“These days, many houses are built for energy efficiency. This can mean fewer fresh air opportunities for people or their pets,” says Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM. “Stale air can adversely affect health. Stale air has higher levels of carbon dioxide, possibly carbon monoxide and other waste gases. Higher wastes mean less oxygen availability.” The article includes information about … [Read more...]
Health problems can cause behavior changes in dogs
Carol Osborne, DVM, says a change in a dog’s normal behavior is a red flag. Most people assume that unusual behavior is caused by stress, boredom or some other external situation. However, it could also signal a medical condition. She discusses behavior aberrations and conditions that could be underlying causes. Source: Animal Wellness Magazine, January 26, 2020. Link The … [Read more...]
A crucial blind spot in vet medicine
A reader sent us this article. The placebo effect is a well-established phenomenon in human patients. In veterinary medicine however, it’s an underappreciated one. The particular way it plays out in veterinary care highlights how unconscious cognitive biases can mislead humans when we care for other species. The most likely explanation is what’s known as the caregiver … [Read more...]
Labor challenges are the norm for livestock employees
Farm Journal’s survey of more than 2,000 farmers, ranchers and dairy producers reveals challenges of ag workers. From the workers’ perspective, getting paid a good wage, paid time off and employer-subsidized benefits top the list of preferences. Employers find increasingly difficult to find qualified candidates and to maintain profitability before increasing wages or adding … [Read more...]
Egg in an egg, a double egg phenomena (video)
Animals do the darndest things. While rare, it is well-known that a hen will occasionally lay an egg inside of an egg. Called a counter-peristalsis contraction, a double egg occurs while the hen is in the process of forming an egg in her oviduct. Source: Backyard Poultry, January 7, 2020. Link. A tiny, fully formed egg was found inside of a regular-sized egg in Britain. This … [Read more...]
Thoroughbred sales auctions announce reforms for 2-year-old sales
Keeneland, Fasig-Tipton, and Ocala Breeders' Sales jointly announced important changes to policies regarding medication. They include restriction of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and a ban on bronchodilators at all 2-year-old sales, plus limited use of riding crops. We continue to refine and adapt our policies with the overriding goal of protecting both the … [Read more...]
Jet lag survival guide
Jet lag is considered a temporary sleep disorder and isn’t serious, shares Emma Dell. But it can be seriously inconvenient or uncomfortable. The human body isn’t built to travel long distances quickly. It needs time to make the proper adjustments to simple biological timekeepers. Dell offers tips to deal with jet lag. Source: The Discoverer Blog. Link. The general rule of … [Read more...]
Good news for pets: January edition
LeAnn Germinder shares some high spots from our industry and VMX. There is even recognition for the Kansas City Chiefs’ effort to earn a spot to compete for Super Bowl LIV. Source: Good News for Pets, January 2020. Link. Noted are the AVMA Media Award to Steve Dale, an interview with DWAA's Carol Bryant and the VMX2020 announcement of Embrace and VMX Virtual. … [Read more...]
Orange tabby cats: fun facts
All orange cats are tabbies, but not all tabbies are orange. Denise LeBeau shares why tabbies are 80 percent male, what the “M” marking is for and their loud personality among other facts. Source: Catster, January 15, 2020. Link. Morris and Garfield are just a few of the iconic orange tabby cats that are part of our culture’s collective cat consciousness. Beyond the bright … [Read more...]
New AVMA guidelines for animal euthanasia
The 2020 guidelines feature the latest research, information and member input to provide veterinarians with science-based and sound guidance for relieving the suffering and pain of animals to be euthanized. This new version is the 9th edition since 1963 and updates the 2013 version. Source: AVMA, January 15, 2020. Link. The guidelines are intended to support veterinarians, … [Read more...]
Brrrrr! How cold is too cold for pets?
Some people think that because pets have fur coats they can stand freezing temperatures better than humans. But, pets are just as susceptible to hypothermia and other cold injuries as humans. Here are resources that can be used on social media and in newsletters. Pet owner reminder example: Do not let your pet stay outside for an extended period of time and make sure to … [Read more...]
Stress-free air travel tips
Cramped, chilly or hot, noisy planes can make air travel a real hassle. Consumer Reports offers some no- or low-cost tips to consider for your upcoming trips. Animal health pros who travel infrequently may find something to make the travel to upcoming conventions less stressful. Source: Consumer Reports, February 2020. Link. See information on air pressure, seat choices, … [Read more...]
20 questions for 2020
A modern version of the classic game, 20 Questions, can help clarify key accountabilities for each position within an organization. Used properly, this new edition helps deliver return on investment for an organization’s most important asset – its people. Source: Purpose Unlimited. Link. Coupled with assessments, it helps hire the right person to fit the role (question 19) … [Read more...]
Cats and laser pointers: adjusting the use
The problem with laser pointers is that they lack an endpoint. Nothing is ever physically caught. Even if the cat is “successful,” there's no reward. Such pointless play, says John Ciribassi, DVM, DACVB, can cause some cats to develop a compulsive disorder. Cat owners will find this video valuable. Post it on social media or link to it in newsletters. Source: DVM 360, … [Read more...]
Fear-free poop sampling
Gathering a poop sample doesn’t have to be stressful for the pet owner, writes Marty Becker, DVM. He reminds us that fecal sampling is good medicine and shares a simple, mess-free method of collecting them. Source: Fear Free Happy Homes, December 10, 2019. Link. Some pet owners question the need for frequent fecal testing, but it’s important to understand that dogs and cats … [Read more...]
The dangers of ice melts
Two ounces of ice melt containing sodium chloride could kill a four-pound dog, according to Accuweather < link >. The main ingredient in most ice melt products is either sodium chloride or calcium chloride. Both can irritate a dog's paws or be harmful to the animal if ingested. Ice melts pose a problem with both oral ingestion and dermal contact.” - Pet Poison … [Read more...]
Justin Bieber reveals he’s battling Lyme disease
Celebrity status often makes disease risks seem more real. Bieber’s struggle with Lyme may help animal health pros discuss the need for tick control on animals as well as around premises. Never say never! 😉 Source: CNN, January 9, 2020. Link. … [Read more...]
Video: AKC announces 2 new dog breeds
Warning! You might fall in love with the new Barbet or Argentino breed of dogs. Source: CNN, January 3, 2020. Link. … [Read more...]
Video: Banfield launches free suicide training
Banfield has created the first suicide-prevention training designed specifically for veterinary professionals to help curb the industry suicide crisis. The interactive e-learning program, ASK, is an acronym for assess, support, know. The training is available at no charge, compliments of Banfield Pet Hospital. Source: NAVC Spark, January 6, 2020. Link. Male veterinarians are … [Read more...]
Racehorses; from puppy dog to grenade (video)
Liz Brown shares her experience and fears about riding a Thoroughbred at full gallop. Fears aside, she says she still recommends galloping a racehorse if you get the chance. It’s all about the experience. Source: Five things I learned galloping a racehorse, Horse Network. Link. … [Read more...]
Chatting with the farrier
Natalie Voss shares some questions to ask the farrier while holding a horse instead of just being quiet. Here’s a sample: When do I call you? What should I be watching for this season? Do I see you enough? Source: AcreageLife, February 2020. Link. INSIGHTS: Good information to share on social media and in newsletters. … [Read more...]
Winter goat care
Temperature can be the least of challenges when determining how to keep goats warm in cold weather, writes Karen Kopf. She discusses the components of cold climate herdsmanship. Source: Backyard Goats, December 18, 2019. Link. Acclimation, nutrition, and habitation along with breed selection are all part of preparing to keep goats warm in cold weather. Also see: Search … [Read more...]
Dan Thomson is new chair of animal science at Iowa State University
Daniel Thomson, DVM, is the new chair of the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. He assumes his duties April 6 after spending 15 years with Kansas State University. Source: Iowa State University, January 7, 2020. Link. Thomson hosts the national animal health television show, "Doc Talk,” which reaches over 45 million homes weekly. His leadership positions … [Read more...]
Avoid using debit and credit cards in these locations
Approximately 50,000 animal health pros will be traveling to conventions in the first quarter of 2020. Credit cards make our lives easier, but the rise of hacking and identity theft undermines their convenience. Alan Gleason shares situations that call for caution. Here is a sampling: Self-service gas pumps Mobile applications Cell phone charging stations Source: … [Read more...]
VMX 2020 kicks off January 18 in Orlando
VMX convenes 17,000 veterinarians, veterinary nurses/technicians, support staff and leaders in animal healthcare from more than 80 countries to learn the latest advancements in medicine and life-saving techniques. Attendees will also experience the latest in pharmaceuticals, surgical and medical equipment, and nutrition from more than 700 exhibiting companies. Conference … [Read more...]
Adrenaline junkies beware
Before you say “yes” to a thrill-seeking diversion during an industry meeting or winter break, read about the 11 outdoor activities with the highest death rates. Boating, rock climbing, cycling and skiing top the list. Source: The Outdoor Wear, January 3, 2020. Link. Some activities and hobbies put your life in danger more than you may want to admit. … [Read more...]
Wasabi, hot at AKC Championship
A Pekingese known as Wasabi triumphed over more than 5,200 competitors to earn the title of Best in Show at the AKC National Championship, presented by Royal Canin, December 14-15, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. Siba, a Standard Poodle, received Reserve Best in Show. Source: Cision, January 2, 2019. Link. … [Read more...]
Most-read posts from January and February 2019
AHD selects actionable articles from more than 250 media sources we continuously review. These include about 40 sources directed to veterinarians and veterinary staff, more than 150 sources that focus on animal owners and popular press, blogs and social media. Source: Animal Health Digest, Most-read posts, January 2019. Better ways to say, “You screwed up.” Link. … [Read more...]
Accept others and give yourself for Christmas
No matter how you celebrate this time of year, contributor Jim Whitt’s recollection of Doc Lunsford describes what’s really important every day of the year. Take two minutes to read it. You – and those around you – will be glad you did. Source: Purpose Unlimited: Giving what is most difficult to give. Link. … [Read more...]
Deep slumber as important for horses as for people
We know that restorative sleep is important to equine health, but mostly leave it up to the horse, writes Kim Mariette. Environments such as bustling modern barns, modern equine facilities and even nearby construction can be disruptive and make it difficult for horses to get REM sleep. Source: EQUUS, May 28, 2019. Link. To achieve REM sleep a horse must lie down in either … [Read more...]