Kurt Venator, DVM, PhD, talks about getting peak performance out of working dogs. “The key thing is to define what VO2 Max is,” Venator said. “It’s not some odd scientific term. It’s simply the rate of maximum oxygen use. And obviously that’s important because oxygen is going to fuel endurance, performance, and energy. That’s both in dogs and in humans. . . . the higher that … [Read more...]
New study adds evidence for canine “‘theory of mind”’
Researchers studying the cognitive ability known as theory of mind in dogs believe dogs have some insight into what we’re thinking. Their findings indicate dogs can figure out whether we’re doing something on purpose or by accident. Source: Science, September 2, 2021. Link. Also see: New study examines whether dogs understand intent, Treehugger, September 2, 2021. … [Read more...]
GlobalVetLink introduces the Pet TravelPass™ for international pet travel
Complimentary A new tool from GlobalVetLink promises to save veterinarians time and worries when clients want to travel internationally with their pets. GVL Pet TravelPass is available now at http://www.globalvetlink.comand offers an easy sign-up and get-started process, with no subscription fee or monthly minimums. Source: GlobalVetLink, August 7, 2021. Link. The GVL … [Read more...]
Martha Stewart discusses pet CBD, Canopy Growth partnership
Stewart entered the CBD market in 2019 when she collaborated with Canopy Growth to develop a line of CBD-infused gummies, soft gels and tinctures for people. This partnership now also includes a line of CBD pet products that launched early in 2021. Source: Pet Age, September 1, 2021. Link. Based on Stewart’s business savvy and passion for pets, combined with Canopy Growth’s … [Read more...]
Top 7 most popular dog breeds
We’re always curious about lists like this. Here’s the top seven most popular dog breeds in 2021: Golden Retrievers Goldendoodles French Bulldogs Beagles Yorkshire Terriers Australian Shepard Poodle Source: Puppies and Pooches, January 21, 2021. Link. … [Read more...]
Onboarding processes critical to VCPR successes
Opinion Our industry has appropriately migrated to more individualized health and risk assessments for dogs, cats and horses based on their expected lifestyles. In recent posts we asserted how onboarding communication processes can extend the level of client-veterinary team interactions beyond the next vaccination or blood test and improve perceptions of veterinary … [Read more...]
Top e-collars for dogs
Often controversial, e-collars are used as training aids. The author reviews e-collar pros and cons for various brands. Dog trainers sometimes train dogs with e-collars to try and remedy unwanted behaviors. Some trainers say e-collars can be valuable to get dogs to obey when they are off leash, help keep them safe and locate a dog that is out of sight. Source: Puppies and … [Read more...]
Drug-resistant hookworms spreading in dogs, parasitologists warn
Veterinary parasitologists warn that multidrug-resistant hookworms are spreading in the U.S. and veterinarians should watch for persistent infections. Antoinette Marsh, PhD, cited study results that indicate dogs with suspected or confirmed drug-resistant hookworms are becoming widespread in the Southeast, and they have been documented in the Northeast and California. She said … [Read more...]
New report: pet caregivers anticipate their largest expenses in the next 12 months
Most pet owners anticipate necessities like food and healthcare will rule their budgets next year, according to a recent report. Results show 84 percent of dog and cat owners expect to spend the most on food. Most pet parents will spend that on standard dry or wet food, with 80 percent confirming this is what they already feed their pets. 17 percent said that they cook for … [Read more...]
Usage rates for non-medical pet care services show positive trends
Complimentary Content Dog grooming is the marquee non-medical pet care service. Its usage rates rose from 25 percent in 2012/2013 to 41 percent in 2018/2019, dipping only slightly in the wake of Covid. Among dog owners overall, usage rates for nonmedical services edged up from 44 percent in 2012/2013 to 50 percent in 2019/2020, before dipping slightly due to the … [Read more...]
Clients with new pets need more time with vets: Part 2
Opinion In last week’s AHD Bulletin, we urged veterinary teams to consider spending more time with new and existing clients presenting new pets. We asserted the need for onboarding processes or guidelines as paramount to developing long-term relationships with pet owners, the health of pets and the revenue that flows from interactions with happy, engaged clients. AAHA’s … [Read more...]
Restoring hormone levels in a neutered dog leads to health improvements
Neuter? Do nothing? Hormone sparing sterilization. Or restoring hormones in previously neutered dogs. See what you think. A case study published in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine details the first report of hormone restoration therapy applied to a dog suffering from diverse physical and psychological symptoms following castration. Treatment resulted in normal levels of … [Read more...]
Ask a vet to help treat a dog with ear mites
Complimentary Content Ear mites can cause infection in a dog’s ear canals. If a dog is scratching, ear mites could be the cause. The folks at Tractor Supply Company compiled a well-written tip sheet about dealing with ear mites. It recommends veterinarians be the first stop. Source: Tractor Supply Company, August 27, 2021. Link. Always schedule a visit with your … [Read more...]
Behaviorists agree on dominance. Dogs don’t try to compete with people.
The debate continues despite the title. It’s an interesting read.” – Kirk Augustine Most available research indicates that dogs engage in behaviors of dominance and submission, but they don’t try to compete with us for control over the domestic environments in which they live. Important questions still remain, however, especially about whether dogs recognize our putative … [Read more...]
Why the rationale for canine Borrelia burgdorferi vaccination is unpersuasive
In this brief critical discussion, the authors argue that B. burgdorferi vaccines in dogs meet the criteria outlined by AAHA for a vaccine that is not generally recommended, and that these vaccines do not confer any clear benefit to public health, as Lyme borreliosis is a vector-borne disease. For these reasons, they conclude that the rationale for canine B. burgdorferi … [Read more...]
Ticks hide everywhere!
Need we say more? Source: I Love Veterinary Medicine, Facebook, August 7, 2021. Link. … [Read more...]
3 must-reads on canine osteoarthritis
In observance of National Dog Month this August, DVM 360 highlighted three articles that provide effective methods for treating osteoarthritis and helping patients manage this debilitating disease so they can live their fullest lives. Source: DVM 360, August 9, 2021. Link. The articles include pointers on implementing a rehabilitation plan immediately after the diagnosis to … [Read more...]
Rainbow-dyed fur and dog mohawks: The L.A. dog groomer bringing joy to Instagram
Josh White is used to attention. The 30-year-old dog groomer’s style is as colorful and label conscious as a pop star with an eclectic smattering of designer clothing ranging from Supreme to Vivienne Westwood. Source: Los Angeles Times, August 16, 2021. Link. Learn more about Dogue Spa services, White and partner Mehdi Rezig at https://www.doguespa.net … [Read more...]
Death and other client kindnesses
Opinion Referring to veterinary hospice and euthanasia client communications, Jessica Vogelsang, DVM, says it's time we do better by our clients and empower them to implement an end-of-life plan that offers comfort, peace and reassurance. To be clear, the advancements of especially the last decade addressing patient and client care at the end-of-life and euthanasia … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – August 12, 2021
Last week’s most read AHD post Relief Rover raises $10K from virtual 5K event benefitting NOMV. AHD, Link Last week’s Animal Health Digest Bulletin - August 5, 2021. Link. Scientists have worked out how to send viable mouse sperm on postcards Source: New Scientist, August 5, 2021. Link. This study raises the intriguing idea that human spermatozoa could … [Read more...]
Pet owner support for pet insurance
The article isn’t as inclusive as its title, but Rebecca Jones provides sound information to support pet insurance decisions. She includes information from leaders of various pet insurance companies for a predominately female decision maker audience. Source: Her Money, July 2021. Link. … [Read more...]
Heartworm testing. Repeat, repeat, repeat!
We can’t remind owners enough that it is important to get a heartworm test for their cats and dogs every year. That’s why we’re highlighting this consumer-focused article about heartworm testing. Sharing it on social media and in newsletters can help pet owners understand why heartworm tests and inspections are so necessary. Source: Puppies and Pooches, August 6, 2021. … [Read more...]
Some dog foods may be linked to canine heart disease
This report will generate lots of questions for veterinary teams and retailers alike. Use the article to inform team members and then establish how to respond in unison. Using an approach called foodomics to compare the biochemical compounds that differ between traditional dog foods and those that might be linked to canine dilated cardiomyopathy, Lisa Freeman, DVM, PhD, … [Read more...]
Raw diets, more learning required
Although the raw/fresh pet food category is getting more attention from pet owners, it’s not as if these products are going to sell themselves. Pamela Mills-Senn shares some obstacles and objections to raw diet adoption. While written for pet retail, the information shared is worthy of veterinary team consideration and preparation for the inevitable questions from pet … [Read more...]
Pet food draws big-name investment, private equity focus
The pet food and pet care markets have been attracting outside investment interest for well over a decade, writes Debbie Donaldson-Phillips. She says you know an industry has seized the spotlight when it earns the attention of a large and well-known investment firm like Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley recently released a report on the pet industry, predicting the U.S. market to … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – August 4, 2021
Last week’s most read posts – we have another tie Modeling fierce self-compassion. Link. Lincoln Memorial University pilots new advanced degree option for veterinary professionals. Link. Baby boomers can’t stop looking at their phones Source: Vice, August 3, 2021. Link. While stereotypes paint millennials and Gen Z-ers as phone and social media-obsessed … [Read more...]
Playing tug with dogs. Good or bad?
Speak to any top dog sports competitor or qualified trainer, and they will tell you that well-managed tug games have many benefits. Even scientific studies confirm they don’t promote aggressive or dominant behaviors. I love the description of “shared holding” when it comes to tug. Allowing a dog to win means they can celebrate with their prize, but it also presents them with … [Read more...]
Summer skin issues affect pets
Complimentary Content Just when it is time to buy school clothes and start fall sports practices, the cumulative effects of spring and summer activities routinely show up in pets’ skin. Although dermatological issues can be yearlong, pet parents may discover specific problems in the summer. Whether caused by allergies, swimming, fleas and mosquitoes, or sunburn, … [Read more...]
Important questions to ask dog breeders before deciding on a new puppy
The Muddy Paws team shares a list of questions potential owners should ask dog breeders. They should be able to easily answer these questions. Finding the right breeder can be complicated, however having meaningful conversations with then can be beneficial and help focus the puppy search. . . . a good breeder should be trying to improve the breed. A quality breeder should … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – July 29, 2021
Last week’s most read post 5 ways your workplace isn’t accommodating to fat people Source: Animal Health Digest, July 20, 2021. Link. Obstacle course training for a puppy. LOL, what a hoot! Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, You Tube, July 21, 2021. Link. Puppy does a flop during obstacle course training. Dogs can tell if you’re lying more than … [Read more...]