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...]
Dressing cows for the holidays
Dressing in this case refers to garments designed for a Jersey cow herd for the Christmas holiday. Farmer Becky Houzé’s Jerseys are making history as the first herd to wear matching Christmas jumpers. You’ll smile when you see these cows in holiday attire. Source: The Bullvine, December 11, 2019. Link. … [Read more...]
4 tips to limit party liability
Still have a holiday party to attend? With the potential for great fun and bonding with colleagues, comes the opportunity for some missteps, as well. Lisa Nagele-Piazza, JD, SHRM-SCP suggests four tips to limit party liability. One is to carefully plan the day and time of the event. Setting a timeframe helps maintain control. Another is to manage alcohol consumption for … [Read more...]
5 tips for better blanketing
Horses will appreciate their caregivers following this advice when selecting and using his blankets this winter: Check the fit of blankets each year Consider getting your horse “underwear” Multiple blankets? Mark them according to the appropriate conditions for their use If temperatures fluctuate, blanket for the anticipated high of the day Remove blankets … [Read more...]
Why do some vaccinated horses still get sick? (podcast)
Elizabeth Davis, DVM, explains how vaccines prime the immune system and why some horses might still get sick. The idea of vaccination is intended to provide, in a very safe way and at a small level of exposure to the immune system, so that on future exposure to the immune system at the time of disease challenge, that the horse is is protected. Source: The Horse, October 22, … [Read more...]
Chickens don’t like snow, but sweaters aren’t needed
Chickens hate snow, says Marissa Ames. However, they possess an amazing tolerance for cold. She shares winter preparation considerations to help chickens fare well without much squawking. Draft-free coop Good air circulation Warm bedding Fresh water Dry food and grains Something to do Source: Backyard Poultry, November 19, 2019. Link. People have kept … [Read more...]
Things veterinarians want every cat owner to know
Sophia Mitrokostas shares an excellent list of topics veterinarians want cat owners to know. Beyond seeing what the DVMs interviewed prioritized, this article and list are worth sharing with new cat owners. Source: INSIDER, November 15, 2019. Link. Caring for cats and kittens isn't always straightforward. Veterinarians shared key things every cat owner should know: One … [Read more...]
8 best pet movies of 2019
Liza Brooke recommends eight pet movies for families and friends to watch during the holidays. She offers a wide selection of pet movies released in 2019 that span live-action dramas to hilarious animated films. Here’s her list: A Dog’s Way Home The Secret Life of Pets 2 The Queen’s Corgi A Dog’s Journey The Biggest Little Farm Spy Cat The Art of Racing … [Read more...]
Phones, airplanes and airplane mode
As animal health pros travel for the holidays and upcoming conventions, Sven Bilén shares the developing use of cellular phones on airplanes. He explains the risks and rationales for no live calls while flying. Switch your phone to airplane mode when in the air Source: The Conversation, November 16, 2019. Link. INSIGHTS: With Bilén’s explanations, it will be easier to … [Read more...]