Health

10 Dog Dental Disease Complications

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Dog dental disease complications are not uncommon and more and more dogs are affected when preventive steps are not taken. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, by three years of age, most dogs have signs of periodontal disease. Left untreated, dog dental disease causes complications which are not minor and some of them can significantly affect a dog’s health, even leading to major problems at times. Being aware of these complications is important so to recognize early signs of trouble, or even better, take better care of a dog’s teeth preventing dental disease from occurring in the first place. As the saying goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” when it comes to dog health.

dog-dental-disease-complicationsHow it All Starts

Perhaps, a more accurate term for depicting dog dental disease in dogs in this article is “periodontal disease,” which is  the most common form of dental disease affecting pets. The term periodontal means “around the tooth” therefore, periodontal disease is a condition that affects anything surrounding a dog’s teeth including bone, gums, and all the structures that hold the teeth in place.

Here’s what happens in periodontal disease in dogs: after a dog eats a meal, a white colorless film develops on his teeth.  This film, known as plaque, is what people feel upon passing their tongue on their teeth when they are not brushed in a timely matter. At this stage, this microbial biofilm is easy to remove and can be easily scraped off. Simply brushing the dog’s teeth removes this film.

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Problems start when this film is not removed. Courtesy of minerals in a dog’s saliva (mostly, dissolved calcium), the plaque starts to harden, and in a few days, it calcifies turning into what’s known as tartar or calculus, an unsightly yellow/brown coating that is difficult to remove. The bristles of a tooth brush will do little at this point. Also, from smooth, the surface of the dog’s teeth coated with tartar gets rough, which attracts more and more tartar build-up and soon a vicious cycle is formed. As the tartar accumulates, it starts collecting under the gums which is when all sorts of complications start to set in.

idea tipDid you know? Just because a dog’s teeth are white doesn’t meant they are free of dental disease. Periodontal disease can be present under the gum line in perfectly white teeth, where it is not visible to the naked eye.

bad-breath yawn1) Dog Bad Breath

As plaque and eventually tartar start building up, a dog’s breath will start becoming increasingly stinky. Dental disease is often the culprit for those whiffs of odor coming from Rover’s mouth. “Doggy breath” is typically caused by mild dental disease, while severe dental disease causes severe halitosis, points out veterinarian Dr. Barchas.

“If a dogs breath is offensive then the shift from normal bacteria to those that cause periodontal disease has occurred. It is an indication that there are problems that need to be addressed.”~Dr. Brett Beckman, President, American Veterinary Dental Society

2) Dog Gingivitisdog teeth

Plaque is formed by a combination of bacteria, carbohydrates, food particles and saliva. When plaque accumulates by the dog’s gum line, its toxins irritate the dog’s gums causing them to become inflamed, swell, bleed and get infected. Gingivitis is the medical term used to depict the inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with thorough teeth cleaning and polishing along with the owner’s daily care, as no bone loss has occurred at this stage, explains veterinary dentist Dr. Jean Hawkins. While gingivitis is simply a mild form of gum disease, left untreated though, it will develop into a more serious periodontitis.

“Gingivitis is the early form of periodontal disease in which inflammation is confined to the gingival soft tissues. Animals that have Stage I (gingivitis) periodontal disease have gingivitis with no attachment loss. “~Sandra Manfra Marretta, veterinary dentist

dog sick sleep3) Dog Immune System Issues

As the dog’s body detects the presence of bacteria by the gums, the immune system is stimulated and jumps into action to fight the infection. Soon, white blood cells gather along with other inflammatory mediators to the affected area.  However, this immune system response tends to wreck more havoc than doing good when there is a severe build-up of plaque and tartar. When  enzymes released from the white blood cells reach the periodontal space so to fight bacteria, they cause damage to the supporting structures of the tooth. On top of that, left untreated, periodontal disease becomes chronic leaving the body in a state of chronic inflammation and disease.

“The pet’s body and immune system are forced to fight a chronic battle every minute of the day against the invading organisms.”Animal Dentistry & Oral Surgery

4) Dog Pathological Fractures

A pathological fracture doesn’t occur in a healthy bone as a result of an accident, but rather it is a fracture that develops because of an underlying disease. An example of a pathological fracture is a dog’s leg breaking because of bone cancer. With periodontal disease, a pathological fracture may occur as the bone weakens more and more if it’s localized to the lower jaw. According to Veterinary Dental Specialties & Oral Surgery, pathological fractures of the jaw are more common in older, small breed dogs.

Did you know?  Only about five percent of dogs develop cavities, while periodontal disease, is five times more common in dogs than in people. Why is that? Low cavities are explained because most pet food is low in simple sugars. While the reasons behind the high numbers of periodontal disease in dogs is because dogs have a more alkaline mouth  than humans which attracts plaque and their teeth aren’t brushed every day, says Colleen O’Morrow, a veterinary dentist in Manitoba, Canada in an article for PetMD.

tooth-loss-dog5) Dog Gingival Recession

In a healthy mouth, the dog’s gums adhere to the teeth like a cuff. Gingival recession is when the dog’s gums recede pulling away from the tooth and even exposing the roots which are normally covered by bone and gums. Periodontal disease in both dogs and humans is known for causing the gums to recede.

6) Dog Oronasal Fistulas

When there is severe dental disease, an oronasal fistula may form due to bone loss. What is an oronasal fistula? It’s an opening that communicates between the dog’s mouth and the posterior part of the dog’s respiratory tract. According to Animal Dentistry & Oral Surgery Specialists LLC, fistulas are more commonly found by the dog’s top canines, while the incisor region is less affected. Because this opening shouldn’t be there, affected dogs develop infections of their respiratory tract due to food and saliva draining into the dog’s respiratory tract. Fortunately, oronasal fistulas in dogs can be prevented by teamwork provided by the owner brushing the dog’s teeth and routine dental care provided by the family veterinarian and a dental specialist.

7) Dog Tooth Root Abscessescarnassial

While a tooth root abscess is more commonly seen when a tooth is broken or cracked, sometimes the culprit may be periodontal disease. When tartar buildup continues to go untreated, infection can easily form around the root of the tooth since periodontal disease often leaves the inner layers of the tooth exposed. When the upper carnassial tooth is involved, since the roots of this tooth are long and reach below the eye, affected dogs may develop signs that are often confused with an eye problem. At some point, the abscess may cause the tissue below the eye to swell and get inflamed and the abscess may eventually burst causing pus to seep out.

” Once the abscess bursts, the pressure will be relieved and the tooth will often be less painful.” ~Michigan Animal Hospital

Anesthesia-free cleanings are mostly cosmetic.
Anesthesia-free cleanings are mostly cosmetic as they fail to reach under the gums.

8) Dog Bone Loss

Something important for dog owners to acknowledge is that bone loss is something that is not visible by just looking at a dog’s teeth. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, bone loss can only be seen with x-rays of the mouth. Bone loss happens when the dog’s gums pull away and bacteria reach teeth roots and the jawbone, releasing toxins that eat away bone tissue, which can happen easily since it’s no longer protected by healthy gums. The more severe the stage or periodontal disease, the more severe the bone loss.

9) Dog Tooth Loss

As tartar keeps accumulating, bacteria will keep secreted toxins which weaken the dental structures that keep a dog’s teeth is place. Connective tissue fibers, ligaments and bone start providing less and less support. Soon, the bone around the tooth is destroyed leading to loose, painful teeth which can affect the dog’s ability to eat properly and even digest.

“It’s not unusual for middle aged dogs to lose teeth. In most cases this occurs when there is gum disease (gingivitis) which can then spread to the tissue that holds the tooth in (periodontitis).” Dr. Pete

dog pain goes away at the vet10)Dog Systemic Disease

The most scary complication of dental disease in dogs is that it can cause systemic diseases affecting important organs such as the kidneys, liver and valves of the heart. How does this happen? Because a dog’s gums are very vascular, bacteria from the mouth can easily gain access to the dog’s bloodstream and circulate through the dog’s body. While these bacteria may be filtered out by the livers and kidneys, tiny abscesses may develop on these organs which disrupts their normal functioning. When these bacteria happen to attach to the dog’s heart valves instead, they can cause endocarditis, an inflammation of the inner layer of the heart which often includes the heart valves. Not to mention, diabetes and other health problems.

” As the animal chews its food, the infected and inflamed gums bleed, and a shower of very aggressive bacteria enters the blood stream. These germs are carried throughout the body and can cause infection in many areas.”~ Dr. Fraser Hale, veterinary dentist.

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of dental diseases, please see your vet for proper treatment.

References:

  • American Veterinary Dental College, Periodontal Disease, retrieved from the web on Sept 8th, 2016
  • Animal Dentistry & Oral Surgery Specialists LLC, Oronasal and oroantral fistula in cats and dogs,  retrieved from the web on Sept 8th, 2016
  • American Veterinary Dental College, Stages of Pet Periodontal Disease, retrieved from the web on Sept 8th, 2016
  • Eukanuba, Vital Health Care and Management of Competitive Dogs,  retrieved from the web on Sept 8th, 2016
  • Healthy Mouth, Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats, retrieved from the web on Sept 8th, 2016

Photo Credits:

Total loss of attachment (clinical attachment loss, CAL) is the sum of 2: Gingival recession, and 3: Probing depth by Lesion – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

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Ten Reasons Why Dogs Sneeze

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Sneezing is a forceful expulsion of air from the dog’s lungs through the nose and mouth. There are several reasons that cause sneezing in dogs, but they might not always be quite obvious. An occasional sneeze or two in an otherwise healthy and happy dog may not be something to worry about, but repeated sneezing or sneezing in a dog that appears unwell is something that should prompt a dog owner to seek immediate veterinary attention. Today we discover several reasons as to why dogs sneeze, and interestingly, sneezing in dogs is not always due to a medical problem!

dog sneezing1) Sneezing due to Irritants

With dogs sniffing around for a good part of their days, it’s normal for them to inhale some dust, pollen and debris. Sneezing is an involuntary action that helps dogs expel mucus containing irritants from the dog’s nasal cavity. Here’s what exactly happens: a dog’s nose is equipped with special sensors that are meant to detect any foreign particles. When these sensors detect something that shouldn’t be there, the cilia (special broom-like structures lining the dog’s nose and lungs) spring into action, and with the help of a sneeze, sweep the irritants out of the dog’s lungs and out of the dog’s body through his mouth and nose.

In order for cilia to effectively work well, they need the aid of mucus which is produced by the dog’s nose. While mucus is far from being something glamorous, it helps moisten and warm inhaled air and keeps the “cilia” nicely lubricated.

So mucus helps trap inhaled particles such as dust, dander and debris or residue from household irritants such as perfume, cigarette smoke, household cleaners, carpet powders and deodorants,while the cilia through a potent sneeze help expel them all out, how cool is that?

2) Sneezing Due to Allergiesdog flowers

While dust and debris can cause occasional sneezing when the irritant in inhaled, allergies generally cause seasonal sneezing caused by grass or tree pollen. Affected dogs develop a strong immune response to the allergen and typically sneeze, develop discharge from both nostrils, their eyes water and they may also start chewing on their paws. While doggy seasonal allergies are nowhere as common as in humans, it does happen and veterinarians can prescribe medications to help these dogs out.

3) Sneezing Due to Foreign Items

Repeated sneezing in dogs may mean that there’s something more going on than just a bit of dust or presence of pollen creating havoc. Sometimes dogs may get dead bugs, paper clips, grass awns or even a foxtail stuck up their noses which will cause violent sneezing fits in dogs. If your dog is sneezing repeatedly and violently or the sneezing is accompanied from a bleeding nose, it’s important to see the vet. The dog may need sedation to look up his nose using a rhinoscope so to check for any foreign items stuck up there. It’s important for dog owners to recognize that this type of sneezing won’t stop until the foreign body is removed from the dog’s nose.

dog teeth4) Sneezing Due to Teeth Problems

At times, sneezing may be due to some tooth problem affecting the dog. This may sound a tad bit odd, but in reality it makes sense if we take a little lesson in canine anatomy. The root of a dog’s teeth are located next to the dog’s nasal cavity, and therefore, when dogs develop a tooth root abscess, they may develop bouts of sneezing and drainage from the nostril.

In many cases, the problem tooth may need to be removed. Left untreated, the infection will tend to progress and may spread to the dog’s sinuses too.

5) Sneezing Due to Parasites

Yes, sometimes pesky parasites can play a role in those sneezing bouts too. In this case, sneezing could be caused by the presence of nasal mites, which go by the scientific name of pneumonyssoides caninum. Nasal mites, as the name implies, live in the dog’s nose and are transmitted from nose-to-nose contact with other infected dogs. In severe infestations, affected dogs will sneeze, develop nasal discharge and in some cases may also have nose bleeds. Fortunately, a swab of the dog’s nasal lining can detect their presence and these mites can be eradicated for good with vet-prescribed medication. And if you’re wondering, no, nasal mites are not that common, and fortunately, don’t seem to like to infest human noses. 

 6) Sneezing Due to Viruses/Bacteriadog cold sneezing

Just as the presence of dust and dander trigger bouts of sneezing, the presence of bacteria or viruses will trigger sneezing in dogs too. When virus and bacteria multiply out of control in a dog’s nose, sneezing will help sweep the nose clean. While the types of viruses affecting dogs are quite different from those infecting humans, the symptoms remain quite similar: sneezing, watery eyes and coughing, possibly accompanied by other debilitating symptoms such as loss of appetite, fever and lethargy.

According to veterinarian Ron Hines, the two most common “cold viruses” affecting dogs include parainfluenza virus and the Type-2 Adenovirus. These viruses are transmitted by sneezes from other sick dogs and are therefore more likely seen in dogs who have been around other dogs such as when  being recently boarded, hospitalized or at the local dog park.

7) Sneezing Due to Fungal Infections

Fungal infections may cause bouts of sneezing too. In particular, the nasal form of Aspergillus causes an infection that is localized to the dog’s nose and sinuses. Affected dogs inhale the spores of the fungus when sniffing and then develop symptoms such as pain in the nose, sneezing, nose swelling and bleeding, reduced appetite and discharge from the nostrils.

8) Sneezing Due to Tumors

Sometimes, the presence of a tumor in a dog’s nose may cause repeated sneezing in dogs just as when they have a foreign item stuck there. Chronic sneezing that increases in frequency over the coarse of weeks or months in an older dog can be concerning, as it may be indicative of the presence of a tumor, even though not very common, explains veterinarian Race Foster. On top of the sneezing, affected dogs may have bloody discharge from a nostril. Nasal tumors can be malignant, but there are also benign ones too such as nasal polyps.

dog lip licking sneezing9) Sneezing as a Calming Signal

Here’s a brief story about a young Labrador going by the name of Buddy being taught to do attention heeling once in our training classes. This dog would get these sneezing bouts almost every time he was asked to heel. It was almost as if this dog was “allergic” to heeling! We soon figured out that these context-based sneezing bouts had nothing to do with allergies as they appeared only during training sessions.

With time, the owners confessed that they were often running out of patience at home and on walks when the dog was not heeling as they wanted. Once we suggested applying kinder training methods at home and on walks, and introduced a clicker, those sneezing fits soon disappeared! After all, Buddy could not get a treat if he was sneezing at the same time! What does this tell us? Like other calming signals such as yawning and lip licking, this behavior tells us that sneezing may not always have to do with something physical going on, but may involve emotions too!

“Sneezing: probably not a cold, but a way of diffusing a worrisome situation.” Gill Garratt

10) Sneezing Due to Excitement

Ever seen dogs sneezing to their heart’s content when they are excitedly playing? Well, here’s a possible reason. When dogs are excited or playing, they may tend to curl their lips and wrinkle their noses. Wrinkling the nose is something that makes dogs sneeze, explains Dr. Bruce Fogle, veterinarian and author of the book “If Your Dog Could Talk.”

“Dogs that like to curl their lips and “grin” as they play often sneeze after having their nose wrinkled up for a while.”~Debra Eldredge DVM, Kate Eldredge

Did you know? Sometimes dogs also sneeze when they receive a bug bite, when they wake up or when they’re rolling on floor.

Disclaimer: if you are wondering “why is my dog sneezing?” please consider that this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog is sneezing, please see your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

  • Pet Education: Sneezing & Nasal Discharge in Dogs & Puppies, by Race Foster DVM, retrieved from the web on August 28th, 2016
  • Second Chance Info, Why is my dog sneezing? Sneezing and upper respiratory tract problems in dogs and cats, by veterinarian Ron Hines, retrieved from the web on August 28th, 2016
  • Your dog and you: Understanding the canine psyche, By Gill Garratt, Hubble & Hattie; 1 edition (May 1, 2015)
  • Idiot’s Guides: Dog Tricks, By Debra Eldredge DVM, Kate Eldredge,  Alpha (June 2, 2015)

Why Does My Dog Urinate While Sleeping?

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If you thought children were the only ones who would engage in bed wetting, think again; a dog wetting the bed while sleeping is not an uncommon problem. Many dog owners assume that a dog who is urinating while sleeping is a dog who hasn’t been completely housebroken, but in reality, a dog with sleep incontinence is more likely to have a medical disorder rather than displaying a potty training problem. So if your dog is showing signs of sleep incontinence, skip the dog trainer and go straight to your vet so your dog can be checked out for possible underlying medical problems.

dog wetting bed during sleepA Matter of Control

It may start with a little wet spot, than a trickle, and then next thing you notice your dog’s whole bed is drenched when he/she gets up from a nap, what’s happening? In order to understand the dynamics behind a dog urinating while sleeping, a little lesson in anatomy is needed.

A normal, healthy dog is equipped with a bladder which basically acts as a storage container meant to house urine.

In dogs and virtually all living creatures, urine keeps constantly accumulating at a steady rate. At a certain point, once the bladder fills up to its capacity, special stretch receptors in the bladder wall are activated, triggering muscle contractions of the bladder wall which create the urge for the dog to go to the door and bark to ask to be let out.

Thanks to the dog’s ability to control the sphincter around the neck of the bladder, the dog is able to “hold it” until the owner lets him/her out. Once the dog  heads out and finds his/her favorite potty spot outside, the sphincter muscle is finally relaxed and the urine can finally flow out, giving the dog a much needed sense of relief. Problems start though when the sphincter muscle weakens for one reason or another, and the dog loses the ability to control the urine flow.

A Female Issuedog wetting bed while lying down

A common cause of female dogs wetting their sleeping areas is what’s called “Primary sphincter mechanism incompetence“(PSMI) also known as hormone-responsive urinary incontinence”or “estrogen-responsive incontinence” or simply “spay incontinence. ”

According to a study, it was found that about 1 out of 5 female dogs are affected by this condition after they are spayed. Basically, what happens is that in female spayed dogs, their levels of estrogen lower and since estrogen is known for helping maintain good muscle tone of the sphincters, trouble soon erupts. As spayed dogs age, these muscles tend to weaken causing leakage of urine when they’re resting or sleeping, explains veterinarian Dr. Marie.

While middle-aged to senior dogs are mostly affected, sometimes it can also affect younger dogs. Fortunately, this type of problem can remedied using  a veterinary prescription medication known as phenylpropanolamine (yeah, try to pronounce that!) which can help strengthen those weakened sphincters. For difficult cases, when this drug won’t help, DES (diethyl stilbesterol) estrogen can help prime the sphincter and provide relief, points out veterinarian Dr. Loretta. 

dog bed wettingA Male Issue Too

Male dogs can also have their set of urinary problems when it comes to bed wetting. Like in female dogs, neutered dogs may also develop a weakening of the bladder’s sphincter, however it is far more uncommon than in spayed female dogs.

Basically, what happens is that, as in the female dog, as the dog is relaxed, the sphincter relaxes too causing the annoying leakage. Upon getting up and walking, there still may be a bit of leakage as the sphincter may not have completely tightened up, explains veterinarian Dr. John. 

As in female dogs, male dog incontinence can be treated with medications obtained from the vet.

“In the female, estrogen has a dramatic effect, giving strength to the muscular tissue of the bladder. In the male, testosterone has much the same effect. Anything that affects the levels of these hormones also affects the dog’s ability to retain his urine.” ~Dr. Marty Smith

Other Possible Problems

There are several other potential causes of urinary incontinence in dogs and these may include urinary tract infections, bladder stones, ectopic ureters and brain or spinal cord disease when communication between the nerves of the sphincter and the dog’s brains is disrupted. Also, any medical condition known for causing increased drinking and increased urination such as diabetes, kidney disease and Cushing’s disease may be a culprit (causing the bladder to fill too much and spill out) and so can certain medications (eg. corticosteroids). However, dogs affected by most of  these conditions tend to dribble urine on several separate occasions during the day other than mostly during sleep.

dog pain goes away at the vetSome Possible Complications

When dogs urinate during their sleep, they are not aware of it and therefore will be surprised when they wake up feeling wet. Many dogs will lick their private areas upon waking and feeling the area wet or moist, but prolonged contact with urine which is caustic can cause urine scalding resulting in red, raw skin and dirty, matted hair.

It’s good practice to check the area often and wash with a soft washcloth and tepid water. Veterinarians may recommend using special anti-inflammatory salves that contain antibiotics.

Also, since dogs with incontinence have lost a certain level of sphincter tone, it’s more easy for bacteria to make its way up the dog’s urinary tract and colonize the area causing an infection. For this reason, it’s a good idea to have the urine from a dog suffering from urinary incontinence checked twice a year for a possible infection, suggests veterinarian Weis DVM, a UC Davis Graduate.

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog is urinating while sleeping or while lying down, please see your vet for diagnosis and treatment,

References:

  • Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Ovariohysterectomy versus ovariectomy: is removal of the uterus necessary? Vol 239 No 11. December 1, 2011 pages 1409-1412
  • DVM360, Treatment of refractory urinary incontinence (Proceedings), retrieved from the web on August 21st, 2016
  • Pet Education, Urinary Incontinence in Dogs, retrieved from the web on August 21st, 2016

Sagging Skin Under a Dog’s Neck

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Humans often complain about double chins and sagging skin, but dogs can also develop loose, sagging skin under the neck area,  a’ la “Winston Churchill” style. While surgery neck lift for dogs has yet to be invented, it’s important to understand that in dogs, loose skin under the neck can have medical causes especially when it’s something new that the dog never showed signs of before. Sure, there are several dog breeds known for having sagging skin, but if your dog seems to suddenly develop loose skin under the neck, it’s best to schedule a vet visit just to play it safe.

dog dewlapGiving it a Name

Under normal conditions, certain breeds or types of dogs have some extra sagging skin under the lower jaw or neck area. This extra flap of skin in dogs is known as the “dewlap.” In some breeds this characteristic is part of the breed standard and is even desirable, while in some other breeds excessive “throatiness” is considered a fault.  Sometimes, the condition of having excess skin is referred to as “wet neck.”

In these cases though, dogs have naturally loose, saggy or wrinkly skin that has been there for most of their lives. The following paragraph will list several dogs breeds who are naturally gifted with dewlaps.

A Matter of BreedSAGGING SKIN DOG

There are several dog breeds known for having sagging skin around the neck area. There are dogs with a slight dewlap and dogs with a very pronounced onr. The Neapolitan mastiff is known for having heavy wrinkles and folds that extend from the outside margin of the eyelids up to the dewlap.

The voluminous dewlap and skin folds are considered such a staple of the Neapolitan mastiff breed, that, according to the American Kennel Club standard, a lack of wrinkles and folds is means for disqualification.

Other dog breeds with a very pronounced dewlap includes the basset hound, the  blood hound, English mastiff, English bulldog and Chinese shar-pei, just to name a few. 

Labrador with tragic face
Labrador with “tragic face.”

Signs of Trouble

While sagging skin in a dog’s neck can be a normal part of anatomy, in some cases it can be a sign of  a medical problem. For instance, hypothyroidism in dogs is known for causing what’s called “the tragic face of hypothyroid.” In these dogs the drooping skin of the chin, neck and face, gives them a sad look on their faces, explains Dr. Ralston. Other causes of what may look like sagging skin in the neck area are enlarged lymph glands or fluid leaking out of blood vessels, considering that the area under the dog’s neck is not an uncommon place for fluids to “hang out,” explains Dr. Elizabeth.

If there is a history of injury to the area (like from a dog bite or puncture wound) some dogs may develop a “knot” under the skin of the neck area due to the formation of an abscess (infected skin) or a seroma (collection of fluid under the skin). A vet can easily differentiate the two by performing a needle aspirate in the area and drawing some cells or fluid out, explains veterinarian Dr. Marie.   Some dogs may also develop a salivary cyst, which may cause a large pocket of saliva to form under the jaw at the base of the neck. According to Pet Education, in some cases the  salivary cyst can become so large that it fills the entire area below the jaw and may feel sort of like a balloon filled with honey.

Did you know?  There’s belief that the sagging skin by the basset hound’s neck has a purpose: to trap scent amplifying this breed’s already powerful sense of smell.

Disclaimer: this article is not to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your notice sagging skin in your dog, please see your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Photo Credits

  • The Mastiff has a distinctive head with dewlap and flews. The black mask is visible even on this brindle, by Pleple2000 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Characteristic changes in the facial skin of a Labrador Retriever with hypothyroidism, self – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

Dogs Have Different Types of Veterinary Specialists Too

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In the field of human medicine, it’s common practice for doctors to refer their patients to some type of specialists, and the same multi-tiered practice is now occurring in the veterinary field as there are now many different types of veterinary specialists for dogs to choose from. While your veterinarian is your go-to person when your dog needs a check-up or is feeling unwell, more and more veterinarians now turn their difficult and most challenging cases to veterinary specialists. When is it time for your dog to see a veterinary specialist, and most of all, who are these specialists and what do they do?

vetWhen to See A Veterinarian

Regular veterinarians undergo many years of training where they learn how to diagnose and treat several conditions and diseases affecting dogs, cats and possibly, other animals they specialize in (avian, exotics). Typically, a veterinarian will obtain an undergraduate degree at some University or College before entering veterinary school. Once in veterinary school, prospective veterinarians then undergo a 4-year program with several months spent being mentored by other vets. Veterinarians are recognized by the title DVM following their name which stands for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinarians graduating from the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Vet) are recognized instead by the title VMD  which stands for Veterinary Medical Doctorate. 

Your veterinarian is the first place to go when your dog needs a check-up, sustains some type of injury or when your dog is feeling unwell. Veterinarians therefore act in a similar fashion as a family practice physician.

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Did you know? In medical circles there is a saying: “When you hear hoof beats, think horses, not zebras.” This saying comes from Dr. Theodore Woodward, professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine who used it when instructing his medical interns. What this means is that, upon noticing symptoms, one must go for the most simple diagnosis. So if say, a dog is itching, the dog is most likely to do so because of allergies rather than some rare skin worm infestation. However, when things seem to get quite challenging, it’s often a sign that it time to see a specialist, who can be more familiar with seeing zebras, which may be less rare than thought as they get to see many complex cases.

“Although I agree with Dr. Woodward’s original premise, I have always felt it best to teach my students: “When you hear hoofbeats, think of horses, zebras and any other cloven-hoofed animal that might be responsible for the sound.”~John Lewis VMD, DAVCD

When to See a Veterinary SpecialistCapture

A veterinary specialist is a veterinarian who has completed additional years of training in a specifically chosen field that is not included in the average vet school. These additional years of intensive training include a a 2-3 year residency in choice of specialty which is followed by a rigorous credentialing process, which, when passed, leads to board-certification. When a veterinarian completes this rigorous training he becomes a “diplomat. ” On top of using the title DVM or VMD, these specialists have extra letters which informs about their area of specialty. For example, Emily Moeller, DVM, DACVO is a veterinarian (DVM) and  a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (DACVO).

When does a dog need to see a veterinary specialist? In most cases, veterinarians will  be the first to refer to one when they deal with complicated issues, but some dog owners can attest that it doesn’t always go this way. Sometimes vets may be reluctant to provide this option because they may assume that distance or financial reasons will discourage owners from pursuing such option or they may truthfully feel that they are treating the dog correctly. However, a dog who has had undergone several batteries of tests and who are not getting better despite repeated visits and treatments or a dog who needs a delicate type of surgery that requires a certain level of expertise, may benefit from a visit to a specialist. At some point, it may be necessary for the dog owner to step in and ask if seeing a specialist may be a good idea or the owners may decide seek a specialist on his own. Some specialists don’t require a referral, but they will need your dog’s medical history and records.

“With some exceptions, any time it takes more than three visits to solve a problem you should consider seeing a specialist to help suss it out. Sure, some issues are well-understood to require several follow-up visits (and your vet will usually tell you about this up front), but if you find yourself frustratingly fighting an increasingly difficult problem, it’s probably time to see a specialist.” Dr. Patty Khuly 

dog pain goes away at the vetKeep this List of Types of Veterinary Specialists Handy! 

Did you know? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) there are currently 40 veterinary specialties and more than 11,000 veterinarians have attained the title as board- certified diplomats by veterinary specialty organizations.

If you think your dog may benefit from some specialized care, being aware about these specialists can help you out.

Here is a list of several veterinary specialties, their associated abbreviations and descriptions of what these areas of specialty may entail.

 

  • DACVAA or Dip. ACVAA

These are board-certified Diplomates of The American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia (ACVAA). These veterinarians specialize in veterinary anesthesiology and pain management. Many of these specialists practice and teach in veterinary schools while others may work in hospitals or private specialty practices. Dogs who may benefit from seeing a veterinary anesthesiologist are dogs who are at a higher anesthetic risk either because of age, size or physical condition. Organs that require close attention when a dog is under are the dog’s brain, lungs, heart, kidney and liver. Veterinary anesthesiologists are specifically trained to monitor, recognize and care for any complications that may arise as a result of anesthesia.

  • DACVB or Dip. ACVB

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Behavior Specialists (ACVB). These veterinarians specialize in animal behavior including dogs, cats, horses and birds. What makes them stand out from the crowd? These specialists are able to diagnose and treat behavior problems in animals, whether stemming from a medical problem or being purely behavioral in nature.  Since they are also veterinarians, these specialists are also licensed to prescribe drugs that are meant to be used along with behavior modification. While veterinarians, dog trainers and behavior consultants may provide help for behavior problems, their expertise doesn’t generally reach the depth or breadth of that of a Veterinary Behaviorist. Aggression, anxiety, phobias, repetitive behaviors, inappropriate elimination and excessive vocalizations are just a few behavior problems these experts address.

  • DAVDC or Dip. AVDCTony Alter/Flickr)

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC). These veterinarians specialize in veterinary dentistry. These veterinarians have made dental care their area of specialty, and as such, they provide expertise in delicate or unusual dental procedures such as root canals, crowns and certain types of surgical procedures such as correcting a malocclusion, performing a complicated extraction or removing a dog’s oral tumor from the mouth.

  • DACVD or Dip. ACVD

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) These veterinarians specialize in veterinary dermatology and the treatment of skin, ear, hair, nail, hoof, and mouth disorders. There are countless skin conditions affecting dogs and things can get complicated at times. Veterinary dermatologists have what it takes to properly diagnose and treat skin diseases whether caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or autoimmune conditions, hair loss, skin cancers, systemic disorders resulting in skin problems and more. These specialists have therefore made skin problems their area of specialty and since several skin problems in humans are similar to those found in animals, they also obtain training in comparative medicine along with training in internal medicine, immunology and allergy.

  • DACVO or Dip. ACVO

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO). These veterinarians specialize in veterinary ophthalmology. A veterinary ophthalmologist can work alongside your vet to diagnose and treat any eye disorders affecting your dog. Many eye disorders in dogs require prompt care and if they do not respond to initial therapy or if a dog’s vision is deteriorating, a specialist may be needed. Veterinarians specializing in eye disorders can provide helpful insights in complex cases. They have special diagnostic machines and can carry out some complex surgeries such as cataract surgery, cherry eye surgery or enucleation (eye removal).

  • DACVN or Dip. ACVN

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN). These are veterinarians specializing in nutrition. A veterinary nutritionist can help you develop a customized diet for a dog, help market a specific product and tackle any conditions and disorders derived from a dietary problem. There’s no denial that nutrition plays a primary role in a dog’s state of health and veterinary nutritionists have what it takes to formulate commercial diets and supplements, home-made diets and help meet the nutritional needs of dogs of different ages, breeds and health statuses. You may find veterinary nutritionists working for vet schools,  dog food companies and veterinary companies, although some of them run their own businesses.

  • DACVR Dip. ACVR

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR). These are veterinarians specializing in veterinary radiology. It’s a known fact that there is currently a great expansion when it comes to veterinary diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy procedures. It can be quite difficult for regular veterinarians to keep up with all these advances in technology. Here comes the role of veterinary radiologists, specialists who use state-of-the art equipment and procedures meant to help in important diagnostics. Their practice is not limited to x-rays, these experts specialize in ultrasound, Ct scans, MRI’s, nuclear medicine and radiation oncology. A veterinary radiologist also can see things that can be missed by the regular vet, so consulting with them for image interpretation is a big plus.

  • DACVS or Dip. ACVS

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).  As their title implies, these are veterinarians specializing in surgery. While all vets learn how to perform various surgical procedures in vet school, sometimes dogs may need advanced care and procedures that are not routinely performed by the average vet. This is when veterinary surgeons are needed. These specialists can deal with complicated cases that require advanced procedures, specialized equipment and intensive monitoring when there are particular risks for the pet.

Veterinary surgeons may further specialize in certain types of surgery. There are therefore Dip. ACVS in Small Animal orthopedic surgery or DACVS (Small Animal Orthopedic Surgery) specializing in surgical procedures involving joints, ligaments, tendons and bones and Dip. ACVS in soft tissue surgery or DACVS (Soft Tissue Surgery) specializing in surgical procedures involving  non-bone tissues and tissues of internal organs.

  • DACT or Dip. ACT

These are board-certified Diplomats of the American College of Theriogenologists (ACT). These are veterinarians specializing in reproduction. These specialists focus on the physiology and pathology of reproductive systems and obstetrics. Breeders may consult with these specialists when their breeding stock develops conditions or diseases affecting their ability to reproduce. Many veterinary theriogenologists mostly work with livestock, but some also work with small animals including dogs and specialize in their reproductive diseases.

  • DACVIM or Dip. ACVIM

These board-certified veterinarians are Diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM). These are veterinarians specializing in internal medicine, which broadly encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of several conditions and diseases.

Within this area of specialty are several sub-specialties such as Dip. ACVIM in Neurology or DACVIM (Neurology) veterinarians specializing in diseases of the brain, spinal cord and other nervous system disorders,  Dip. ACVIM in Oncology or DACVIM (Oncology),  veterinarians specializing in tumors and cancer, and Dip. ACVIM in Cardiology or DACVIM (cardiology), veterinarians specializing in the heart and circulatory system.

  • DACVECC or Dip. ACVECC

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC). As the name implies, these are specialists in emergency care when every seconds counts. If a dog is suffering from a life threatening disease, these specialists will closely monitor the pet in an intensive care unit until the animal recovers.  These specialists undergo intense training in emergency, surgery and critical care and are often found in an emergency practice or they may work alongside other vets in a hospital setting or they can be found teaching at a vet school. Dogs that may benefit from this this type of care include dogs sustaining traumas, dogs in shock needing a blood transfusion, dogs having trouble breathing, heart problems or neurological diseases.

DACVM or Dip. ACVM

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists (ACVM). These specialists focus on Infectious Diseases.

DACVP or Dip ACVP

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP). These specialists focus on how medications affect animals.

DACVPM or Dip. ACVPM

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine (ACVPM). These specialists focus on  the detection, prevention, and control of diseases  that affect food, animals and the general public.

DACVSMR or Dip. ACVSMR

These are board-certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ACVSMR). These veterinarians specialize in rehabilitating dogs and horses from sport-related injuries. With many dog sports around nowadays, this field is expanding.

DACVT or Dip. ACVT

These are board -certified Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Toxicology (ACVT). These veterinarians specialize in  how poisons and toxic products can affect animals.

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

References:

  • Embrace Pet Insurance, Ten Ways to Know If Your Pet Needs a Veterinary Specialist, retrieved from the web on August 6th, 2016
  •  American Veterinary Medical Association, AVMA American Board of Veterinary Specialties, retrieved from the web on August 6th, 2016
  • Veterinary Practice News, Keeping An Eye Out For Zebras, retrieved from the web on August 6th, 2016

Photo Credits:

  • A vet examines a dog in New York, Archivist1174 – Own work, Photo of New York State Assemblyman Dr. Stephen M. “Steve” Katz at the Bronx Veterinary Center.CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Tony Alter, Clean Bill Of Health, (CC BY 2.0) Flickr, Creative Commons

 

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Can Dogs Get a Concussion?

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A dog may sometimes bump his head on a coffee table producing quite an alarming sound that may concern the dog owner, but then the dog shakes his head once or twice and is back to normal romping around as if nothing ever happened. Sigh of relief for the dog owner…. “phewww.” At one point though one may wonder: can dogs get a concussion like humans do when they hit their heads? If so, what would be the signs of a concussion in dogs and what can be done about it? Today, we will be discovering more about concussions in dogs and what veterinarians say about them.

dog concussionHead Concussions in Dogs

The term concussion comes from the Latin word “concutere” which means to “shake violently.” Also known as brain injury, head injury or head trauma, dogs are also susceptible to head concussions just as humans are. Fortunately though dogs tend to have quite a thick skull that makes them less likely to suffer from major damage when hitting their head against a table or chair, explains veterinarian Dr. Fiona.

In a normal, healthy dog, the brain is protected by a think skull and is surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid which is meant to further protect the brain from light trauma.

In severe impacts though, the cushioning effect may not suffix to protect the brain and the brain may suffer from swelling or hemorrhage which can lead to significant problems.

Common causes of serious head traumas in dogs are being kicked by horses, falling, being hit by a car or a blow to the head such as from a baseball bat.

“In my 16 yrs of practice, I have never met even one dog or cat who did serious damage to themselves by hitting a table of chair or other object. Fortunately, the skull is very strong, and the worst I have ever seen has been a tender bump for 1 – 2 days.” Dr. Fiona

Symptoms of Severe Head Trauma

A severe blow to the head, can alter the brain’s physiology leading to several complications under the form of metabolic changes including abnormal glucose levels, electrolyte imbalances and acid-base disturbances which can last even up to several weeks. Fortunately, these effects are often reversible, but according to studies performed on animals, a large numbers of neurons may sustain tissue damage and die.

Following a serious concussion, a dog may therefore develop a variety of symptoms such as altered state of consciousness, pupils of unequal sizes, stiff or flaccid legs, staggering gait, abnormal eye movements, tilted head, blood loss from ear canal or from the nose and breathing changes. Sometimes dogs may also develop vomiting following a blow to the head. According to a study, it was found that dogs who sustained a head trauma had a higher chance for developing seizures, especially in the immediate or early post-traumatic period.

In dogs, it is possible to have different levels of consciousness which can be classified into 4  distinct levels: 1) responsive, in other words, a bright and alert dog 2) depressed, in other words, a lethargic dog, but still responsive when stimulated 3) semi-comatose, in other words a significantly depressed dog, up to a point where vigorous stimulation is required to get a response 4) comatose, in other words, an unconscious  dog who doesn’t respond to stimulation, no matter how vigorous.

“You’d be surprised how much force it takes to really cause head trauma in a dog. Just hitting her head on a coffee table may cause a bit of a bump and some pain but I would not worry about any brain trauma. Worst case scenario that there is head trauma, these are the signs you’d look for- different size pupils, difficulty walking, muscle tremors, seizures. If you notice any of those, then she should be seen right away.” ~Dr. Gary

dog pain goes away at the vetTreatment 

While with minor bumps one can monitor the dog and report to the vet if noticing signs of trouble, when a severe concussion is suspected, it’s important to seek the vet as soon as possible as brain swelling can occur even hours after the accident. Best to play is safe and see the vet if in any doubt. Because dogs don’t share the same brain functions as humans, (eg fine motor movements, speech) it can be challenging at times to determine whether the dog’s brain has been affected. However, vets can derive hints from potential damage by looking at the dog’s balance, gait, eyes and overall level of alertness.

The vet will therefore carefully examine the dog by checking the dog’s pupil response to light (pupils should change size) and by performing a neurological evaluation. X-rays or a CT scan can be helpful to assess whether there are any fractures of the skull or spinal cord and signs or presence of brain injury. If there are signs of problems, the vet may provide pain relievers, intravenous fluids and medications meant to reduce swelling of the brain (mannitol).

“Head injuries can worsen significantly over the first 24-48 hours after the accident as swelling and bleeding increase within the cranium.”~  Dr. Laura Devlin

Did you know? Traumatic brain injury is quite common in cats, but in dogs not so much and this is because of the dog’s heavy temporal musculature and thick skull, explains veterinarian Michael Schaer, in the book “Clinical Medicine of the Dog and Cat, Second Edition.”

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your dog has a concussion or some other type of head trauma, please see your vet immediately  for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

  • Friedenberg SG, Butler AL, Wei L, et al. Seizures following head trauma in dogs: 259 cases (1999-2009). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012;241(11):1479-1483.
  • Clinical Medicine of the Dog and Cat, Second Edition 2nd Edition, by Michael Schaer, CRC Press; 2 edition (October 23, 2009)
  • Pet Place, Head Trauma in Dogs, retrieved from the web on August 4th, 2016

What the Yuck? Dogs Get Diarrhea From Stress Too

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Yes, just like people, dogs can get diarrhea from stress too. Sure, dogs don’t have to balance their checkbooks at the end of the month, they don’t have job interviews and they don’t go through divorces, but their lives at times can often get hectic and stressful too. Their sources of stress may be different than the ones we face, but their digestive tracts and nervous systems share many similarities with ours and therefore dogs show similar symptoms to some stress-induced medical conditions affecting the digestive tract such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) so common in humans. While dogs may develop stress for many reasons, stress-related diarrhea is highly contextual, meaning that it predictably flares up during stressful events.

dogThe Brain-Gut Axis

Just like humans, dogs are equipped with what is known as the “brain-gut axis,” a sort of superhighway connecting the central nervous system with the gastrointestinal system. This highway is populated by a complex network of million of neurons responsible for many regular functions that have fascinated scientists and clinicians for several decades. Among these important functions are regulation of the digestive tract’s motility and secretions, digestion, absorption, energy balance, blood flow and appetite regulation. Because the gut has a lot of similarities with the brain and there is extensive network of neurons lining the gut,  it’s often referred to as “the second brain” or more technically speaking, “the enteric nervous system.”

” Neurons were supposed to be nerve cells that only existed in the Central Nervous System (CNS), the brain and the spinal cord. But it turns out that there is a network of neurons in the gut designed to integrate the outside world with the inside of a mammal.” ~Patricia McConnell

Proof from Pavlov’s Dogs dog drooling

Dog trainers and dog behavior consultants are surely acquainted with Ivan Pavlov’s work. This Russian physiologist is known as being the “father of classical conditioning” but his discovery about pairing stimuli further proved a gut and brain connection. Here’s how the story goes.

Ivan Pavlov’s main mission was studying digestive processes in humans, so to better gain an insight, he employed several dogs in his experiments. His goal was to study the salivary glands, but he somewhat got side tracked when a curious happening started to unfold right under his eyes. As his fellow white lab coat scientists started offering food to the dogs, the dogs began salivating profusely (which was something expected to happen), but at one point, he noticed a curious phenomenon: the dogs started salivating at the mere sight of a white lab coat even in the absence of food!

This study therefore proved that the dogs have the cognitive ability to form associations pairing one stimulus to another, but beyond this important discovery, which paved the path into the enriching world of learning theory, Pavlov’s studies revealed that the digestive system is not only capable of learning, but is also capable of “memory processes.” Just like the salivary glands, the intestines of a nervous person affected by irritable bowel syndrome can learn to spasm in the presence of stimuli that have been paired with a trigger. For example, the digestive tract of a person fearful of flying may start getting upset just by being at an airport without even boarding a plane! In dogs, this can be seen too, for example in dogs who get nauseous on a car ride because the car ride has been associated with going to the vet.

“Data relating to the fact that the digestive system is able to learn and therefore shows evidence of memory processes was demonstrated experimentally in Pavlov’s research with dogs, when the Russian scholar was able to teach the dog’s digestive system (in this case the salivary glands) to respond to the presence of environmental stimuli, that, per se, would have been irrelevant to digestion, if the dogs had not learned to that they could be related to the administrating of food.”~Tullio Scrimali

The Effect of Stressscared

When a dog has a difficult time recovering from some acute stressor or is affected by repeated, chronic stress, the brain-gut axis is negatively affected. Release of the hormone norepinephrine as part of the fight or flight response triggers several physiological changes. The dog’s heart pumps faster, the breathing rate increases, blood flows towards the muscles so the dog is ready to spring into action. The pupils also dilate and the senses sharpen.

In the gastric system several changes take place too. Since blood flows towards the muscles, there is less blood flow to the dog’s stomach. Reduced oxygen is delivered to this organ triggering lack of appetite and slowed down digestion. While there is decreased stomach emptying, increased intestinal motility and changes in the intestinal microflora balance may trigger diarrhea and abdominal pain. Stress colitis, an inflammation of the colon caused by stress, causes increased motility and rapid transit times which leads to diarrhea sometimes accompanied by blood and mucus in the stool. Sometimes stress may also “wake-up” medical conditions that cause digestive problems that may have otherwise remained “dormant”. Some dogs may have a flare-up of pancreatitis or a bout of coccidiosis or inflammatory bowel disease when they are stressed and their immune system defenses get low.

Stressful Events in Dogs

At a first glance, dogs may seem to lead overall happy lives. They are fed food served in shiny bowls, have soft pillows to sleep on and they get to enjoy great perks such as bones to gnaw on and interactive toys to play with, so what kind of stress affects them? Many dogs suffer from stress and the causes of stress may vary from one dog to another. For instance, being boarding at a kennel, the presence of a new baby or a new pet in the home, moving to a new place, exposure to frightening noises or a sporting event can all be stressful happenings for dogs. Even the choice of training methods and training tools can affects dogs causing them stress if they’re based on  coercion. On top of acute stress, dogs can also suffer from the consequences of chronic, cumulative stress and this may not only affect the digestive and immune system but also the whole body.

Tackling the Stressdog eating

The best way to prevent stress-induced diarrhea in dogs is to take steps to minimize exposure to stressful triggers. If removing the source of stress is not a feasible option, there are several calming aids such as DAP collars, calming CDs and calming supplements for dogs. These aids can help take the edge off while implementing behavior modification under the guidance of a professional invested in force-free behavior modification.

Interestingly, there is a growing interest in using diet to boost tranquility in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids are mostly known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but have also shown the ability to “modulate neurotransmitters and to affect neuroplasticity” explains Dr. Lewellen in an article for DVM360.

According to a study, fatty acids were discovered to have the ability to influence the same pathways as fluoxetine does, a medication often prescribed to dogs suffering from anxiety disorders. McGowan, Ph.D., of Nestlé Purina Research also noticed how an increased intake of fish oil led to calming effects in dogs “from both a behavioral and physiological standpoint.”

Another promising product are probiotics, in particular the Bifidobacterium longum strain. McGowan conducted a study in 24 dogs and noticed positive effects in giving B. longum to anxious dogs. Research is expanding as a growing body of evidence has started to show the beneficial effects of nutrition on the brain-gut axis, and the good news is that promising new developments are  expected in the future to help out all those stressed and anxious dogs out there.

“Altering diet to manipulate the availability of precursors for the hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate behavior has merit as a means to mitigate many behavioral issues.” ~Dr. McGowan

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog has diarrhea or is sick, please consult with your veterinarian.

References:

  • McGowan RTS. “Oiling the brain” or “Cultivating the gut”: Impact of diet on anxious behavior in dogs. in Proceedings. Nestlé Purina Companion Animal Nutrition Summit, 2016:87-93.
  • Jazayeri S, Tehrani-Doost M, Keshavarz SA, et al. Comparison of therapeutic effects of omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid and fluoxetine, separately and in combination, in major depressive disorder. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2008;42(3):192-198.
  • Neuroscience-based Cognitive Therapy: New Methods for Assessment, Treatment and Self-Regulation 1st Edition, by Tullio Scrimali, Wiley-Blackwell; 1 edition (April 23, 2012)
  • Scientific American, Think Twice: How the Gut’s “Second Brain” Influences Mood and Well-Being, retrieved from the web on July 23rd, 2016.
  • The Other End of the Leash, Patricia McConnell, Your Dog Has a Brain in His Gut, retrieved from the web on July 23rd, 2016.
  • DVM360, Boosting tranquility through nutrition, retrieved from the web on July 23rd, 2016.
  • Psychology Today, Your backup brain, retrieved from the web on July 23rd, 2016.

Surprise, Dogs Can be Lactose Intolerant Too

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Can dogs drink milk? Is it OK to give my dog some milk every once in a while? Well, if we ask our dogs, most of them will readily gulp down dairy products like there’s no tomorrow, but it’s ultimately up to us to make sure the things we feed our dogs won’t harm them. We think of milk as a natural substance that comes from the udders of a cow, so we therefore may automatically assume that there’s no harm in feeding it to our dogs. After all, wasn’t milk the first thing puppies were given by their moms when they were first born? Well, things become somewhat different as puppies grow and bloom into adulthood.

PUPPY MILKMom’s Milk is Best… 

There’s no doubt that mother’s milk is the best form of nutrition when puppies are in the neonatal stage and the initial infant stage. After an average 63-day long gestation, a batch of puppies is finally born. Despite the fact that, as an altricial species, puppies are born blind, deaf and unable to regulate their temperatures, they are drawn to the warmth and smell of mother dog and begin suckling milk with vigor. It’s very important puppies do so in the first 24 hours as that’s when mother dog produces “colostrum,“a special  yellow-gold “milk” rich in antibodies that provides the pups with enough passive immunity to survive those early weeks of life when they’re most vulnerable to infectious diseases.

After the colostrum is readily absorbed by the the pup’s porous stomach, puppies will then transition to the regular milk mother dog starts producing after the colostrum supply has been depleted. Puppies will therefore exclusively feed on their mother’s milk for their first 3 to 4 weeks of age up until  they start being weaned. Around this onset of weaning, puppies start developing sharp teeth and nursing can turn painful for mother dog who will become more and more reluctant to nurse them, and who can blame her? Mother dog’s reluctance to nurse paves the path to weaning, and since this time frame also coincides to when the puppies are mobile and more eager to explore their surroundings, this turns out being an optimal time for the breeder to introduce soft foods so the pups can be completely weaned. Most puppies are weaned by the time they are 6 to 8 weeks old.

But Cow Milk is A Different Story.dog milk cookie

Among many species of mammals, humans are the only on the planet  who keep on consuming milk past childhood, remarks Aaron E. Carroll, a professor of pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dogs and cats are an exception to this rule because we are the ones providing them milk (usually cow milk), but left in a natural environment, without human intervention, milk would be not be part of these animals’ diet. Indeed, once puppies are weaned, a mother dog’s milk bar will close once and for all. Chapter closed.

Once puppies are weaned though, and they are sent to their new homes, milk may make a comeback into their lives when they start living alongside humans, but cow milk is a far cry from the milk mother dog produced. The constituents of mother milk vary from one species to another and milk from cows is very different than mother dog’s milk; indeed, according to Dr. Foster and Smith, cow milk contains about 5 percent lactose while dog milk milk contains a mere 3.7 percent. Cow milk also contains lower percentages of protein and fat which makes it unsuitable as a puppy milk replacer.

“Cow’s and goat’s milk do not contain as much fat, protein, or calories as milk from queens and (mother dogs) therefore should be avoided.” ~Wills and Morris, 1996

MILKLoss of Enzymes

On top of cow milk being different, one must consider that as puppies grow, they lose their ability to digest milk. Mother dog milk is rich in lactose, and, to properly digest it, the lining of the puppy’s intestinal tract secretes “lactase” a special enzyme meant to break down lactose into two easily digested and absorbed simple sugars, galactose and glucose. Things, change though once the puppies are weaned. As the puppies mature, and are introduced to solid foods, their production of lactase gradually decreases, and therefore lactose won’t be broken down as before, making puppies more prone to developing digestive problems such as flatulence, diarrhea, and stomach pains as early as a few hours after consumption. According to Dr. Cristina Russo, biophysicist and science writer, most mammals gradually loose the ability to digest milk after being weaned, a process that generally starts as early as 16 weeks.

“Lactose intolerance is present in many adult dogs and cats. This condition is due to lack of the brush border enzyme lactase. Lactose can no longer be digested and will instead be fermented by members of the gastrointestinal microbiota, leading to clinical signs such as bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea.” ~ Jörg M. Steiner DACVIM

Can Dogs Have Milk Then?

dog milksCan dogs drink milk then or is it something that should be scraped off the list of things dogs can eat? Of course, milk is not a toxin and therefore you won’t find it on the list of products poisonous to dogs, but it can cause enough problems to top the list as one of those thing to avoid giving to puppies and dogs. Other than diarrhea and flatulence, in some dogs, cow’s milk can cause also cramps and nausea. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs can be seen as early as 30 to 120 minutes after ingesting milk or a dairy product that contains lactose, explains board-certified veterinary nutritionist, Dr. Rebecca Remillard.

On top of causing digestive issues in dogs who are lactose intolerant, milk can be problematic in dogs with certain medical conditions. For instance, some dogs may be allergic to dairy. A common cliché is dog owners feeding their dogs a bowl of milk or a scoop of ice-cream to their dogs who won’t eat, only to make matters worse as this can trigger a bout of pancreatitis in dogs predisposed to it, explains veterinarian Mike Richards.  Also, some medications are not meant to be taken with dairy, so it’s always a good practice to carefully read all leaflets and labels associated with certain medications.

“Cow’s milk averages 5% lactose. In some people (and dogs) that have lost the ability to digest milk sugar (loss of the lactase enzyme with age), lactose may cause intestinal upset (gas, cramp, pain, diarrhea and nausea) 30 to 120 minutes after consuming a dairy product containing lactose.” Dr. Remillard, Veterinary Nutritionist.

Sure this doesn’t mean that all dogs will develop digestive problems after consuming milk. How a dog reacts to dairy seems to vary on an individual basis, depending on the capability of digesting lactose and the type or quantity of milk ingested. Some dairy products may also be easier to tolerate than others due to lower lactose content. According to Vet Info, cow milk is not an essential nutrient for the dog’s diet, and while it’s true that milk is rich in calcium, dogs can get their calcium from other sources. However, if a dog is not allergic or intolerant to lactose and enjoys milk and dairy products, these can be given as part of the diet, but as always moderation is key.

Did you know? The continued ability to digest milk into adulthood due to persistent activity of the enzyme lactase is known as “lactase persistence.”

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary or nutritional advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your dog consuming milk or dairy products, consult with your vet or veterinary nutritionist.

References:

  • Pet Education, The Make Up of Milk, retrieved from the web on July 9th, 2016
  • New York Times, Got Milk? Might Not Be Doing You Much Good, retrieved from the web on July 9th, 2016
  • DVM360, Adverse Food Reactions, Proceedings, retrieved from the web on July 9th, 2016
  • Dogs on Ice. Lactase Persistence,  retrieved from the web on July 9th, 2016
  • Vet Info, Should Give a Dog Milk?  retrieved from the web on July 9th, 2016

Photo Credits:

  • Flickr Creative Commons, Taro the Shiba Inu, Taro the shiba, extra milk pics 9. CC BY2.0
  • Flickr, Creative Commons, Randy Heinitz, Visions of Sugar Plums, CC BY 2.0

Be Careful, Fireworks Are Toxic to Dogs

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By A. Farris

When we think about fireworks, we often think about how the booming noises they produce affect our dogs letting them startle or even develop sheer panic, however, not much thought is given when the festivity is over and things seem to get quieter. After a day of being kept safely in the home away from all the noises and commotion, many dogs are eager to go outside and return to their  sniffing and urine marking routine. However, not all risks are over. Many dogs may find spent fireworks attractive and may decide to chew on them or even ingest them which can cause problems.

My Dog Ate Fireworks!firwork

Many dog owners become concerned about their dogs eating fireworks, are they right to be concerned? The answer is yes. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, fireworks can be dangerous to our canine companions in many ways.

Other than the loud noises produced and risks of direct exposure to fireworks which can cause serious burns, unlit and spent fireworks contain harmful chemicals such as potassium nitrate, sulfur, carbon, cadmium, barium and coloring agents that may contain heavy metals such as mercury, antimony, copper strontium and phosphorus.

Worrisome Symptoms 

When a dog ingests fireworks, their nitrate contents can cause blood changes and anemia when ingested in a reasonably high quantity, explains a veterinarian Dr. Jen. On top of that, gunpowder can irritate the stomach and intestinal tract, causing vomiting and diarrhea as a minimum.

Other symptoms according to the Pet Poison Helpline, may include weakness, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, acute kidney failure, bone marrow changes and yellowing of the skin (jaundice).

dog fireworkWhat Should Dog Owners Do?

If you suspect your dog has ingested fireworks, call your vet immediately. If your dog ingested them within the last couple of hours, there are chances that, based on the type ingested, your vet or the pet poison helpline can provide over-the-phone instructions on how to induce vomiting using 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (all dog owners should keep this always handy for such instances). If more than a couple of hours have passed though, dogs may need to get supportive care, fluids and medications from the vet.

For very mild cases with minimal ingestion that are affecting only the digestive tract, there are chances your vet can suggest home treatment. The vet may recommend a bland diet consisting of a large meal of mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin, explains Dr. Pollen, a retired holistic veterinarian. These foods are easy to digest and help move the ingested toxin through the dog’s system. However, in significant cases, home treatment is inadequate and your dog may need to be hospitalized and treated with IV fluids and medications, further warns Dr. Pollen. Depending on the type of firework ingested, as in the case of those with heavy metals, dogs may require a specific antidote, warn Pet Place Veterinarians. While many dogs recover with supportive care, the prognosis can be critical for dogs that swallow a large amount or have delayed treatment.

“If your pet ate only the residue of firecrackers lying about after festivities, it is exposed to heavy metals that lace the packaging materials, wicks, and ash residue. This amount may be toxic but may not be fatal. If your pet ate enough fireworks to light up Disneyland, the picture, although bright, will not be pretty.” ~Dr. Pollen

As seen, fireworks can be a hazard whether before or after being lit up. For those lightening them up, it would be great if they would be considerate and dispose of their firework remnants with safety in mind. Since we don’t live in a perfect world though, dog owners must keep their dogs on leash and monitor their activities to keep their companions safe from exposure to any toxic residues.

Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your dog ate fireworks, please see your vet for treatment or consult with the pet poison helpline at 855-764-7661 (a $49 charge per incident applies)

References:

  •  Pet Poison Helpline: Fireworks, retrieved from the web on July 2, 2016
  • Dr. Pollen, Gun Powder and Dogs, Firecrackers and Dogs, retrieved from the web on July 2, 2016
  • Pet Place, Dangers of Fireworks to Dogs, retrieved from the web on July 2nd, 2016

Four Ways Dogs Cool Down in the Heat

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With the dog days of summer around the corner, discovering how dogs cool down in the heat is important so to raise awareness about the risks of heatstroke in dogs. Hyperthermia (high temperature) takes place when the dog’s internal temperature reaches abnormally high levels which can quickly kill a dog if measures to cool the dog down aren’t taken promptly. One of the most common heat-related killers of dogs is being left in a car where temperatures can easily skyrocket in a matter of minutes, but there are other risks too such as exercising in exceedingly hot, humid weather. Dogs who are old, obese, have short noses or thick coats or dogs who suffer from underlying heart disease, respiratory disorders  or neurological conditions are more likely to suffer heat stroke as these conditions decrease their ability to cool down. Knowledge is ultimately power when it comes to understanding how dogs cool down in the summer heat.

how dogs cool down in the heatA Matter of Homeostasis

Our bodies and the bodies of our dogs are designed in such a way as to efficiently maintain an ideal internal core temperature. For sake of comparison,we can compare this ability to the function of a thermostat with a gauge that ensures the interior temperature of a home stays at a constant level.

Just like a thermostat, the internal temperature of our dog’s body is constantly monitored, but instead of a gauge, the anterior hypothalamus (the dog’s official thermo-regulatory center) helps maintain the body temperature within a certain range.

Should the dog’s temperature drop, measures take place so that the dog is warmed up, and should the temperature rise, measures take place so that the dog is cooled down.

The ability of  the body to take measures so to return to its ideal internal core temperature is known as “thermoregulation” while the maintenance of the internal temperature is known as “homeostasis.”

A dog’s body therefore maintains itself in a state of homeostasis when it’s kept within its normal temperature range of 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. An increase of the dog’s internal temperature can be due to the presence of a fever (pyrogenic hyperthermia) or exposure to external heat (non-pyrogenic hyperthermia) as seen when dogs are exposed to hot environments.

Four Ways Dogs Cool Down 

Fortunately, dogs can cool down in several ways when it’s hot outside. We mostly think dogs cool down by panting, but they actually can also cool down in other ways. Acknowledging these other ways dogs can cool down can help dog owners and trainers better understand signs of problems, the importance of prompt treatment and how to prevent dogs from overheating in the first place.

dog panting Cooling Down Through Evaporation

When we think of a dog that feels hot, we often think of a dog that is actively panting so to cool down. With the mouth open, long tongue hanging down and loud, rapid breathing, the dog uses evaporation as his main way of quickly cooling down.

Dogs, like other animals covered by fur have limited ability to sweat, (they have only a few sweat glands on their feet but these are mostly meant to increase friction and enhance grip) so panting remains their primary method to cool down by increasing the evaporation of water across the moist surfaces of their mouth and tongue.

Since blood flows through the mouth and tongue, once the blood cools down, it reaches the rest of the dog’s body and thus, lowers the dog’s core temperature.

While panting can be effective when surrounding temperatures reach 89.6 degrees, it becomes much less efficient when there are high levels of humidity (consider that at humidity levels greater than 80 percent, panting is no longer efficient).

Did you know? According to Dukes’ Physiology of Domestic Animals, when dogs pant, their breathing increases to about 200 to 400 breaths per minute. That’s a whole lot considering that normal breathing rate in dogs is 30 to 40 breaths per minute!

cool surfaces for dogsCooling Down Through Conduction

Conduction takes place when heat is transferred from one object to another.

In this case, the dog seeks out contact with a cool surface. Rover didn’t have to take a special class to learn what’s best for him when you find him lying down flat, in the Superman position, on a cool tiled floor during those dog days of summer.

Since most dogs have sparsely distributed hairs on their tummies, direct tummy contact is a fast way to effectively cool down.

Here’s a summer tip if you want to make your dog extra happy: provide him access to a tiled area such as the bathroom or kitchen, or if your dog loves the outdoors, let him dig a cool spot under the shade to sleep in.

Cooling Down Through Convection dog airflow

Convection involves contact with air movement to help speed up loss of heat. When Rover sticks his head out of the car window on a hot summer day, he may be doing more than satisfying his senses.

Chances are, he enjoys the sensation of air flowing through his coat and deep inside he instinctively knows that’s another good way to cool down from the summer heat.

Dogs also seem to know that strategically placing themselves in front a fan or AC or lying down besides the door, grants them access to some cool cross breezes that can feel refreshing.

These strategies ultimately helps the dog transfer the heat from his body to the air.

In the next paragraphs, we will see how convection along with evaporation is one of the best ways to cool down dogs in a case of hyperthermia.

dog radiating heatCooling Down Through Radiation

Finally, dogs can cool down through radiation which takes place when the dog’s body heat dissipates into the environment.

Basically, courtesy of blood circulation, the dog’s blood vessels will dilate so the excess heat is carried away from the interior of the body towards the exterior surface causing an elevation of the dog’s skin temperature.

This way, the hot blood is brought closer to the surface radiating the dog’s internal body heat into the environment.

While this can technically be an effective means of thermoregulation, problems start when the surrounding environment reaches the same temperature as the body, preventing the dog from cooling down.

” More than 70% of the total body heat loss in dogs is dissipated through radiation and convection from body surfaces. As the environmental temperature increases, approaching body temperature, evaporation, primarily through panting, becomes more important in maintaining normothermia.”~ Dr. Yaron Bruchim

dog pain goes away at the vetImportance of First Aid 

As seen, even though the dog’s body will take steps to prevent heat stroke, sometimes things don’t go as they should.

Dogs suffering from heat stroke will breathe rapidly, show pin-point bleeding on the skin (petechiae), blood in their vomit and/or stools, thick saliva, red or pale gums, and show signs of  shock, disorientation or seizures.

Knowing what to do if you suspect heat stroke in your dog is of paramount importance as treatment should be initiated as early as making that phone call to the vet to tell him you’re on your way.

According to a study carried out by Drobatz KJ and Macintire DK, the prognosis was significantly better when dogs were actively cooled down before arriving at the hospital. These dogs had a lower mortality rate (19%) compared to dogs that weren’t cooled prior to arrival (49%). According to Today’s Veterinary Practice, an effective cooling method combines evaporative and convective cooling and entails applying cool or tepid water (avoid ice) to the dog’s skin while directing a fan towards the dog.

According to Vet Learn Compendium  after applying cool water, while driving towards the hospital, evaporation can be attained by opening the windows or using the car’s AC. Cooling efforts on route to the vet should be stopped once the dog’s body temperature reaches 103.5°F to 104°F (have a helper check it every 5 minutes) so to avoid rebound hypothermia. 

An Ounce of Preventionhot dog heatstroke

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the saying goes. Heat stroke can be prevented by taking a few safety precautions when the dog days of summer are in full swing. Here are few tips to prevent heat stroke in dogs:

  • Ensure that outdoor dogs have always access to shade and drinking water
  • Avoid exercising dogs on hot, humid days.
  • Pick the cooler periods of the day for walks and training such as early morning or late evening.
  • Leaving dogs alone in closed vehicles is like putting them in an oven and leaving them to bake.
  • If you recently moved to a warmer climate, give your dog up to 2 months to acclimate.
  • If your dog has been panting a lot, remember to provide fresh water to help him compensate for the evaporation.
  • Consider that dogs prone to stress or who get hyped-up easily tend to overheat more quickly compared to calmer dogs.
  • Avoid plastic crates that restrict air-flow.
  • See your vet even though your dog seems to be recovering from hyperthermia. There are serious complications that may set in even if your dog seems to be feeling better.

Disclaimer: this article is not intended to be used a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, consult with your vet at once and follow his recommendations.

References:

  • Epstein, Y. and Roberts, W.O.: The pathophysiology of Heat stroke: An integrative view on the final common pathway. Scand. J. Med. Sci. Sports. 21: 742-748, 2011. 4.
  • Reiniker, A. and Mann, F.M.: Understanding and treating heat stroke. Vet. Med. 4: 344-355, 2002.
  • Flournoy, S.W., Wohl, J.S. and Macintire, D.K.: Heatstroke in dogs: pathophysiology and predisposing factors. Comp. Cont. Educ. Pract. Vet. 25: 410-418, 2003.
  • Canine Heatstroke Bruchim, Y. Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
  • Dukes’ Physiology of Domestic Animals, 12th Edition 12th Edition, by William O. Reece,  Comstock Publishing Associates; 12 edition (July 29, 2004)
  • Drobatz KJ, Macintire DK. Heat-induced illness in dogs: 42 cases (1976-1993). JAVMA 1996; 209(11):1894-1899.
  • Today’s Veterinary Practice, Today’s Technician: Heatstroke in Dogs, retrieved from the web on June 17th, 2016