WINTER 2001 NEWSLETTER

 Welcome again to New Hope Animal Hospital’s quarterly newsletter. It is truly a pleasure to provide you with this and we hope you enjoy it and gain from it in some small or large way.  I have always believed that knowledge is power.  We offer in this newsletter some wise words and points to ponder. Use what you can. And please feel at liberty to pass it on to those who can benefit from it in any way. And let us know how we can make it better or more useful!

 EDITORIAL by Dr. Nancy

ACTS OF KINDNESS

 As many of you know, I have spent the last few months with my oldest son Kyle as we face his battle with cancer again. I am removed from my practice in body, but not spirit. To catch up those of you who didn’t know, Kyle was diagnosed seven years ago with Stage 4 medulloblastoma which is a kind of brain cancer. He was eight years old then and our family has faced many challenges related to such a devastating disease in their child. He has been through two major brain surgeries, brain and spinal radiation and countless rounds of ‘high-dose’ chemo. We are actually blessed in many ways by this. As I now sit at his bedside at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, I wonder what to editorialize this quarter. And the kindness of friends and strangers seems most appropriate. How could he and we have endured all of this without small and large acts of kindness? I would argue we couldn’t have.

From the start of this we have always been thankful for the nurses and doctors that treat us with compassion and respect.  Thankful for the ones who realize the depth of our love and commitment, the ones who genuinely care about Kyle and our family (and there are those for which pediatric oncology is just a job), and the ones who dedicate their lives to these tragedies. More importantly perhaps are the acts of kindness from our family and friends. Through these years we have been inspired and influenced by those we know who have acted selfishly to bring us a needed smile, some hope, and the comfort of love as we face such difficult challenges. Most recently a benefit was held for Kyle which brought together some of our dearest friends with support for our family. There were so many donations of time and energy as well as money for his medical expenses. It was a day I will never forget, and I continue to draw strength from that day. What a blessing our friends are! In addition, I am touched daily by the acts of kindness of perfect strangers. We have a room at the Ronald McDonald House about seven blocks from the hospital. We stay there if Kyle is not in the hospital (at which time I use it only as a place to shower!). I am in awe of the volunteers that give their time and heart to the residents of the House. Each day a new set of volunteers comes in to provide needed distraction and amusement. Culinary schools have brought the residents entire meals, massage schools have sent their students, and musicians have come to entertain the children and parents who must call that home for now. There is a weekly bingo game provided by volunteers, a special World Series Party by volunteers and let me say, the week of Halloween was one party after another. Incredible acts of kindness by total strangers. And there are volunteers at the hospital itself. There are playroom volunteers who bring by a list of activities offered for the day. There are musicians that go room to room offering a song or a concert. While I write this a group of clowns came by. Kyle is so sick all he does is sleep, but just the offer of a smile for him is overwhelming to me. And so doctors, nurses, family, friends and even strangers bless us with their caring and concern.

So how does this relate to you, and what can you do? Perhaps pediatrics isn’t your area. There are other ways to touch a life in a special way. And by ‘life’ I do not restrict this to humans. All life benefits from acts of kindness. There are clients within my practice who volunteer their time and energy visiting nursing homes, hospitals, and schools with their pets to offer the solace of an animal. There are clients who visit the animal shelters to walk the dogs, pet the cats and give a moment of their time to offer love to another life. There are clients who stop to help a stray that cannot offer verbal thanks in return. Often the gratification is internal and no one else knows about it. I honor these people in this editorial and challenge each of you to find a way to offer a kindness to another living being. It doesn’t have to be much, I swear even a touch or a smile on a dismal day can mean so much. Stop to help someone today…a neighbor, a friend, a total stranger or even the neighbors’ dog, friends’ cat, or a stray. Just a extra pat, a kind word or an extra treat would mean so much as I know.

BEHAVIOR BITS

Our pets’ behavior is our responsibility. As owners we must not make our pets more like us (after all, isn’t that one of the reasons we love them…they aren’t like us!), but we should use their species instincts and natural tendencies to provide interaction that is mutually beneficial. I am again proud to offer one of my valued friends and employees, Angie, to help you in any way with the behavior tendencies or idiosyncrasies of your pet. And so…

ASK ANGIE!

Happy Holidays!  Ah-h, how I love to get out all of those decorations out of the closet and create a festive atmosphere for everyone’s favorite time of the year.  However, as much as I love to tweak-out my home in twinkling lights and glass balls and garland… my cats are really the ones that celebrate!  They think we have created a wonderful winter wonderland just for them.  As much as I want my family to enjoy the ambiance that beautiful do-dads help create I have to be realistic.  Those of us who have chose to share our environment with animals have to compromise when it comes to how we furnish and enhance this space.  Since it is such a common struggle at this time of the year, I have chosen “feline destruction” as our topic for this newsletter. 

                A few weeks ago I talked to a very distraught client regarding her cat’s seeming obsession with chewing on cords, especially electrical ones!  At first I went over the basics because just like with anything else you don’t want to overlook the obvious solutions.  For instance, try to eliminate or minimize the tempting articles.  She explained that she had purchased things in which you can “hide” the cords but that this highly intelligent or just highly motivated feline is able to remove all of the devices within a day.  Ok, so that was one weapon from my arsenal rendered useless. 

                Next, I moved on to diversion tactics.  Yes, those had been purchased and the other furry family members were quite happy and kept themselves busy on the multi-level “cat tree” complete with appropriate scratching posts.  A variety of toys were available as well.  However, this cat, the owner insisted, would play with nothing but cords.  It was clear at this point that the standard behavior modifications weren’t working.  This owner had researched and tried for months to try to correct this behavior without any luck.  With good reason the owner has worried that the cat will cause a fire or fatally electrify herself.   We have already treated the cat for gastric upset as a result of ingesting foreign material and animals can die as a result of perforated intestines.  Not only had she replaced hundreds of dollars of phone and computer cords…but also she had racked up several vet bills.  Ok, second weapon dropped to the floor.

                Along with hiding the cords she had already used special sprays that are marketed to be deterrents and repel pets from objects and areas.  These do work for many people, but they hadn’t phased this cat.  Before I could mention it she told me that she was also sick of having double-sided tape all over the place.  Most cats can’t stand sticky stuff, but alas that had not worked either.  Number three; went plunk into the trash.

                As the frustrated woman described her cat’s seeming obsession with munching on coated wires it began to sound as if we weren’t dealing with typical destructive behavior but instead a full-blown neurotic compulsion.  The client had already began limiting the cat’s activity by placing her in a large cage.  However, keeping her confined for long periods of time greatly upset the cat and made the owner feel rather depressed.  I suggested that she continue to cage her when necessary.  However, the owner questioned whether it would be more humane to let her be an outside cat but since they reside in a rather populated area and more importantly the cat is de-clawed this wasn’t the solution either.

                 With my standard conventional weapons at my feet I devised a three-pronged approach to whip this problem.  First of all, I consulted with Dr. Moore who approved a trial of an anti-depressant which we hoped would provide medical help.  We do try to modify behavior without drugs first, but extreme cases call for extreme measures and the doctor felt that a prescription was indeed warranted.  

                Next, I recommended Feliway.  This is a pheromone spray, which has been proved to calm distressed cats as well as control urine marking and scratching.  It has a 95% success rate when used as directed and it is used by Licensed Animal Behaviorists.  Although we aren’t dealing with scratching, surely it was worth trying!  This product is only available from licensed veterinarians and can be purchased at New Hope Animal Hospital.  Unlike the deterrent sprays Feliway has no odor.  Only felines are able to detect it and it has very powerful effects.

                For the third suggestion, I recommended that she get some licorice whips so that the cat could have a safe (and much cheaper) “cord” to chew on.

                Whew, I haven’t had a recent update, but I wish this client the best of luck!  And remember, even the best-behaved cat can find things like tinsel irresistible.  So, deck those halls, but do it safely and have a happy holiday season.

We are proud to highlight a local group or club who focuses on the advancement of our beloved animals. This quarter we offer you:

 THE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS KENNEL CLUB

 The Northwest Arkansas Kennel Club is an AKC licensed club established in 1969. Altogether, our members have over I00 years of experience in dog related interests such as behavior, breeding, raising, training and showing of dogs. Their participation in dog sports and activities include obedience, conformation, tracking, agility, herding, earthdog, carting, therapy dogs, lure-coursing, search and rescue, and hunting tests.

 Although as a licensed club our primary function is to promote purebred dogs and AKC dog sports, our first love is the dog itself as an unsurpassed companion animal. Some of our members have 30 years involvement in the purebred dog world; others are newcomers to the fancy, while still others don't own a purebred dog. The one thing we all have in common is our love of the dog.

 MEETINGS

NWAKC has regular meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, held at the Washington County Co-operative Extension Service Building on Drake Street at 7:00 PM. We have several educational programs each year on subjects of general public interest such as first aid for dogs, responsible pet ownership, and selecting an appropriate breed for you and your lifestyle.

 If you love dogs and want to learn more about them, please join us at our next meeting. AKC Sports are a wonderful family activity. We have an excellent junior program for those 17 and under and there is surely something of interest for every dog lover. Those who would like to help out in any of our activities are especially welcome. And bring a friend! Refreshments are served.

 TRAINING

Some of our more experienced members teach conformation classes (how to show your dog) and puppy pre-school (how to get off on the right foot!), as well as classes in conjunction with the 4-H Program. Contact our club members for more details.

 SHOWS

We hold a licensed dog show and obedience trial every year as well as sanctioned matches and Canine Good Citizenship Tests.

 MEMBERSHIP

Membership is open to those persons willing to abide by the NWAKC code of ethics.

 EDUCATI0N

The Northwest Arkansas Kennel club works with various organizations and entities like the Fayetteville Animal Shelter and the 4-H clubs to promote responsible pet ownership. Training and various classes are offered to clubs, organizations and individuals. Other educational programs are offered at regular club meetings.

 The Northwest Arkansas Kennel Club provides a wide variety of services to the public. If you are interested in any dog-related activities, we encourage you to attend one of our meetings.

 Local classes and dog shows provided by our dedicated members. Feel free to join us anytime! Visitors always welcome.

NEW PRODUCTS

VACCINE ALERT

There is now a vaccine available for Giardia called GiardiaVax.  Giardia is a recognized zoonotic disease (animal to human transfer); the role that your pet assumes is not well established.  However at New Hope Animal Hospital numerous cases of Giardia have been diagnosed this past summer and fall.  Most mammals including dogs, cats, horses as well as wildlife and humans can carry Giardia.  Giardia is a waterborne parasite that can be found throughout the United States, in puddles, ponds, swimming pools and even in your backyard.  Your puppy can also get infected with Giardia by grooming or licking the haircoat of another animal that is infected. 

 Symptoms of Giardia infection can include diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain and vomiting.  Sometimes your puppy may have subtle symptoms such as occasional diarrhea.

 GiardiaVax has been proven to prevent clinical disease caused by Giardia infection and to significantly reduce the incidence, severity and duration of cyst shedding.  Subsequent to Giardia exposure, your dog may pass Giardia in its feces; therefore proper hygiene and sanitation practices should be implemented.

 This vaccine is given in two initial doses, followed by an annual vaccination.   If you have any questions we have more information available.

HEARTWORM PREVENTATIVE FOR CATS

Novartis Animal Health announced it now has FDA approval for its heartworm medication, Interceptor (milbemycin oxime) Flavor Tabs, for use in cats. The tablets may be administered to cats as young as six weeks of age and weighing more than 1½ pounds. While it is common in dogs in our area, heartworm disease in cats is still considered uncommon. However we are diagnosing more and more cases at New Hope Animal Hospital and, unlike dogs, there is no treatment for cats with heartworms. It is transmitted in cats by mosquitoes just as it is in dogs. This is truly a disease where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure for your cat. 

 SEASONAL TOPICS

 1.     ANTIFREEZE…Cats and dogs love the taste of antifreeze and since they can’t read the label warnings, it is our job to keep it away from them. One tablespoon will kill a 10-pound dog or cat and the only antidote must be given within hours of ingesting it. So store it safely, never drain it onto the ground and clean up spills right away!

  2.    HOLIDAY DECORATIONS AND DINNER…The beautiful tinsel, angel hair and exposed electric cords can take the happiness out of your pets holiday season. Tinsel, angel hair, and ribbons can obstruct bowels. Poinsettias, while no longer considered fatal, can irritate and inflame the gastrointestinal system. Certain parts of lilies, on the other hand, can be fatal if ingested, so opt for fake versions! Chocolate can cause enormous problems in animals (as one of our trick –or -treating dog patients recently found out) so keep all chocolate out of reach. Sharing your holiday meal with your pet can easily lead to gastrointestinal upset including life-threatening pancreatitis and intestinal perforation. I don’t care if they eat bones all the time with no problems, it is very risky every time you feed your pet a bone…ask any of our staff how many bone-related problems we see!  And remember our four legged friends can be quite ingenious if they want something bad enough!

  3.    WINTER WEATHER…If your pet will be outdoors in cold weather you must make provisions for a warm and dry place for them! They really can’t just find somewhere warm by themselves (and cats are notorious for seeking warm car engines with disastrous results). While they do have a ‘coat’ of fur, frostbite of the extremities and hypothermia is not uncommon even in Northwest Arkansas. Please bring your outdoor pet inside if the temperature gets below freezing. And certainly if the temperature is in the teens, all your friends should be inside (even if it is the bathroom or laundry room!).

  4.    Make sure if you travel with your pet this holiday season you consider them when you visit. Will they be happy at the in-laws (to heck with will the in-laws be happy with them!)? Will the motel you plan to stay at accept them? Will the area you travel in have your pets’ normal food available? Sometimes it truly is smarter to find a pet sitter or board them at a responsible kennel during the holiday festivities. Consider this if you are having visitors too… take the age and type of visitors into consideration when you decide what to do for the holidays. 

SPEAKING OF KENNELS…

KENNEL CORNER

        New Hope Boarding and Grooming provides an excellent service due to their dedication to the comfort and happiness of their boarders and beauty parlor visitors. The staff are devoted animal lovers (who else would clean up those messes?) and truly care that your pet and you are happy.  They are willing to provide your pet with any special attention or treats you request! They even provide a doggy day care for those who need attention in the day only!  With three groomers on staff they are able to give your pet that special look for the holiday season. And they are stocking up on holiday gifts for your pet…scotty has six dogs and two cats herself so she has to keep a good variety in stock for her own pets. If you have a gift you can’t find they will be happy to check all their suppliers and try to locate the special gift you are looking for!

F Y I :

Onion Toxicity

Onions- whether cooked, raw, or dehydrated- contains sulfur compounds that, when chewed, change form and cause hemolysis  (destruction) of red blood cells in dogs, cats and cattle. Dogs and cats may ingest onion peels by raiding the garbage or stealing onion pieces from the table or off the floor.  Pets can also ingest onions in table scraps or homemade diets provided by owners who are unaware of the toxic effects. Adverse effects from onion ingestion are dependent on individual susceptibility and amount ingested.  While the toxic dose varies from animal to animal, Japanese dogs such as the Akita and Shiba Inu are especially sensitive. Cats are very susceptible and the toxic dose is much less for them than dogs. It may take several days after onion exposure for the toxic effects to be noted. Severe onion toxicosis can be lethal. As with any toxicosis, the first step is to remove the source of the toxicity. For cases in which a significant amount of onions have been ingested within the past 2 hours, the animal should be given 3% hydrogen peroxide orally (1 ml/lb of body weight, not to exceed 45 ml), followed by the administration of activated charcoal. Careful monitoring of blood values is important and medical support is often needed in the form of blood transfusions.

 Common signs of onion poisoning in dogs and cats:

·         Pale or icteric mucous membranes

·         Weakness, depression

·         Rapid heart and respiration rates (caused by hypoxia)

·         Vomiting, anorexia, and/or diarrhea

·         Onion odor on breath  

 Common laboratory findings in onion toxicosis

·         Low hematocrit

·         Hemoglobinuria

·         Methemoglobinemia

·         Abnormal erythrocyte morphology: Heinz bodies, eccentrocytes, leukocytosis with a left shift, and thrombocytosis

MORE FYI!

Electronic Fencing

          Electronic fencing is the answer for many people who want to let their dogs roam free in the yard without a chain or the burden of installing a traditional chain-link fence but there are some important things to consider when looking at this option as opposed to fencing or chains.

          The system includes electronic components and wiring that is buried around the perimeter of the area as well as a special collar for the dog.  There are some models, which do not require burying the cables but instead have stakes with transmitters which ease the installation of the product.  Most have flags to use for visual cues to help train your dog where the boundaries are.  When the dog approaches the boundary most collars will make a beeping sound.  If the dog continues to move across the boundary the collar will shock the dog.  Most brands offer different settings so owners can decide, depending on individual characteristics, which degree of shock would be most appropriate for their pet. Minimal maintenance is required and most collars have a long-lasting battery.

          Even though there are many benefits this system will not work for every pet.  There have been cases of pets so traumatized by the shock they will refuse to go outside at all.  There are also cases where the shock will not deter very determined dogs.  It can also cause a dog not to come back into the yard after breaking the boundary.  However it is better to shock a dog then allow it to wander into the street or tie it to a post.

          For the system to work it is not just a matter of putting up the fence, some training needs to be done as well.  To teach a dog the boundaries you need to leash walk your dog around the border.  When the dog tries to cross the boundary, say a firm “NO” and gently pull the leash back to keep them within the perimeter.  Praise and give rewards often when the dog obeys and stays within the boundary.

          Another important consideration is the electronic fencing will not keep roving packs of dogs out of your yard, therefore leaving your pet vulnerable to attack.

          In the November issue of Dog Fancy they stressed these important points:

-          Select the product that best matches your needs.  Some systems offer hand-held transmitters for owners to correct undesirable behavior, such as excessive barking.

-          Follow the instructions to the letter.  When training, place tape over the collar prong: this way the dog hears but doesn’t feel the correction (after your dog has learned the boundaries, take off the tape and let the collar give a light correction).  Also use boundary flags (which comes with most systems) to provide a visual cue in the first week or two of leash training.  Your firm “No” and gentle leash tug will correct you dog until it graduates to off-leash training and learns the boundary itself will cause a correction.

          Use the system to reinforce-not replace-good training and obedience.  Otherwise you have a false sense of security.

          Supervise your unleashed dog at all times.  If your dog gets out, it might be afraid to come back in.  Also electronic fences don’t keep people or other animals out of the yard, and don’t guarantee your dog’s safety.

         Check and replace batteries frequently.

 While it is not an option for everyone it is definitely something worth considering for your pet and can be very beneficial when used properly.