SATURDAY IN THE (DOG) PARK....

Ah, geez, can it be 38 years since we heard the singing group Chicago bring us Saturday In The Park?  Granted, going to the park may have different connotations now than back in 1972.

With our "SPRINGTIME" issue now behind us here at Questions On Dogs and Cats, it's time to be getting outdoors and going to the park...even if it's the DOG PARK.  Reminisce with Chicago:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTFD1C4tVIg  while we get our ducks (I mean, dogs) in a row!

According to the votes in our poll questions last week, plus the e-mail messages, about half of you (11 of 21) have given bones to you dog.  Hopefully, those 11 also went ahead and read the warning about feeding bones to your dog from the Food & Drug Administration....

Also, only 2 of 19 responses indicated anything more elaborate than cremation for a deceased family pet.  Be sure to answer this week's poll questions in the column to the left.

If you have any comments or questions, remember to either send an e-mail to Helpful Buckeye at: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com or click on the "Comment" icon at the end of this issue and submit your comment.

CURRENT NEWS OF INTEREST

1) In connection with our featured topic of "Barking and Growling Dogs" from 2 weeks ago, comes this news headline from the town of Piscataway, New Jersey:
Jersey Town Out To Ban Dog Barking
Read the story at: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20001000-504083.html

Sounds like this could be a tough sell, huh?

2) The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has released the results of their study that shows a big increase in the incidence of canine distemper in raccoons, dogs, coyotes, foxes, and skunks during the year 2009-2010.  Since the disease continues to spread around the county, it is important to alert dog owners about the distemper risk and encourage them to keep their dog’s distemper vaccinations up to date.  For the rest of their report:  http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/2010DistemperRaccoons.htm

DISEASES, AILMENTS, AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS 

The American Veterinary Medical Association has presented a thorough overview of the considerations involved in letting your dog mingle with other dogs. 

Dogs’ Social Lives and Disease Risks


Whether it's the dog park, doggie day care, boarding, competitions or training classes, mingling dogs with varied or unknown health histories can present health problems for dogs as well as their owners. The very reason you take your dog to a dog gathering – social mixing with other dogs – is the same thing that can put them at risk. Diseases can be spread through direct contact between dogs, shared bowls and equipment, contaminated water, stool, insects and other methods. People who visit these areas and interact with the dogs may also become infected with zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be spread from animals to people. In addition, any gathering that puts people and dogs together introduces the risk of dog bites.

The following is a list of the most common diseases to which your dog(s) may be exposed at a dog gathering. There may be specific risks in your area that are not listed. For more information about specific diseases in your area, consult your veterinarian.

People can also spread some diseases (such as mange, ringworm, kennel cough and canine influenza) from dog to dog through shared brushes, collars, bedding, etc. or by petting or handling an infected dog before petting or handling another dog.

Canine distemper

Canine distemper is caused by a very contagious virus. Puppies and dogs usually become infected through virus particles in the air or in the respiratory secretions of infected dogs. Infected dogs typically develop runny eyes, fever, snotty nose, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and paralysis. It is often fatal.

Fortunately, there is an effective vaccine to protect your dog from this deadly disease. The canine distemper vaccine is considered a "core" vaccine and is recommended for every dog.

Canine influenza ("canine flu" or "dog flu")

Canine influenza is caused by the canine influenza virus. It is a relatively new disease in dogs. Because most dogs have not been exposed to the virus, their immune systems are not able to fully respond to the virus and many of them will become infected when they are exposed. Canine influenza is spread through respiratory secretions, contaminated objects (including surfaces, bowls, collars and leashes). The virus can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces, up to 24 hours on clothing, and up to 12 hours on people's hands.

Dogs can be shedding the virus before they even show signs of illness, which means an apparently healthy dog can still infect other dogs. Dogs with canine influenza develop coughing, a fever and a snotty nose, which are the same signs observed when a dog has kennel cough.

There is a vaccine for canine influenza, but at this time it is not recommended for every dog. Consult your veterinarian to determine if the canine influenza vaccine is recommended for your dog.

Canine parvovirus ("parvo")

Parvo is caused by the canine parvovirus type 2. The virus is very contagious and attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. It is spread by direct contact between dogs as well as by contaminated stool, surfaces, bowls, collars, leashes, equipment, and the hands and clothing of people. It can also survive in the soil for years, making the virus hard to kill. Treating parvo can be very expensive and many dogs die from parvo despite intensive treatment.

Fortunately, there is a vaccine for parvo. It is considered a "core" vaccine and is recommended for every dog.

External parasites (ticks, fleas and mange)

External parasites, such as ticks, fleas and mange, are fairly common dog problems. Ticks from the environment, fleas from other dogs and the environment, and mange from other dogs pose risks at dog gatherings. Ticks can transmit diseases (see tick-borne diseases below). Fleas can transmit some types of tapeworms as well as some diseases, and they may end up infesting your home and yard if they hitchhike home on your dog(s).

There are many approved products available to effectively prevent and treat external parasites on dogs. Consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog.

Cheyletiella mites cause "walking dandruff" on dogs (itching and flaky skin on the dog's trunk). They are spread from dog to dog by direct contact, and may require more aggressive treatment than fleas.

Fertilizers and pesticides

Some fertilizers and pesticides can be toxic to dogs. Avoid letting your pet walk, run, play or roam in areas that have recently been treated with fertilizers or pesticides.

Fungal infections (blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, coccidioidomycosis, etc.)

Fungal organisms in the soil can infect dogs when they eat or sniff contaminated soil. Dogs can also be infected through the skin, especially through a skin wound. The types of fungus seen vary throughout the U.S.: histoplasmosis is more common in the Eastern and Central U.S.; blastomycosis is more common in the Southeast, Southcentral and Midwest regions; cryptococcosis is more common in the Pacific Northwest region; and coccidioidomycosis is more common in the Southwest U.S. Histoplasmosis can be spread by bird or bat droppings.

In general, the fungus infects the body through the respiratory tract and causes fever, coughing, lethargy and flu-like or pneumonia-like signs. If eaten, digestive problems (e.g., pain, diarrhea) can occur. Immunosuppressed dogs (dogs whose immune systems are weakened because of disease or certain medications) are much more likely to become infected with these fungi and develop disease.

Heartworms

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and can cause coughing, lethargy, difficulty breathing, heart disease and death. Fortunately, there are many approved products to prevent heartworm infection. Consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a big risk during warm and hot weather. Remember that your dog is always wearing a fur coat and they are usually warmer than you are. A temperature that seems only a little warm to a person can be too hot for a dog. Add to that the fact that dogs at dog gatherings are often active and playing, and the heat could become deadly for your dog. Never leave your pet in the car on warm days. Even a 70°F day can be too hot in a car. Short-nosed breeds, such as pugs, Boston Terriers, boxers, bulldogs, etc. are more prone to heatstroke and breathing problems because they don't pant as effectively as breeds with normal-length noses.

Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting and drooling, anxiousness, weakness, abnormal gum color (darker red or even purple), collapse and death.

Any dog showing signs of heatstroke should be immediately taken to a shaded area and cooled with cold, wet towels that are wrung out and rewetted every few minutes. Running cool water over the dog's body and quickly wiping it away (so the water absorbs the skin's heat and is immediately wiped away) can also help. Transport the dog to a veterinarian immediately, because heatstroke can rapidly become deadly.

Injuries

Any time unfamiliar dogs and/or dogs with different temperaments are mixed, there is a risk of conflict and injury. Bite wounds should be immediately evaluated by a veterinarian and efforts should be made to determine the rabies vaccination status of the biting dog. Overweight dogs and dogs accustomed to more sedentary lifestyles should be encouraged to become more active, but excessive activity can put them at risk of injury to joints, bones or muscles. If your dog is overweight and/or you plan to increase its activity level, consult with your veterinarian about the best plan to get your dog active with the least risk of injury.

Intestinal parasites

Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms lay eggs that are passed in the dog's stool and infect other dogs when they eat contaminated soil, lick contaminated fur or paws, or drink water contaminated with the stool from infected dogs. Tapeworms are spread when dogs eat fleas, lice, or rodents infected with tapeworms.

These worms can cause malnutrition (because they steal nutrients as food is being digested) and diarrhea, and hookworms can cause blood loss. There are many products available to treat worms, and you should consult their veterinarian for the appropriate products for your pets.

Coccidia and Giardia are single-celled parasites that damage the lining of the intestine. Dogs can become infected with coccidia by eating infected soil or licking contaminated paws or fur. Puppies are at the highest risk of infection and illness.

Kennel cough

Kennel cough can be caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. It is very contagious and your dog can become infected if it comes into contact with an infected dog. Dogs with kennel cough may not seem ill in the early stages of the disease but they can still infect other dogs. Most commonly, dogs with kennel cough will have a snotty nose and a dry, hacking cough.

There are vaccines for kennel cough, but not all dogs need to receive the vaccine. Consult your veterinarian about whether or not the kennel cough (Bordetella) vaccine is right for your dog.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is caused by species of the Leptospira bacteria. The bacteria are shed in the urine of infected animals, and animals and people usually become infected by drinking contaminated water or coming into contact with contaminated soil or food. Dogs infected with Leptospira may develop fever, muscle weakness, vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, and kidney or liver failure. There is a vaccine for leptospirosis; consult your veterinarian about whether or not the vaccine is appropriate for your dog. Some canine distemper combination vaccines include a Leptospira vaccine.

Rabies

Any mammal is capable of being infected with the virus that causes rabies. Most dog parks and organized dog gatherings require proof of rabies vaccination, but some do not. Rabies is caused by the rabies virus and is 100% fatal in animals once they start to show signs of disease. The virus is spread by saliva, either by a bite from an infected animal or by saliva contaminating a skin wound. In addition, any contact with wildlife (including bats) can introduce the risk of rabies infection. Raccoons, skunks and other wild animals can carry the rabies virus and may be present in areas where dogs gather.

Fortunately, rabies infection is preventable with vaccination. Many local and state governments require regular rabies vaccination for dogs.

Regional wildlife risks and feral animals

Wildlife mixing with dogs can increase the risk of diseases, such as rabies and plague, as well as the risk of injury. In some areas of the U.S., prairie dogs often invade dog parks. Prairie dogs carry fleas that can carry the bacteria that causes plague. Skunks, raccoons, foxes, feral cats and pigs, and other wildlife can also carry rabies and other diseases that can infect dogs. Feral dogs present disease and injury risks.

Ringworm

Although its name suggests it's a worm, ringworm is actually due to fungal infection of the skin. It can be spread by contact with an infected dog, its bedding or something that has come in contact with the infected dog. The fungus can also survive in the soil. Ringworm gets its name because it often causes circular patches of hair loss. Some dogs will excessively scratch the areas, while others may not be itchy. Many dogs will recover without treatment, but they are often treated to prevent them from spreading the infection to other dogs or to people.

Tick-borne diseases (hemobartonellosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, rickettsial diseases such as Lyme disease, and others)

There is a variety of diseases that can infect dogs and are spread by ticks. Some diseases are more common in specific areas of the U.S. These diseases can cause anemia (blood loss), lameness, weakness, lethargy, organ failure, and even death. The best way to prevent these diseases is to prevent tick bites. There are many products available that reduce tick bites and kill ticks on dogs; consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog. Check your dog for ticks after any outside dog gatherings and remove the tick(s) as soon as possible.

Toxic plants

Toxic plants can cause a variety of illnesses. Some ornamental plants can be very toxic to animals. Cocoa mulch is also toxic to dogs. For more information about toxic plants, visit the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center Web site at: (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.


A second part of this story, involving the disease risks for people who accompany their dogs to the Dog Park, will be the feature topic next week.

NON-MEDICAL CONCERNS

The AVMA has produced a new podcast covering "How To Select A Groomer."  After viewing previous AVMA podcasts, our readers have responded very favorably to the presentations.  Enjoy this one: http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=240&NAME=How_to_Select_a_Dog_Groomer

 

PRODUCTS OF THE WEEK

1) If you're interested in trying a new dog treat that you can "make" at home, then perhaps PupCakes2Go is the product for you.  Go to: http://mypupcakes2go.com/play.html and watch the video.  For a further testimonial, look at: http://www.pawnation.com/2010/04/05/dog-product-review-pupcakes-2-go/ 

2) For a new and refreshing approach, 3 different pet product companies are offering a pet product that "gives back."  For further details, go to: http://www.pawnation.com/2010/04/07/pet-products-that-give-back-one-eye-blue-lulodog-wolfe-and-spa/ to find out how certain pet products can also benefit pets in need.

GENERAL INTEREST

1) A researcher at Purdue University is crossing the USA in search of the 15 oldest living Rottweilers for his study of why those 15 Rottweilers have lived 30% longer than their average breed-mates.  From his studies, he hopes to find a correlation between the aging process and cancer formation that will possibly even help humans.  The story, from the USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2010-03-14-olddogs_N.htm?POE=click-refer

2)  For a different approach to quieting a crying baby, this dog just might be the answer: http://www.parentdish.com/2010/04/05/lazy-parenting-idea-get-your-dog-to-sing-to-crying-baby/?icid=mainhtmlws-main-wdl6link4http%3A%2F%2Fwww.parentdish.com%2F2010%2F04%2F05%2Flazy-parenting-idea-get-your-dog-to-sing-to-crying-baby%2F 

3)  Would you pay $52,000 for a diamond dog collar?  Your chance may be right here: http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/13/52-000-diamond-dog-collar-for-valentines-day/ 

Whatever happened to the concept of a cubic zirconia???

4)  What if your dog came up to you and said, "I'm going outside to throw AND catch the frisbee all by myself"....

...and then, went and did just that?  Here's a video of Amos, the dog, and his Frisbee: http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/19/dog-plays-frisbee-all-by-himself/?icid=mainhtmlws-main-wdl4link5http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pawnation.com%2F2010%2F03%2F19%2Fdog-plays-frisbee-all-by-himself%2F 

Extra bonus points awarded for your identification of the song played in the background....

5)  For those dog owners with a mixed-breed dog, have you ever found yourself wondering just what were the breeds that contributed to the make up of your dog?  Ben Westhoff, of The Doggie Diaries, wondered about that in one of his postings: http://www.pawnation.com/2010/04/01/the-doggie-diaries-mystery-solved-pippis-dna-test-results/?icid=mainhtmlws-main-wdl3link5http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pawnation.com%2F2010%2F04%2F01%2Fthe-doggie-diaries-mystery-solved-pippis-dna-test-results%2F

In the course of his quest, he also consulted with: http://canineheritage.com/index.html 

SPORTS NEWS

Oh well, the Butler Bulldogs weren't able to beat Duke, but...they came within 1 shot of winning the game.  Not bad for a school of only 4000 students!

The LA Dodgers opened the season by losing 2 of 3 games to the Pirates in Pittsburgh, essentially a AAA minor league team.  Ouch!  Then, we went into Miami to play the Marlins, a much better team than the Pirates.  We should have won all 3 games in Miami but our relievers gave away the last 2 games.  Something's just not clicking in the early season.

PERSONAL STUFF

Helpful Buckeye was finally able to ride the bike outdoors on April 8th, a full 2 weeks later than last year.  The culprit was the large amount of cinders remaining in the bike lanes, leftover from our several deep snows over the winter.  However, it was great getting back outdoors on the bike!  Those miles mean so much more than the miles on the bike in the gym, at least psychologically.

My second day riding outdoors, I encountered a herd of 18 good-sized mule deer walking slowly across the road directly in front of me.  They casually looked at me as they finished crossing the road...with not a care in the world.  Life is great!

No, these are not the mule deer from my bike ride...I did not have my camera with me.  I did take this photo of mule deer at the Bosque del Apache, near Socorro, New Mexico last December.  Anyway, you get the idea....

The third day riding outdoors, today (Sunday), was living proof of the old adage that if the wind is blowing, it will ALWAYS be in the face of a bicyclist.

From Mark Twain, comes this quote: "Get a bicycle. You will not regret it. If you live...."

~~The goal of this blog is to provide general information and advice to help you be a better pet owner and to have a more rewarding relationship with your pet. This blog does not intend to replace the professional one-on-one care your pet receives from a practicing veterinarian. When in doubt about your pet's health, always visit a veterinarian.~~

DESPERADO'S BIRTHDAY....

Questions On Dogs and Cats has benefitted immensely from the contributions of Desperado...from guest issues to arrangement suggestions to editing. On Monday, 9 February, Desperado will "advance" to the next year, getting better all the time! Even the Eagles, our favorite musical group, felt compelled to mark this birthday with their song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsLylyEoLDo Enjoy!!!

Last week's poll asking about how frequently you work on your pet's teeth at home was pretty revealing. Several readers reported "weekly" or "monthly" attention to their pet's teeth, while a few of you proudly stated that you are "daily" in your efforts...and, then there were the stragglers who admitted only "rarely" or "never" doing so. Perhaps these last two weeks will stimulate all of you to do a better job of preventive maintenance...in your pet's mouth. This issue of Questions On Dogs and Cats will finish up this portion of dental-related problems for your dog and cat. As always, if you have unanswered questions related to any of our topics, please send an e-mail to: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com or send in a comment from the appropriate location at the end of each issue.

Be sure to answer this week's poll in the column to the left. Your answers will provide important feedback to our format. Thanks!

CURRENT NEWS OF INTEREST

It would seem that the topic of pet food recalls due to contaminated peanut butter has been adequately addressed in recent issues; however, each week brings a new advisory about another pet food/snack-producing company that has one or more contaminated products of which to be aware. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are two new additions to the list this week:

Supervalu Inc Recalls Multi-Flavored Dog Biscuits (02 Feb 2009)

Salix Recalls 6" Peanut Butter-Filled Shank Bone Because of Possible Salmonella Risk (30 Jan 2009)

The rest of the article can be read at: http://www.avma.org/aa/peanut_butter_recall.asp

The AVMA has also produced a "podcast" concerning food safety. You can hear the podcast at: http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=107&NAME=Chew_on_This:_Should_I_Worry_about_Food_Safety

DISEASES, AILMENTS, AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS

A lot of you sent in comments and/or questions after reading the column last week about the various dental problems experienced by dogs and cats. Obviously, dental disease is a common difficulty faced by our pets as they mature. Being more aware of the dangers presented by periodontal and gingival disease can not only help you keep your pet's teeth where they belong, but also help you provide your pet with better health as they age.

All of you have enjoyed the experience of smelling your pet's breath, especially when it just about knocks you over! From The New Yorker:

Some of the odor does arise from what the pet has been eating, but that part of the odor is not long-lasting. The real underlying cause is most likely the damaged, infected tissue resulting from gingivitis and periodontitis. Sometimes this odor is so strong and pervasive that Helpful Buckeye and his former partner could smell it when the dog or cat came in the front door of the hospital! There are only a few other distinctive odors which can get your attention from a distance: the bloody diarrhea associated with parvovirus in the dog, a nasty ear infection, and an abscess that has just opened up with drainage.

If any of you have the new "scratch and sniff" monitors, you can scratch the screen right now to sample the odor. Otherwise, walk over to your sleeping dog or cat, raise their upper lip, and take a sniff. The really sad part of this story is that most, if not all of it, can be prevented. Regular attention to your pet's teeth at home, coupled with periodic teeth-cleanings by your veterinarian will keep periodontitis and gingivitis to a minimum, thus reducing the odor level. If you really have to struggle to smell anything offensive in your pet's mouth, you have accomplished a lot...and you will, more than likely, have your pet live longer while enjoying better health!

Starting with today's issue of Questions On Dogs and Cats and continuing for the next two weeks, Helpful Buckeye will provide you with a list of "Frequently Asked Questions" about dental care for your pets. This list was composed by Dr. Brook Niemiec, a board-certified veterinary dentist, in San Diego. This is the first portion of those questions:

Is dental disease really a big deal?
ANSWER: Dental disease is a HUGE deal. Periodontal (gum) disease is the number one diagnosed problem in dogs and cats. By the age of just two, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease. In addition, 10% of dogs have a broken tooth with pulp (nerve or root canal) exposure. This is extremely painful until the nerve dies, at which point the tooth becomes infected! Infectious oral diseases affecting the gums and root canals create systemic bacteremia (bacteria in the blood stream, which can infect other parts of the body). Periodontal inflammation and infection have been linked to numerous problems including heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, emphysema, liver disease, osteoporosis, pregnancy problems and diabetes. Therefore, oral infectious diseases are known as “the silent killer.”In addition to systemic effects, oral disease can also cause inflammation to the eye, resulting in blindness. Furthermore, jaw bone loss from chronic infection can lead to a jaw fracture known as a pathologic fracture, and these have a very hard time healing. Finally, infectious oral disease can result in osteomyelitis (an area of dead, infected bone), nasal infections and an increased risk of oral cancer.Speaking of oral cancer, the oral cavity is the fourth most common place for cancer. Unfortunately, by the time that most are discovered, they are too advanced for therapy. Early treatment is necessary for cure. That’s why you, the pet owner, need to check your pet for oral growths on a regular basis. Anything suspicious should be shown to your veterinarian promptly.In cats, a very common problem is feline tooth resorption lesions, which are caused by normal cells called odontoclasts eating away at the cat’s own teeth. Approximately half of cats over 6 years of age have at least one. They are similar to cavities in that once they are advanced, they are VERY painful and can become infected. They are first seen as small red areas along the gumline. Other oral problems include bacterial cavities, painful orthodontic problems, dead teeth (which are commonly discolored), and worn teeth. Almost every pet has some form of painful or infectious oral disease that needs treatment. Unfortunately, there are few to no obvious clinical signs. (See below, What are the warning signs of periodontal disease?) Therefore, be proactive and ask your veterinarian for a complete oral exam, and perform regular monitoring at home.

What is periodontal disease?
ANSWER: Periodontal disease is defined as the destruction of tooth attachment (periodontal ligament and jaw bone), caused by bacteria. It begins when bacteria form on teeth in a substance called plaque. If plaque is not removed immediately, two things occur. First, the plaque is calcified by the minerals in saliva to become calculus (or tartar). This is the brown substance on teeth that many people mistakenly equate with periodontal disease, but the truth is that calculus does not result in periodontal disease. The other thing that occurs with chronic plaque formation is that it will start to move under the gumline. Once the plaque gets under the gum, it starts causing inflammation, which is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the initial, reversible form of periodontal disease. If this inflammation is not controlled, the bacteria within the gingiva change to a more virulent type. These more virulent species create more severe inflammation. Eventually, the body responds to this inflammation. Part of this response is bony destruction, which continues until the tooth is lost. However, in most cases periodontal disease causes problems long before this happens. (See above, Is dental disease really a big deal?)

What are the warning signs of periodontal disease?
ANSWER: Unfortunately, there are no obvious outward signs of periodontal disease until it is VERY advanced. The earliest sign is inflammation (redness or swelling) of the gums. This is generally accompanied by buildup of plaque and calculus on the teeth, but unless you are looking for these changes (see above, Is dental disease really a big deal?), they are not noticeable. As periodontal disease progresses, the infection will worsen. The next signs within the mouth are receding gums or loose teeth. This increased infection may result in bad breath or blood on chew toys; however, this should NOT be relied upon for diagnosis. If your pet has bad breath or you see blood on toys, it is almost a sure sign of advanced periodontal disease requiring a trip to the veterinarian. Late signs of periodontal disease include nasal discharge (blood or pus), eye problems, facial swelling or a jaw fracture.

NON-MEDICAL CONCERNS

1) Helpful Buckeye has addressed the problem of barking dogs in previous issues of Questions On Dogs and Cats (30 August 2008 and 23 May 2008). Even so, this is a problem that will always bear some attention, especially in urban environments where everything is a little bit closer together. The metropolitan Phoenix area has been experiencing its own share of these difficulties recently, as reported in the Arizona Republic: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2009/01/26/20090126barkingdogs0123.html

Dogs bark for a lot of reasons and it can be difficult to sort out the causes. Training plays an important role in the control of unwanted barking but, as the article above pointed out, there are usually other factors involved that might be difficult to overcome, as this cartoon from The New Yorker illustrates:

Being a good pet neighbor is part of fitting into your neighborhood.

2) The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has released their Guide to a Pet-Friendly Valentine's Day.

Some of their guidelines are:

• When sending a floral arrangement, request that it contain no lilies, as all species within the plant genera Lilium are toxic to cats. And please de-thorn your roses, as their sharp, woody spines can hurt your pet if chewed, stepped on or swallowed.


• Stow chocolates in paw-proof drawers and cabinets. The darker the chocolate, the more likely a pet who’s ingested it will suffer vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an elevated heart rate.


• Spilled wine is nothing to cry over—until a curious pet laps it up. Because animals are smaller than humans, a little bit of alcohol can do a lot of harm, causing vomiting, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing and even coma.


• Gather up tape, ribbons, cellophane and balloons after you open presents—long, stringy and “fun-to-chew” items can get lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive tract.

Furry valentines across the country will be party to all sorts of romantic evenings at home this February 14—are you prepared to keep your pet safe?

PRODUCTS OF THE WEEK

The folks at TopTenz.net have come up with a list of "The Top Ten Strangest 'How To' Books". Two of the books on this list have something to do with pets. The first is: How to Steal a Dog, by Barbara O'Connor and is available at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0374334978?tag=ingridbergm0d-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0374334978&adid=0FV2179AMG7Y5FCQFJQN As evil as the title sounds, there is an interesting twist to this story. The second strange book is: How to Speak Cat, by Sarah Whitehead and is available at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0545020794?tag=ingridbergm0d-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0545020794&adid=0M0A8EMERYF5ZXBNVGQQ

GENERAL INTEREST

1) My Aunt Cathy, in Florida, sent me this video of an unexpected interaction between two unlikely species, a cat and a fawn: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rooyt3ptNco to the accompaniment of What a Wonderful World, by Louis Armstrong. Enjoy!

2) The current issue of Smithsonian Magazine has an interesting article entitled, "Cats as Pets and Predators," in which the author "explores the evolution and enigmatic ways of the most popular pet in America -- the house cat." Find it at: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/Cats-as-Pets-and-Predators.html?utm_source=newsletter20090207&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=InsiderFebruary1

3) Helpful Buckeye has received several e-mails from readers entitled "Pet Rules"...so, perhaps most of you have read these. The first one I received was from Dianne, in California. If you haven't read them yet, here they are (mostly funny and probably always true):

Dear Dogs and Cats: The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm. For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.
The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough. Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:

TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:

• They live here. You don't.
• If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it "fur"-niture.
• I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
• To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours, and don't speak clearly.

REMEMBER, DOGS AND CATS ARE BETTER THAN KIDS BECAUSE THEY:

• eat less,
• don't ask for money all the time,
• are easier to train,
• normally come when called,
• never ask to drive the car,
• don't smoke or drink,
• don't want to wear your clothes,
• don't have to buy the latest gadgets or fashions, and
• don't need a gazillion dollars for college....

4) Petside.com has a contest running in which you can choose your favorite from among 15 adorable shelter pets. Look at the contestants and cast your vote at: http://www.petside.com/BouncePets/vote.php

5) Petside.com also is running the following public service announcement by Felicity Huffman: http://www.petside.com/info/m/21755249/petside-profile-felicity-huffman.htm She may well be a "Desperate Housewife" but she is also big supporter of adopting a shelter pet.

6) The ASPCA has announced that they are offering course work at the University of Florida in the field of...Animal CSI...how about that? Read about it at: http://www.aspca.org/news/national/01-30-09.html#4

7) The ASPCA is also promoting a program of animal cruelty awareness, Top 10 Ways to Prevent Animal Cruelty. Read over this list to learn how you might be able to help: http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/top-10-ways-to-prevent-animal.html

8) This past Tuesday, February 3rd (1907,) was the birthday of James Michener. Michener died in 1997, having written more than 40 books, 2 of which are favorites of Helpful Buckeye...Chesapeake and Centennial.

SPORTS NEWS

It's been a slow week, following the activity of the Super Bowl, but there are some things of interest in the sports world. The Los Angeles Dodgers are still pursuing Manny Ramirez, which may or may not prove fruitful. The San Antonio Spurs are leading their division, but are behind the LA Lakers in winning percentage in their conference.

PERSONAL STUFF

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DESPERADO!!!

~~The goal of this blog is to provide general information and advice to help you be a better pet owner and to have a more rewarding relationship with your pet. This blog does not intend to replace the professional one-on-one care your pet receives from a practicing veterinarian. When in doubt about your pet's health, always visit a veterinarian.~~

SEE YOU IN SEPTEMBER....

WOW, where has the summer gone? Even though the technical end of summer doesn't occur until later in September, for most of us it symbolically goes away on Labor Day weekend. To help our readers get into this mood of transition, Helpful Buckeye invites you to enjoy this "rite of passage" song by The Happenings, which peaked at #3 on the record charts in 1966: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7F9Mv1Ww3s&feature=related

Nonetheless, Labor Day is upon us not only as a reminder of summer's passage, but also serving to honor the working citizens of the USA. It was first observed in New York City in 1882 and became a federal holiday in 1894. Since the theme of this weekend is to give our workers a day off from their jobs and appreciate what they do for our country, Helpful Buckeye wants to include more "good time" stuff this week. We'll start out with a light-hearted celebration of our workers (and former workers, like yours truly)...all you have to do is sit back in your computer chair, push a few keys on your keyboard, listen to some good music, watch a few videos, and have a fun-filled 3-day weekend!

Jimmy Buffett leads off our "Labor Day Weekend Show" with his very first hit from 1974 (you all know he is one of Helpful Buckeye's favorite singers, but he is also a pretty good writer, being the only person to have a #1 best-seller on both the fiction and non-fiction NY Times lists): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0---Q97pG4

Continue the celebration of our workers with (The Seven Dwarfs...twice, Dolly Parton, Huey Lewis & The News, The Spinners, Lee Dorsey, and the overall favorite work-week song, by Loverboy):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8AkKnLMELo&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxieLcA5PLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpKAA2VxWY8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N2CANatVYQ&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mip_5oIsLCk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FX-ZhRp8sM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGOPQrf1yvI&feature=related

Now, on with the show....

CURRENT NEWS OF INTEREST

1) From The USA Today, 27 August 2008:
Pet-food recall leads to 6,000 claims and counting

Almost 6,000 claims have been filed in a class-action settlement stemming from last year's massive pet-food recall. Menu Foods, other pet-food makers and retailers in May agreed to set up a $24 million cash fund to compensate pet owners whose cats and dogs became sick or died after eating food that had a contaminated ingredient from China. The filing period for claims began May 30 and will run until Nov. 24. "I expect that number (of claims) will go up a lot. There's quite a bit of time to go," says attorney Sherrie Savett of plaintiffs' law firm Berger & Montague.
The Food and Drug Administration never identified how many pets were affected, but it received more than 17,000 complaints. Once a claim is filed, it will be reviewed by an independent claims administrator. Claimants may receive a 100% cash payment for all documented expenses deemed reasonable, including veterinary bills and burial costs. They may receive up to $900 for undocumented expenses. Under the terms of the settlement, most claims are likely to be paid next year. To be eligible, claimants must have bought or fed their pets one of the recalled pet foods.
A federal judge in New Jersey gave the settlement preliminary approval in May. A hearing for final approval is scheduled for October. If the court approves the settlement as expected, it would resolve more than 100 lawsuits brought in the U.S. and a dozen in Canada. The $24 million is in addition to $8 million that pet-food makers have already paid to pet owners.
Legal fees and attorneys' expenses, which haven't been determined, will come out of the fund. Attorneys' fees cannot exceed 31% of the fund for the U.S. and Canadian attorneys combined, according to the settlement's terms.
The vast majority of the fund will go to pet owners whose pets were injured or died as a result of kidney failure, which was linked to the contaminant. The FDA determined that the pet-food ingredients, sold to pet-food makers as wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate, were adulterated in China with the industrial chemical melamine to make them appear richer in protein than they actually were.
The recall was the largest ever for the pet-food industry. It began March 16, 2007, by Menu Foods, a large maker of wet pet food for many pet-food brands. The recall grew to involve 12 pet-food makers and 180 brands of pet food and treats. Along with Menu, other defendants include Hill's Pet Nutrition, Iams and retailers such as Wal-Mart. Menu Foods, which supplied most of the recalled foods, has pegged its recall costs at $55 million, some of which went to the settlement fund.
If there is money remaining after claims have been processed, it will go to charities that promote the well-being of pets, the settlement says.
A website has been set up at www.petfoodsettlement.com. The claims administrator can be reached at 800-392-7785.

2) A British soldier, returning home from Afghanistan, had the unfortunate experience of bringing home a 6-inch long spider which proved deadly for his dog: http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Spider-Bit-Dog-To-Death-Afghan-Camel-Arachnid-Force-Griffiths-Family-Out-Of-Colchester-Essex-Home/Article/200808415088472?lpos=UK%2BNews_3&lid=ARTICLE_15088472

3) From New Jersey, comes this update on the 44-lb. cat, Prince Chunk:
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (AP) - Fame, fortune and paperwork are holding up the adoption of New Jersey's famous fat cat - who may not be as plump as previously believed.
The family chosen to adopt the 44-pound cat named Prince Chunk says the shelter that found the tubby tabby is having a lawyer draft a special contract for them to sign. Donna Damiani's family was chosen earlier this month from over 500 applicants to care for the cat, who was found lumbering around the town of Voorhees after his owner lost her home to foreclosure last month.
The fluffy white tabby's near-record weight put him in the national spotlight and he spent two days in New York appearing on several talk shows and the New York tabloid covers.
But Damiani now worries that the shelter that rescued Chunk may be taking advantage of the cat. "We had said, 'Absolutely, Chunk should be the little mascot for the shelter - but not to be exploited in any way,"' she said Thursday.
Jennifer Andersch, the director of the Camden County Animal Shelter that found Chunk, has said the shelter would make sure that donations on Chunk's behalf would benefit other pets in need of homes. But she told The Courier-Post of Cherry Hill that the family's public concern about the adoption terms could jeopardize the adoption. The article did not elaborate on what Andersch meant by the comment and shelter officials did not immediately return a call Thursday to The Associated Press.
Damiani said her family applied to adopt Chunk even before he became a media star. They knew about him early because her son, 17-year-old Vince, works at the shelter and has organized fundraisers for it. They took him home on Aug. 3 and say he's adjusted well - though a publicity appearance at a pet shop earlier this month seemed to stress him out.
"Prince Chunk is doing wonderful," Donna Damiani said. "He's awesome, he's doing great. We love him." But she says there's not as much to love as originally reported. On her family's scale (which we know are always accurate, right?), he weighed in at 22 pounds - only half the 44 pounds that the shelter originally said.
She says tensions have grown with the shelter concerning the terms of adoption; Damiani said she tried to sign adoption papers right away, but that shelter officials sent the forms back and insisted they be drafted by a lawyer.
It turns out that Chunk is not the only fat cat in Camden County. Shelter officials told The New York Daily News that they have taken in a 35-pound cat found in Camden this week.
Board president Catherine Harr says he's black and white and looks like a whale. "We named him Shamu," she said.

Seems like this story has grown legs of its own...big ones! And what are those cats in New Jersey eating???

4) As Hurricane Gustav builds strength and makes an apparent heading for the Louisiana coast, the state of Louisiana is making a plea for volunteer veterinarians and veterinary technicians. From the American Veterinary Medical Association:

The State of Louisiana is immediately seeking veterinarians and veterinary technicians who would like to volunteer their time and skills during evacuations and sheltering following Tropical Storm Gustav.
The state anticipates a need for six veterinarians and twelve veterinary technicians, who would be deployed into areas to work in emergency shelters beginning Saturday, August 30. Shelters have been set up in Shreveport and Alexandria, Louisiana.
Donations of supplies are not needed at this time. Monetary donations should be made to the Dr. Walter J. Ernst, Jr Veterinary Memorial Foundation. Further information is available at http://www.lvma.org/wjefoundation.html.

We all remember the many lost and homeless pets that were cared for during the extreme flooding in Iowa a few months ago...hopefully, this won't be a repeat of that!

ANY COMMENTS, please send an e-mail: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com

DISEASES, AILMENTS, MEDICAL CONDITIONS

In a previous issue, Helpful Buckeye has discussed the need and recommendations for regular vaccinations for dogs and cats (15 June 2008). We then presented a review of the disease Rabies, in the 22 June 2008 issue. Now, it would be appropriate to cover the two diseases that incorporate the word, Distemper.

1) Canine Distemper, from an AVMA brochure:

Q: What is Canine Distemper?
A: Canine distemper is a highly contagious and serious disease caused by a paramyxovirus (closely related to the Measles virus) that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and, often, the nervous systems of puppies and dogs. The virus also infects wild canids (e.g. foxes, wolves, coyotes), as well as raccoons, skunks, and ferrets.

Q: How is Canine Distemper virus spread?
A: Puppies and dogs usually become infected through airborne exposure to the virus contained in respiratory secretions of an infected dog or wild animal. Outbreaks of distemper tend to be sporadic. Because canine distemper also affects wildlife populations, contact between wild and domestic canids may facilitate spread of the virus.

Q: What dogs are at risk?
A: All dogs are at risk but puppies younger than four months old and dogs that have not been vaccinated against canine distemper are at increased risk of acquiring the disease.

Q: What are some signs of Canine Distemper?
A: The first sign of distemper is eye discharge that may appear watery to pus-like. Subsequently, dogs develop fever, nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. In later stages, the virus may attack the nervous system, bringing about seizures, twitching, or partial or complete paralysis (thus, the name...Distemper). Occasionally, the virus may cause footpads to harden. Distemper is often fatal. Even if a dog does not die from the disease, canine distemper virus can cause irreparable damage to a dog's nervous system, in some cases causing seizures years later. Distemper is so serious and the signs so varied that any sick dog should be taken to a veterinarian for an examination and diagnosis.

Q: How is Canine Distemper diagnosed and treated?
A: Veterinarians diagnose canine distemper on the basis of clinical appearance and laboratory tests. No specific drug is available that will kill the virus in infected dogs. Treatment consists primarily of efforts to prevent secondary infections; control vomiting, diarrhea, or neurologic symptoms; and combat dehydration through administration of fluids. Ill dogs should be kept warm, receive good nursing care, and be separated from other dogs.

Q: How is Canine Distemper prevented?
A: Vaccination and avoiding contact with infected animals are key elements of canine distemper prevention.
Vaccination is important. Young puppies are very susceptible to infection, particularly because the natural immunity provided in their mothers' milk may wear off before the puppies' own immune systems are mature enough to fight off infection. If a puppy is exposed to canine distemper virus during this gap in protection, it may become ill. An additional concern is that immunity provided by a mother's milk may interfere with an effective response to vaccination. This means even vaccinated puppies may occasionally succumb to distemper. To narrow gaps in protection and optimally defend against canine distemper during the first few months of life, a series of vaccinations is administered.
Until a puppy has received its complete series of vaccinations, pet owners should use caution when taking their pet to places where young puppies congregate (e.g. pet shops, parks, puppy classes, obedience classes, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments). Reputable establishments and training programs reduce exposure risk by requiring vaccinations, health examinations, good hygiene, and isolation of ill puppies and dogs.
To protect their adult dogs, pet owners should be sure that their dog's distemper vaccination is up-to-date. Ask your veterinarian about a recommended vaccination program for your canine companion.
Contact with known infected dogs should always be avoided. Similarly, contact with raccoons, foxes, skunks, and other potentially infected wildlife should be discouraged.

2) Feline Distemper (more appropriately, Feline Panleukopenia), from an AVMA brochure:

Q: What is feline panleukopenia?
A: Feline panleukopenia (FP) is a highly contagious viral disease of cats caused by the feline parvovirus. Over the years, FP has been known by a variety of names including feline distemper, feline infectious enteritis, cat fever and cat typhoid. Feline distemper should not be confused with canine distemper—although their names are similar, they are caused by different viruses. The feline parvovirus infects and kills cells that are rapidly dividing, such as those in the bone marrow, intestines, and the developing fetus. Infected cats usually develop bloody diarrhea. Because red blood cells and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, infected cats develop anemia (due to loss of red blood cells) and are more likely to be infected with other illness (due to the loss of white blood cells, which play critical roles in the immune system). People cannot develop FP if they come in contact with an infected cat because the virus does not infect people.

Q: How can you tell if a cat has FP?
A: The signs of FP can vary and may be similar to other illnesses such as Salmonella or Campylobacter infection, pancreatitis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection, or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection. Infected cats may even show signs that resemble those seen when a cat has been poisoned or has swallowed a foreign object. The first visible signs an owner might notice include generalized depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration. Sick cats may sit for long periods of time in front of their water bowls but not drink much water. Normally, the sickness may go on for three or four days after the first fever. In some cats, the fever will come and go during the illness and abruptly fall to lower-than-normal levels shortly before death. Cats are very good at hiding disease and by the time a cat displays the signs of illness, it may be severely ill. Therefore, if any abnormal behaviors or signs of illness are observed, it is important to have your cat examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. FP may be suspected based on a history of exposure to an infected cat, lack of vaccination, and the visible signs of illness. FP is confirmed when the feline parvovirus is found in the blood or stool.

Q: How do cats become infected with the virus that causes FP?
A: Infection occurs when cats come in contact with the blood, urine, stool, nasal secretions, or even the fleas from infected cats. A cat can also become infected without ever coming in direct contact with an infected cat. Bedding, cages, food dishes and the hands or clothing of people who handle the infected cat may harbor the virus and transmit it to other cats. It is, therefore, very important to isolate infected cats. Any materials used on or for infected cats should not be used or allowed to come in contact with other cats, and people handling infected cats should practice proper hygiene to prevent spreading the infection. The virus that causes FP is difficult to destroy and resistant to many disinfectants. At room temperatures, virus present in a cats' environment can still infect other cats for up to one year. Ideally, unvaccinated cats should not be allowed into an area where an infected cat has been — even if the area has been disinfected.
Pregnant female cats that are infected with the virus and become ill (even if they do not appear seriously ill) may give birth to kittens with severe brain damage. In most cases, if a cat recovers from FP, it will not infect other cats through direct contact.

Q: Which cats are susceptible to the virus?
A: While cats of any age may be infected with the feline parvovirus that causes FP, young kittens, sick cats, and unvaccinated cats are most susceptible. It is most commonly seen in cats 3-5 months of age with about 75% of kittens less than 16 weeks of age likely to die if infected.
The virus has appeared in all parts of the United States and most countries of the world. Kennels, pet shops, animal shelters, unvaccinated feral cat colonies, and other areas where groups of cats are housed together appear to be the main reservoirs of FP. During the warm months, urban areas are likely to see outbreaks of FP because cats are more likely to come in contact with other cats.

Q: How is FP treated?
A: The likelihood of recovery from FP for infected kittens less than eight weeks old is poor. Older cats have a greater chance of survival if adequate treatment is provided early. Since there are no medications capable of killing the virus, treatment is limited to supporting the cat's health with medications and fluids until its own body and immune system can fight off the virus. Without such supportive care, up to 90% of cats with FP may die. Once a cat is diagnosed with FP, treatment may be required to correct dehydration, provide nutrients, and prevent secondary infection. If the cat survives for 48 hours, its chances for recovery are greatly improved. Once home, the area where the infected cat is kept should be warm, free of drafts, and very clean. Strict isolation from other cats in the home is essential to prevent spread of the virus. Other cats that may have been in contact with the infected cat, or in contact with objects or people who were in close contact with the ill cat, should be carefully monitored for any visible signs of illness. Sadly, some cats may lose the will to live when they are very sick, so frequent petting, hand feeding, and good nursing care are essential to promote healing.

Q: How can FP be prevented?
A: Cats that survive an infection develop immunity that protects them for the rest of their lives. Mild cases that go unnoticed will also produce immunity from future infection. It is also possible for kittens to receive temporary immunity through the transfer of antibodies in the colostrum — the first milk produced by the mother. How long this passive immunity protects the kittens from infection depends upon the levels of protective antibodies produced by the mother. It rarely lasts longer than 12 weeks. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" definitely rings true for FP—preventing infection is more effective than treating an infected cat. Today, there are vaccines that offer the best protection from feline parvovirus infection. The vaccines stimulate the cat's body to produce protective antibodies. Later, if the vaccinated cat comes in contact with an infected cat, its body will fight off the infection because of those same antibodies produced in response to the vaccine. The vaccines are effective for prevention of FP but they cannot treat or cure an unvaccinated cat once it becomes ill. Vaccines must be given before the cat is exposed and infected. Most young kittens receive their first vaccination between six and eight weeks of age and follow-up vaccines are given until the kitten is around 16 weeks of age. Adult vaccination schedules vary with the age and health of the cat, as well as the risk of FP in the area. Cat owners should consult a veterinarian for advice on a vaccination schedule appropriate for their cats.

With the widespread use of vaccines for each of these diseases, they are far less prevalent than they used to be. However, with the large numbers of stray dogs and cats, there is still a large enough reservoir to keep these diseases going...so, PREVENTION BY VACCINATION should be your mantra.

ANY COMMENTS, please send an e-mail: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com

NON-MEDICAL CONCERNS

1) A very common problem with dogs is their tendency to bark, sometimes to excess. Since barking is a natural form of expression and communication for dogs, it is very difficult to totally eliminate from their behavior. As illustrated in this cartoon from The New Yorker, some barking is not only expected from a dog, but can also be beneficial in the right circumstances:

However, the matter of Excessive Barking can be not only a distressing annoyance for the owner but also a problem for any neighbors.

How to Curb Excessive Barking, By Brent Goodman (currently the Senior Copywriter at Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies... http://www.drsfostersmith.com/)
Don't let excessive or chronic barking disturb the peace in your home. There are many ways to help control undesirable or excessive barking. Dogs bark for many reasons. It is a natural behavior and primary method of communication. They bark to warn others or defend a territory, to seek attention or play, to identify themselves to another dog, or as a response to boredom, excitement, being startled, loneliness, anxiety, or teasing. Four proven methods to help you stop unwanted barking behaviors include:

• First, avoid the temptation to reinforce your dog's bark. Do not give verbal reassurance, a treat, or physical attention to a barking dog.


• Minimize your dog's barking with proper and consistent training. In addition, try using a calming pheromone spray in your pet's environment.


• Train your pet to respond to a one-word command, such as "Enough." During training, divert his attention from the barking and sternly say "Enough." If he stops barking, reward him with a great treat. Only give the treat if your dog stops barking.


• Along with these other behavior modification techniques, you may try a bark collar, a training tool designed specifically to address habitual chronic barking. It gives your pet a warning tingle or mild static correction when he barks, which quickly trains your pet to avoid the behavior that initiates the correction. Bark control is important in developing a dog that is obedient and able to relax. Your success in this area will create a more harmonious home and neighborhood.

There are many products on the market which address this last suggestion. Two that look like they offer the most help for the least amount of discomfort to the dog are:

http://www2.pulsetv.com/prodinfo.asp?number=4560 which is fairly inexpensive and

http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=12770&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C490%2C524&iProductID=12770 which is more expensive, but it offers the added benefit of also working on your neighbor's dog from a distance of up to 50 ft.

2) Dogs are not the only pets that are sometimes in need of having their undesirable behavior curbed. Yes, cats sometimes need to be schooled in what is or is not acceptable.

Don't reinforce negative behavior. A common mistake many people make when trying to train their cats is to reward the actual behavior they're trying to correct. Here are some examples. If your cat is showing aggression and you attempt to soothe it by petting, the message it receives is that its behavior is acceptable because it received positive reinforcement.

Use your voice to calm your cat or if possible, remove it from the situation (safely, of course), but don't fall into the trap of cooing, petting, and holding it in a way that says its behavior is acceptable.

Your cat wakes you up at the crack of dawn to get a jump-start on breakfast. To quiet it, you drag yourself out of bed and put food in its bowl so you can get a few more hours of sleep. That extra sleep will cost you though, because you've just taught your cat that the way to get what it wants is to repeat that exact behavior every morning. Your cat may love strolling on the kitchen counter or other surfaces where you'd prefer it not go. As you pick it up, you might give it kisses, pet it, continue holding her, or talk sweetly to it before placing it back down on the floor. What's the message kitty received? Being on the counter means it's going to get lots of attention. If you want to remove it from the area, do so in a way that is unceremonious -- just pick it up and gently put it down.

Look at how you respond to your cat's behavior because you might be unknowingly reinforcing undesirable behavior through attention.

ANY COMMENTS, please send an e-mail: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com

ANECDOTE OF THE SUMMER

Helpful Buckeye has recounted a few anecdotes from his experience as a practicing veterinarian. There will be more to come from time to time; however, taken in their entirety, they will surely pale in comparison to the stories told by James Herriot, the Scottish veterinary surgeon. James Herriot, the pen name of James Alfred Wight, became famous for his best-selling string of tales in:

• All Creatures Great and Small (1972)


• All Things Bright and Beautiful (1974)


• All Things Wise and Wonderful (1977)


• The Lord God Made Them All (1981)

These books became the basis for two movies and the long-running BBC series, All Creatures Great and Small, the tales of a veterinary surgeon in the Yorkshire Dales.

Dr. Wight died in 1995, at the age of 78, leaving a legacy of wonderful stories of the practice of veterinary medicine that have been adored by readers and viewers everywhere. Helpful Buckeye was fortunate to have met Dr. Wight in the early 1970s when he was touring the United States on a book promotion tour and visited the College of Veterinary Medicine of The Ohio State University in Columbus. He was a very enjoyable man!

In the spirit of kicking back and taking it easy this holiday weekend, Helpful Buckeye suggests that you might want to either re-read one of James Herriot's books or borrow some of the DVDs of the BBC series, which are available at most public libraries. I know they are available in Flagstaff because I have two sets at home right now! If you should want to add to your own DVD collection or perhaps give a nice present to an animal lover, the whole series of DVDs from the BBC series is available through Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/s/qid=1220133388/ref=sr_kk_1?ie=UTF8&search-alias=dvd&field-keywords=all%20creatures%20great%20and%20small

Labor Day is a fitting tribute to Dr. Wight, "James Herriot," because he truly enjoyed the works he accomplished in his veterinary practice. Dr. Wight and his office in the Yorkshire Dales:

PET OF THE WEEK

In last week's issue, Helpful Buckeye gave you a little quiz about a breed of dog. The invasive, non-native wildflower, coming from the snapdragon family and also known as Butter and Eggs, originated from the same part of the world as our dog breed. The flower was this:

and the region of the world is the eastern border of the Adriatic Sea, comprised of Croatia and parts of Bosnia.

Yes, Grasshopper, this is...Dalmatia, the home of Dalmatian Toadflax, Linaria dalmatica and the Dalmatian dog (from Ben Hur Images) : ....just one of the 101 Dalmatians!

The familiar dapper black & white spotted dog of Disney fame, the Dalmatian is a symmetrical, muscular medium-sized dog with superior endurance. A picture of elegance, the Dalmatian has the lean, clean lines of the pointer, to which it may be related. It has a short, hard, dense coat of pure white with black or liver colored spots randomly splashed over it. Puppies are born completely white and the spots develop later.

Dalmatians were bred to run under or along-side of horse-drawn carriages and therefore have a vast amount of stamina and energy. They do not like to just sit around all day with nothing to do. The Dalmatian needs human companionship, without which it is likely to become depressed. For this reason they do not make good yard dogs. Some can be aggressive if not properly raised. Fifty percent of people who adopt a Dalmatian puppy do not keep them past the first year.

Deafness affects 10-12% of Dalmatian puppies. Every Dalmatian puppy should be BAER-tested for deafness (available at many private clinics and university veterinary hospitals across the USA), and totally deaf puppies should be spayed or neutered. They should be checked as a puppy at about 6 weeks old. Deaf dogs are very difficult to raise and often become aggressive and snappish from fear.

Urinary stones and skin allergies (especially to synthetic fibers in carpets and upholstery) are also sometimes inherited. Uric acid levels in Dalmatians are higher than in any other breed, sometimes causing urinary blockage.

Helpful Buckeye is not trying to make a geographer or historian out of every reader, but knowing a little about the origins of species can be interesting and instructive.

GENERAL INTEREST

1) When we talked about Beagles several weeks ago, Helpful Buckeye wanted to include another connection to the story. The pictures I wanted weren't available at the time, but they are now. Charles Darwin, the author of The Origin of Species, and renowned biologist, made his famous trip around the world onboard HMS Beagle. The voyage lasted just short of five years (1831-1836) and provided Darwin with all the specimens and experiences he needed to formulate his Theory of Evolution. The Beagle in the harbor and under sail:

2) For a little tongue-in-cheek enjoyment, watch and listen to this catchy tune by Norma Tanega from the Flower-Power era of 1966 (some of you should remember this one): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPZVrmJ2HH8

3) With the 3-day weekend and people and their pets still trying to beat the heat, these dogs have found the secret: http://www.evtv1.com/player.aspx?itemnum=8326

4) For those of you with an interest in cooking, Anthony Bourdain has a TV special on Labor Day on the Travel Channel depicting some of his international experiences with cooking. Bourdain has hit the book market with two really interesting books on his experiences in cooking, Kitchen Confidential and A Cook's Tour, both of which Helpful Buckeye highly recommends. They are not cook books, with recipes, but rather stories about a chef/cook. For more information on the TV show, go to: http://www.travelchannel.com/TV_Shows/Anthony_Bourdain?cmpid=TC_Pilot082808_5_trv1

5) Wisconsin Public Radio has a weekly show named "Calling All Pets," featuring zoologist Patricia McConnell and co-host Larry Meiller, who team up to help listeners bring out the best in their pets. Get down-to-earth advice about pet problems, big and small, and fascinating information about wildlife, too. You can either find this program on your local NPR station or listen to the weekly show on their web site (click on "Listen to Show"): http://www.wpr.org/pets/

6) Some of our dog readers have complained about cats and their catnip. This cartoon from The New Yorker pretty well sums up their opinion:

7) Sometimes pet owners do stupid things and sometimes they do cute things. This video qualifies as one of the cute things...enjoy this Lullaby for Puppies (but don't fall asleep yourself!): http://www.evtv1.com/player.aspx?itemnum=13110

ZZZZZZZZ..........oops, excuse me, I nodded off there for a minute!

SPORTS NEWS

1) The Ohio State Buckeyes beat Youngstown State today, 43-0, to open the season in Columbus.

2) More university team mascots that are cats:

• Northwestern Wildcats


• Ohio University Bobcats


• Penn State Nittany Lions


• Pitt Panthers


• Washington State Cougars

PERSONAL STUFF

1) For the past week, the local Farmers Market has been roasting Hatch chilis in their parking lot. Helpful Buckeye regularly goes to the Farmers Market at least once a week and, this time of the year, I find myself gravitating toward the chili roaster and the wonderful, spicy, pepper aroma it produces!

If you have one of the ultra-new "scratch and sniff" monitors, you can reach up and scratch your screen...and savor the aroma along with me!

2) Helpful Buckeye has always liked the summer months, but Labor Day means that my two favorite months of September and October are coming up! Labor Day weekend will be good for Helpful Buckeye...I got a 40-mile bike ride in on Friday, will play racquetball on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a cook-out Sunday evening, and culminating with an outdoor concert on Monday by the Flagstaff Symphony. I'll leave you with the sounds of the Beach Boys singing, "All Summer Long,": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6Hryc5t2wQ&feature=related and a view of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean at Pismo Beach, CA, to signify the symbolic end of our summer:

ANY COMMENTS, please send an e-mail: dogcatvethelp@gmail.com

~~The goal of this blog is to provide general information and advice to help you be a better pet owner and to have a more rewarding relationship with your pet. This blog does not intend to replace the professional one-on-one care your pet receives from a practicing veterinarian. When in doubt about your pet's health, always visit a veterinarian.~~