A study has shown dogs can detect stress hormones in sweat and breath samples and differentiate those from baseline samples. The research highlights that dogs do not need visual or audio cues to pick up on human stress. The findings show that we, as humans, produce different smells through our sweat and breath when we are stressed and dogs can tell this apart from our smell … [Read more...]
Archives for May 2023
Veterinarians advise pet owners about rare fungal infection that can affect pets (video)
“Blastomycosis is a fungal organism that animals can pick up from humus-type soil. So, riverbeds, lakes, streams, and swamp areas are very common areas that they can get exposed to it,” shared Edward Brauer II, DVM. He advises pet owners to avoid wet, swampy areas when walking their pets as the weather gets warmer. Source: WMTV Madison, May 6, 2023. Link. The organism is … [Read more...]
Correcting misconceptions about allergy testing in cats
There’s no simple test for figuring out what substance(s) a cat is allergic to and then treating from there. Ramón Almela, DVM, says diagnosing an allergy is often an indirect process that requires time and patience. Blood test or skin prick test? Neither.” Source: Tuft’s Catnip, March 22, 2023. Link. Almela outlines the three treatment options currently available for cats … [Read more...]
Exploring the benefits of mucosal vaccine technology
Complimentary Sponsored Content Amy Stone, DVM, PhD, joins Chats with the Chatfields to explore mucosal vaccines and their impact on veterinary and human medicine. Discussing applications in protecting pets and humans alike, Stone and the Chatfields review the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for mucosal vaccines, the future of vaccine research and potential in … [Read more...]
Stop wasting money on biodegradable dog poop bags
Includes Commercial References Picture this, writes Kristin Hostetter: one thousand football fields lined up in a row, each one filled with dog feces a foot deep. It’s not a pleasant thought, but that’s how much waste our canine pets create each year in the U.S. Painting a disturbing picture of dog excrement as a waste dilemma, she shares various choices and shares her … [Read more...]
Instacart delivery data reveals pet-related purchase data
We found this to be a unique look at pet food and pet treats brands sold via Instacart’s home delivery service. They also share other pet items they deliver, including hay for small animals and bird food. Source: Instacart, May 23, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – May 22, 2023
Pet tech hardware as positive disruption, pet inflation update, dog anxiety, automating financial processes, companion animal nutrition research, new ingredient launches to to address metabolic health, natural product preservation and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, May 22, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Set these 5 boundaries before you go on vacation
Research and commentary dating back to the 1910s shows that taking vacations, i.e. completely disconnecting from work, is critical to lowering burnout, increasing energy and engagement, and improving overall health and well-being. The results lead to more consistent productivity, writes Marlo Lyons. Easier said than done, Lyons shares five tips to set firm boundaries in a … [Read more...]
How to talk to your team about their career development
Inherent in a leadership role is the responsibility to help your team members determine their career goals, grow within your organization and continue to feel engaged at work. It is important to talk about development early as lack of career development is among the top reasons individuals leave their current positions. Career development conversations between managers and … [Read more...]
Your life partner is the biggest career choice you’ll ever make. How to get it right.
Commentary A family member recently shared some of the reasons for changes in her career choices. On a fast track at the time she married her husband, 80- and 90-hour work weeks were normal. Dates for the couple took place on the way to and from work, or during breaks in her work events. The pandemic abruptly ended the work gauntlet and allowed the couple to find each … [Read more...]
Set clear, actionable goals for yourself
While the thrust of this article is goals for a business, you are a business and will benefit by having clear and actionable goals for yourself. Source: Bplans, June 2018. Link. You don’t have employees, but you do have a team that could include your spouse, children, parents, mentor, college friend, co-workers etc. INSIGHT: If you don’t know where you are going, how will … [Read more...]
Pay transparency laws: What small businesses need to know
Eight states have adopted pay transparency laws, writes Olivia Chen. Employer requirements vary based on number of employees in those states. As it currently stands, companies subject to pay transparency laws must post a "good faith" salary range, meaning a range that they reasonably expect they will pay for the role. However, that can still be negotiated in either direction … [Read more...]
Don’t be afraid to ask the sensitive questions
Commentary The ability to ask questions is not reserved for interviewers or leaders. Questioning is a way we can understand another point of view other than our own. We asked Patrick T. Malone to review and comment on Benjamin Kessler’s article which shares information from research done by Einav Hart, BA, MA, PhD. Malone’s comments and Kessler’s article are linked … [Read more...]
We are the advocates
Acknowledging the challenges veterinarians face, Marc Rosenberg, VMD, shares a fictitious story based on real occurrences where a veterinarian had to step in, set aside fears of client alienation and address an animal’s needs head-on. His story is about animal abuse and it underscores the role of veterinarians, veterinary teams and animal health pros as animal health … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – May 18, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, May 11th, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from May 11th AHD Bulletin – Apologize properly when something goes wrong. Link. Cope wth work stress appropriately. Link. Your manners may need a makeover. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy Vets. Link. Have you tried it … [Read more...]
Nine states have more cows than people
May is National Beef Month. As of January 1, 2023 there were 91.9 million head of cattle and calves on farms in the United States according to the USDA. In Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wyoming cows are more numerous than people. There is one cow for every 3.6 people in the U.S.” Source: Beef2Live, April 16, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Lab-grown meat could be 25 times worse for the climate than beef
Lab-grown or “cultivated” meat produced from cultured cells could be 25 times worse for the climate than regular beef unless scientists find ways to overhaul energy-intensive steps in its production. Source: New Scientist, May 9, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
More is not always better
Managing individual herd health requires thought and diligence from producers and the veterinarians who advise them. Mark Hilton, DVM, shares a thought-provoking perspective on optimizing herd health processes, as it relates to vaccination, antibiotics and deworming. The key takeaway? Include the veterinarian before making a change. . . . if something needs to be eliminated or … [Read more...]
Communal wound licking documented in a hoofed mammal for the first time
American bison have been observed licking each other’s wounds, a stress-reducing behavior not documented in a hoofed mammal until now. While female bison have been observed grooming unrelated calves, reports of animals licking the wounds of others have largely been limited to captive rats and wild primates, such as chimpanzees. Source: New Scientist, May 6, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
And the green grass grows all around . . . but wait!
Spring! Pastures and hayfields are greening up. Lush stands of grass push skyward after a nice rain. A few seed heads start to develop and our noses get ready for that smell of the first cutting of hay. But wait . . . upon closer inspection, “oh no, ergot [ur-guht]!” Ergot is a fungus (Claviceps purpurea) that contaminates rye and wheat and produces substances called … [Read more...]
Can we keep roosters together as chicks grow up?
Citing her own experiences, Jennifer Sartell shares ways to deal with the likelihood of more than one rooster as Easter chicks mature. Reminding us that chickens will be chickens and there is no hard and fast rule, she offers ways to keep the boys happy without having to get rid of the extra roosters. . . . if you’re keeping roosters, have options handy.” Source: Backyard … [Read more...]
Battling the equine sarcoid
Sarcoids are the most common tumor in equids worldwide. However, no perfect treatment exists, writes Elizabeth Collar, DVM, PhD, DACVS-LA. She reviews possible treatment options for the wide range of variables that are present with each tumor. The article includes pictures that demonstrate tumors, treatments and treatment complications. Source: DVM 360, May 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Remember the sunscreen for pets, too
UV rays can be harmful to pets just as they are for us. Traci Howerton’s article is a reminder that can easily be shared with pet owners on social media and in newsletters. Lighter coated dogs and cats are more likely to get a burn although noses, ears and bellies of any pet can get burned. Source: The Advocate, via AVMA Animal Health SmartBrief, May 15, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Don’t let hot asphalt burn Fido’s paws
It’s the time of year when things get hot, especially asphalt. Even when the air temperature is a relatively low 77° F, asphalt can hit 125° F and can burn dogs’ feet. This timeless advice from FOUR PAWS International includes a chart, burn symptons and burn treatment recommendations. Source: FOUR PAWS International, June 28, 2019. Link. There is a simple test which you can … [Read more...]
Akorn drugs must be discarded due to bankruptcy
Akorn Operating Company LLC filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on February 23, 2023. The Akorn Trustee is initiating a voluntary recall of various within-expiry human and animal products as a result of the closures and discontinuation of the quality activities of these marketed products. There are nine veterinary-specific drugs on Akorn's recall list while another 75 drugs … [Read more...]
Pet Business Special Report: The latest science behind CBD and hemp
Contains Commercial Content Nora Caley reviews the cannabidiol pet market segment sharing information from manufacturers who are conducting research to understand and support empirical evidence relative to the benefits and safety of the various products and plant sources. She also discusses some of the marketing challenges and methods used to promote CBD. Source: Pet … [Read more...]
The Bridge Club to discuss affect of new VCPR legislative efforts
The recent Arizona decision to legalize a virtual VCPR raises many questions about the future of the VCPR and telemedicine. To shed light on this topic, The Bridge Club will host a crucial conversation on June 8th to explore the affect of Arizona’s decision on veterinary medicine, access to care and ongoing state battles regarding the value of veterinary telemedicine. Join … [Read more...]
PANOQUELL®-CA1 (fuzapladib sodium for injection) is now available in the U.S.
Complimentary Commercial Content Ceva Animal Health U.S. announced PANOQUELL®-CA1 is now available in the U.S. It is the first and only drug conditionally approved by the FDA for management of the symptoms associated with acute onset of canine pancreatitis. The drug will address the inflammation associated with acute onset of canine pancreatitis, an important, unmet … [Read more...]
Veterinary Care Logistics announces inaugural Inventory Manager Appreciation Day
Complimentary Content Nominations for the first Inventory Manager of the Year award open on June 7, 2023. Help Nicole spread the word to celebrate the work done by veterinary inventory managers. Inventory management is a crucial element of running a successful veterinary practice and the people in this role deserve a day to be celebrated!” – Nicole Clausen, CSSGB, CCFP, … [Read more...]
What approval of Librela™ (bedinvetmab injection) for canine OA treatment means for dogs
Complimentary Commercial Content The availability of an effective, non-NSAID monthly treatment for canine osteoarthritis pain is an exciting advance for everyone who cares about improving quality of life for dogs, owners and veterinary professionals, writes Kristen Green Seymour. She provides perspective on the significance of the approval Zoetis received for Librela™ … [Read more...]