In 2011, there were more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the U.S. Many of these were caused by substances you probably have in your home, substances that may seem perfectly harmless to you. But just because something is safe for people doesn’t mean it won’t hurt beloved pets. Some of the most dangerous dog poisons are foods and medications we take on a daily basis.

Depending on how a particular substance affects your dog’s body and how much was ingested or inhaled, pet poisoning symptoms can include gastrointestinal and neurological problems, cardiac and respiratory distress, coma, and even death.

No. 1: Medications for people

Drugs that might be beneficial, or even life-saving, for people can have the opposite effect in pets. And it doesn’t always take a large dose to do major damage.

Some of the most common and harmful medications that poison dogs include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers or kidney failure.
• Antidepressants, which may cause vomiting and, in more serious instances, serotonin syndrome – a dangerous condition that raises temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, and may cause seizures.
• Isoniazid, a tuberculosis drug, is difficult for dogs to process. Even one tablet can cause problems in a small dog. Signs of poisoning include seizures and coma.

No. 2: Flea and tick products

You may think you’re doing your dog a favor when you apply products marketed to fight fleas and ticks, but thousands of animals are unintentionally poisoned by these products every year. Problems can occur if dogs accidentally ingest these products or if small dogs receive excessive amounts.

No. 3: People food

Your canine companion may look so cute as he sits there begging for a bite of your chocolate cake or a chip covered in guacamole, but not giving him what he wants could save his life. Animals have different metabolisms than people. Some foods and beverages that are perfectly safe for people can be dangerous, and sometimes fatal, for dogs.

• Chocolate. Though not harmful to people, chocolate products contain substances called methylxanthines that can cause vomiting in small doses, and death if ingested in larger quantities. Darker chocolate contains more of these dangerous substances than do white or milk chocolate. The amount of chocolate that could result in death depends on the type of chocolate and the size of the dog. For smaller breeds, just half an ounce of baking chocolate can be fatal, while a larger dog might survive eating 4 to 8 ounces. Coffee and caffeine have similarly dangerous chemicals.
• Alcohol. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in animals are similar to those in people, and may include vomiting, breathing problems, coma and, in severe cases, death.
• Avocado. You might think of them as healthy, but avocados have a substance called persin that can act as a dog poison, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
• Macadamia nuts. Dogs may suffer from a series of symptoms, including weakness, overheating, and vomiting, after consumption of macadamia nuts.
• Grapes and raisins. Experts aren’t sure why, but these fruits can induce kidney failure in dogs. Even a small number may cause problems in some dogs.
• Xylitol. This sweetener is found in many products, including sugar-free gum and candy. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar, resulting in weakness and seizures. Liver failure also has been reported in some dogs.

No. 4: Rat and mouse poison

Rodenticides, if ingested by dogs, can cause severe problems. The symptoms depend on the nature of the poison, and signs may not start for several days after consumption. In some instances, the dog may have eaten the poisoned rodent, and not been directly exposed to the toxin.   

No. 5: Pet medications

Just as we can be sickened or killed by medications intended to help us, cases of pet poisoning by veterinary drugs are not uncommon. Some of the more commonly reported problem medications include painkillers and de-wormers.

Dog poison No. 6: Household plants

They may be pretty, but plants aren’t necessarily pet friendly. Some of the more toxic plants to dogs include:

• Azaleas and rhododendrons. These pretty flowering plants contain toxins that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, coma, and potentially even death.
• Tulips and daffodils. The bulbs of these plants may cause serious stomach problems, convulsions, and damage to the heart.
• Sago palms. Eating just a few seeds may be enough to cause vomiting, seizures, and liver failure.

No. 7: Chemical hazards

Not surprisingly, chemicals contained in antifreeze, paint thinner, and chemicals for pools can act as dog poison. The pet poisoning symptoms they may produce include stomach upset, depression, and chemical burns.

No. 8: Household cleaners

Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems.

No. 9: Heavy metals

Lead, which may be in paint, linoleum, and batteries, can be poisonous if eaten by your dog, causing gastrointestinal and neurological problems. Zinc poisoning may occur in dogs that swallow pennies, producing symptoms of weakness from severe anemia.

No. 10: Fertilizer

Products for your lawn and garden may be poisonous to pets that ingest them.

What to do for suspected dog poisoning

If you think your dog has been poisoned, try to stay calm. It is important to act quickly, but rationally.

First, gather up any of the potential poison that remains — this may be helpful to your veterinarian and any outside experts who assist with the case. If your dog has vomited, collect the sample in case your veterinarian needs to see it.

The best way to reduce the chances that your beloved dog will be the victim of pet poisoning is by preventing exposure to dangerous substances.

• Keep all medications, even those in child-proof bottles, in cabinets that are inaccessible to your dog. If you inadvertently drop a pill on the floor, be sure to look for it immediately. Supervise anyone, such as the elderly, who may need help taking medications.
• Always follow guidelines on flea or tick products.
• Although you can give some “people foods” safely to your pets as a treat, others are toxic. If you have any questions about what is safe, ask your veterinarian. Or, err on the safe side and give treats made specifically for animals.
• Be sure any rodenticides you use are kept in metal cabinets or high on shelves where your pets can’t find them. Remember that dogs can be fatally poisoned by eating an exposed rodent, so always be very cautious about using these products. Tell your neighbors if you put out rat bait, so they can protect their pets from exposure, and ask them to do the same for you.
• When buying plants for your home, opt for those that won’t cause problems if your dog happens to nibble on them. The ASPCA has an online list of toxic and nontoxic plants by species. If you choose to have toxic plants, be sure they are kept in a place where your animals can’t reach them.
• Store all chemicals and cleaners in pet-inaccessible areas of your home.

The post Top 10 Dog Poisons appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Before starting a parasite preventative, all dogs should be tested for heartworms for several reasons.

• Giving certain types of preventatives to dogs that have an adult heartworm infection can be harmful or even fatal to the pet.

• Heartworm preventatives do not kill the adult heartworms (although they may shorten the worms’ life expectancy). This means an infected dog will remain infected with adult heartworms. Unfortunately, as long as a pet remains infected, heartworm disease will progress and damage your pets heart and lungs, which can lead to life threatening problems. Giving heartworm preventatives to heartworm-positive dogs can mislead an owner into thinking everything is all right, while within a pet, heartworm disease is worsening.

•  The parasite preventative that we recommend, Heartgard, only kills existing immature heartworms introduced to your dog over the past 30 days. It does not protect against worms introduced over 30 days prior to or after the Heartgard chew is consumed. Below is an illustration to better explain what can happen if you start a heartworm preventative without testing first.

What exactly is heartworm?

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a parasitic roundworm that is spread from host to host through the bites of mosquitoes. The heartworm is a type of filaria, a small thread-like worm, that causes filariasis. The definitive host is the dog, but it can also infect cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes and other animals, such as ferrets, sea lions and even, under very rare circumstances, humans. The parasite is commonly called “heartworm”; however, adults often reside in the pulmonary arterial system (lung arteries) as well as the heart, and a major effect on the health of the animal is a manifestation of damage to the lung vessels and tissues. Occasionally, adult heartworms migrate to the right heart and even the great veins in heavy infections. Heartworm infection may result in serious disease for the host, with death typically as the result of congestive heart failure. 

The post A Heartworm Test? Why? appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Larimer County 2013 Rabies Positive
Total skunks: 35
Total bats: 10
Total bison: 0
Total raccoons: 3
Total foxes: 3
Total cats: 1

The Department of Health is reminding all pet owners to keep their pets up-to-date on their rabies vaccine to prevent putting their pets through lengthy quarantines or even euthanasia if they are exposed to a rabid animal. Unvaccinated pets who come in contact with a rabid animal have two options:

1. vaccinated after exposure and then quarantined at a veterinary facility for 90 days. A rabies quarantine can be very expensive for pet owners (estimated $2,700 -$3,000)
2. euthanasia

According to the Department of Health, skunk rabies is a type of “terrestrial” rabies, meaning that it is carried by animals that travel on the ground, rather than by bats that fly. The skunk variant (type) of rabies first arrived in Larimer County in May 2012. Before 2012, bats had been the main carrier of rabies in Larimer County. Rabies in ground-dwelling animals increases the risk of exposure to pets and livestock.

The Department of Health is urgently advising all residents of Larimer County to avoid wildlife that are behaving strangely. Report animals to the Larimer Humane Society Animal Control: 970-226-3647 #7

What are the clinical signs of rabies?

Both dogs and cats are susceptible to rabies and both can pass it to humans. The incubation period can vary from 10 days to one year or longer. In dogs, the incubation period is typically two weeks to four months. Incubation in a cat is generally less than a dog and is typically three to eight weeks. Death usually occurs within 10 days from the first onset of symptoms.

Following a bite from a rabid animal, the disease progresses in stages. In the first, or prodromal phase, the pet undergoes a marked change in temperament. Quiet pets become agitated and active pets become nervous or shy.

Following this stage, there are two recognized from of the clinical disease.

Furious rabies (most common in cats, but can occur in dogs) occurs when the rabid pet becomes highly excitable and displays evidence of a depraved appetite, eating and chewing stones, earth and rubbish. Paralysis eventually sets in and they may be unable to eat and drink. Hydrophobia (fear of water) is not a sign of rabies in pets; it is only a symptom of rabies in humans. In this form of rabies, the pet finally dies in a violent seizure.

Dumb rabies is most common in dogs. There is a progressive paralysis involving limbs, distortion of the face and a similar difficulty in swallowing. Owners will frequently think the dog has something stuck in the mouth or throat. Care should be taken in examination since rabies may be transmitted by saliva. Ultimately, the dog becomes comatose and dies.

How do you test for rabies?

There is no test for rabies. The only way to determine if an animal has rabies is to test the brain, which is done through necropsy samples.

Rabies Vaccination

The rabies vaccination promotes the production of antibodies but is only effective if given before the virus enters the nervous system. Rabies vaccine is required by law for all dogs and cats, and their only protection against the disease.

The post Rabies in Larimer County appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Thanksgiving Office Hours:

• Wednesday (11/26): 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (we close early!)
• Thursday (11/27): CLOSED
• Friday (11/28): CLOSED
• Satruday (11/29): 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

‘Tis the season for feasting and family but it can also be a stressful season for your four-legged family members. We’ve got some tips to help keep your pets happy and healthy this Thanksgiving! Remember, should an emergency arise during non-business hours, Aspen Grove is here to help talk you through any situation and help determine if a trip to the emergency clinic is necessary.

Thanksgiving foods your pets should never have:

Turkey skin, drippings or gravy: These can lead to pancreatitis or inflammation of the stomach or intestines.

Turkey twine: This is the string used to tie the turkey legs. As we all know, cats love string but if your cat decides to chow down on this, it can cause severe intestinal blockage. Make sure the turkey twine remains out of sight from your cat!

Turkey bones: While you might be inclined to share the joy of Thanksgiving with you dog, turkey bones are actually extremely brittle and can break inside your dogs digestive tract, possibly puncturing it. Never give your pet a turkey bone to chew on!

Corn on the cob: Can lead to intestinal blockages in both cats and dogs.

Stuffing: onions, garlic and sage: Save the stuffing for yourself! Onions and garlic are toxic as well as several of the spices used in traditional Thanksgiving stuffing.

Raisins or grapes: These are harmful to a dog’s kidneys.

Mashed Potatoes & Candied Yams: The butter and fat can cause pancreatitis in both dogs and cats.

Raw dough: Keep your pets away! Dough (containing yeast) can cause “expansive bloat” in which your cat or dog may experience vomiting and severe abdominal pain. This condition can become a life-threating emergency, requiring surgery. Additionally, the dough can ferment inside your pet’s digestive tract and cause alcohol poisoning.

Chocolate: Most pet owners already know, but some are unaware how dangerous chocolate is for pets. Bakers Chocolate especially can make your pet severely ill or even lead to death if ingested.

Alcohol: Enjoy your hot chocolate with peppermint Schnapps, but keep it far away from your pets. Alcohol can cause intoxication, panting, fever, racing heart, liver damage, even coma, seizures and in extreme cases – death.

We want you to have a safe and stress-free Thanksgiving! Most importantly, we want your pets to feel loved and included. As a special Thanksgiving treat from our family to yours, we’ve included two pet-friendly holiday recipes to add to the menu!

Kitty’s Favorite Turkey Balls*

Ingredients

• 1/2 Pound ground turkey
• 1/2 Cup grated carrots
• 1/4 Cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 Cup finely crushed crackers
• 1/4 Cup powdered milk
• 1 Egg
• 1 Tablespoon Brewer’s yeast
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt

Baking Directions

Preheat over to 350 degrees (F)

Using your hands as you would when making meatloaf, mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.

Shape the mix into individual golf ball-sized nuggets, and arrange them in a non-stick baking pan.

Bake for approximately 20 minutes until the balls are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.

Cool before serving. Freeze the leftover balls and reheat in microwave as needed.

*cats.lovetoknow.com

Thanksgiving Dog Treats*

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup margarine
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3/4 cup cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 cups whole wheat flour

Baking Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, margarine, and boiling water. Let stand 10 minutes. Grease cookie sheets.

Thoroughly stir in cornmeal, sugar, bouillon, milk, Cheddar cheese, and egg. Mix in flour, 1 cup at a time, until a stiff dough has formed.

Knead dough on a lightly floured surface, mixing in additional flour as necessary until dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Roll or pat out dough to 1/2″ thickness. Cut with cookie cutter (I prefer bone shaped), and place 1 inch apart onto the prepared cookie sheets.

Bake 35 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, until golden brown. Cool before serving. Store in a loosely covered container.

*allrecipes.com

Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at Aspen Grove!

The post Thanksgiving Tips & Treats appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

We all know our pets will love us unconditionally whether there’s a present for them under the tree or not. However, this doesn’t mean we should forget about our furry family members this holiday season.

It can be tough to interpret barks and meows. So how are you supposed to know what to get your pet? To make sure your cat or dog feels extra loved this holiday season, we’ve put together a list of holiday presents that are sure to delight! Remember to get creative and always be sure to show your pet how much they mean to you.

1. Weight Loss Resolution – Did you know that an estimated 54% of dogs and cats in the United States are obese?! If your pet could stand to shed a pound or two, give them the gift of nutritionally sound food and regular exercise this year! Safe chews are a great, low calorie alternative for the holiday dieters. There is no question that a healthier pet is a happier pet!

2. Pet Massage – What could be better than a designated time for belly rubs, behind the ear scratches and incessant petting? Give your pet the gift of relaxation – set aside some time to do it yourself or contact our professional canine massage therapist to schedule an appointment. Sometimes, cats and dogs can use a more trained, therapeutic touch to get the most out of the massage.

3. A New Bed – Treat yourself to new Egyptian cotton sheets and treat your pet to a new, plush bed! Beds come in all-different shapes, sizes and colors – show your pet how much you appreciate their unwavering love by giving them a new place to rest their heads after a long day!

4. Play Dates – If your pet enjoys playing with other animals and you’ve got space to accommodate, consider scheduling play dates in the comfort of your own home. Playing together ensures plenty of exercise and a guaranteed good time!

5. A Surprise Mini-Vacation – Remember, most pets enjoy adventure just as much as humans do. Why not jump in the car and drive to a new park or explore a new hiking trail? Traveling the wide world with your pet inevitably builds an even stronger bond between you and your companion!

6. A New Playground – Just like any child, your cat or dog has probably grown out of and gotten bored of his or her old toys. This holiday season give your pet a chance to show off again by upgrading their playground or scratching post. Not only will it provide hours of entertainment, you’ll get to see them play like kittens and puppies again!

7. New Toys – Of course, you can never disappoint with a basket full of new tennis balls, laser pointers, Frisbees and more! Just always be sure you’re bringing home toys that are safe for your pet. 

8. New Clothes/Accessories – Who doesn’t love new things? Treat your pet to a new collar, leash, coat or booties to help them look their best while tackling the colder weather! Maybe try a bright green or red to get them into the holiday spirit!

We hope these ideas will get your creative juices following and help you think of the perfect holiday treat for a very important member of the family. Always remember to show your pet how much you appreciate them by providing them with a well-balanced diet, ample exercise and lots of TLC! 

The post Purrfect Holiday Presents For Your Pets appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Have you heard? It’s National Walk Your Pet Month!

Did you know that an estimated 54% of cats and dogs in the United States are considered obese and that healthy pets tend to live about 15% longer?For our New Year’s resolution, all of us at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care vow to walk our dogs for 30 minutes for 30 straight days and we vow to let the cats chase the laser pointer for at least 30 minutes a day. Let’s join together to give our pets the healthy lives they deserve!

While we absolutely love this effort to get our pets (and ourselves) back in shape, we cannot forget the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet. Unfortunately, when it comes to nutrition it is all to easy to be misinformed with the amount of information available. As pet owners, the best thing we can do for our pets is to stay knowledgeable. To help, we’ve compiled a list of common myths about pet nutrition and the facts to supplement our National Walk Your Pet Month efforts!

MYTH: By-products are poor-quality ingredients – False. While some regard by-products as low-quality ingredients, they are actually an excellent source of protein, essential nutrients and can be more nutritious than meat alone. By-products in pet foods that meet AAFCO standards come from clean animal parts other than meat, including liver, kidneys and other organs.

MYTH: All pet food preservatives are harmful – False. Preservatives are actually added to ensure pet food remains wholesome and nutritious during both distribution and storage. Without preservatives, essential fats, proteins and vitamins may break down during storage. With the proper information, you can choose foods for your pets that are properly preserved and safe.

MYTH: Carbs cause obesity in cats – False. There is a misconception that because cats are carnivores, they should only be fed meat when in reality, cats need all three major energy sources: protein, fat and carbohydrates. While they may metabolize carbs differently than dogs, healthy cats can digest and metabolize dietary carbohydrates.

MYTH: Senior dogs and cats need a low-protein diet – False. Contrary to popular belief, a high-protein diet may actually be beneficial for aging pets. There is no medical proof showing that a diet rich in protein leads to kidney damage in dogs or cats.

MYTH: Corn is a poorly digested “filler” that causes allergies – False. Corn is available in many forms and is used to create digestible and nutritious diets that help to deliver the essential nutrients dogs and cats need. It is  the overall quality of the food that makes it the best choice for your pet.

MYTH: Natural, organic and holistic are the same – False. While pet foods labeled as natural, organic and/or holistic are growing more popular, these are actually just “catch phrases” that are misleading and confusing. There is no legal term for either holistic or human grade. Natural simply means the food must contain natural ingredients without chemical alterations & organic must follow USDA rules with the USDA seal on the bag. Unfortunately, these terms do not guarantee better nutrition for your cat or dog.

With so much misleading information, choosing the best food for your cat or dog can be overwhelming. Some things to keep in mind:

• Your pet’s food should have passed AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) feeding guidelines
• Your pet’s food should be labeled for a certain stage of life
• Always look for the words “complete” or “balanced
• It is important to notice whether the food meets AAFCO guidelines through a feeding trial
• Foods that meet these requirements through formulation only are NOT as high quality as through tested through feeding trial
• The AAFCO only guarantees that an animal can live on the food so it is important to pay attention to ingredients
• Foods labeled “All Life Stages” are required to meet the nutritional needs for the demanding time of life and are essentially made for kittens & puppies
• The nutrition you feed your pet directly affects your pets’ lifetime health

Just like us, our pets need both a nutritious diet and regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Join us in celebrating National Walk Your Pet Month and vow to provide your pet the exercise and delicious diet they deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact the veterinarians at Aspen Grove if you have questions regarding your pet’s nutrition and exercise program!

The post National Walk Your Pet Month appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Do you know what your dog is thinking? Do you treat your dog like a human with 4 legs?

Dog training is about knowing what your dog is thinking and understanding their instincts and behavior. Take, for example, the case of the barking dog courtesy of Lili Chin:

Unfortunately, many first-time pet owners do not get all the facts when it comes to training, which can be detrimental to building a lasting bond between you and your canine companion. At Aspen Grove, we have found that a well-trained dog is by far a happier dog. Why? Because a trained dog inevitably requires fewer restrictions!

As pet owners, we can attest to the fact that the more obedient and reliable the dog, the more freedom he or she can be given. Typically family members, visitors and passers-by are much more inclined to interact with trained dogs, which is a satisfying feeling for all. However, pet owners must understand that training is a two-way street that takes compassion and patience from both you AND your pet.

To assist with the sometimes-overwhelming task, Aspen Grove has built a program that can be adapted to meet both your budget and your goals.

Training your dog can be challenging, especially for first-time pet owners, so there is no shame in seeking a little help! Visit our Dog Training page or give us a call for more details.

The post The Truth About Dog Training appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

We’ve recently had quite a few clients ask us about leptospirosis so we wanted to clear the air about what exactly this mouthful of a word means. Simply put, leptospirosis is a bacteria that dogs contract from contaminated water which primarily affects the liver or kidneys.

Leptospira bacteria are carried by wildlife such as raccoons, skunk, and deer and are transmitted through urine. Ingestion is the most common means of transmission but some forms of the bacteria can, in fact, penetrate damaged or thin skin. For example, when dogs swim in contaminated water they have a high chance of becoming infected either by drinking the water or through their skin.  The lepto bacterium is also zoonotic, which means it can be transferred to humans.

A common and crucial question we often hear is ‘what should I look for to tell if my dog is infected?’ Although many forms of the bacteria go undetected, other cases can be life threatening. The three main forms of this disease include:

Hemorrhagic Disease (bleeding)

• This form is often fatal
• high fever
• lethargy
• loss of appetite
• multiple small hemorrhages in the mouth and on the whites of the eyes

Icteric or Jaundice Disease (liver)

• begins much like hemorrhagic form with many of the same clinical signs
• yellow color (jaundice) in the mouth and whites of the eyes
• in more severe cases, the skin will turn yellow

Renal Disease (kidney)

• This is the most common form of the disease; it causes kidney failure
• extremely lethargic, anorectic and may vomit
• breath often has an offensive odor
• ulcers on the tongue
• diarrhea, excessive drinking and excessive urination
• may be reluctant to move and show abdominal discomfort

Unfortunately, definitive diagnosis can be difficult because the clinical signs are often ambiguous or can be indicative of multiple diseases.

The good news is that infections are uncommon in areas where vaccinations of dogs are routine. Still, outbreaks of the disease are seen from time to time.

Luckily, vaccines have been developed to help protect dogs against the most prevalent strains. It is important to note that the vaccine for leptospirosis is not considered a Core Vaccine, which means it is not recommended for all dogs.

It’s important to discuss your dog’s lifestyle with your veterinarian during your annual checkup. Do you live near a drainage ditch that holds water? Do you take your dog to the mountains hiking? Do you take your dog to a local dog park with a pond? These are all important questions to assess your dog’s risk of contracting lepto and deciding if the vaccine series is necessary.

Again, leptospirosis can be transmitted to people so pet owners that may have an affected dog should work to avoid contact between bare skin and their dog’s urine. Please be sure to wear rubber gloves when cleaning up any areas the dog may have soiled. The organism is readily killed by household disinfectants or a dilute bleach solution. Please be sure to contact us or visit urgent care if you think your dog may be infected.

The post What is Leptospirosis? appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

Recently, we had a tough case come in that brought up the ever important topic of pet insurance or at least having a plan of action to pay for pet emergencies if and when pet emergencies occur.

A dog came in to the clinic last week with a severely broken paw. Toby is a little, young dog with a lot of energy and he jumped out of his owner’s arms and broke his paw. The owner was faced with 3 options: 

1. Fix the broken leg (roughly $2500)

2. Amputate the leg (roughly $1200)

3. Euthanize

There are a few organizations that can help pet owners with situations like this; however, assistance is only possible if the organization has money to donate at the time. The donation is usually around $500 but unfortunately, the organization did not have the funds last week. There is also a clinic in Denver that offers low cost care, however, the pet owner must qualify for it (being a recipient of food stamps is one of their qualifications). Of course, we all do our best to avoid these types of situations but accidents do happen. 

Before adopting a pet, potential owners need to understand that pets require annual care such as parasite preventatives and vaccines, which can add up to roughly $150 per year.  Additionally, accidents are bound to happen and pets get sick, which is not something anyone can truly plan for.

To help lessen the stress of a pet emergency for both you and your pet, please have a plan in place to care for your furry family member in case of an emergency! We highly recommend an illness and accident pet insurance policy. There are lots of companies out there who offer them such as Trupanion, VPI, and PetPlan.

Please feel free to give us a call or stop by if you have any questions regarding pet insurance or emergency plans. Remember, the best time to create a plan of action is BEFORE anything happens!

The post The Importance of Pet Insurance appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

While May is our wettest month in Northern Colorado, the weather is certainly warming up as we move into summer. Naturally, dogs are getting more excited about playing outside and most pet owners are beginning to see an increase in the energy level of their dogs! To help promote safe play this summer, we’ve put together a list of summer doggy tips to keep in mind:

• Just like humans spread germs, dogs can too. The most common illnesses this time of year are kennel cough and conjunctivitis, which can occur even if your pet has been vaccinated. If you’re going on vacation and leaving your dog at a boarding facility, be sure to inform them of any signs or symptoms prior to leaving.
• Kiddy pools are a great, cost-effective way to help your pup cool off in the warmer weather. Just remember to never leave your dog unsupervised and empty the water/clean the pool as often as possible.
• If at any time your dog begins to show signs of heat exhaustion – heavy panting, dry or bright red gums, thick drool, vomiting or wobbly legs – cool them down immediately with cold water and carry them to the vet. This is an emergency!
• If you are washing your dog at home, remember to use a labeled “dog shampoo.” Shampoos made for humans can actually dry your pet’s skin causing itchiness or irritation. Give us a call for product recommendations!
• Pet appropriate sunscreen (no zinc oxide) is great for dogs with light skin or thin hair. If you’re spending the day outside, be sure to keep an eye on those pink noses and exposed skin on the ears!
• Never, ever leave your dog in the car! While you might think leaving the window open will keep your car cool, a car’s temperature actually rises rapidly. Research has shown that cars with the windows cracked still reach the same temperature as those with windows closed.
• If you’re playing or just lounging outside by the pool with your dog, make sure they have access to fresh water as well as sufficient amount of shade.
• When taking walks or playing outside, try to stay off hot surfaces like asphalt since it can burn your dog’s paws. Stick to grass when possible! Also do your best to avoid walking your dog during the day’s highest heat and humidity.
• Be on the lookout for external parasites such as fleas, ticks and heartworms. Give us a call to discuss the best products for your specific pet.

Last but certainly not least, remember to have lots of fun with your pup this summer! Just be sure to keep these safety tips in mind and call Aspen Grove with any questions.

The post Summer Doggy Tips appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

When a question pops into our mind we all do the same thing; we Google it! Google has recently released the ten most searched questions about dogs. So, instead of leaving the answers up to Dr. Google, here are the answers to your questions from the veterinary experts at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care.

While Google is a great tool to assist with research, pet owners should be cautious about believing everything they read on the web. A licensed veterinarian is a pet owner’s best resource for any question relating to their four-legged family members. Here at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care we are happy to answer all of your most serious to merely curious questions.

1. Why do dogs eat grass?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Sometimes an old wives tale is true. Most vets agree that eating grass helps relieve upset stomachs and other gut symptoms. Some dogs, however, seem to simply enjoy the taste especially from early, green moist growth.

2. Do dogs dream?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Yes, dogs dream. Research with EEG scanning conducting while dogs slept support dream activity. If you watch your dog closely, you will notice that they occasionally move their legs as if running, whine, whimper, or even bark, breathe heavily, and have normal rapid eye movements during dream sleep.

3. Why do dogs howl?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: A howl is a nonspecific form of communication behavior. Howls happen with stress or territorial issues. Howling can also simply be a fun activity they do together. Swing by Aspen Grove Doggie Day Care when a train goes by and you’ll see 40 dogs all howling in unison!

4. Why do dogs have whiskers?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Whiskers are modified sensory organs, mostly tactile in function. Touch, air, and vibration stimulate whiskers and send that message to the brain. This likely helps with low light movements during running and hunting. Whiskers are also known to help dogs communicate fear or confidence during encounters with other dogs.

5. Why do dogs chase their tails?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Some tail chasing can be normal play or grooming behavior. It can also be a response to an injury. Consistent tail chasing, however, is abnormal and can fall into behavioral concerns of attention-seeking activity or OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). These abnormal behaviors are likely reinforced by an endorphin release causing a pleasure response in the brain.

6. How to you clean a dog’s ears?
   

   JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: It is important to remember that excessive ear cleaning can be damaging to the ear canal. Never use Q-tips or any instruments into the ear canal.

1. Apply cleanser to ear liberally.
2. Massage solution into ear canal by gently massaging the base of the ear.
3. With a cotton ball over your fingertip, wipe the accessible portion of the ear clean. Let your dog shake out any excess fluid and debris.
4. Clean base of the ear with a dry cotton ball.
5. Repeat if necessary.

**Photographs courtesy of Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine

7. Why are dogs’ noses wet?
   

   JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: A dog’s sense of smell is one of their most remarkable features, and a dog’s wet nose helps to amplify this sense of smell. By excreting a thin layer of mucous across their nose, dogs are able to better absorb the scents they encounter in their environment. Once absorbed into the mucus, a dog can then lick their nose to remove the scent and bring it to the olfactory glands on the roof of their mouths. In addition to amplifying a dog’s sense of smell, a wet nose also helps them to regulate their body temperature. Because dogs lack normal sweat glands throughout their body, they instead rely on secretion of sweat through the pads of their feet and their nose to help cool down.

8. How do you stop dogs from digging?

   MANDY STICKLE, CVT, ON-STAFF PROFESSIONAL TRAINER: Some dogs dig instinctively and when they develop a habit of digging it can be very challenging to train them out of it.  When you first start the process of breaking the digging habit, make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and is never left unattended in the yard for any reason. Invest in a kennel to keep your dog in when you are away from the house. Ensure the kennel is the proper size for your dog. They should be able to stand up and comfortably turn around in it.

   Designate a place for your dog to dig, such as a sand box. To attract your dog to the designated area, regularly toss and bury some milk bones (or other treats!) in sand as this will encourage them to dig.  When your dog digs anywhere else immediately tell them “no” sternly and redirect to the sandbox.  It is extremely important to catch your dog EVERY TIME they try and dig outside the sandbox and redirect them to where they are allowed to dig.

   Go out of your way to praise your dog and make sure they know you are proud of them when they DO dig in the sandbox on their own, or when you encourage them.

9. How do you introduce dogs to … (cats, babies, each other, etc.)?

   MANDY STICKLE, CVT, ON-STAFF PROFESSIONAL TRAINER: Introducing a dog to babies, kids, cats, other dogs, or any other living being for the first time to is very important to do with care. Some dogs are sensitive to new ideas or objects more than other dogs.  For the introduction:

   1 — Take special care to control the environment. Make the room quiet and calming with no distractions (loud music, extra people, etc.).

   2 — Have lots of yummy treats on hand. Start out by giving your dog treats a long distance away from the object (baby, cat, etc.) you are trying to introduce. At this point you should have your dog’s undivided attention.

   3 — If your dog does not look stressed or tense and is easily listening to your commands, move closer to the object

   4 — If your dog is very relaxed, calm, and under verbal control continue moving forward slowly. Have your dog check in with you every few steps to get a treat. Praise them and talk calmly while doing so.

   5 — Any time your dog appears stressed (tense muscles, stiff body, raised hackles, etc.) back up. Do not encourage your dog to move closer. Contact a professional trainer to handle the introduction.

10. Why do dogs bury bones?

    JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: This behavior is less about playtime and more about instinct. Before becoming domesticated, wild dogs would roam their territories in search of food and water. Because meals were unpredictable and often scarce, times when food was in surplus resulted in a need to guard and bury excess supplies. This tactic not only warded off scavengers but would also naturally preserve and age the meal by keeping it in a cool location away from sunlight.

The post 10 Most Googled Dog Questions appeared first on Fort Collins Vet | Aspen Grove Veterinary Clinic.

In 2014, there were more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the U.S. Many of these were caused by substances you probably have in your home, substances that may seem perfectly harmless to you. But just because something is safe for people doesn’t mean it won’t hurt beloved pets. Some of the most dangerous dog poisons are foods and medications we take on a daily basis.

Depending on how a particular substance affects your dog’s body and how much was ingested or inhaled, pet poisoning symptoms can include gastrointestinal and neurological problems, cardiac and respiratory distress, coma, and even death.

No. 1: Medications for people

Drugs that might be beneficial, or even life-saving, for people can have the opposite effect in pets. And it doesn’t always take a large dose to do major damage.

Some of the most common and harmful medications that poison dogs include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers or kidney failure.
• Antidepressants, which may cause vomiting and, in more serious instances, serotonin syndrome – a dangerous condition that raises temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, and may cause seizures.
• Isoniazid, a tuberculosis drug, is difficult for dogs to process. Even one tablet can cause problems in a small dog. Signs of poisoning include seizures and coma.

No. 2: Flea and tick products

You may think you’re doing your dog a favor when you apply products marketed to fight fleas and ticks, but thousands of animals are unintentionally poisoned by these products every year. Problems can occur if dogs accidentally ingest these products or if small dogs receive excessive amounts.

No. 3: People food

Your canine companion may look so cute as he sits there begging for a bite of your chocolate cake or a chip covered in guacamole, but not giving him what he wants could save his life. Animals have different metabolisms than people. Some foods and beverages that are perfectly safe for people can be dangerous, and sometimes fatal, for dogs.

Chocolate

Though not harmful to people, chocolate products contain substances called methylxanthines that can cause vomiting in small doses, and death if ingested in larger quantities. Darker chocolate contains more of these dangerous substances than do white or milk chocolate. The amount of chocolate that could result in death depends on the type of chocolate and the size of the dog. For smaller breeds, just half an ounce of baking chocolate can be fatal, while a larger dog might survive eating 4 to 8 ounces. Coffee and caffeine have similarly dangerous chemicals.

Alcohol

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in animals are similar to those in people, and may include vomiting, breathing problems, coma and, in severe cases, death.

Avocado

You might think of them as healthy, but avocados have a substance called persin that can act as a dog poison, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Macadamia nuts

Dogs may suffer from a series of symptoms, including weakness, overheating, and vomiting, after consumption of macadamia nuts.

Grapes and raisins

Experts aren’t sure why, but these fruits can induce kidney failure in dogs. Even a small number may cause problems in some dogs.

Xylitol

This sweetener is found in many products, including sugar-free gum and candy. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar, resulting in weakness and seizures. Liver failure also has been reported in some dogs.

No. 4: Rat and mouse poison

Rodenticides, if ingested by dogs, can cause severe problems. The symptoms depend on the nature of the poison, and signs may not start for several days after consumption. In some instances, the dog may have eaten the poisoned rodent, and not been directly exposed to the toxin.   

No. 5: Pet medications

Just as we can be sickened or killed by medications intended to help us, cases of pet poisoning by veterinary drugs are not uncommon. Some of the more commonly reported problem medications include painkillers and de-wormers.

No. 6: Household plants

They may be pretty, but plants aren’t necessarily pet friendly. Some of the more toxic plants to dogs include:

• Azaleas and rhododendrons. These pretty flowering plants contain toxins that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, coma, and potentially even death.
• Tulips and daffodils. The bulbs of these plants may cause serious stomach problems, convulsions, and damage to the heart.
• Sago palms. Eating just a few seeds may be enough to cause vomiting, seizures, and liver failure.

No. 7: Chemical hazards

Not surprisingly, chemicals contained in antifreeze, paint thinner, and chemicals for pools can act as dog poison. The pet poisoning symptoms they may produce include stomach upset, depression, and chemical burns.

No. 8: Household cleaners

Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems.

No. 9: Heavy metals

Lead, which may be in paint, linoleum, and batteries, can be poisonous if eaten by your dog, causing gastrointestinal and neurological problems. Zinc poisoning may occur in dogs that swallow pennies, producing symptoms of weakness from severe anemia.

No. 10: Fertilizer

Products for your lawn and garden may be poisonous to pets that ingest them.

What to do for suspected dog poisoning

If you think your dog has been poisoned, try to stay calm. It is important to act quickly, but rationally.

First, gather up any of the potential poison that remains — this may be helpful to your veterinarian and any outside experts who assist with the case. If your dog has vomited, collect the sample in case your veterinarian needs to see it.  Bring your dog in to Urgent Pet Care as soon as possible!

The best way to reduce the chances that your beloved dog will be the victim of pet poisoning is by preventing exposure to dangerous substances.

• Keep all medications, even those in child-proof bottles, in cabinets that are inaccessible to your dog. If you inadvertently drop a pill on the floor, be sure to look for it immediately. Supervise anyone, such as the elderly, who may need help taking medications.
• Always follow guidelines on flea or tick products.
• Although you can give some “people foods” safely to your pets as a treat, others are toxic. If you have any questions about what is safe, ask your veterinarian. Or, err on the safe side and give treats made specifically for animals.
• Be sure any rodenticides you use are kept in metal cabinets or high on shelves where your pets can’t find them. Remember that dogs can be fatally poisoned by eating an exposed rodent, so always be very cautious about using these products. Tell your neighbors if you put out rat bait, so they can protect their pets from exposure, and ask them to do the same for you.
• When buying plants for your home, opt for those that won’t cause problems if your dog happens to nibble on them. The ASPCA has an online list of toxic and nontoxic plants by species. If you choose to have toxic plants, be sure they are kept in a place where your animals can’t reach them.
• Store all chemicals and cleaners in pet-inaccessible areas of your home.

Before starting a parasite preventative, all dogs should be tested for heartworms for several reasons.

• Giving certain types of preventatives to dogs that have an adult heartworm infection can be harmful or even fatal to the pet.

• Heartworm preventatives do not kill the adult heartworms (although they may shorten the worms’ life expectancy). This means an infected dog will remain infected with adult heartworms. Unfortunately, as long as a pet remains infected, heartworm disease will progress and damage your pets heart and lungs, which can lead to life threatening problems. Giving heartworm preventatives to heartworm-positive dogs can mislead an owner into thinking everything is all right, while within a pet, heartworm disease is worsening.

•  The parasite preventative that we recommend, Heartgard, only kills existing immature heartworms introduced to your dog over the past 30 days. It does not protect against worms introduced over 30 days prior to or after the Heartgard chew is consumed. Below is an illustration to better explain what can happen if you start a heartworm preventative without testing first.

What exactly is heartworm?

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a parasitic roundworm that is spread from host to host through the bites of mosquitoes. The heartworm is a type of filaria, a small thread-like worm, that causes filariasis. The definitive host is the dog, but it can also infect cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes and other animals, such as ferrets, sea lions and even, under very rare circumstances, humans. The parasite is commonly called “heartworm”; however, adults often reside in the pulmonary arterial system (lung arteries) as well as the heart, and a major effect on the health of the animal is a manifestation of damage to the lung vessels and tissues. Occasionally, adult heartworms migrate to the right heart and even the great veins in heavy infections. Heartworm infection may result in serious disease for the host, with death typically as the result of congestive heart failure. 

We’ve recently had quite a few clients ask us about leptospirosis so we wanted to clear the air about what exactly this mouthful of a word means. Simply put, leptospirosis is a bacteria that dogs contract from contaminated water which primarily affects the liver or kidneys.

Leptospira bacteria are carried by wildlife such as raccoons, skunk, and deer and are transmitted through urine. Ingestion is the most common means of transmission but some forms of the bacteria can, in fact, penetrate damaged or thin skin. For example, when dogs swim in contaminated water they have a high chance of becoming infected either by drinking the water or through their skin.  The lepto bacterium is also zoonotic, which means it can be transferred to humans.

A common and crucial question we often hear is ‘what should I look for to tell if my dog is infected?’ Although many forms of the bacteria go undetected, other cases can be life threatening. The three main forms of this disease include:

Hemorrhagic Disease (bleeding)

• This form is often fatal
• high fever
• lethargy
• loss of appetite
• multiple small hemorrhages in the mouth and on the whites of the eyes

Icteric or Jaundice Disease (liver)

• begins much like hemorrhagic form with many of the same clinical signs
• yellow color (jaundice) in the mouth and whites of the eyes
• in more severe cases, the skin will turn yellow

Renal Disease (kidney)

• This is the most common form of the disease; it causes kidney failure
• extremely lethargic, anorectic and may vomit
• breath often has an offensive odor
• ulcers on the tongue
• diarrhea, excessive drinking and excessive urination
• may be reluctant to move and show abdominal discomfort

Unfortunately, definitive diagnosis can be difficult because the clinical signs are often ambiguous or can be indicative of multiple diseases.

The good news is that infections are uncommon in areas where vaccinations of dogs are routine. Still, outbreaks of the disease are seen from time to time.

Luckily, vaccines have been developed to help protect dogs against the most prevalent strains. It is important to note that the vaccine for leptospirosis is not considered a Core Vaccine, which means it is not recommended for all dogs.

It’s important to discuss your dog’s lifestyle with your veterinarian during your annual checkup. Do you live near a drainage ditch that holds water? Do you take your dog to the mountains hiking? Do you take your dog to a local dog park with a pond? These are all important questions to assess your dog’s risk of contracting lepto and deciding if the vaccine series is necessary.

Again, leptospirosis can be transmitted to people so pet owners that may have an affected dog should work to avoid contact between bare skin and their dog’s urine. Please be sure to wear rubber gloves when cleaning up any areas the dog may have soiled. The organism is readily killed by household disinfectants or a dilute bleach solution. Please be sure to contact us or visit urgent care if you think your dog may be infected.

When a question pops into our mind we all do the same thing; we Google it! Google has recently released the ten most searched questions about dogs. So, instead of leaving the answers up to Dr. Google, here are the answers to your questions from the veterinary experts at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care.

While Google is a great tool to assist with research, pet owners should be cautious about believing everything they read on the web. A licensed veterinarian is a pet owner’s best resource for any question relating to their four-legged family members. Here at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care we are happy to answer all of your most serious to merely curious questions.

1. Why do dogs eat grass?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Sometimes an old wives tale is true. Most vets agree that eating grass helps relieve upset stomachs and other gut symptoms. Some dogs, however, seem to simply enjoy the taste especially from early, green moist growth.

2. Do dogs dream?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Yes, dogs dream. Research with EEG scanning conducting while dogs slept support dream activity. If you watch your dog closely, you will notice that they occasionally move their legs as if running, whine, whimper, or even bark, breathe heavily, and have normal rapid eye movements during dream sleep.

3. Why do dogs howl?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: A howl is a nonspecific form of communication behavior. Howls happen with stress or territorial issues. Howling can also simply be a fun activity they do together. Swing by Aspen Grove Doggie Day Care when a train goes by and you’ll see 40 dogs all howling in unison!

4. Why do dogs have whiskers?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Whiskers are modified sensory organs, mostly tactile in function. Touch, air, and vibration stimulate whiskers and send that message to the brain. This likely helps with low light movements during running and hunting. Whiskers are also known to help dogs communicate fear or confidence during encounters with other dogs.

5. Why do dogs chase their tails?
   

   BOBBY CAWTHRON, DVM: Some tail chasing can be normal play or grooming behavior. It can also be a response to an injury. Consistent tail chasing, however, is abnormal and can fall into behavioral concerns of attention-seeking activity or OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). These abnormal behaviors are likely reinforced by an endorphin release causing a pleasure response in the brain.

6. How to you clean a dog’s ears?
   

   JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: It is important to remember that excessive ear cleaning can be damaging to the ear canal. Never use Q-tips or any instruments into the ear canal.

1. Apply cleanser to ear liberally.
2. Massage solution into ear canal by gently massaging the base of the ear.
3. With a cotton ball over your fingertip, wipe the accessible portion of the ear clean. Let your dog shake out any excess fluid and debris.
4. Clean base of the ear with a dry cotton ball.
5. Repeat if necessary.

**Photographs courtesy of Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine

7. Why are dogs’ noses wet?
   

   JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: A dog’s sense of smell is one of their most remarkable features, and a dog’s wet nose helps to amplify this sense of smell. By excreting a thin layer of mucous across their nose, dogs are able to better absorb the scents they encounter in their environment. Once absorbed into the mucus, a dog can then lick their nose to remove the scent and bring it to the olfactory glands on the roof of their mouths. In addition to amplifying a dog’s sense of smell, a wet nose also helps them to regulate their body temperature. Because dogs lack normal sweat glands throughout their body, they instead rely on secretion of sweat through the pads of their feet and their nose to help cool down.

8. How do you stop dogs from digging?

   MANDY STICKLE, CVT, ON-STAFF PROFESSIONAL TRAINER: Some dogs dig instinctively and when they develop a habit of digging it can be very challenging to train them out of it.  When you first start the process of breaking the digging habit, make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and is never left unattended in the yard for any reason. Invest in a kennel to keep your dog in when you are away from the house. Ensure the kennel is the proper size for your dog. They should be able to stand up and comfortably turn around in it.

   Designate a place for your dog to dig, such as a sand box. To attract your dog to the designated area, regularly toss and bury some milk bones (or other treats!) in sand as this will encourage them to dig.  When your dog digs anywhere else immediately tell them “no” sternly and redirect to the sandbox.  It is extremely important to catch your dog EVERY TIME they try and dig outside the sandbox and redirect them to where they are allowed to dig.

   Go out of your way to praise your dog and make sure they know you are proud of them when they DO dig in the sandbox on their own, or when you encourage them.

9. How do you introduce dogs to … (cats, babies, each other, etc.)?

   MANDY STICKLE, CVT, ON-STAFF PROFESSIONAL TRAINER: Introducing a dog to babies, kids, cats, other dogs, or any other living being for the first time to is very important to do with care. Some dogs are sensitive to new ideas or objects more than other dogs.  For the introduction:

   1 — Take special care to control the environment. Make the room quiet and calming with no distractions (loud music, extra people, etc.).

   2 — Have lots of yummy treats on hand. Start out by giving your dog treats a long distance away from the object (baby, cat, etc.) you are trying to introduce. At this point you should have your dog’s undivided attention.

   3 — If your dog does not look stressed or tense and is easily listening to your commands, move closer to the object

   4 — If your dog is very relaxed, calm, and under verbal control continue moving forward slowly. Have your dog check in with you every few steps to get a treat. Praise them and talk calmly while doing so.

   5 — Any time your dog appears stressed (tense muscles, stiff body, raised hackles, etc.) back up. Do not encourage your dog to move closer. Contact a professional trainer to handle the introduction.

10. Why do dogs bury bones?

    JULIA DONNELLY, DVM: This behavior is less about playtime and more about instinct. Before becoming domesticated, wild dogs would roam their territories in search of food and water. Because meals were unpredictable and often scarce, times when food was in surplus resulted in a need to guard and bury excess supplies. This tactic not only warded off scavengers but would also naturally preserve and age the meal by keeping it in a cool location away from sunlight.

What is cryptorchidism?

Cryptorchidism is the medical term that refers to the failure of one or both testes (testicles) to descend into the scrotum.

If the testicles aren’t in the scrotum, where are they?

In most cases of cryptorchidism, testicle is retained in the inguinal canal or in the abdomen. In some cases, the testicle may be located in the subcutaneous tissues in the groin region, between the inguinal canal and the scrotum. In cases of abdominal cryptorchidism, the testicle cannot be felt from the outside. Abdominal ultrasound or radiographs may be performed to determine the exact location of the retained testicle.

What causes cryptorchidism?

“The testes develop near the kidneys within the abdomen and normally descend into the scrotum…”

The testes develop near the kidneys within the abdomen and normally descend into the scrotum by two months of age. In certain dogs, it may occur later, but rarely after six months of age. Cryptorchidism may be presumed to be present if the testicles aren’t palpated in the scrotum after two to four months of age. Cryptorchidism occurs in all breeds, but the toy breeds, including toy poodles, Pomeranians and Yorkshire terriers, are at higher risk. Approximately seventy-five percent of the cases of cryptorchidism involve only one retained testicle while the remaining twenty-five percent involve failure of both testicles to descend into the scrotum. The right testicle is more than twice as likely to be retained as the left testicle. Cryptorchidism affects approximately 1.2% of all dogs. The condition appears to be inherited since it is commonly seen in families of dogs, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.

What are the clinical signs of cryptorchidism?

This condition is rarely associated with pain or other clinical signs, until or unless a complication develops. In its early stages, a single retained testicle is significantly smaller than the other, normal testicle. If both testicles are retained, the dog will be less fertile. One complication of cryptorchidism is spermatic cord torsion (twisting onto itself). If this occurs, there will signs consistent with sudden and severe abdominal pain. More frequently, a cryptorchid or retained testicle will become cancerous. The clinical signs associated with testicular cancer depend upon the specific type of cancer.

What is the treatment for cryptorchidism?

Neutering and removal of the retained testicle is recommended as soon as possible.  The procedure normally involves making a second surgical incision over or near the retained testicle. If the retained testicle is intra-abdominal, the second incision will be usually be made along the midline of the abdomen. In effect, your dog will undergo two surgical procedures for neutering instead of one.

What if I don’t want to neuter my dog?

There are two good reasons for neutering a dog with cryptorchidism. The first is to remove the genetic defect from the breed line. Cryptorchid dogs should never be bred. Second, dogs with a retained testicle are more likely to develop a testicular tumor (cancer) in the retained testicle.

“The risk of developing testicular neoplasia is estimated to be at least ten times greater in dogs with cryptorchidism than in normal dogs.”

The risk of developing testicular neoplasia is estimated to be at least ten times greater in dogs with cryptorchidism than in normal dogs. In fact, 53% of all Sertoli cell tumors and 36% of all seminomas occur in retained testicles. Additionally, 36% of all spermatic cord torsions occur in dogs with cryptorchidism. A recent study concluded that a retained testicle, even if replaced in the scrotum surgically, had 13 times higher risk of developing cancer.

What is the prognosis for a dog with cryptorchidism?

The prognosis is excellent for dogs that undergo surgery early, before pathology develops in the retained testicle. The surgery is relatively routine, and the outcomes are overwhelmingly positive. On the other hand, the prognosis for dogs that develop testicular neoplasia is guarded to poor, depending on the specific type of tumor and the dog’s overall health at the time of diagnosis.

This client information sheet is based on material written by: Ernest Ward, DVM © Copyright 2009 Lifelearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.

The post Cryptorchidism appeared first on Aspen Grove Vet.

With all the recent wildfires in Colorado, and Fort Collins specifically, Aspen Grove Vet Care would like to remind you of proper fire safety and prevention for families with pets. Statistics show that half a million pets are affected and 40,000 pets are killed by fires annually.  So before a fire starts, here are some preventative measures to take:

• Create a fire escape plan.  Set up a meeting place and multiple routes in order to exit your house safely and quickly.
• Put a Pet Rescue Fire Safety Sticker on your window.  This will indicate what species of pets you have, and how many, so that firefighters will know who to look for.  You can pick up these stickers (normally free of charge) at any humane society or veterinary office.
• Free your home (and spaces surrounding where your outdoor pets live) of brushy areas.  This will help deplete the fire sources around your home.
• Know your pets hiding places.  The smell of smoke and sound of burning substances are scary for pets.  Most often they will become frightened and hide in a place where they feel secure.  Knowing your pets hiding places will help you find them quickly so that everyone can exit the home.
• Create a pet emergency kit.  This kit should supply your pet with an adequate amount of food, any prescriptions your pet needs and his/her vaccine history in case they need to be boarded.
• Be aware when lighting candles.  Puppy tails and pouncing kittens can make a harmless candle an extreme fire hazard.  Be aware of your pets’ location when candles are lit and place them out of harms’ way.
• Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year.

In the event of a fire in or near your home always remember to secure your pets on a leash or in a carrier to prevent them from running away in fright.  Don’t forget to bring your pet emergency kit, enough food for one week, their favorite toy and/or blanket, a food and water bowl and their ID tags.

Unfortunately, many families do not have enough time to get to a safe place before the fire is upon them.  For this reason, Aspen Grove would like to teach you how to properly care for your pet if they are suffering from smoke inhalation.  Smoke inhalation is a serious medical condition and should not be taken lightly. Chemicals released from burned materials such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and cyanide are dangerous and poisonous for your pet.  Inhalation of these chemicals can result in severe lung injury, burnt airways and death.  The signs of smoke inhalation can include but are not limited to:

• Severe coughing
• Red, inflamed eyes
• Weakness/lethargy
• Depression
• Bright Red, blue or pale mucous membranes
• Singed or burnt hair
• Respiratory distress and/or difficulty breathing
• Gagging/vomiting
• Open-mouth breathing
• Foaming at the mouth
• Seizures
• Squinting
• Skin and/or ocular burns

Assessing the situation is important, but taking your pet to clean, oxygenated air is your priority.  If your pet is still inside the building, loosely drape a wet towel over his/her eyes and nose to prevent further smoke inhalation.  Once out of the burning area, ask the fire personnel for an oxygen mask for your pet; this will reduce your pets’ risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you are not able to take your pet to a veterinarian right away, than place your pet in a steamy room or near a humidifier in order to increase the amount of moisture in their lungs. The amount of damage to your pet may not be apparent for several hours, so take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible for assessment and stabilization.

Hopefully you will never have to deal with the trauma of a fire taking your home.  However, certain preventative measures should be taken if you and your pet are near a wildfire even if you think you are not in harms’ way.  First, decrease the amount of exercise time your pet gets outside.  Avoid dog parks and long walks.  As we all know, pets have a keen sense of smell.  They will be able to smell the smoke from far away and may become irritable or frightened.  Depending on the distance between you and the fire, your pets’ respiratory system may become stressed and gagging/coughing or other symptoms may occur.  Always offer your pet ample amounts of fresh water and of course, give them lots of love!

Your pet care team at Aspen Grove Vet Care hope you have a safe summer and as always, please call us with any questions at 970-416-0232.   And, don’t forget about our new After Hours Pet Emergency hours. Learn more about our After Hours Urgent Care.

The post Pet Safety: Wild Fires & Smoke appeared first on Aspen Grove Vet.

TPLO Knee Surgery for Dogs, Fort Collins

At Aspen Grove Veterinary Care, we offer a comprehensive, all-inclusive dog TPLO surgery package. Click here to learn more.

What and where are the cruciate ligaments?

The word cruciate means “to cross over” or “form a cross.” The cruciate ligaments are two bands of fibrous tissue located within each knee joint. They join the femur and tibia (the bones above and below the knee joint) together so that the knee works as a hinged joint.

One ligament runs from the inside to the outside the knee joint and the other from the outside to the inside, crossing over each other in the middle. In the dog, the ligaments are called the cranial and caudal cruciate ligament. In dogs, the most common knee injury is a rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament.

Humans have a similar anatomical structure to the knee, but the ligaments are called the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is a common knee injury of athletes.

How does a cranial cruciate injury occur?

Based on its anatomy, the knee joint is a “hinge joint”. It is relatively unstable because there are no interlocking bones in the joint. Instead it is held together by several ligaments, including the cruciate ligaments, which allow it to move back and forth like a hinge, but restrict its side-to-side motion.

Acute or traumatic cruciate rupture is caused by a twisting injury to the knee joint. This occurs most often when the dog (or athlete) is running and suddenly changes direction. This places the majority of the body weight on the knee joint, and excessive rotational and shearing forces are placed on the cruciate ligaments. This injury usually affects the anterior or cranial (front) ligament. A cruciate ligament rupture is usually extremely painful and the knee joint becomes unstable, resulting in lameness.

Obese dogs appear to be more predisposed to developing a cruciate rupture. In these dogs, the injury may occur with minor trauma to the knee, such as stumbling over a rock while walking. Dogs with other knee problems such as a luxating patella may also be predisposed to rupturing their cruciate ligaments.

A more chronic form of cruciate damage can occur due to progressive weakening of the ligaments as a result of repeated trauma or arthritic disease. Initially, the ligament becomes stretched or partially torn and lameness may be only slight and intermittent. With continued use of the joint, the condition gradually gets worse until a complete rupture occurs.

How is it diagnosed?

With traumatic cruciate rupture, the usual history is that the dog was running and suddenly stopped or cried out and was then unable to bear weight on the affected leg. Many pets will “toe touch” and place only a small amount of weight on the injured leg.

During the lameness examination, the veterinarian will try to demonstrate a particular movement, called a cranial or anterior drawer sign. This abnormal forward movement of the tibia (lower leg bone) in front of the femur (thigh bone) indicates laxity in the knee joint. It may be necessary to administer a sedative to relax the dog enough that the veterinarian can perform this test. Other diagnostic tests such as radiographs (x-rays) may also be necessary.

Is other joint damage common?

Inside the knee joint are pieces of cartilage called menisci. The menisci act as shock absorbents between the femur and tibia. The menisci are often damaged when the cruciate ligaments rupture. They are usually repaired at the same time as the ligament surgery.

Is an operation always necessary?

Dogs weighing less than 10 kg (22 lbs.) may heal without surgery, provided they have severe exercise restriction such as strict cage rest for six weeks. Dogs over 10 kg (22 lbs.) usually require surgery to stabilize the knee. Unfortunately, most dogs will eventually require surgery to correct this painful injury.

Is post-operative care difficult?

It is important that your dog have limited activity for six to eight weeks after surgery. The activity restriction may be less if a TPLO has been performed. Provided you are able to carry out your veterinarian’s instructions, good function should return to the limb within three months. Unfortunately, regardless of the technique used to stabilize the joint, arthritis is likely to develop in the joint as your dog ages. Arthritis develops more slowly and to a lesser degree if the dog undergoes surgery. Weight control and nutritional supplements such as glucosamine / chondroitin may help delay the onset of arthritis in your pet. Many dogs will receive physical therapy after the surgery to speed recovery and reduce complications. Your veterinarian will discuss your pet’s recommended post-operative care with you prior to surgery.

Is obesity such a problem?

Obesity or excess weight can predispose dogs to cruciate ligament rupture. If your dog is overweight, the post-surgical recovery time will be much longer. Obesity also greatly increases the risk of injury to the other knee, especially during the recuperation period. Weight loss is as important as surgery in ensuring rapid return to normal function, as well as being a preventive measure to help protect your dog against this debilitating injury.
This client information sheet is based on material written by: Ernest Ward, DVM © Copyright 2009 Lifelearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.

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It’s the most wonderful time of year – if you’re a human with an appetite for holiday foods and goodies. If you’re a four-legged friend, the bevy of holiday food can be rough. Many of the treats we enjoy are foods that harm dogs and cats and other pets: Pet insurer Petplan reports a 90 percent spike in food poisoning claims around the holidays.

It’s only natural to want your buddies to join in on the holiday spirit, but be careful – many of your treats may turn out to be foods that harm dogs and cats.

• Chocolate: Most pet owners know that chocolate and pets don’t mix, and science buffs may even know it’s because it contains theobromine, a chemical that can be toxic pets. You get it’s not wise to feed your pets Hershey’s Kisses, but what about those treats they can get into themselves? Make sure candy bowls and other rich chocolaty goodies like fudge are put well out of reach.
• Avocados: Ready to whip up a batch of your secret-recipe guac? Keep it out of the reach of kitty. Avocados, pits (and if you’re growing one in a jar, leaves) can upset your pet’s stomach enough to necessitate a trip to the vet.
• Leftovers: Let’s be real here: Foisting extras into a pet bowl that you wouldn’t want to eat yourself isn’t much of a treat, is it? That alone should convince you not to feed drippings, bones and gristly chunks of meat to your pets, but if it doesn’t, consider that it can cause issues ranging from nausea, and diarrhea to pancreatitis and obstructed GI tracts.
• Booze: Good parents don’t let their two-legged children get into the adult beverages at parties, so don’t let your four-legged ones get away with it either. Pets can get alcohol poisoning just as easy as people, and it takes a lot less to do the trick. Keep untended cocktails out of reach.
• Raisins: Nobody knows why, but raisins and grapes can trigger sudden, acute kidney failure in dogs and cats. Watch out for them in cookies and other treats!
• Macadamia Nuts: They’re a holiday tradition in many homes, but they also cause everything from upset tummies and depression to tremors and joint pain in dogs.
• Onions and Garlic: Even when they’re cooked, onions and garlic (as well as leeks, scallions and chives) contain a chemical that damages dogs’ and cats’ red blood cells, potentially fatally preventing them from carrying oxygen. Messy eaters in the house? Make sure you keep ranging pets away from the floor.

Look outside your kitchen if you want to treat your pet. Your favorite pet store is certain to be stocked with edible treats, safe toys and other goodies designed to keep your furry, feathered or scaled favorite out of the emergency room.

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Can your pet make you sick? The simple answer is, yes, they can. There’s actually a whole category of diseases we talk about in the human/animal world that are called Zoonoses. Zoonoses are infectious diseases of animals (usually vertebrates) that can naturally be transmitted to humans. The big ones we always talk about include bacterial, fungal and viral infections. But, a lot of people don’t think about parasites and that is a common one. Parasites are living organisms that can infest our pets and can sometimes get transferred to us. A lot of people worry about this, but we don’t see a lot of disease. There are not a lot of stories of pets creating problems in our society. Part of the reason for that is just common hygiene. This is probably the reason kids often get more affected than adults.

Although there are risks, they are not huge when you take the appropriate precautions. Often times, the benefits of owning a pet greatly outweigh any potential health issues.

Studies have shown that pet owners are healthier, have better blood pressure & better cholesterol. Owning a pet gives owners more opportunity for exercise and socialization. Also keep in mind that kids that grow up with pets tend to have less allergies.

How to Keep Your Pet (and Yourself) Healthy

• Practice Good Hygiene: Take care of yourself and always wash your hands after handling your pets and cleaning up after them.
• Maintain Your Pet’s Health: Make sure your pet is getting good veterinary care, they are up to date on their vaccinations and getting those preventative products that protect agains fleas, ticks and internal parasites.

For more information on this and other topics, visit us at aspengrovevet.com

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