There is a common misconception essential oils must be safe because they come from plants. Rather, many of them are toxic, writes Barri J. Morrison, DVM. For cats, essential oils are not safe and can quickly cause toxicity. They are rapidly absorbed by mouth and through the skin, where they accumulate in the liver. Cats do not have the liver enzymes needed to break down the … [Read more...]
Texas study finds alarming rate of heartworm in cats
A study conducted in the Lower Rio Grande Valley region of Texas revealed the prevalence of D. immitis infection in shelter cats. The study analyzed 122 paired samples of serum and DNA from cats in 14 towns within the region to detect the presence of heartworm infection. Using multiple analysis tools the results were alarming: 18 percent of the shelter cats tested … [Read more...]
Pet treat sales in 2022 fueled by inflation, not volume
Packaged Facts analysis shows the pet treat market is slowing despite the popularity of treats. The group projects the pet treat market will continue to grow over the next five years capitalizing on key opportunities including: value-positioned treats treats for cats treats featuring alternative proteins U.S. retail sales of pet treats reached $11 billion in … [Read more...]
Furniture pros pick furniture cats are less likely to scratch
Despite well placed scratching posts, many cats are clever about finding alternatives to them, writes Catherine Holm. Curious, she engaged furniture professionals to identify the most durable furniture materials for cat owners’ homes. Consider sharing this article with cat owners on social media and in newsletters. Other articles exist in the AHD archives*, including … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – July 31, 2023
Target, CoComelon launch pet-centered toys and videos for toddlers, Chewy’s Katy Nelson, DVM, profit tips for small business owners, business insurance basics, shifting to digital payments and more. . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, July 31, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Covetrus® expands GreatPetCare™
Complimentary Content Covetrus announced the expansion of GreatPetCare July 20th. Access to GreatPetCare is offered for free to veterinarians and their clients in the U.S. to help enable vet practices' ability to realize workflow efficiencies, improve outcomes and enhance animal owners’ experiences. . . . 64 percent of pet parents consider veterinarian-recommended … [Read more...]
Data-driven decision making for pet care professionals
Sponsor supported content Gingr’s Alison Fisher joins Jamie Engerdahl, CPACP, to discuss using pet services data to increase customer experiences, use staff more efficiently and drive revenue. Engerdahl also shares what PACCC does for pet care professionals and their employers. Source: PACCC, YouTube, July 26,2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – July 27, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, July 20th, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from July 20th AHD Bulletin – Straight talk about veterinary workforce issues. Link. Filtering is a critical skill. Link. Best joint supplements for dogs. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy … [Read more...]
Is culture always the answer when treating bite wounds in dogs?
Dogs with bite wounds from other dogs are commonly presented in companion animal practices, but use of culture and susceptibility testing and antimicrobial agents varies, writes Joshua B. Daniels, DVM, PhD, DACVM. The frequent prescribing of less than the recommended dosage observed in this study should prompt re-evaluation of dosages in clinic formularies as well as dosage … [Read more...]
Review covers new and traditional OA drugs for canine osteoarthritis
Tamara Grubb DVM, PhD, DACVAA, reminds us that chronic pain has no biological value or purpose. Her review covers new and commonly used existing drugs and compounds for control of osteoarthritis pain in dogs since new publications on most of the existing drugs are mostly non-existent. She examines the related scientific evidence and key features of current OA drugs and … [Read more...]
Squirt bottle is NOT a good tool to train cats
Complimentary Commercial Content Grandma did it, as did Aunt Bessie and Mom. Even Google seems to approve. But when it comes to working with cats to deter so-called misbehaviors, a squirt bottle filled with water is ineffective and counterproductive. Pam Johnson-Bennett explains why and how to help cats learn to behave to meet their owners’ expectations. Source: Cat … [Read more...]
7 myths of veterinary oncology
Sharing her own experiences, Sarah Beedle, BS, CVT, offers perspectives on what some clients may fear when learning their pet has cancer. Just because a pet patient is diagnosed with cancer doesn’t mean the end is here.” Source: Patterson Veterinary, July 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
12 plants and herbs that naturally repel mosquitoes
If the dry weather has burned out some landscape flowers, consider adding plants that repel mosquitoes ahead of the late summer and early fall biting frenzy. End-of-season discounts are generally available on remaining plants as fall approaches. . . . a lavender plant smells a whole lot nicer than a bottle of bug spray.” Source: Country Living, April 3, 2023. … [Read more...]
Petco, Lowe’s in-store strategy updated, now nationwide
Following a three-state proof of concept, Petco and Lowe's are taking their in-store partnership nationwide with plans to offer pet products at almost 300 Lowe's home-improvement stores by the end of the year. Part of Lowe’s rural strategy, the in-store Petco sections will offer a wide range of pet products, from nutrition and supplies to medications, and even veterinary … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – July 24, 2023
Nationwide's new digital platform, Pet HealthZone©, human mental health benefits depend on balancing with the commitments to pet care, Bowie Barker opens national franchise for self-service grooming, SME research shows hiring inexperienced staff is costly to business, mental health tips for entrepreneurs and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, July 24, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – July 20, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, July 13th, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from July 13th AHD Bulletin – A new federal pregnancy law is now in effect; what HR needs to know. Link. States outlaw noncompete agreements. Link. You’re capable of courage. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy … [Read more...]
Best joint supplements for dogs
Includes Commercial Content We were pleased to see some familiar brands in this article. Barri J. Morrison, DVM, reviews where supplements fit to help manage a dog’s mobility during the development of arthritis and degenerative joint disease. They are used alone or concomitantly with medications and other remedies. Joint supplements are one of the most common long-term, … [Read more...]
Is almond milk okay for dogs?
While dogs can’t digest almonds, almond milk is okay with a couple of caveats. In addition to limiting amounts when reducing caloric intake, avoid store-bought almond milk with the artificial sweetener xylitol, artificial flavorings, thickeners and oils. These aren’t safe for dogs to eat, says Diana Laverdure-Dunetz, M.S. Source: Dogster, June 29, 2023. Link. INSIGHTS: … [Read more...]
Educate, explain, encourage to make a difference in preventing parasites in cats
Veterinary technicians can save the day by educating cat owners on the dangers of parasites and importance of prevention.” - Janet McConnell, CVT Julia Burke summarizes key points from Connell’s presentation 2023 American Veterinary Medical Association Convention. She shared common feline parasites and the key role veterinary technicians play in educating pet owners to prevent … [Read more...]
What dog owners are learning about acupuncture for their dogs
Non-pharmaceutical treatments continue to be grow in animal health. Laser, red light, chiropractic, massage and acupuncture are physical medicine methods being used as treatments or adjunct support for animals with injuries. In this article, five styles of acupuncture for dogs are explained. Acupuncture is used to decrease pain, promote faster healing time, increase mobility … [Read more...]
Two out of three dog owners believe their dogs couldn’t survive in the wild
Includes Commercial Content Today’s dogs live a luxurious life, according to recent study findings. Two in three dog owners claim their dogs could never survive in the wild without them. The study was commissioned by Now Fresh and conducted by market research company OnePoll. Responses indicated four in five dogs would rather stay inside than go outside if it’s rainy and … [Read more...]
Does dog food expire?
Economies of scale from big bags of dog food diminish when it is not used up within four to six weeks. While dog foods don’t technically expire, foods past their “best by” or “use by” label dates are not as nutritious and are more likely to become moldy or otherwise compromised, writes Cindy Foley. The “use by” or “best by” dates are important enough to be considered as … [Read more...]
MSC-certified Alaskan pollock, insect protein added to Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach
Complimentary Commercial Content Hill’s new Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin line extension delivers the same science-led, tailored nutrition and key benefits as the original Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin products, but now features more sustainable seafood according to Dr. Karen Shenoy. . . . new formulations of Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – July 17, 2023
Snoop Dogg’s pet care line now in Petco, Petsmart and Kohl’s, growing Camp Bow Wow interview with Heidi Ganah, pet owner views on obesity, Go Dog hires industry pioneer Amy Nichols, benefits from emergency animal boarding and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, July 17, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – July 13, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, July 6th, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from July 6th AHD Bulletin – Check your assumptions at the door to avoid medical gaslighting. Link. The hard truth. Link. Bear cam livestream returns for salmon run. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy … [Read more...]
Blister beetles in hay are a danger for livestock, horses
Got grasshoppers? Then it is likely blister beetles may be present as grasshopper eggs are a main food source for them <Link>. With drought causing more hay to be transported about the country, it is important for livestock producers and horse owners to monitor the hay and their animals for signs of blister beetles. Elizabeth Cronin shares some ways to reduce the threat … [Read more...]
More on blue-green algae
The term blue-green algae is a misnomer, as this organism is, in fact, a single-celled organism called cyanobacteria. Here are some key takeaways from an article by Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT: Cyanobacteria can have almost any color although many bodies of water affected by this toxic organism have a pea-green color. The toxic strains of blue-green algae contain … [Read more...]
Puppies may be born ready to connect with us
According to a new study published in Current Biology, dogs already show social skills and interest in human faces by eight weeks of age. Emily Bray, PhD, who discussed the research with CNN, says dogs are seemingly born ready to interact with us. She says this research could give more clues on the traits of a dog that eventually goes on to become a successful working … [Read more...]
Viticus Group announces two new 2023 WVC Academy courses
Complimentary Commercial Content New WVC Academy courses have been announced by Viticus Group. The courses provide hands-on CE, learning from top instructors and skill development to meet the needs of patients in everyday practice. The new courses announced are: Feline Medicine, October 9-10, 2023. Participants receive hands-on training in relieving urethral … [Read more...]
Wag! launches Cat Food Advisor to support feline nutrition
Following the acquisition of Dog Food Advisor, Wag! is extending its commitment to providing valuable guidance and support to pet owners on their pets’ nutrition with the launch of the Cat Food Advisor <Link>. . . . the Cat Food Advisor site offers education and unbiased, science-backed reviews of cat food.” Source: businesswire, July 6, 2023. Link. “Our goal is to help … [Read more...]