Seasonal affective disorder is more than the winter blues. It is a form of clinical depression. Its symptoms last longer and come and go with the seasons. As much as 10 percent of the U.S. population is affected by it. SAD can be managed using evidence-based therapies that include outdoor time, bright light therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant … [Read more...]
Veterinary First Responder Certificate Program
AVMA’s certificate program serves as a framework to ensure veterinarians and veterinary students have the knowledge and skills to serve as first responders. The requirements include courses from FEMA. Currently, only Texas A&M 4th-year students can complete the VFRCP. However, the available program courses are open to any veterinary student or graduate veterinarian to … [Read more...]
What do audiences remember?
Each audience is unique. Every time we present an idea there are opportunities to improve what audience members remember. Whether we communicate in a formal speech, present laboratory diagnostics results or engage a group at a lunch ‘n learn, we want them to listen, remember and often make decisions. Research shows that audiences remember a dismal 10 percent to 30 percent of … [Read more...]
Pet Poison Helpline data drives interactive toxic trends map
Toxin Trends was created to educate pet owners and veterinary professionals on the variety of toxins that are near their communities. Chrysanthemums, 27th on the tableau toxin list, are popular fall flowers across the country. The highest number of calls to the helpline come in October as shown in the interactive map. Source: Pet Poison Helpline, Toxic Trends. … [Read more...]
Global One Health Joint Plan of Action set in motion
The objectives of the OH JPA seek to create a world better able to prevent, predict, detect and respond to health threats and improve the health of humans, animals, plants and the environment while contributing to sustainable development. Six interdependent action tracks form the plan’s pillars. These priorities are to help achieve sustainable health and food systems, reduce … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – October 20, 2022
Last week’s most read posts – Socializing new puppies? Manage the right amount of playtime. Link. Last AHD Bulletin - Animal Health Digest Bulletin, Thursday, October 13, 2022. Link. 10 commandments of dog ownership Source: AHD, June 28, 2022. Link. Reposting because it is important to routinely reinforce the responsibilities of pet ownership, … [Read more...]
Lame cows are not to be tolerated on dairies
“Acknowledging the importance of hoof health and purposefully reducing lameness incidences may not position farms to maximum performance and profit in the short term, but it is a must-do if a farm is going to achieve a balance of optimal profit, efficiency and welfare by definition of sustainable,” shared Jennifer Walker, DVM, in a recent presentation. At any given time, 25% … [Read more...]
Working together to keep African swine fever at bay
Commentary We noted instructions for international travelers on the USDA website <Link> including sanitizing or burning clothing and shoes. This warning is important for all animal health pros and is relevant considering the growing U.S. population of feral hogs: Do NOT visit a farm, premises with pigs, livestock market, sale barn, zoo, circus, pet store with … [Read more...]
Dogs do get depressed
Dogs don't experience depression the same way humans do, says Deb M. Eldredge, DVM. But, they can have short-term depression which is usually related to loss of a human or animal family member or a major change in lifestyle. She shares signs of depression and ways to help a dog who is depressed. Source: Daily Paws, January 20, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
Veterinary technicians to share their view of the state of the profession
Join The Bridge Club as veterinary technicians discuss the state of the profession today, opportunities for growth, solutions to workflow management and ways technicians can provide more value in the current practice context. Source: The Bridge Club. Link. Register to join the conversation on Zoom, October 27th at 7 p.m. CDT. No fees. Registration required … [Read more...]
Nikon’s Small World celebrates 47 years of images. Contribute yours
Nikon’s Small World is the leading forum for showcasing the complexity and beauty of life seen through the light microscope. Its Photomicrography Competition and video competition, called Small World in Motion, are open through April 30, 2023. Animal health pros can enter one or both. In the meantime, look at the 2022 winning shots. You’ll be amazed. These are but two … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – October 17, 2022
The importance of background checks when hiring, pain points with vet visits, progressive brands seek sustainability in pet food, tips for social media profiles, plant-based protein interest, ransomware risks and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, October 17, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
What to do if you’re put on a performance improvement plan
Helen Harris says a PIP is an opportunity to improve before facing other actions, such as termination. She reminds people to take time to process the information, and fully understand why they were placed on a PIP in the first place. A good PIP is well documented and detailed . . . If you don’t agree with what’s in the PIP and your manager isn’t willing to negotiate or … [Read more...]
How work-life balance struggles for working moms have changed over the last generation (podcast)
Kathleen Davis visits with mothers and daughters who compare how they balance unpaid labor at home and how motherhood has affected their careers in this episode of the Ambition Diaries podcast. For the majority of women there is no question having-it-all and work life balance isn’t possible. . . it’s a matter of survival.” Source: Fast Company, Link. Of the many issues … [Read more...]
The hard conversation
All of us have had to, or will, deal with a frustrating work situation at some point in our careers. SOURCE: CNBC, September 18, 2022. Link. Being curious and asking questions can help defuse negative emotion and keep tensions from rising. INSIGHT: The person is never the problem. Their behavior, their performance etc. may be. Separate that from the person and focus on the … [Read more...]
Cardiologist studying female animals to gain insight into women’s health
Dr. Barbara Natterson-Horowitz, a cardiologist with the University of California – Los Angeles, is once again studying animals to explore health connections between them and humans. Her current focus is on cross-species similarities in female health and she hopes to fill historical research gaps about diseases that primarily affect women. She says understanding our place in the … [Read more...]
AAHA’s October Trends celebrates technicians, open access
Trends magazine is the premier magazine for AAHA members. During Veterinary Technician Week, all animal health pros get access to this special edition. Veterinary technicians are the backbone to animal hospitals” - Anonymous Source: AAHA Trends, October 2022. Link. In this issue: Getting well, keeping well Techs@Work photo spread What is the role of a VTS? What … [Read more...]
What hamsters can eat
Melissa Witherell, DVM, says a hamster’s diet should consist mainly of the same commercially produced pelleted rodent diet that mice and rats eat. Hamster seed diets are commercially available but should not be a hamster’s primary source of food, as it may cause nutritional deficiencies in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Source: PetMD, February 16, 2022. Link. A healthy … [Read more...]
Red collars on dogs have meaning beyond fashion
This article falls into the learn-something-new-everyday category. Red is the universal sign for STOP, writes Wendy Rose Gould. It gives us reason to pause and be cautious. Gould interviewed pet experts who explained some dogs wear red collars, red bandanas or use red leashes as a safety warning. They also admitted not all dog owners are aware of or use this color-coded … [Read more...]
Colostrum may be Mother Nature’s answer to calf scours
Researchers have found that, even after gut closure, feeding partial quantities of colostrum reduces scours incidence. Using colostrum to treat scours would be a simple, practical, non-antibiotic and highly affordable option. One concern. What would the impact on the production and supply chain be if this use proves dependable?” – Kirk Augustine Source: Dairy Herd Management, … [Read more...]
Megacolon can cause problems in rabbits
Rabbits with megacolon may not absorb the nutrients from their food well. Without treatment, rabbits can lose weight and muscle, especially along their back. Rabbits with megacolon need pellets in their diet for the extra nutrition and calories, and they may need larger servings than other rabbits. Source: The Rabbit Haven. Link. … [Read more...]
Preparing goats for winter
Fall and winter aren’t carefree for caprine lawn mowers. The author reminds goat owners to refresh bedding, including the substrate and warns of possible toxins from garden plants being composted. It is also important to spray for external parasites, trim hooves and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Rhododendron and anything in that family such as azaleas are extremely … [Read more...]
Infectious disease risk for horses rises after natural disasters
Horse owners throughout the Southeast and Puerto Rico are cleaning up after Hurricane Ian. No matter where a natural disaster occurs, it increases the risk of horses contracting serious infectious diseases. University of Florida’s Sally DeNotta reminds us about core diseases and the importance of vaccination. Source: University of Florida Extension, October 7, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
New Pet Food Institute video features tips to keep pets’ weight in check
New and experienced pet owners need to be reminded of the importance of keeping dogs and cats at healthy weights, providing a complete and balanced diet and managing treat calories. The new 2-minute video, Feeding and Treating Tips for a Long and Healthy Life, is a good tool to share on social media, in newsletters and during consultations. Source: Petfood Industry, October … [Read more...]
What is Zoop! hiding?
Opinion Multiple email efforts from a new pet grooming brand, Zoop! caught my attention and generated questions. The promotional language included, “Made from non-toxic and natural ingredients that are guaranteed to keep you and your furry friends safe, Zoop! grooming products are made of ingredients that eradicate smells, whether they’re in the carpet or on your … [Read more...]
New advancements in dermatology, renal diets
Adrienne Bautista, DVM, PhD, DABVT, is on tap to share advancements in dermatology and renal diets using current diagnostics to guide nutritional recommendations tailored to individual pets. Live, virtual discussion hosted by The Bridge Club on Zoom, October 20th, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. CDT. Register to participate at no cost. <Link> Source: The Bridge Club. Link. … [Read more...]
Store pet food properly for best nutrition and value
Pet food is not getting cheaper. Many common storage methods are not the best way to ensure pet foods maintain their quality and are safe. Keep your pets food in its original packaging and be sure to properly seal it between feedings to keep it at its freshest. “ Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – October 10, 2022
OSHA reminder re: employer responsibilities to protect workers during hurricanes, more pets abandoned and fewer adopted, pet safety during emergencies, exit strategies for small business, concerns about Monkeypox reverse zoonoses to pets, making time for professional development and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, October 10, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
The best methods for cleaning your smartphone
A smartphone is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, which can cause respiratory infections, diarrhea and other illnesses. This author shares multiple methods for cleaning your smartphone without damaging it. Your smartphone is one of the dirtiest things you own. “ Source: SimplyGeeky, June 23, 2022. Link. INSIGHTS: Consider adding smartphone and desk phone cleaning … [Read more...]
Every email needs a clear call to action
You can be straightforward and gracious at the same time when sending emails. Providing call to action dos and don’ts Kat Boogard shares five cut-and-paste templates to use in your emails. Don’t be too general Do include a deadline Don’t forget to say thank you . . . being explicit about what you need can feel a little counterintuitive. We don’t want to seem like … [Read more...]