Elderly cats often become thinner. Weight loss can be a sign of a medical problem such as an overactive thyroid gland. It can also be caused by a decline of kidney or liver function, which is a more serious condition. Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[1]="Caring for Older Cats
Elderly cats often become thinner. Weight loss can be a sign of a medical problem such as an overactive thyroid gland. It can also be caused by a decline of kidney or liver function, which is a more serious condition.
Constipation is another typical problem in elderly cats. It can be prevented by adding fiber to the diet.
Because your elderly cat may be getting less exercise and grooming herself less frequently, her nails may become overgrown, but hyperthyroidism sometimes causes nail growth so have your vet examine her. More
"; quotes[2]="Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[3]="Eye Problems in Cats
Though basically similar in structure to the human eye, the cat's eye has a number of significant differences. Cats need only a sixth as much light as humans do to be able to make out shapes and movements. Another feature of the cat's eye is the nictitating membrne, a 'third eyelid' in the inner corner of the eye that acts as a protective screen. If the third eyelid is visible, it may indicate that the cat has an eye injury, is suffering from dehydration, infection, or possible stress, or is sedated. Any changes you notice in your cat's eyes should be investigated by your vet as soon as possible.
Eye Diseases Cats can suffer from three serious diseases of the eye, all of which cn progress to blindness. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma. If you suspect the sudden onset of blindness, see your vet without delay--it may be possible to restore your cat's sight with treatment. More about cat eye problems
"; quotes[4]="Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[5]="Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[6]="Teaching 'STAY' Command
You have taught your dog how to sit, and now you must accustom him to the fact that you are going to move away and he must remain there. It is really nothing but a matter of patience and repetition. You may have to work by inches. Eventually, the dog should remain sitting no matter how far away you may go, or however long you are away. More
"; quotes[7]="Teaching Basic Commands
You have taught your dog how to sit, and now you must accustom him to the fact that you are going to move away and he must remain there. It is really nothing but a matter of patience and repetition. You may have to work by inches. Eventually, the dog should remain sitting no matter how far away you may go, or however long you are away. More
"; quotes[8]="A SKUNKY PROBLEM
HAve you noticed your dog dragging his rump along the floor? If so, it is likely that his anal sacs are impacted or possibly infected. The anal sacs are small pouches located on both sides of the anus under the skin and muscles. They are about the size and shape of a grape and contain a foul-smelling liquid. Their contents are usually emptied when the dog has a bowel movement but, if not emptied completely, they will impact, which will cause your dog much pain. Fortunately, your veterinarian can tend to this problem easily by draining the sacs for the dog. Be aware that your dog might also empty his anal sacs in cases of extreme fright. More
"; quotes[9]="A SKUNKY PROBLEM
HAve you noticed your dog dragging his rump along the floor? If so, it is likely that his anal sacs are impacted or possibly infected. The anal sacs are small pouches located on both sides of the anus under the skin and muscles. They are about the size and shape of a grape and contain a foul-smelling liquid. Their contents are usually emptied when the dog has a bowel movement but, if not emptied completely, they will impact, which will cause your dog much pain. Fortunately, your veterinarian can tend to this problem easily by draining the sacs for the dog. Be aware that your dog might also empty his anal sacs in cases of extreme fright. More
"; quotes[10]="A SKUNKY PROBLEM
HAve you noticed your dog dragging his rump along the floor? If so, it is likely that his anal sacs are impacted or possibly infected. The anal sacs are small pouches located on both sides of the anus under the skin and muscles. They are about the size and shape of a grape and contain a foul-smelling liquid. Their contents are usually emptied when the dog has a bowel movement but, if not emptied completely, they will impact, which will cause your dog much pain. Fortunately, your veterinarian can tend to this problem easily by draining the sacs for the dog. Be aware that your dog might also empty his anal sacs in cases of extreme fright. More
"; quotes[11]="ASPERGILLOSIS
Fungal infections are a common cause of nasal disease in dogs and cats. Canine nasal aspergillosis (inflammation of the nasal passages caused by fungi) is a relatively common disease in dogs. Aspergillus fumigatus is the species most commonly isolated from infections in the nasal cavities of affected animals. However, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus nidulans, and Aspergillus flavus have also been recovered from this location. The infection is associated with production of dermonecrotic toxin which causes destruction and erosion of tissues of the nasal cavities. More
"; quotes[12]="BABESIOSIS
Babesiosis is an important tropical tick-borne haemoprotozoan disease in dogs. Canine babesiosis is an infection caused by tick-borne hematozoan Babesia canis or Babesia gibsoni, which occurs most commonly in southern US, Arkansas, Florida, Arizona, and Oklahoma. Infections are most likely to occur in dogs less than 1 year of age. The disease is transmitted by Ixodid ticks. Once infected, the Babesia organisms multiply within erythrocytes. The infection has been associated with the fading puppy syndrome. More
"; quotes[13]="Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism, an abnormal increase in the production of the parathyroid hormone, robs the bones of calcium. These bones become weak and brittle and are easily broken. Parathyroid hormone is normally released in response to low blood calcium and maintains a normal blood calcium/phosphorus ratio. However, in diseased dogs the mineral balance is askew and affects the dog's ability to efficiently support the body systems. There are two types of hyperparathyroidism -- primary and secondary. More
"; quotes[14]="Canine Brucellosis
Canine brucellosis is a contagious infection produced by a gram-negative coccobacilus called Brucella canis. Brucellosis can infect cattle, sheep, goats, dogs and humans as well as pigs. Cats, however, seem to be somewhat resistant to the bacteria. The main sources of infection are vaginal fluids of infected females and urine in males. Infection with Brucella canis in dogs leads to abortion, infection of the sexual organs in males, and infertility. There are six species of Brucella and the dog is mostly concerned with Brucella canis. More
"; quotes[15]="Bacterial Endocarditis
Bacterial endocarditis, also called infectious endocarditis, (IE) is a disease of primarily middle-aged to older, large-breed dogs that is associated with high morbidity and mortality. It presents many challenges with respect to diagnosis and effective treatment. The endocardium is the thin membrane that lines the heart cavity. Infection of endocardium typically involves one of the heart valves, although endocarditis of the cavity's wall may also develop. Infection is caused by bacteria carried in the blood. The infection gradually destroys the valve and keeps it from working properly. More
"; quotes[16]="Canine Arthritis
NSAIDs are the most commonly recommended by veterinarians for the treatment of musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions. These drugs can make it possible to reduce and terminate other medications that have more severe side affects, such as corticosteroids. Several new treatments of arthritis are making their debut. In many ways the most important part of arthritis treatment is to give your pet supplements to ensure a healthy and full life expectancy. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, enhanced by other nutritional supplements and herbs, can make a major difference in the health of joint tissues when given consistently. More
"; quotes[17]="NSAIDs and Arthritis
NSAIDs are the most commonly recommended by veterinarians for the treatment of musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions. These drugs can make it possible to reduce and terminate other medications that have more severe side affects, such as corticosteroids. In addition to the side effects, there is another, potentially serious concern related to NSAIDs. Based on animal experiments, there is evidence that NSAIDs can actually damage cartilage. More
"; quotes[18]="Chagas' Disease
Chagas' disease is caused by infection with a protozoa of the genus Trypanosoma, which affect all domestic animals. Domestic animals can be a source of human infection. Affected dogs may die suddenly or have long- or short-term inflammation of the heart muscle. Two clinical forms of the disease are recognized, acute and chronic. During the acute stage pathological damage is related to the presence of the parasite, whereas in the chronic stage few parasites are found. Current therapy for Chagas' disease is not always effective and is limited by frequent and severe side effects. In one study, the effect of deltamethrin-treated dog collars (DTDCs) were evaluated over time on the population dynamics of Triatoma infestans, a main T. cruzi insect that transmits the protozoan infection. Bugs exposed to dogs wearing those collars became extinct 77–196 days after study initiation. Even a single exposure of bugs to dogs wearing deltamethrin-treated dog collars (DTDCs) significantly reduced feeding success of triatomine bugs. More
"; quotes[19]="Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a fungal disease that affects mucous membranes and the skin. It is most commonly caused by species of the yeast-like fungus, Candida albicans. The genus Candida is comprised of approximately 200 species. This group is ubiquitous, found on many plants, and is normal flora in the gastrointestinal tract and external genitalia of humans, dogs, and cats. The organism becomes pathogenic (causes disease) when conditions favor excessive growth. when a patient's immune system is compromised or when a malignant tumor is present. Candida albicans and C. parapsillosis are the most common isolates from normal dogs. Factors thought to promote candidal urinary tract infections in dogs, cats, and humans include antibiotic administration, decreased cellular defense mechanisms after glucocorticoid administration or radiation exposure, and local alterations in the urinary tract environment due to diabetes mellitus, acidic urine pH, or urinary catheters. Fungal infections of the urinary tract have been uncommonly recognized in dogs and cats. In general, less than 1% of all urinary tract infections are thought to be caused by fungi. Because bacteria are commonly associated with urinary tract disorders, fungal cultures may not be performed. More
"; quotes[20]="Caring for Older Cats
Elderly cats often become thinner. Weight loss can be a sign of a medical problem such as an overactive thyroid gland. It can also be caused by a decline of kidney or liver function, which is a more serious condition.
Constipation is another typical problem in elderly cats. It can be prevented by adding fiber to the diet.
Because your elderly cat may be getting less exercise and grooming herself less frequently, her nails may become overgrown, but hyperthyroidism sometimes causes nail growth so have your vet examine her. More
"; quotes[21]="Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[22]="Basic Training: Jumping
There are many flashy tricks your dog can perform if he learns to jump on command. You must proceed slowly and build his confidence. It is very important that he never finds out that there's an alternative to the jump. The easiest way to start your dog jumping is by placing a board in a door way. Here the situation is set up so that if the dog wants to get from one room to another, he will have to go over the board. He cannot go around it or under it. He cannot find another entrance into that room in the first place--you will.
Jump Through a Hoop
Place you hoop in the doorway. The principle is as follows: the dog may not avoid the hoop to get to you or elsewhere. Each practice session, give him a warm-up with the hoop quite low before you ask him to jump as high as he is able.More
"; quotes[23]="Eye Problems in Cats
Though basically similar in structure to the human eye, the cat's eye has a number of significant differences. Cats need only a sixth as much light as humans do to be able to make out shapes and movements. Another feature of the cat's eye is the nictitating membrne, a 'third eyelid' in the inner corner of the eye that acts as a protective screen. If the third eyelid is visible, it may indicate that the cat has an eye injury, is suffering from dehydration, infection, or possible stress, or is sedated. Any changes you notice in your cat's eyes should be investigated by your vet as soon as possible.
Eye Diseases Cats can suffer from three serious diseases of the eye, all of which cn progress to blindness. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma. If you suspect the sudden onset of blindness, see your vet without delay--it may be possible to restore your cat's sight with treatment. More about cat eye problems
"; quotes[24]="Heart Failure
The overall incidence of heart disease in dogs is approximately 10%. Unlike humans, coronary heart disease and thrombosis of the heart are rare in dogs. The main problems are due to valvular defects, weakening heart muscle or irregular heart rhythm.
Heart disease can be classified into defects that dogs are born with (congenital) or diseases that arise during adult life (adult heart disease). The majority of dogs suffer from adult heart disease, although 1% of dogs present wth signs of congenital heart disease.
Heart disease is usually present before the dog displays any signs, or even before he is actually suffering from heart failure. Your vet will often be able to detect signs of heart disease by listening for heart murmurs and rhythm abnormalities. More
"; quotes[25]="Heart Failure
The overall incidence of heart disease in dogs is approximately 10%. Unlike humans, coronary heart disease and thrombosis of the heart are rare in dogs. The main problems are due to valvular defects, weakening heart muscle or irregular heart rhythm.
Heart disease can be classified into defects that dogs are born with (congenital) or diseases that arise during adult life (adult heart disease). The majority of dogs suffer from adult heart disease, although 1% of dogs present wth signs of congenital heart disease.
Heart disease is usually present before the dog displays any signs, or even before he is actually suffering from heart failure. Your vet will often be able to detect signs of heart disease by listening for heart murmurs and rhythm abnormalities. More
"; quotes[26]="Canine Nasal Aspergillosis
Chronic nasal discharge is a common clinical sign of disease in dogs. Nasal infection is most likely to occur in dogs that are 3 years old or younger. Profuse pus-filled discharge that is not responsive to antimicrobial medications and ulcerations of the external nares are the most common clinical signs seen in dogs with established infection. There is also a more rare, disseminated form of aspergillosis involving primarily the skeletal and the cardiopulmonary system in humans and dogs. Affected tissue may include brain, heart, kidneys, spleen, lymph nodes and bones. Canine nasal aspergillosis (inflammation of the nasal passages caused by a variety of fungi) is a relatively common disease in dogs. There are two form of aspergillosis. Althogh the condition is not life-threatening, it often results in severe clinical signs, such as extensive foul-smelling nasal discharge, chronic sneezing and frequent pawing and rubbing at the face, and nosebleeds (epistaxis). More
"; quotes[27]="American Canine Hepatozoonosis
American canine hepatozoonosis (ACH) is an emerging disease of dogs in the south-central and southeastern United States. It is a highly debilitating, tick-borne malady that is spread not by the bite of ticks but by dogs ingesting infected ticks. Transmission of ACH occurs via ingestion of infected Amblyomma maculatum, the Gulf Coast tick. Dogs are infected by ingesting ticks that contain sporulated oocysts, 5,6 but not by infected ticks taking a blood meal from a dog. Dogs may be infected by ingesting ticks during grooming behavior or eating prey that has attached ticks. When a dog ingests the tick, the sporozoites (very small mobile spores) are released. It is suspected that a sporozoite invades a leukocyte host cell and is transported via the blood to skeletal or cardiac muscle. Dogs with ACH may experience intense pain and become reluctant to move. Therefore, efforts must be made to ensure that affected animals remain hydrated and that food is readily accessible. Supportive care is important. More
"; quotes[28]="Canine and Feline Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is caused by a Gram-positive yeast that has worldwide distribution with an increased incidence in temperate regions such as southern California and Australia. It affects numerous species, including dogs, cats, and humans. The four groups of organs affected are the respiratory tract, central nervous system, eyes, and skin. The clinical signs, therefore, depend on the system(s) affected. Respiratory infections (seen in > 80% of cases) are characterized by sneezing, nasal discharge (pus-filled, bloody, or clear), swelling underneath the skin in the nasal area, mouth lesions, and swelling of lymph nodes. Neurological signs vary with the location of the lesion and can include depression, poor movement coordination, seizures, partial paralysis, and blindness. Eye abnormalities predominately affect the retina, choroid, and optic nerve. More
"; quotes[29]="Sporotrichosis
Sporotrichosis is a chronic, contagious disease caused by Sporothrix schenckii. The organism occurs in two forms: it grows as mold in soil and as yeast in skin. It is distributed worldwide and is particularly common in tropics, where high humidity and temperatures promote fungal growth. In dogs, sporotrichosis is typically a multinodular disease; the nodules resemble those seen in other species. The lesions often occur on trunk and head but may also be present on the limbs. Cording of lymphatics may be seen. In some cases, the lesions are found in the bones, liver, or lungs rather than the skin. Among dogs, this disease is seen most often in hunting dogs or other dogs frequently exposed to thorns and splinters. More
"; quotes[30]=""; authors[0]="Erma Bombeck"; document.write('PET ARTICLE OF THE DAY
' + quotes[d.getDate()-1] + '');