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...]
Summer driving tips and reminders (video)
A large percentage of animal health pros are on the road in territories or commuting to and from work. Especially during this heat wave, it is a good time to review summer driving safety tips. A little planning and some safety checks might spare you from dealing with the consequences of a breakdown or worse, a crash. Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. … [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...]
Veterinarians, nutritionists find value when working together
Swine production practices have advanced considerably in the last two decades. The historical large divide between veterinarians and nutritionists is progressively closing. AMVC swine veterinarian, Jason Hocker, and swine nutritionist, Trey Kellner, shared perspectives on finding value at the intersection of veterinary medicine and swine nutrition in pork production during the … [Read more...]
Iowa Pork Industry Center seasonal ventilation checklists now available
Regardless of the size of a hog building, following a regular process for maintaining ventilation systems can pay big economic dividends. New summer and winter checklists are available to help guide and remind people in charge of maintenance and ventilation of necessary tasks and inspections. Keeping a printed checklist that stays in the barn can be a useful tool to facilitate … [Read more...]
The bovine nasal fungal community and associations with bovine respiratory disease
Commentary Consider the end of a cow’s nose. Picture what it encounters throughout the day. A variety of environmental conditions exist when cows inhale dirt, pond water, silage, grasses, baled hay, another cows’ behind, cow manure, wildlife feces and so on. Effective identification and treatment of bovine respiratory disease is an ongoing health and economic issue for … [Read more...]
Nutrition for equine hoof health; feeding the foot
Commentary Horses, like us, need proper nutrition for healthy skin and nails (and hooves). The hoof is a living organ. A horse’s diet plays a crucial role in the quality and durability of the horn that makes up his hooves. Lynn Taylor, PhD, and Ashley Wagner, PhD, shed light on the dos and don’ts of feeding for optimal hoof health in this article. Today’s diet is … [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...]
New anxiety unlocked: Ticks can ‘fly’
Ticks can’t jump. But using the forces of static electricity, sometimes, the arachnids can soar through the air, a new study says. The scientists found the ticks could launch through the air when exposed to both positive and negative charges, suggesting that these natural forces overwhelm whichever charge the tick has on its own body.” Source: National Geographic, July 11, … [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...]
Three reasons farmers give antibiotics to livestock and poultry
With fair season underway, some livestock people face scrutiny from the general public while showing their animals. Phibro’s Leah Dorman, DVM, shares why animals are given antibiotics in food production. Consider sharing her article with FFA and 4-H members who can use her article to support their production practices and the importance of responsible use. Source: Explore … [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...]
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...]
Mission Rabies on the streets in Cambodia
Includes Sponsored Content The Drs Chatfield connect with Luke Gamble, BVSc DVM&S, FRCVS, live on the streets of Cambodia as Mission Rabies teams get ready to disperse and vaccinate dogs. Rabies causes one to two deaths in children each week in Cambodia where dogs are a primary virus vector. Gamble’s objective is to vaccinate 100,000 dogs in an effort to increase herd … [Read more...]
What is a veterinary nutritionist?
Pet food choices seem to expand exponentially each year and cause confusion for pet owners and animal health pros. In this article, experts weigh in on the role of veterinary nutritionists, how they can help pet owners, and how to spot and stay away from unqualified nutritionists. A veterinary nutritionist is the best source of information on animal nutrition because of their … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – July 10, 2023
AI in the pet industry, contributions of pet nutrition to economy, Brooke Shields enters pet CBD PR world, emerging plant toxins, marketing ideas from WhiskerCloud, avoiding overcommunicating as a leader and more. . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, July 10, 2023. Link. Also see: Telling the U.S. pet food market’s growth story, PETFOOD Industry, July 7, 2023. Link. The U.S. pet … [Read more...]
Morris Animal Foundation celebrates 75 years of helping animals (video)
Morris Animal Foundation is celebrating 75 years of helping dogs, cats, horses and wildlife through scientific research. Spend five minutes to understand the history, importance and contributions this organization has and continues to provide to our industry. Source: Morris Animal Foundation, YouTube, June 13, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
A new federal pregnancy law is now in effect; what HR needs to know
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act went into effect on June 27, requiring employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” to pregnant workers from pregnancy through the postpartum period, including time off to recover . . . unless such accommodations would lead to an “undue hardship” on the part of the employer. Employees no longer must prove they should be accommodated. … [Read more...]