Beyond the day-to-day personal and interpersonal stressors, several macro issues are at play and impacting everyone’s mental health, including social, political, economic and technological stressors. Kathryn Mayer says women are coping with all those issues and they are also being exposed to a series of other stressors more prevalent for women. Source: SHRM, October 8, 2024. … [Read more...]
Practices find value in Promoboxx® benefit from ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance
Sponsored Content Social media usage cuts across all demographic groups, be they generational, racial, gender-based or other. ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance has partnered with Promoboxx* to help practices capitalize on opportunities social media offers to promote practices and consistently engage with clients. The Promoboxx platform is currently provided at no … [Read more...]
Next up in the “Top 5 in 15” Fear Free veterinary webinar series
The "Top 5 in 15" webinar series kicked off in October, featuring a unique, fast-paced webinar designed to equip veterinary and veterinary technician students with essential knowledge and actionable skills in just 15 minutes, followed by a Q&A session. The free webinars will provide exclusive insights and strategies used by industry professionals. To register and learn … [Read more...]
Weaning calves. Art or science?
There are some basic principles and practices that will give calves the best chance at navigating the weaning process, writes Zeb Gray. Whether done abruptly or gradually, he recommends producers define what their goals are beyond just separating cow and calf in the weaning process. He emphasizes the importance of a veterinary relationship considering any new antibiotic … [Read more...]
Mitigating weather-related stress in beef cattle
Fall weather is a series of transitions from hot days to cool days, which include wind, rain, sleet and snow. In much of the U.S., it is normal to see high-low temperature swings of 50o F or more. The Beef Checkoff-funded BQA National Manual provides guidelines for handling cattle as weather patterns vary to optimize animal welfare. Julia Herman, DVM, MS, DACVPM, writes … [Read more...]
Fresh cows run a daily marathon
Three weeks before and three weeks after calving, dairy cows experience massive changes in nutrient and micromineral demands. An energy deficit is common in this period and cows struggle to take in more energy than they deplete. Jessica McArt, DVM, compares this energy challenge to marathon runners in this article. Her analogy might help explain the effects of transition to a … [Read more...]
Alternatives to baled hay for horse owners
When hay is in short supply, there are alternative forages, writes Marcia Hathaway, DVM. She shares information about different choices and guidance for transitioning animals to new sources slowly. Consider sharing the article on social media or in newsletters. Source: The Paulick Report, November 3, 2024. Link. When feeding alternative forages with smaller particle sizes, … [Read more...]
Veterinarian shares what to know about splint bone injuries
Popped splints, or exostosis of the metacarpal or metatarsal bones, are a common finding in working and pastured horses alike. In this article, Fred Nostrant, DVM, discusses what horse owners should know about splint injuries. Consider his article for social media posts, newsletters and information for horse enthusiast groups. Source: The Horse, October 30, 2024. Link. … [Read more...]
A fresh perspective on horse expenses
Complimentary, includes Commercial Content A recent study completed by Synchrony noted horse owners spend three to four times more than they initially estimated. Karen Hopper Usher provides a realistic overview of horse costs, where the expenses are derived and the importance of planning for expected and unexpected expenses. Source: The Horse. Link. In addition to … [Read more...]
Cannabis product use in cats, dogs in the U. S.
Understanding how pet owners think and use cannabis products gives animal health pros a look at their motivations for and perceptions of cannabis-derived product use. Whether treats, chews and oil-based tinctures are used, Trina Hazzah, DVM, DACVIM, CVCH, emphasizes that using correct terminology is essential. CBD is not synonymous with cannabis; CBD is one of the 150 … [Read more...]
Heated dog blankets and beds. Useful? Safe?
Includes Commercial References Rachael Leanny shared information about dog blankets and beds with built-in heaters. Her primary warning is to avoid using human heating pads or blankets for pets. Her article covers the pros and cons of supplemental heat sources for dogs. We noted the warnings about protecting electrical cords from being chewed or exposed. With colder … [Read more...]
What do all those ‘biotics’ do?
Microbiome researchers have learned that microbiome health likely plays a key role in the overall health of pets. Veterinarians and pet owners can choose a probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic or postbiotic, but knowing which bug or brand is a good choice is difficult. The GI microbiome is a complex ecosystem, writes Martha Cline, DVM, DACVIM, in this article. She shares some of … [Read more...]
Thanksgiving foods dogs can eat
Thanksgiving weekend is infamous in the veterinary world for causing a spike in pancreatitis, vomiting and diarrhea. Kate Basedow, LVT, reminds dog owners to use moderation and lists of Thanksgiving foods dog can share, to coach guest and restrict access to the cornucopia of foods available. Source: Whole Dog Journal, October 29, 2024. Link. INSIGHTS: While pet owners … [Read more...]
Coughing dogs: the why and how to prevent it
Complimentary Sponsored Content As holiday boarding season approaches, Jenifer Chatfield, DVM, Dipl. ACZM, Dipl. ACVPM, is presenting a webinar for pet care professionals at boarding facilities, doggie day cares and groomers on how to prevent respiratory illness in dogs at their locations. She’ll also discuss what causes canine respiratory disease complex in dogs and … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – November 4, 2024
Gen Z driving pet care market, groomer shares how he gets animals to relax, records of California’s underground puppy market to be saved, stunning growth projected in grooming market, cat welcomes owner home after being alone 3 days and more . . . Source: IBPSA, November 4, 2024. Link. … [Read more...]
Modern hyper-convenience adding difficulty, driving need for digital detox?
Commentary Two articles address our ever-expanding challenges and dependency on digital devices and their deep integration into our lives. We’re sharing these pieces that cover the benefits and the growing consequences of digital dependency. Modern hyper-convenience is a kind of deal with the devil . . . instinctually seductive. . . while it surreptitiously depletes us.” - … [Read more...]
Get ‘em checked
Jennifer M. Latzke is not afraid to talk about breast cancer, advancements in early detection methods and methods of treatment and the importance of screening for women and men. Source: KansasFarmer, November 1, 2024. Link. Improvements in early detection and treatment contributed to a 44 percent decline in breast cancer death rate in the U.S. between 1989 and 2022.” … [Read more...]
Bird flu mutating and reassorting with seasonal flu could create a pandemic-causing virus
Commentary It is NOT time to panic. Experts are studying the potential for H5N1 to mutate and reassort with seasonal influenza. They indicate humans and pigs could both serve as mixing vessels for a bird flu–seasonal flu hybrid. The article by Tanya Lewis provides a situation analysis, food for thought and reinforces the importance of: seasonal flu vaccination for … [Read more...]
Laser therapy’s many uses in small animal practice
As year-end approaches, some practices consider making capital expenditures on equipment. Lasers may be a good choice. Two recent articles, which include photos, share when, where and how to use lasers in various veterinary practice settings. Jason B. Pieper DVM, MS, DACVD, shares how CO2 lasers are used in veterinary dermatology. Michael C. Petty, DVM, asserts the benefits … [Read more...]
Insights into the reasons pet owners surrender their pets to shelters
Updates to the AAHA website make the newly published 2024 AAHA Community Care Guidelines for Small Animal Practice more accessible to veterinarians and animal health pros. A community approach can begin to improve healthcare access by mobilizing all available resources within it. Emily Singler shares efforts to quantify why pet owners surrender pets to shelters and the … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – October 31, 2024
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, October 24, 2024. Link. Most read posts from the October 24th AHD Bulletin – Study: dead animal disposal practices can put swine farms at PRRS risk. Link. Pet industry adapts to economic challenges, new trends. Link. Cattle traceability rule set to take effect November 5th. Link. Image … [Read more...]
NAVC, blendVet expands Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging education
With the first DEIB Certificate Program launching this week in VetFolio, the NAVC will offer five RACE programs free to VetFolio subscribers, with the option for non-subscribers to purchase the courses. Since 2023, NAVC and blendVet have been working closely to create programs that inspire future veterinary professionals and promote DEIB in the veterinary industry. Source: … [Read more...]
First case of H5N1 in swine found in Oregon backyard farm
No concern about the safety of the nation’s pork supply but a reminder of what can happen when livestock and poultry share water sources, housing and equipment. Source: National Hog Farmer, October 30, 2024. Link. USDA and ODA remind all farmers that strong biosecurity is critical to eradicating this virus and to protecting the health of farmworkers, farmers and their … [Read more...]
Toys, materials for pigs offer physical enrichment
There have been promising welfare results when physical enrichment is provided for pigs. While researchers found straw to meet most of the pigs’ behavioral needs, its use in modern facilities is challenging. This article summarizes the welfare effects when using a rope, balls, burlap bags and toys compared to pigs with no enrichment. A chart shows enrichments that improved at … [Read more...]
The deep impact of protein formulation in calf starter feed (video)
Includes Commercial Content Choosing the right proteins in calf starter feed is essential for optimizing rumen fermentation and developing healthy digestive function. Until weaning, liquid milk feed provides most of the protein supply in calf weaning plans in the first half of the initial growth phase. These proteins are essentially of dairy origin. During the second half of … [Read more...]
Review: 3 keys to lameness prevention
Hoof care requires diligent efforts to avoid lameness in dairy animals. Properly maintained footbaths are critical along with regular hoof trimming and scraping multiple times per day. Jason Hartschuh shares the importance of footbath depth and solution options, including copper sulfate, formalin and zinc sulfate. Source: Hoard’s Dairyman, October 28, 2024. Link. Barn … [Read more...]
Improving deer health on cervid livestock farms
The cervid livestock business is one of the fastest-growing industries in rural America, writes Brian Consiglio. He shares what University of Missouri researchers are doing to improve deer health so cervid farm managers can make better-informed decisions on antibiotic use and disease management practices. Source: Show Me Mizzou, October 30, 2024. Link. Infections, such as … [Read more...]
Signs of back pain in horses
A horse’s back changes with age. In the article here, Barb Crabbe, DVM, teaches about a horse’s back and how to keep it healthy as he ages. She begins with an overview of back anatomy and then describes the most commonly diagnosed back problems. Back problems are difficult to diagnose in horses and challenging to treat. Source: Horse and Rider, December 4, 2023. Link. You … [Read more...]
Comparing professional and at-home laser therapy for horses
Includes Commercial Content Laser therapy is now recognized for its therapeutic benefits in veterinary medicine. Research supports its use in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and accelerating tissue repair and healing. In this article, the authors compare professional and at-home therapy approaches. Source: Equine Wellness, October 21, 2024. Link. For most equine … [Read more...]
Organ meat in dog diets. It’s not as offal as it sounds.
There is growing interest in the health benefits of organ meats, even labeling them as superfoods for both humans and pets. Organs are frequently the first choice of wild canids that attack and kill livestock. The authors share facts about offal use in diets, including raw diets, in this article. They note liver, kidney and heart as the most common organ meats in … [Read more...]