Mental health, stress reduction and suicide prevention are prevalent weekly topics in veterinary media sources. CNN’s Sandee LaMotte shares scientifically validated steps to improve your mental outlook. Because the mind and body are entwined, these behaviors also will improve your overall health: Practice optimism Start volunteering Be grateful Bolster your social … [Read more...]
Backyard chicken feed growing in pet food and treat market
What started as a backyard option to get fresh eggs has quickly moved the backyard chicken from livestock to pets. The pet food industry is responding to this growing trend. Source: Petfood Industry, January 27, 2020. Link. In APPA’s survey of 10,090 current pet owners: 10 percent reported owning backyard chickens: this equates to approximately 10 million U.S. … [Read more...]
Opinion – Animal protein versus plant-based protein. A discussion worth having.
Media of all types has paid great attention to plant-based protein of late. However, the hype leaves out the importance of factually discussing issues surrounding meat production. We agree with Jeff Simmons, president and CEO of Elanco Animal Health, that collaboration by all parties will lead to science-based solutions to protein supply challenges. Simmons issues a call to … [Read more...]
Improvements, concerns highlighted in new Merck Animal Health Veterinarian Wellbeing Study
The Merck Animal Health Veterinarian Wellbeing Study was released this week citing that most veterinarians rated their job satisfaction high. Conducted in collaboration with AVMA, the study also considered compensation, burnout, substance use disorder, cyberbullying and suicide. It found that 92 percent of respondents were concerned about high stress, 91 percent with high … [Read more...]
Optimizing digestive health in horses
Sponsored Content from ADM Animal Nutrition The new issue of EQUUS Extra is dedicated to nutritional aspects of equine digestions, colic and ulcers. In our post Colic comes in many forms, January 14, 2020 < link >, we shared an overview of three types of colic. Dr. Annette McCoy broke down colic cases by type; non-strangulating, strangulating and inflammatory. She also … [Read more...]
Horse hoof care resources
Horse owners and stable hands are always learning. Each new horse and age milestones in on-farm horses can bring new challenges. Hoof care is one area where presenting sound information can help animal health pros increase their value on-farm and when discussing hoof care with horse caretakers. These articles are great aids to review and then share to benefit horses, owners and … [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...]
Cowmoonication: Research finds cows ‘talk’ to each other
Hugh Lofting’s character, Dr. Dolittle, might not be so far-fetched. Research at the University of Sydney has shown that cows maintain individual voices in a variety of emotional situations. Cows ‘talk’ to one another and retain individual identity through their lowing. We found that cattle vocal individuality is relatively stable across different emotionally loaded farming … [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...]
Yes. Your cat will eat you. Well, your corpse, that is.
Fluffy may nip at you during playtime but, drop dead and she’s likely to take a bite out of your corpse. They’ll start with the arm tissue, according to a recent paper by researchers from Colorado Mesa University’s Forensic Investigation Research Station. Remote cameras caught two cats returning to their preferred corpses (which were there for research) routinely for 35 nights … [Read more...]
5 ways to start brushing dogs’ teeth
Among the 2019 Top 10 from DVM 360, was a handout on how to start brushing teeth. It linked to GIFs in an article that demonstrate the steps shown in the handout. In-home oral care is step number 1 for better oral health care. Check out these tools. Use them on social media, in newsletters and during examinations. Source: DVM 360, FIRSTLINE. Handout: Top 5 ways to start … [Read more...]
Yeast infections, causes and treatments
Groomers are often the first to discover yeast infections in pets. Columnist Jonathan David shares information about it with his groomer audience. He talks about skin issues, pododermatitis (toes and nails) and issues with the ears and ear canals. Yeast infections can creep up at just about anytime it seems.” – Jonathan David Source: Groomer to Groomer, December 2019, page … [Read more...]
Cholecalciferol poisoning in dogs and cats
Cholecalciferol is the chemical name for Vitamin D3. It is commonly found in everyday household products, shares Justin Lee, DVM. Products with this compound include rodent poisons, multi-vitamins, even psoriasis cream. Cholecalciferol can be highly toxic when accidentally ingested by dogs and cats. Lee shares how they are affected, as well as clinical signs, diagnostics, … [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...]
Make in-home oral health a priority for every pet
Sponsored by Addison Biological Laboratory, Inc. Like vaccines and flea, tick and heartworm prevention, pet oral care has been identified for decades as a critical component of healthy pet management. Animal health pros know the effort it takes to support elements of preventative medicine. A product from AHD Sponsor Addison Biological Laboratory provides veterinary … [Read more...]
New USDA process-verified program, meat label to focus on responsible poultry, livestock care
One Health Certified < link > is expected to help U.S. poultry and livestock producers demonstrate their commitment to responsible antibiotic management without compromising the health and welfare of their animals. The USDA process verified program < link > establishes verified animal-production practices in five core areas: disease prevention, veterinary care, … [Read more...]
NPPC says CBS’ 60 minutes missed critical pig farming data in report
60 Minutes aired an episode January 5 questioning the use of antibiotics in the livestock industry and singled out the pork industry. The report failed to include the critical information Liz Wagstrom, DVM, shared about modern pork production. Source: PORK, January 6, 2020. Link. During the interview, the 60 Minutes report did not discuss pork producers’ adoption of … [Read more...]
Colic comes in many forms
Depending on a colic’s cause, treatment steps and prognoses can vary widely, writes Alexandra Beckstett. She breaks down colic cases by type—non-strangulating, strangulating and inflammatory. Source: The Horse, January 2020. Link. (article excerpt). Flank-watching or -biting, pawing, trying to roll, an elevated heart rate, a lack of gut sounds or bowel movements. While … [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...]
Feist dogs of war, aid in rodent control
This post is not for the faint-hearted. Feist dogs are commonly thought of today as rat terriers but can be any small to medium-size dog that has a loud, spirited and feisty demeanor. The United Kennel Club recognizes feists, but the American Kennel Club does not. Chris Bennett reports on the dogs’ intensity when Jason Reed’s brace of feists he calls the Mongrol Hoard are … [Read more...]
On dog parks and urban landscapes
Alissa Greenberg provides a historical and developmental view of dog parks, cities and dog owners. Nowhere does she represent the real health issues that dog parks can perpetuate. Animal health pros understand the intra-species and zoonotic risks. We are well-suited to add value and perspective to issues of animal disease and safety issues for both pets and people. Source: … [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...]
AKC on alternative meat diets and the grain free question
There has been confusion and misinformation in past months about boutique, exotic ingredients, or grain-free diets (BEG) and the prevalence of DCM. The recent issue of AKC Family Dog presents information on the DCM story and what is being considered as food sources for dogs. Source: AKC Family Dog,January/February 2020. Update: The grain-free question. Link. Where’s … [Read more...]
Effects of diets, treats and additives on periodontal disease
Alexander Reiter, Dr. med. vet., discusses periodontal disease in the context of what dogs and cats eat, chew on and drink. The studies referenced are supportive of dry diets, dental treats and toys adjunct to best care practices. The gold standard for the management of periodontal disease is diagnosis and treatment under general anesthesia, followed by home oral hygiene … [Read more...]
What 20 years of work can do to your body (includes slide show)
A lifelike, full-size model named Emma demonstrate ailments that show the dark side of where we’re headed if work comforts continue to go unchecked. While aimed at computer use and seating, its no secret that smartphone use puts a strain on our stature, as does poor driving posture. Source: Fast Company, January 6, 2020. Link. Unless we make radical changes to our working … [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...]
Let it go: Stop judging your thoughts and feelings
Learn how to let go of painful emotions Start by becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings so you can accept and embrace them. Then eliminate judgement by stopping yourself from labeling your feelings as good or bad and accepting them just as they are. Source: Veterinary Practice, Link. “Holding on to distressing and painful emotions disempowers you. Letting go of … [Read more...]
How to get National Poultry Improvement Plan certified
NPIP certification is the next logical step for serious show bird breeders and small egg-producing flocks alike. Beyond consumer confidence in eggs they purchase, there are other benefits to poultry producers. NPIP certification provides some interstate transfer benefits, requires good biosecurity records and annual testing. Source: Backyard Poultry, December 10, 2019. Link. … [Read more...]