• Your full name
• Your pets name
• Attach a photo of your pet (doesn’t have to be anything fancy, even just his/her face will do)
• A story explaining how Advanced Animal Care Center specifically helped you or how something you learned from my care helped you achieve and maintain good health for your pet. If you can go into specifics, like what exactly we did and what the results were before and after, that would be great. If you don’t have a story to tell, just a general explanation of how my care has been helpful to you would be great. You can simply email it to me.

Thank you in advance!

-Michel Selmer, DVM

Below are some pet health hazards that can occur during the hot weather.

Heat stroke: Certain breeds are prone to heat stroke (brachiocephalic or pushed in muzzle breeds) but all of us are susceptible to the effects of high heat. Try to walk and play with your dogs during the cooler times of the day and always carry water with you at all times. Never, ever leave your dog unattended in the car. Even if it is “just for a few minutes, with the window cracked”. The temperature will rise to 110 degrees F. in no time, and death can result.

Insects and parasites: Insects and parasites are more numerous in the summer months. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can create problems varying from a slight annoyance to a full-blown medical emergency. Fleas create severe allergic reactions in both pets and people. Ticks are capable of passing very severe diseases to our pets (Lyme’s disease, Ehrlichiosis), and mosquitos in our area can create annoying bites and/or pass Heartworm disease to dogs and cats. Fortunately, there is effective medication to prevent all these diseases.

Barbeques: Whenever you are hosting family or friends for a get together and/or barbeque, lay out the ground rules ahead of time: “Please do not feed my pets any food from the barbeque or table!” Dogs and cats have very sensitive digestive tracts and food that they don’t often eat (and are particularly high in fat) can create symptoms ranging from simple diarrhea to full blown pancreatitis. Nothing ruins a barbeque more than having your pet vomit all over the guests! Watch out for little morsels of food that drop from the picnic table too! All it takes is a little bit of (fill in the blank with sour cream, mayonnaise, potato chips, hot dogs, ice cream, cake) to make a dog so sick that you think that he may die.

Anti Freeze: Some of us are so conscientious that we remember to add a little antifreeze to our radiators during the summer months to prevent overheating of our automobiles. Be extremely careful while utilizing these products. Most are very toxic to pets and even a small quantity of anti freeze ingested can cause acute kidney failure. Pets find these antifreeze products attractive because they taste sweet.

Larger Pests: When hiking or in dry terrain, be wary of rattlesnakes. Fortunately, there is a vaccination now available for dogs to help minimize the severe medical consequences of being bit. Other predators will be out and about hunting for food (coyotes, bobcats), so keep your small pets inside as much as possible and always in sight.

Dog parks and beaches: Many more people and their pets take advantage of the longer days and nice weather by frequenting beaches and dog parks with their pets. This is a blessing and a curse. It is certainly nice to have a group of well socialized dogs playing together, romping around, and having fun. All it takes, however, is one bully to ruin the party. Be aware of any dog that acts aggressively toward the other dogs (or people) and keep your distance. Most pet owners are aware of their pet’s behavior issues, but some are so obtuse as to take the opportunity to take their dog “Killer” to the dog park for his first experience during the most crowded part of the day. Fights, lacerations, dog bites can ensue that will require immediate medical attention. The rule of thumb is to pay attention and be vigilant at all times.

We hope you have a safe and wonderful summer. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/07/13/hot-weather-health-hazards/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/07/06/more-ways-to-save-money-on-your-pet/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/07/06/more-ways-to-save-money-on-your-pet/#comments Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:03:13 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=411

With the current economy, we are all looking for ways to save money. It is hard to make ends meet and cutting costs is a priority for everyone. However, short-term gains may result in long-term negative consequences for your pet. Take a look at our handy tips and see where you can save and where to invest for the long-term health of your pet. 

 Stop and think the next time you buy your pet’s food. Look at the label. What’s really in there? Is there corn, wheat gluten, brewer’s rice and other fillers? Are there names you can’t pronounce such as ethoxyquin? What are they doing in your pet’s food anyway? 

Your pet’s food label should list fresh ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables and healthy omega 3 fats. Invest in a high quality brand and you’ll find that instead of spending more on the high quality brand you’re actually SAVING money because you’ll end up using about ½ the recommended amounts (it takes a lot more food to fill up a pet using food that is loaded with fillers) AND the long-term benefits to your pet are immeasurable. Please visit the Animal Protection Institute to learn more about pet food and how it is prepared.

Avoid purchasing those cleverly marketed, commercially prepared treats that make you think you are actually doing good for your pet. You know—the ones in pretty shapes and colors (e.g. orange carrot-shaped treats made to give you the impression you are giving your pet a carrot) or with dogs begging on the front of the package. Don’t be fooled either by those “all natural” economy packs (sold at the big warehouse stores). Many of these “all natural” jerky treats are manufactured with harsh chemicals and contaminants. Pets can get upset tummies and health problems from eating them.  The “bargain” treat bag can actually end up costing you money because of the long-term health consequences on your pet. 

Instead, use fresh ingredients right from your kitchen. There are lots of affordable, healthy options.  For dogs, give them apple slices, baby carrots, a slice of potato, a piece of hardboiled egg or a piece of fresh, LEAN meat. Your cat would much prefer a piece of salmon or fish anyday over a treat that looks like fish made with corn flour, by-products and syrup.

Veterinary bills will most likely be the single largest expense for your pet. By far though, the highest veterinary bills arise from emergency, unplanned visits. You can actually keep your veterinary bills under control by planning ahead and making smart choices NOW! With a bad economy comes bad decisions that can have permanent effects on your pet’s quality of life and longevity. How many of us have thought about switching to a lower cost food, skipping on the vet exam or delaying much needed laboratory work for our pets??? DON’T! A penny saved today will not result in a pound tomorrow—just the opposite. There are plenty of other healthy ways you can save—e.g. drinking less coffee, bringing lunch to work, cutting back on alcohol, candy bars or cigarettes and still do your best for your pet.

Exercise! Exercise with your pet and you will see the dollars flow in over the years. Want to know one of the main reasons pets end up at the veterinary office with emergency, unplanned visits? Well, many of the them have diabetes, cancer, joint problems, liver problems—all have strong correlations with obesity and being overfed and underexcercised. Obesity, lack of exercise is not just a matter of style or looks—it is a matter of good health. Take out a feather or laser toy for your cat— go for a walk with your dog and everybody benefits! Not only will you save money on your veterinary bills but you will build a stronger bond with your pet and give them a happier, healthier life!

]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/07/06/more-ways-to-save-money-on-your-pet/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/21/pet-odors-summertime-warning-signs/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/21/pet-odors-summertime-warning-signs/#comments Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:37:53 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=409 PET ODORS-SUMMERTIME WARNING SIGNS

Summertime can bring hot weather, humidity, bugs and allergies– all of which can make pets itchy and sometimes even smelly.  While pets need occassional baths to clean up odors, for the most part, pets should feel and smell nice.  Peculiar pet odors are generally a sign that something is “off” and it is important for you to find out the source of the odor. Pet odors are not just cosmetic–they are warning signs alerting you of a potential problem. Here are just a few odors to watch out for:

Smelly Skin and Coat—Allergies—both environmental and digestive, contribute to skin problems. Both yeast and bacterial infections can cause an odor especially when it is hot and muggy.   Pet owners often get discouraged because their pet will have an odor even after giving them a bath. It is a misnomer to conclude “my pet just smells” or that it is somehow related to your pet’s breed. The odor is a sign of imbalance and possibly infection. 

Many times pets have an odor from allergies (even an allergic rash from fleas!) which can also leave a white powdery or greasy film on your hand when you touch your pet. Common food allergens include grains such as wheat, oats, gluten and corn. Too many carbohydrates such as rice and potatoes, when given to a young pet, can contribute to yeast overgrowth. Some meat proteins such as chicken and poultry can be big allergens too. In addition to food allergies, pets can have environmental allergies too.  At the first sign of a skin odor, please take your pet to the veterinarian to determine the cause. Your pet could have an infection, parasites or an underlying endocrine disorder.

Stinky Ears—If you smell near your pet’s ears and there is a strong odor, take your pet for a checkup right away. During the hot summer months, pets are prone to ear infections. Many ear infections are due to yeast overgrowth. Using dry kibble is often a contributing factor, especially if it contains the grains mentioned above or is high in carbohydrates. Dry pet food, while convenient for you, can greatly contribute to yeast overgrowth. Pets need fresh foods such as green vegetables, meat and Omega 3s to optimize health.

Bad Breath—Pets need dental cleanings just like we do. If you have recently had your pet’s teeth cleaned and there is still a bad odor, then your pet’s bad breath needs to be addressed. Bad breath can be a sign of an underlying health condition such as acid stomach, poor digestion, dental or gum infection or kidney disease. It is not just a cosmetic issue—it can be a very real sign that you shouldn’t ignore. If you have an older pet, get a blood test and urine analysis. Poor digestion from food is also a very likely culprit. Pets with bad breath often have other problems such as poor coat quality, scratching and itching and allergies.

Gas, Belching and Vomiting—This is something our pets may do on occassion. But frequent rumbly tummies, gas, burping and regurgitation are a sign that something is wrong. Often these signs are due to the food you are feeding. Finding the optimal food depends greatly upon the age and health conditions of your pet. For example, pets that have IBS may do just fine with potatoes while other pets with chronic ear infections do not. If your pet has digestive issues, scheduling a telephone consultation to determine the best diet and supplement program is highly recommended. It is very common for pet owners to report that years of gas and belching were early symptoms that their pet was suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. For example, cats can be susceptible to developing intestinal lymphoma after years of eating foods they have been allergic to.  It is always a good idea to revisit your pet’s diet with a veterinary professional if you notice any of the above digestive symptoms. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/21/pet-odors-summertime-warning-signs/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/#comments Sun, 12 Jun 2011 19:08:17 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=407 Even some of the most pampered pets may have dull, lifeless coats with red spots on the skin and patches of fur missing. Pet owners will seek out advice for hair and coat conditioners and other topical products, but a beautiful coat comes from the inside. Fur coats are a reflection on the outside of what your pet is experiencing on the inside.

While it is quite common for a pet’s coat to lose some luster with age, this and other coat quality challenges can be quickly remedied using these health-promoting tips:

1) Give your cat or dog omega 3 fatty acids. “Omega 3’s as they are commonly referred to, are not only good for you, but are great for your pet.   In addition to enhancing the coat and skin, they are helpful for allergies, joint support, brain function and so much more. You can use a combination of fish oil, flaxseed oil and olive oil. Some pet owners also give their pets a small amount of coconut oil as an extra treat. Be sure to buy the highest quality, purified oils where contaminants such as PCBs and heavy metals have been removed. Please note: pet owners of cats or dogs having pancreatitis should consult a veterinarian before using any type of oil.

2) If you have an older dog with a dull coat or skin problems, please take your dog to the veterinarian for a blood panel to have the thyroid function checked. Many older dogs can have a reduced level of thyroid function which can greatly affect coat quality and also contribute to weight gain. Natural supplements containing ingredients such as kelp can help support thyroid health. Sometimes a pet may have “borderline low” thyroid results so ask your veterinarian if Thyroid Support by Standard Process, a natural thyroid supplement can be used first before using thyroid replacement medication.  Many of my clients use Thyroid Support without thyroid medication to help support their dog’s hypothyroid condition.

3) Use a hypoallergenic diet if your cat or dog is scratching, itching and tearing his fur out. Many pets lose fur near the hind legs, abdomen and tail due to food allergies. Pets with food allergies can react daily to common commercial food ingredients such as grains (oats, wheat, corn, etc), peanut butter or poultry. Seek out the advice of a pet nutritionist or veterinarian to help determine the best diet for your pet. There are many grain-free, hypoallergenic commercial pet food options available.

4) Be sure your cat or dog does not have fleas or other parasites. It is always a good idea to have your veterinarian check for parasites (both internally and externally) at least once a year. Many times pets can have hidden parasites that you may not be aware of. This can greatly affect coat quality.

5) Keep a close eye on your pet’s digestive health. Many cats and dogs have digestive problems that can contribute to poor coat quality. Pets that have loose stool, vomiting, gas and tummy rumbling may not be digesting their food properly. As a result, critical nutrients needed to ensure good health and a lustrous coat, are not being absorbed. For example, when pets eat commercial foods containing grains, much of what they are eating, might come out as partially digested-food resulting in large, voluminous stools. Consider incorporating a highly-digestible, commercial raw frozen diet into at least a portion of your pet’s daily food intake. Also, a high-quality, third-party tested probiotic and digestive enzyme will help improve your pet’s absorption of vital nutrients. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/12/is-your-pet-scratching-itching-some-simple-tips-will-give-your-pet-quick-relief/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/#comments Wed, 08 Jun 2011 19:27:54 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=405 Treatment Alternatives For Cats and Dogs With Cancer

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

Cancer is a disease process in which healthy cells stop functioning properly and abnormal cells begin growing at an out of control rate. Normal cells grow, divide and die in an orderly fashion. Cancer cells grow and divide and instead of dying, outlive normal cells and continue to form new abnormal cells. Some cancer cells can travel to other parts of the body beyond where their development originated and again grow and replace the normal tissue. This process called metastasis occurs as the cancer cells travel through the blood stream or lymph vessels of our bodies. 

There are many types of cancer. Cancer can arise in the skin, organs, bone and blood. Some types of cancer are fast growing and other types grow more slowly. Lymphoma is an example of a common form of cancer that we see in dogs and cats.

Common Signs of Cancer In Pets

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow

• Sores that do not heal

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

• Persistent lameness or stiffness

• Hesitance to exercise or loss of stamina

• Difficulty eating or swallowing

Please note that many of the above signs are also seen in pets with noncancerous conditions. Regardless, these are signs your pet has some type of health condition and a visit to your veterinarian is warranted. Any new lump or growth on your pet should always be checked by the veterinarian. 60% of skin growths on cats are cancerous. Even though dogs have a lower percentage of malignant tumors on their skin, even soft lumps should be aspirated for the presence of unusual cells. 

Many times pet owners will notice some of the above signs and bring their pet in for a check-up. Depending upon the timing of bringing their pet in, more or less will be able to be done to help the pet. Initially the veterinarian will recommend some initial laboratory tests such as bloodwork, urine analysis and XRAYS (As a general rule, it is recommended that bloodwork and urine analysis be performed on pets over 6 years annually to maximize the possibility of catching cancer and/or other diseases as early as possible) Most of the time, this will provide some preliminary insight to the veterinarian, but a biopsy is generally required in order to definitively diagnoses the presence of cancer and the type of cancer. 

Once diagnosed, there are several avenues a pet owner can explore. If at all possible, it is recommended that you make a visit to a veterinary oncologist, even if you do not wish to pursue chemotherapy or radiation. It is important for you to see an oncologist for a more comprehensive discussion from a specialist and to get a definitive course of action on your options from a conventional veterinary standpoint. Oncologists will have the greatest amount of experience with cancer and will be able to give you an idea about your pet’s prognosis, with or without using various forms of cancer medication. Many times, pets may require removal of a tumor and an oncologist can assist you with this as well. 

There are a full range of medical options available for your pet with cancer, and using a combination of both conventional and holistic treatments can most benefit your pet. There are many prescription medications that can help your pet to feel more comfortable and potentially control the rate of growth of the cancer. Remember, quality of life is most important—be sure to watch your pet for signs of extreme discomfort and lethargy. From a holistic standpoint, much can be done to help your pet maintain a higher quality of life (using acupuncture, diet changes, supplements), especially if the diagnoses is made early.

New Conventional Treatments for Cancer

Melanoma Vaccine–Conventional vaccines (for other common diseases) stimulate an immune response directed against foreign proteins. Tyrosinase, a protein present on canine melanoma cells, is not usually targeted by the dog’s immune system because it also is present on normal canine cells. This vaccine helps the immune system to respond to the cancer cells and may help the survival time of the dog with oral melanoma (after the tumor is surgically removed).

Small Molecule Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) is a new cancer therapy for mast cell tumors of the skin in dogs. The medication in the US is called Palladia and has been shown to be effective in treating lower grade mast cell tumors in the skin by attacking the tumor cells and cutting off the blood supply to the tumor.

Natural Treatments for Pets with Cancer

By far, the best results we have seen in cancer patients has been when the pet owner was able to catch the cancer early (as a result of regular laboratory testing) AND when a combination of both conventional and holistic medicine is used. While holistic veterinary medicine cannot cure cancer, it can make a tremendous difference. It is unfortunate that many times, people don’t discover the wonders of giving their pets the best nutrition and supplements until their pet has been diagnosed with a serious illness. The best way to help prevent cancer is to start at the beginning of your pet’s life, giving them optimal nutrition, vitamins, Omega 3s and building a sound immune system. But, even if your pet has been recently diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, it is not too late to make important changes that can give you more time. It is analogous to the advertisements you might have heard about lung cancer and that it is never too late to stop smoking!

One misconception that can be misleading for pet owners is that there is not “one” diet or “one” set of nutritional supplements for a pet with cancer. The reason is that cancer can have many forms, arising in different parts of the body which will affect the pet’s nutritional needs differently. All pets do need nutritious whole foods rich in Omega 3s, vegetables and some quality protein (varies depending upon the pet’s condition). Common sense should be the guiding factor in feeding your pet. Be sure to avoid giving your pet anything with artificial colors, sweeteners or preservatives. Never give animal fat such as chicken skin or fat from a piece of steak for example. Avoid foods made from simple carbohydrates such as biscuits, bread or crackers. Use caution with protein–giving your pet endless amounts of protein is not advisable, everything should be in balance as in some cases (e.g. if the pet has a liver condition) too much protein can be harmful. We strongly urge you to seek the advice of a veterinary professional for dietary advice. Telephone consultations are available at Care by Phone if you would like assistance in developing a home made diet and determining a holistic plan for your pet with cancer.

Listed below are some of the more common forms of cancer in pets. As you can see, cancer can develop in different parts of the body and depending upon where it is found, the pets need for nutritional supplements vary.

Lymphoma – is cancer of the lymphatic tissue. The lymph system is a core part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that defends the body against infections. It is comprised of a network of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph (a clear, watery fluid that contains protein, salts, glucose and other substances) throughout the body. The lymphatic system also serves as a low pressure drainage system that collects interstitial fluid throughout the body and returns it to the bloodstream. The most common sign of lymphoma is a painless enlargement of the lymph nodes.

Mast Cell Tumors – Mast cell tumors are among the most common tumors in dogs and are the most common type of skin cancer found in dogs. The most common location to find mast cell tumors is, by far, the skin, followed by the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Both normal and cancerous mast cells contain chemicals that can be released into surrounding tissues. When these chemicals (particularly histamine) are released into the normal surrounding body tissues, side effects can include digestive problems (for ex: bleeding ulcers), skin rashes, shortness of breath and other symptoms. Mast cell tumors vary greatly in their size, shape, appearance and texture. The only way to definitely identify them is with a biopsy and pathology report.

Hemangiosarcoma – Most commonly found in the spleen, liver and heart and the prognosis is determined by the location of the disease. The cancer arises from the blood vessels and results in the production of abnormal blood vessels that can be weak and prone to leaking. As the cancer progresses, the cancerous vessels can rupture and results in blood loss. As the spleen is the organ most commonly affected by this type of cancer, rupture can lead to blood loss into the abdomen. This is an emergency situation and can result in weakness and collapse. Many pets with hemangiosarcoma often require a splenectomy.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Cancer that occurs in the mouth, underneath the tongue or along the gums of the middle-aged and older cats. Common signs of squamous cell carcinoma in cats includes difficulty eating, interest in food but not wanting to eat, drooling and odor from the mouth.

Osteosarcoma — Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone tumor in dogs. Osteosarcoma beings in the bone but can spread throughout the bloodstream very early in the course of the disease (metastasis). The most common areas for this cancer to appear are the wrist, shoulder, knee and hip. The first sign of bone cancer is lameness due to pain from the cancer. Swelling often occurs at the tumor site.

Transitional Cell Carcinoma – Tumors usually form at the bladder opening and can cause blockage causing painful urinartion. Pets often strain while trying to urinate. Transitional Cell Carcinoma can be difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine or frequent urination are often due to a urinary tract infection. This can delay the discovery of the cancer, especially since antibiotics can often result in some improvement of symptoms. Thus, at the time of diagnosis, bladder cancer can be fairly far advanced and have spread to other parts of the body.

Adenocarcinoma – Anal sac adenocarcinomas are tumors arising from the apocrine glands present on either side of the rectum. These tumors can range greatly in size from a very small mass that can be found only after a rectal examination or a large mass protruding from the rectum. While the tumor appears locally, it is quite common for them to metastasize, often to the lymph nodes inbetween the spine and colon. Symptoms vary depending upon the gender of the pet and can include increased thirst, weakness, persistent licking at the site, difficulty defecating, decreased appetite.

Nutritional supplements should address the most critical needs facing the pet which will vary over time. In other words, the supplements that a pet needs at one point in their cancer care most likely will not be the same at a later time. This can be very confusing for pet owners who seek to find a few master remedies that will help to keep their pet comfortable and increase their longevity as much as possible. For example, the most pressing issue at the beginning of cancer therapy may be to help a pet with digestive problems, diarrhea or vomiting and not use any supplements at all specifically for cancer until the pet’s digestive condition stabilizes. Again, we encourage you to seek the advice of a veterinary professional in selecting supplements for your pet as their needs will vary, especially if your pet is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

Some key objectives in using nutritional supplementation for cancer are:

1) Supportive care for digestion (many pets with cancer have digestive issues)

2) Supportive care for the organs affected (e.g. liver support supplements if the pet has liver cancer)

3) Immune system support

4) Detoxification to help release toxins

5) Antioxidants to neutralize free radicals (limited use with approval from your veterinarian if undergoing chemotherapy/radiation)

When selecting products specifically for your pet’s cancer, be sure to check whether the products are deemed safe to use during chemotherapy and/or radiation if your pet is undergoing treatment.

There is no question that we have seen by far the best results when patients use a combination of both conventional and holistic veterinary medicine when treating their pets with cancer. Regardless of the treatment protocol, a nutritious diet and some carefully selected supplements can only help to strengthen the pet and keep them feeling more comfortable. Research and education are key, as well as working with your veterinarian and other veterinary professionals to ensure that your pet is receiving all of the treatment alternatives possible—both conventional and holistic. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/08/treatment-alternatives-for-cats-and-dogs-with-cancer-2/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/#comments Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:30:28 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=403 Ear Infections in Pets

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

Pet ear infections can become a chronic health condition. Owners can often tell when their pets have an ear infection because of the odor and debris in the ear. Dogs also may display head shaking or excessive scratching of the ear. The normal ear should be free of debris and odor.

Dogs and cats have 2 portions to their ear canals; a vertical portion that can be somewhat visualized with the naked eye and a horizontal portion that you cannot see. Human beings have only a horizontal ear canal. If you see wax, dirt, or debris in any amount in the ear canal, there could be an infection deeper within the part of the canal you can’t see. The doctor will usually use an otoscope to visualize the horizontal ear canal and tympanic membrane (ear drum).

Some breeds of dogs are predisposed to ear infections. Any of the brachiocephalic breeds (pug, bulldog, Boston terrier, Shar-Pei etc) have narrowed ear canals and excessive wrinkling which do not allow free movement of air. Without this free movement of air, moisture gets trapped in the ear canal and between the skin folds, predisposing to infection. Other breeds with genetic predisposition to allergy or skin disease (cocker spaniel, Golden Retriever) usually also have ear issues because the ear canal is actually an extension of the skin. Dogs with skin problems often have ear problems too.

Your veterinarian will look at your pet’s ear and determine which organisms are in the ear and will prescribe the right type of medicine to do the job. Often the doctor will take an ear smear of the debris from the affected ear, smear it on a slide, and determine what is causing the problem. This is an important diagnostic step because it helps the doctor choose the right medicine. Yeast, bacteria, mites, and inflammatory cells are usually identified with the microscope. The number and type of bacteria are important to identify. Small round bacteria (cocci) are easier to treat and less serious than rod bacteria, which are often very dangerous. In general, the treatment for ear infections typically involves antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatory medications and antiparasitic formulas–both oral and topical.

Some pets will allow the veterinary team to clean the ear canals, but many pets are so painful and uncomfortable that sedation or anesthesia may be necessary to do a thorough job. Ideally, debris must be removed from the ear canal to facilitate effective treatment with the ear ointments or ear drops. It also allows the doctor the possibility of carefully examining the ear drum. Is it still intact or has the ear drum been ruptured? This will determine which medication to put in the ear. Are there foxtails of other foreign material deep within the ear? Sedation or anesthesia will allow the veterinarian to remove these safely.

It is important for pet owners to follow the doctor’s instructions on treating the ear. Make sure you return to the office on the re-check visit so the doctor can make sure the problem has been cured. The doctor should then illustrate what you need to do to try and keep these infections from returning. Prophyllactic ear rinse solutions are available, and should be used in most cases after the infection has subsided. Many owners mistakenly put hydrogen peroxide in the ear. This is not a good idea. Hydrogen peroxide eventually turns into water, which will then create a perfect environment for bacteria to start growing. The ear canal is one place where hydrogen peroxide should never be used. If you prefer to use a natural solution instead of the prescription ear washes, you can try using 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts warm water. The ear cleansers and/or vinegar solution will keep the pH of the ear canal at an optimum level, discouraging the colonization of bacteria and yeast. For some dogs, this will become a lifetime regimen and we often recommend that pet owners do this 2 to 3 times a week for life.

Natural Alternatives For Dog Ear Infections

Pets with chronic ear infections typically have skin infections too. It is quite common for pets to have ear infections, hot spots, hair loss, scratching/itching, urinary tract infections and digestive issues—all seemingly unrelated but quite often all due to the same issue—allergies (both food and environmental) and poor digestion. When pets are allergic to what they are eating and/or are fed foods that are poorly digested (many “brand name” commercial pet foods are hard to digest because they contain preservatives, fillers and allergens such as corn), the pet experiences an inflammatory response. In addition, the pet’s digestive system can often become compromised, reducing their overall immune response. This sets up an environment for yeast, bacteria and parasites to overgrow. The first step in healing a pet with chronic ear infections is to put the pet on a healthy, hypoallergenic diet. This is not always an easy task as many times, pets are allergic to different foods. Common food allergens are corn, soy, milk products, casein (found in cheese), peanut butter, wheat, gluten, beef and chicken. Some cats are allergic to fish and chicken. Overall, try to seek out local pet stores that may carry more natural, holistic brands that do not contain wheat or corn. We have had terrific success using pre-made frozen raw diets but this may or may not be the right food for your pet. Each pet has different digestive issues and what works for one may not be ideal for another. For best results, you might want to schedule a holistic consultation with Dr. Selmer.

In addition to changing your pet’s diet, some supplements can really help your pet fight off yeast infections from the inside out. If your pet has taken antibiotics or prednisone, it is critical that you restore the balance of flora to prevent the infection from coming back. Many times, people and pets experience chronic infections because the antibiotics kill off the good bacteria (as well as the bad) and unfortunately if you haven’t made the changes to support a healthy digestive tract, the bad bacteria will grow back faster than the good bacteria. That is why it is so essential to supplement with probiotics (and antifungals if you or your pet have a tendency to get yeast) following a course of antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory medications.

Using both conventional and holistic veterinary care, we have seen pets with chronic infections completely improve without continued reoccurrence.

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Thank you for being an carepaw subscriber. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care. ]]> http://www.carepaw.com/2011/06/01/ear-infections-in-pets/feed/ 0 http://www.carepaw.com/2011/05/24/spring-into-action-protect-your-pets/ http://www.carepaw.com/2011/05/24/spring-into-action-protect-your-pets/#comments Tue, 24 May 2011 20:07:53 +0000 admin http://www.carepaw.com/?p=400 Spring into action. Protect your pets!

Ticks, fleas, heartworms, and intestinal parasites can threaten your pets all year long, not just when the weather gets warm. So protecting your pet from these dangerous parasites requires a year-round commitment!

You may be able to see evidence of fleas, ticks, or internal parasites, but sometimes you can’t. Veterinary examinations and parasite testing are important ways to detect parasites and improve your pet’s health. Monthly parasite preventive medications can protect pets from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms. Don’t leave your pet unprotected from these predators.

Ticks and Fleas

Ticks and fleas are blood-drinking parasites that can also transmit serious diseases to pets. Ticks can transmit infections like Lyme disease, and fleas can transmit tapeworms and Bartonella—the bacteria that causes “cat scratch fever” in humans. You can sometimes see ticks or fleas on your pet, but fleas hide under your pet’s fur, and some ticks are very tiny—only the size of a pin head, so they are very difficult to find. A veterinary examination can detect ticks or fleas on your pet, and monthly medication can control them.

Heartworms

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, and they can infect dogs and cats. Even indoor pets aren’t completely safe from heartworms, since 25% of heartworm infected cats live completely indoors. Heartworms damage the heart and lungs, and can even cause death! Fortunately, heartworm preventive medication can protect your pets from these dangerous parasites.

Intestinal Parasites

Roundworms, hookworms, and other intestinal parasites can cause serious illness in pets. Some of these parasites are even transmissible to humans, so preventing parasites in your pets also helps protect children and other family members. A veterinary examination and routine fecal testing can identify intestinal parasites, and many monthly heartworm preventive medications safely and effectively control them.  Ask us how to protect your pets and family

Call us today at 631-367-7387 to schedule an appointment and don’t forget to bring a fecal sample for parasite testing. Don’t forget to visit our website at www.advancedcareforpets.com.

Instead look for healthy, non-grain-based treats such as  baby carrots, green beans, small pieces of homemaked potatoes or yams or venison jerky.  Of course, if your pet is on a protein-restricted diet due to kidney or liver disease, the protein treats should be limited.

Conventional Veterinary Perspective

The liver is the main filtering system for the body since all blood supply travels through it to be detoxified. The liver performs many critical functions including:

• metabolism of fats, protein and carbohydrates
• filtering harmful substances from the blood (e.g. toxins and/or medications)
• storage of vitamins and minerals
• production of bile which aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients
• glycogen storage (involved in blood sugar regulation)
• synthesis of important proteins such as albumin and clotting factors
• red blood cell maintenance, in conjunction with the spleen

A pet may have NO outward symptoms that the liver is overburdened. It may only be discovered in a laboratory test and/or a physical exam by your veterinarian. During the physical examination, your veterinarian will look for signs of liver disease such as a distended abdomen due to enlargement of the liver, bruising under the skin, fever (due to secondary infection or inflammation), pain when pressure is applied to the abdomen or yellowish discoloration of the ears, gums and hairless areas of the skin. Anemia might be observed by checking the mucous membranes for a normal pink color.

The veterinarian will also look for symptoms such as:

1) Loss of energy
2) Digestive problems, diarrhea and/or constipation
3) Light tan or grey stools
4) Darker urine color (can be orange)
5) Changes in behavior such as pacing, circling or even seizures
6) Excess water drinking and urination

Since pets may have no symptoms however, diagnostic laboratory tests will provide the most valuable source of information. For example, a young pet may have a congenital condition such as microvascular dysplasia or a liver shunt and the symptoms may not be apparent until the pet is one or years old. A blood test may be the only way to know. There are certain blood values, for example, that if abnormal, may signify liver disease. These can include:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – An enzyme that becomes elevated with liver disease.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALKP) – An enzyme produced by the biliary tract (liver) can be elevated in liver and non-liver related diseases. High levels can indicate bone disease, liver disease or bile flow blockage.
• Gamma Glutamyltransferase (GGT) – An enzyme produced in many tissues as well as the liver. Like alkaline phosphatase, it may be elevated in the serum of patients with bile duct diseases. Elevations in GGT, especially along with elevations in alkaline phosphatase, can indicate impaired bile flow
• Total Billirubin (TBIL) – A component of bile, bilirubin is secreted by the liver into the intestinal tract. Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is found within red blood cells and carries oxygen to the tissues. When red blood cells die, hemoglobin is broken down by the liver as bilirubin. Elevated bilirubin levels can be caused by excessive numbers of red blood cells breaking down or when the liver is diseased and unable to clear the bilirubin from the blood. Also if there is an obstruction in the bile duct, the flow of bilirubin into the intestine is impaired and this can also cause elevation of bilribuin in the blood.
• Albumin (ALB) – Produced by the liver, albumin is a plasma protein that helps control osmotic pressure in the tissues. When albumin is low, fluids can leak resulting in a swollen abdomen. Low levels of albumin can indicate chronic liver or kidney disease, or parasitic infections such as hookworm. High levels indicate dehydration and loss of protein.

A urine analysis and XRAYS can provide valuable information as well. If signs and symptoms appear that a pet’s liver is not functioning optimally, additional tests are warranted to determine the underlying cause. A bile acid test, ultrasound and/or liver biopsy may be needed to determine the reasons behind your pet’s poor liver function. Your veterinarian will recommend medications, diet changes and potential surgical procedures upon determining the cause of your pet’s liver disease.

Liver Support Can Increase Your Pet’s Longevity

Holistic Alternatives for Liver Disease

In many ways, your pet’s liver is analogous to the oil filter in a car. You need to keep it clean or the “blood” (e.g oil in the car) gets dirty. When the liver’s job becomes overextended, the body cannot filter out as much as it should and toxins are released into the bloodstream. These toxins can cause harm to other tissues which in holistic medicine, is thought to be the root of disease. Since the liver is an integral component of so many critical bodily functions, it is easy to see a domino effect that can occur when the liver becomes overloaded. For instance, when a person drinks too much alcohol, the liver can’t keep up with the necessary “cleaning action” to process out the toxins, and people often develop other health conditions, such as increased levels of fat in the blood (triglycerides). Similarly, if the liver becomes overloaded following years of poor diet, medications and exposure to toxins, your pet’s liver can become overburdened as well.

It is a good idea to help your pet’s liver function by using holistic care BEFORE liver disease sets in. For example, if your pet is taking pain medications such as Rimadyl or Deramaxx, these medications can negatively impact your pet’s liver. However, if you use liver detoxification supplements you can minimize the potential impact of these medications. The liver is one of the few organs in the body that can regenerate new healthy tissue so it is not uncommon to see patients with compromised liver functions show significant improvements with our holistic protocols.

Certain foods can help to naturally detoxify the liver. Green vegetables contain not only valuable vitamins and minerals but they also contain natural cleansers and antioxidants that help to purify the blood and the liver. Giving your pet green vegetables such as green beans, squash or asparagus, along with some carrots can provide fresh enzymes and extra nutrition. Omega 3 fatty acids found in Amazing Omegas can be very helpful too. In general, pets with liver conditions need a diet low in animal fat, high in Omega 3s, reduced protein and high in fiber. Prescription diets are available but a homemade, balanced diet specifically for liver conditions is best. The homemade diet would need to take into account your pet’s overall health status and blood test results or it could result in additional problems. For example, cooked fish is often helpful for pets with liver disease but not if the kidney values are elevated as well. Telephone consultations are available at Advanced Animal Care Center if you would like to develop a homemade diet for your pet.

It is never too late to give your pet increased vitality and energy by adding a liver support supplement and extra nutrition to their diet. Many pet owners notice their pets have extra energy after just a few days. And, reducing animal fats (e.g. never give pets chicken skin or fat off meat for example), increasing Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and flax seed oil and extra vegetables can all help to support your pet’s liver and longevity.
Thank you for being a Carepaw subscriber. We look forward to continuing to provide you with quality holistic pet care.