinary practices for more than a decade, therapeutic lasers have played only a limited role because they simply weren’t powerful enough to reach deep into tissue. That changed in 2008 with the debut of a new generation of equipment, such as MLS Therapy Laser, from Fairport, N.Y.-based Cutting Edge Laser Technologies. By combining continuous and pulse technologies, this high-tech device works at the cellular level to stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation. That combination gives veterinarians a powerful new option for treating chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis as well as speeding up post-operative or post-injury healing. “What the therapeutic laser really does is help the body heal itself,” says veterinarian Fred Metzger, owner of Metzger Animal Hospital, State College, Pa.

Toby, a Cocker Spaniel, receives laser therapy for post-surgical rehabilitation.

Laser therapy treatments typically take 3 to 10 minutes.

Treatment Options Before your pet starts a laser-therapy program, your veterinarian will design a treatment plan. Most practices use a six-session series to start, followed by maintenance treatments about once a month. Each session is administered by a technician and lasts 3 to 10 minutes. And you won’t have to leave Rover alone. Klingele and Metzger both point

This could be welcome news for you and your dog if you’re one of an estimated 20 percent of U.S. dog owners whose pets suffer from osteoarthritis and related conditions. It’s also compelling for owners of breeds with a predisposition to liver or kidney disease. The steroids and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) used to ease inflammation and the pain it causes carry a list of possible side effects, and lab work is required periodically to check organ function. Laser therapy can’t always replace these medications, but it can be used as a complement, which often translates to reduced dosages. Therapeutic lasers are also getting attention from pet owners looking for a more holistic approach to improving their pets’ health. Results from therapy lasers have been extremely encouraging; Metzger notes that 90 percent of his patients show improvement after four treatments. Your veterinarian can determine whether your pet is a good candidate for laser therapy. Klingele and Metzger both stress that laser therapy is non-invasive. So even if your pet is in its golden years or has other health issues, laser treatment can be an effective option for pain management. Klingele and Metzger agree that the only side effect they’ve seen is a slight soreness or tiredness in the pet after the first treatment or two. One of Metzger’s patients, a 13-year-old Golden Retriever named Teddy, was one of the 10 percent of his patients who showed some soreness after the first two treatments. When Metzger first saw Teddy, the dog was suffering from hip dysplasia and was struggling to get up and down. After the fourth treatment, the pet was able to move around without difficulty. Metzger notes that by the third or fourth treatment, any slight soreness usually disappears. Rover and Fluffy are not alone under the light, either. Laser therapy is also being used to treat arthritis, sports injuries and other human ailments. n

For More Information To learn more about laser therapy, visit: www.lasertherapy fordogs.com www.vetinfo.com

Mary Scoviak is a Cincinnati-based freelance writer.

out that it’s actually good for you to be with your pet during the procedure. In addition to making the pet less nervous, you get to see exactly what goes on, which is good if images of science-fiction lasers are in your mind. Don’t worry about having to keep your pet behind a baby gate, either— laser treatments require no downtime. “It’s really a lunchtime procedure,” says Klingele. Unlike more invasive options, there’s no sedation and no restraint— especially important for owners of older dogs. 10 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

See the cover reminder for an important message from your veterinarian.

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 11

Parasite Control/Dermatology

Taking Aim at

Allergies

From pollen to dust mites, any number of culprits may cause an allergic reaction in cats and dogs. A range of treatments can help. By Liz Whitney, DVM

Is your pet itchy and scratching? This bothersome condition might be due to allergies. Allergy-associated problems are common for cats and dogs—consistently ranking among the top 10 pet insurance claims. With your input on your pet’s activities and behaviors along with key diagnostic tests, your veterinarian can help put your pet on the path to wellness. The first step is to try to pinpoint the source of the problem. It might take some patience, but there are measures that can be taken to get to the bottom of your pet’s discomfort. If your dog or cat has allergies, it may suffer from ear infections, lick and bite its feet and rub or scratch its face and body. This self trauma can lead to red skin, hair loss and odor caused by secondary infections. These outward signs of discomfort are a reflection of your pet’s immune system responding to exposure to offending allergens. Transient symptoms that come and go with the seasons suggest that pollens or molds are the most likely culprits. Problems that persist throughout the year make it a bit more difficult to identify the underlying cause.

Looking For Clues Since there are many potential causes for itchy skin besides an allergy, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination and possibly some diagnostic tests to eliminate those factors. Your veterinarian will look for dry or flaky skin, bacterial or fungal infections, fleas, lice and mites. If any of these are the culprit, there are specific treatments that will likely solve the problem. If there doesn’t seem to be an underlying cause, medications to counteract the inflammatory response and soothe the inflamed skin might help. If your pet has primary allergic disease, known as atopic dermatitis, the clinical signs will likely return and may worsen over time.

Key Points Allergies commonly affect cats and dogs, and may cause them to itch and scratch. Topical and oral treatments are available for seasonal or periodic treatment. Testing methods can identify exactly which allergens are causing your pet’s discomfort. Once the offending allergens are identified, allergen-specific immunotherapy is an effective way to decrease symptoms with minimal side effects.

Treatment Options for Atopy One option for managing allergies is seasonal or periodic treatment with topical or oral antihistamines, corticosteroids or other immune-suppressant drugs, antibiotics, antifungal medications and essential fatty acid supplements. Some atopic dogs and cats respond well to this approach, although it can be difficult for pet owners to administer and afford all of the medications. Corticosteroids and other immune-suppressant drugs might also lead to undesirable side effects, so you and your veterinarian will need to weigh the benefits versus the risks. Another option is to move beyond treating symptoms and zero in on the specific allergens that are causing the problem. Then you can pursue avoidance measures and desensitization. There are two methods of testing for offending allergens such as tree, grass and weed pollens, >>

Food Allergies: Will a change in diet help? If a pet shows signs of allergies year-round, regardless of the season, it is important to distinguish between adverse reactions to food and allergies to external allergens, which is known as atopy. An estimated 5 percent to 15 percent of allergic patients may have sensitivity to foods alone or in combination with atopy. If an adverse reaction to food is suspected, your veterinarian might recommend a hydrolyzed protein, novel protein or limited-ingredient dietary trial for up to 12 weeks. For these pets, a diet change has the potential to resolve clinical signs, so it is well worth the effort to follow the strict guidelines of a food trial.

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Parasite Control/Dermatology

Pet Tales

mark your

molds, mites and flea saliva. For both of these methods, testing will be for allergens specific to your geographical and botanical zone. The first method is called serum IgE testing. It requires your veterinarian to draw a small amount of blood to submit to a lab for measurement of allergen-specific antibodies. The second method is intradermal skin testing. For this test, the hair is shaved on the side of the body and individual allergens are injected into the pet’s skin so that a visible reaction can be measured. This test is often done by a veterinary dermatologist and may require a referral. Some veterinarians prefer to perform both tests and then review the combined results to create a prescription serum.

Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy One of the most effective long-term solutions for atopic dermatitis is allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). This treatment will desensitize your pet’s immune system to the problem allergens. An estimated 50 percent to 80 percent of patients will improve with this method of treatment. Immunotherapy is usually a commitment for the life of the pet, and may take several months for the first signs of improvement. During this time, you may need to continue with other treatments. With ASIT, the patient is given doses of the specific offending allergens. Injections are given subcutaneously (just under the skin), following a protocol that goes from a low dose of a weak solution to a larger dose of a more

Did You Know? People with allergies often sneeze, wheeze and cough. In pets, respiratory symptoms are not common. Allergies usually appear as itchy skin.

calendar

Common Allergens Pets can be allergic to many of the same allergens as humans.

Non-Seasonal n

Despite their reputation for being independent, cats can get lonesome too.

Fleas n Dust mites n Storage mites n Animal

dander n Molds

Skin bacteria and yeasts n Foods

Seasonal (Pollens) Trees (spring) n Grasses (late spring and summer) n Weeds

(summer and fall)

concentrated solution. This process is called hyposensitization and is also done in human medicine. You may have a friend or family member that is being treated in this manner. Although there is cost associated with any treatment, the cost-to-benefit ratio for immunotherapy is quite good. ASIT targets the specific underlying disease, so there are better odds for long-term success with minimal side effects or additional medications.

Caring For Your Pet at Home After testing, a customized serum will be created for your pet. Successful treatment will require frequent visits to the veterinarian during the initial induction period, but after the first month or two, you will likely be able to give injections to your pet at home, using instructions from your veterinary team. Most pets are very tolerant of the injections. During the initial stages of treatment, it is very helpful to establish a daily calendar to document the level of itchiness and to note any special circumstances that might have occurred that day (food, snacks, traveling, visits, etc.). Every pet responds differently, so the journal can help your veterinarian make important decisions about dosing and intervals between injections. Once a maintenance dose has been established, injections are given every 7 to 28 days depending on the pet’s response to treatment. Your pet may not be cured of allergies, but ASIT can help. Owning an allergic pet can sometimes be frustrating, but patience and diligence will pay off in the long run and provide comfort for your companion. n

Ease Your Cat’s Separation Anxiety

Pet Exercise Tips for the New Year Your first instinct may be to curl up inside on the couch when temperatures dip in winter. To get in your pet’s daily exercise, beat the chill by enrolling your dog in an indoor agility or flyball class. Or walk your pet in wooded areas during the winter months, advises ASPCA. Forests provide protection from wind and have interesting sights and sounds for your dog to investigate. (Plus, dirt and grass are easier on paws than concrete.) If you’re just getting started with an exercise program for your pet, first get a clean bill of health from your veterinarian. Then start out slowly with 10 to 15 minutes of moderately paced walking each day, recommends the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Or try a 15-minute game of fetch. Your cat may have perfected the art of snoozing. But cats need exercise too, and they like anything they can bat, chase, explore or scratch. Short, frequent exercise sessions work best for cats, says AAHA. Or set up an indoor kitty tree for your cat to climb and explore.

Some single indoor-only cats can become anxious when left alone for long periods of time. If your pet is missing you, it may go on a hunger or drinking strike while you are away, urinate outside of its litterbox, or show other out-of-the-ordinary behavior, according to The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The first stop should be your veterinarian’s office to rule out any health issues. If health is not a problem, these tips might help with separation anxiety: n Provide perches so the cat

can look outside. n Let your cat “hunt” for food by placing

food in a toy that will make the cat work to get the food out. n Hide food throughout the house

so the cat has to find it. n Leave the radio or TV on, tuned

to your usual station. n Call home and leave a message

for your cat. n Spend time each day playing

with your cat.

Brush Up! Resolve to brush your pet’s teeth in between veterinary dental checkups in the New Year. Brushing will help prevent buildup of tartar, which can lead to periodontal disease. Ease your pet into the process by massaging its lips with your finger in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a week. Then introduce your pet to a toothbrush and toothpaste specially formulated for pets. For a step-by-step video from the American Veterinary Medical Association, visit www.avmatv.org and type “dental health” in the search box.

Dr. Liz Whitney is a medical consultant for Heska Corporation. The company’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory performs IgE testing. 14 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

Pet Quarterly | Winter 2011 15

Pet Tales

Know Your Breeds Early detection and preventive healthcare can make a difference in your pet’s health. Regular wellness checkups by your veterinarian are the first line of defense. But you can help too. Read up on your pet’s breed or mix of breeds to help spot medical conditions early and alert your veterinarian. A Dachshund, for instance, could be prone to hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone production), which could include symptoms such as hair loss, obesity and lethargy. Pugs may develop airway disease, and Chihuahuas are susceptible to bladder stones. Cats have breed-related health conditions as well. Visit the American Animal Hospital Association’s website at www.healthypet.com for breed health information for dogs and cats. (Click on “Find a Pet,” then “Breed Information.”)

C H E WA B L E S

Take Care Buying Drugs Online Drugs dispensed from your veterinarian are the safest option for your pet. If you decide to buy prescriptions online, make sure the pharmacy requires a prescription—a legitimate pharmacy won’t dispense prescription drugs without authorization from a veterinarian, points out the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA). “The biggest concern is that it can be difficult to tell a legitimate Internet pharmacy from a dishonest one,” says veterinarian Chuck Lemme, a member of AMVA’s Clinical Practitioners Advisory Committee. “The FDA has found Internet pharmacies that sell unapproved drugs, expired drugs and even counterfeit product.” How do you tell if a pharmacy is credible? One key way, suggests Lemme, “Make sure the business is licensed in the state where the business is located. It also should be licensed to sell drugs in your state.” This information is available from the state pharmacy board. If you want to buy drugs online, your veterinary practice may have its own online store or a recommendation.

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16 Winter 2011 | Pet Quarterly

CAUTION: Federal (U.S.A.) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: For use in dogs to prevent canine heartworm disease by eliminating the tissue stage of heartworm larvae (Dirofilaria immitis) for a month (30 days) after infection and for the treatment and control of ascarids (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina) and hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala, Ancylostoma braziliense). DOSAGE: HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables should be administered orally at monthly intervals at the recommended minimum dose level of 6 mcg of ivermectin per kilogram (2.72 mcg/lb) and 5 mg of pyrantel (as pamoate salt) per kg (2.27 mg/lb) of body weight. The recommended dosing schedule for prevention of canine heartworm disease and for the treatment and control of ascarids and hookworms is as follows:

Dog Chewables Ivermectin Weight Per Month Content

Up to 25 26 - 50 51 - 100

1 1 1

68 mcg 136 mcg 272 mcg

Pyrantel Content

Color Coding 0n Foil-Backing and Carton

57 mg 114 mg 227 mg

Blue Green Brown

HEARTGARD Plus is recommended for dogs 6 weeks of age and older. For dogs over 100 lb use the appropriate combination of these chewables. ADMINISTRATION: Remove only one chewable at a time from the foil-backed blister card. Return the card with the remaining chewables to its box to protect the product from light. Because most dogs find HEARTGARD Plus palatable, the product can be offered to the dog by hand. Alternatively, it may be added intact to a small amount of dog food.The chewable should be administered in a manner that encourages the dog to chew, rather than to swallow without chewing. Chewables may be broken into pieces and fed to dogs that normally swallow treats whole. Care should be taken that the dog consumes the complete dose, and treated animals should be observed for a few minutes after administration to ensure that part of the dose is not lost or rejected. If it is suspected that any of the dose has been lost, redosing is recommended. HEARTGARD Plus should be given at monthly intervals during the period of the year when mosquitoes (vectors), potentially carrying infective heartworm larvae, are active. The initial dose must be given within a month (30 days) after the dog’s first exposure to mosquitoes. The final dose must be given within a month (30 days) after the dog’s last exposure to mosquitoes. When replacing another heartworm preventive product in a heartworm disease prevention program, the first dose of HEARTGARD Plus must be given within a month (30 days) of the last dose of the former medication. If the interval between doses exceeds a month (30 days), the efficacy of ivermectin can be reduced. Therefore, for optimal performance, the chewable must be given once a month on or about the same day of the month. If treatment is delayed, whether by a few days or many, immediate treatment with HEARTGARD Plus and resumption of the recommended dosing regimen will minimize the opportunity for the development of adult heartworms. Monthly treatment with HEARTGARD Plus also provides effective treatment and control of ascarids (T. canis, T. leonina) and hookworms (A. caninum, U. stenocephala, A. braziliense). Clients should be advised of measures to be taken to prevent reinfection with intestinal parasites. EFFICACY: HEARTGARD Plus Chewables, given orally using the recommended dose and regimen, are effective against the tissue larval stage of D.immitis for a month (30 days) after infection and, as a result, prevent the development of the adult stage. HEARTGARD Plus Chewables are also effective against canine ascarids (T. canis, T. leonina) and hookworms (A. caninum, U. stenocephala, A. braziliense).

ACCEPTABILITY: In acceptability and field trials, HEARTGARD Plus Chewables were shown to be an acceptable oral dosage form that was consumed at first offering by the majority of dogs. PRECAUTIONS: All dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection before starting treatment with HEARTGARD Plus which is not effective against adult D. immitis. Infected dogs must be treated to remove adult heartworms and microfilariae before initiating a program with HEARTGARD Plus. While some microfilariae may be killed by the ivermectin in HEARTGARD Plus at the recommended dose level, HEARTGARD Plus is not effective for microfilariae clearance. A mild hypersensitivitytype reaction, presumably due to dead or dying microfilariae and particularly involving a transient diarrhea, has been observed in clinical trials with ivermectin alone after treatment of some dogs that have circulating microfilariae. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion by humans, clients should be advised to contact a physician immediately. Physicians may contact a Poison Control Center for advice concerning cases of ingestion by humans. Store at controlled room temperature of 68°F - 77°F (20°C - 25°C). Excursions between 59°F - 86°F (15°C - 30°C) are permitted. Protect product from light. ADVERSE REACTIONS: In clinical field trials with HEARTGARD Plus, vomiting or diarrhea within 24 hours of dosing was rarely observed (1.1% of administered doses). The following adverse reactions have been reported following the use of HEARTGARD: Depression/lethargy, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, mydriasis, ataxia, staggering, convulsions and hypersalivation. SAFETY: HEARTGARD Plus has been shown to be bioequivalent to HEARTGARD, with respect to the bioavailability of ivermectin. The dose regimens of HEARTGARD Plus and HEARTGARD are the same with regard to ivermectin (6 mcg/kg). Studies with ivermectin indicate that certain dogs of the Collie breed are more sensitive to the effects of ivermectin administered at elevated dose levels (more than 16 times the target use level) than dogs of other breeds. At elevated doses, sensitive dogs showed adverse reactions which included mydriasis, depression, ataxia, tremors, drooling, paresis, recumbency, excitability, stupor, coma and death. HEARTGARD demonstrated no signs of toxicity at 10 times the recommended dose (60 mcg/kg) in sensitive Collies. Results of these trials and bioequivalency studies, support the safety of HEARTGARD products in dogs, including Collies, when used as recommended. HEARTGARD Plus has shown a wide margin of safety at the recommended dose level in dogs, including pregnant or breeding bitches, stud dogs and puppies aged 6 or more weeks. In clinical trials, many commonly used flea collars, dips, shampoos, anthelmintics, antibiotics, vaccines and steroid preparations have been administered with HEARTGARD Plus in a heartworm disease prevention program. In one trial, where some pups had parvovirus, there was a marginal reduction in efficacy against intestinal nematodes, possibly due to a change in intestinal transit time. HOW SUPPLIED: HEARTGARD Plus is available in three dosage strengths (see DOSAGE section) for dogs of different weights. Each strength comes in convenient cartons of 6 and 12 chewables. For customer service, please contact Merial at 1-888-637-4251.

Unleash the complete

killing force against fleas and ticks.

1 Of

dogs showing a preference in three studies conducted by independent investigators, dogs preferred HEARTGARD® (ivermectin) Chewables over INTERCEPTOR® (milbemycin oxime) FlavorTabs® by a margin of 37 to 1; data on file at Merial.

®HEARTGARD and the Dog & Hand logo are registered trademarks of Merial. ®INTERCEPTOR is a registered trademark of the Novartis Corporation. ®FLAVOR TABS is a registered trademark of Novartis AG. ©2010 Merial Limited, Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. HGD10CNPETQTRAD.

completekiller.com *Data on file at Merial. Data.

† Vet-dispensed, MDI

Photo provided by Dr. Stephen Jones.

What makes heartworm disease in dogs even harder to take...

...is that this is so easy to take.

Ask your veterinarian for the ONLY Real-Beef Chewable. Important Safety Information: HEARTGARD is well tolerated. All dogs should be tested for heartworm infection before starting a preventive program. Following the use of HEARTGARD, digestive and neurological side effects have rarely been reported. For more information, please visit www.HEARTGARD.com.

Buy 12 doses* of HEARTGARD Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel), get $12 back! ®

To help ensure rebate redemption, the coupon should be fully completed.

• FOR VETERINARY CLINIC USE ONLY •

• TO BE COMPLETED BY PET OWNER •

Merial Account Number:__________________________________________________________

Available only on purchase from your veterinarian. | Coupon expires 09/01/2011. RECEIPT MUST ACCOMPANY FORM.

Veterinary Hospital: ______________________________________________________________

PLEASE PRINT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

Address:_______________________________________________________________________

Name: ________________________________________________________________________ Street Address: ________________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________________State: ______ Zip: ________________ Staff Rewards #:_________________________________________________________________

City: ______________________________________ State: ______________ Zip:____________

Staff Member Name: _____________________________________________________________

E-mail Address: ________________________________________________________________

Receipt must be included and dated on or before 09/01/2011. Rebate request must be received on or before 12/31/2011. Merial reserves the right to amend, substitute, or withdraw this offer at any time without notice. Receipts must indicate a HEARTGARD product purchase. Offer may be redeemed only by pet owner. Good only in continental U.S. and Hawaii. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. This form must accompany request; reproductions or other copies will not be accepted. Fraudulent submission could result in Federal prosecution under mail fraud statutes (Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341 and 1342) and applicable state laws. May not be combined with any other offer for HEARTGARD products.

By providing your e-mail address, you are requesting receipt of convenient monthly e-mail reminders to give your pet HEARTGARD, as well as to receive other special offers and pet care tips from Merial.

Is this your first purchase o Yes o No of HEARTGARD?

Pet’s Age in Years_________

10HGPQTR

Redeem this coupon by returning it to: HEARTGARD Program Headquarters • PO Box #4040 • South Bend, IN 46634 NOTE: Merial respects your privacy. We will not share, sell or rent the information you provide on this form. Rebate request must be received on or before 12/31/2011 and must be accompanied by a receipt. One coupon required for every 12-pack purchased. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery.

*of the same product at the same time

Stamp Clinic Information Here