31 Aralık 2012 Pazartesi

Atopy and Allergies in Dogs & Cats, Combining Atopy & Food Allergies, the Summation Effect

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Pets that have allergies to food and to antigens that are inhaled and touched are said to have a summation effect or cross reactivity between inhalants and foods. For example, ragweed allergic dogs may experience heightened allergy symptoms when they eat cucumbers, zucchini or strawberries.  One dog that was allergic to cedar had increased symptoms after eating tomatoes. Take care, tomatoes are now in almost every commercial kibble available (tomato pumice).
 

Your puppy - owner's House a pet guide training

To contact us Click HERE
[]

Getting a new puppy and bring him home is a very exciting experience because this pet can bring fun and joy in the owner's life. However, it is important that your puppy in following rules to train. Techniques in the house training your pets are very similar and can be used to teach them where you go to the potty and what they are allowed to eat.

The expectations

She will act puppies machine such as a small input-output, and it is quite normal. As your puppy grows, he will develop quickly. While this starts time he eating more and more energy to burn. In this phase his ability not developed yet a puppy to control his bowel and bladder, so he ' they do not "contain what do as adult dogs." Therefore successful house training is very important and it can be done by your careful monitoring of the puppy.

TOILET train your puppy

The most important part of the house training your puppy is potty training. The process can be long, or up to six months. Toilet training your puppy, you should it especially during periods he monitor most likely going to do it. These are usually immediately after the meal, or on foot. You determine an area where you want to make your puppy, his business, and let him remain in this area after the wake and food, has done to it. After that you should reward your puppy with many verbal praise and treats. Keep in mind that it will be times when your puppy not at these times must go, or if your pet to other areas, to do it.

For example, you start pet do it in a wrong area. quiet stop move him and him to its designated area. You should not shout or scold your puppy he does something wrong. Before too long your puppy is with your chosen area alone. Make sure that you select a section in your home, because this is also important so that your pet do it in a wrong way. You should area to mark and your puppy in this during the times probably, to do it. At home, you can check purchase cat litter or useful pads. In addition, you can also plain old newspaper, because this is just as effective and much cheaper.


[]

Ace's Update @ 18 weeks!

To contact us Click HERE
Okay, well technically Ace is 18 weeks until Wednesday, but I felt like doing the post now =)
Since we got him at 7 weeks on March 10th 2010, it's really amazing how far he has come!I thought I would never sleep through the night again and there would never be an end to cleaning up paper misses! It is truly amazing to watch a puppy grow and develop. I never realized the changes with our family pets growing up. I feel it must be because he is all ours and he depends on us completely.I noticed a lot lately how many people comment on how well behaved he is! When I think of Ace I think of a mischievous little guy who finds socks in places unknown, stashes pine cones in our house, digs holes, and flattens flowers.We had friends over on Saturday for a get together and everyone couldn't believe he was only 4 months old! I really started thinking about it and realized how lucky we are that those snatched socks and a messy garden are nothing compared to some fur kid stories I have heard!
-Ace now sleeps until 7 or 7 30 (with an occasional 6 30 am wakeup)-He goes to the door and barks when he wants to go potty-He will lay at our feet and chew on a bone when we watch tv (instead of jumping and whining for attention)- He stands still during bath time!-His recall is about 98% haha
There are many other things he does as well that demonstrate good behaviour, and to some it may seem very little, but I know when he does these little things, it makes me so proud! In such a short time he has learned so much! It's bittersweet because he is not acting like a naughty puppy as much as he is acting like a little puppy gentleman, and it means he is growing up <3
The most recent thing Ace has been doing (which he started Saturday night after our guests left), I allowed Ace to stay up later than usual (12:30, he usually goes to his crate around 10:30pm, he loves his routine haha) He must have been very sleepy after all the playtime with everyone because after I finished cleaning the kitchen, I noticed Ace wasn't sitting on the rug in the kitchen anymore. My first thought was Oh no what is he getting into now. So I walked downstairs looking for him and when I got to our bedroom, there he was, sitting on the floor at the foot of our bed whining at me! Of course, I was immediately like "Oh goodness are you hurt?!?!"but nope, he whined one more time, rolled on his back, so I rubbed his tummy.After a few seconds of tummy rubbing, he stood up and walked RIGHT INTO HIS CRATE!!!! All on his own!!!I couldn't believe it! The little booger waited in our room for someone to rub his tummy before bedtime! I hadn't realized at the moment, but before bedtime every night, I always rub his belly to calm him! So once his belly was rubbed, Ace wanted to go to sleep!I was so proud, and no lie, he has gone into his crate on his own each night since!!!
My little Genius <3
haha Sorry about a huge post bragging about Ace, but I am sure you other fur kid parents who went through puppy training and development understand my excitement & enthusiasm about things as little as being able to sleep in a bit longer!!! haha

Celebrating Mommy's Birthday!

To contact us Click HERE
Today was a wonderful birthday (mine) and Canada Day! yay July 1st!The highlight was this morning when for the FIRST time, Ace jumped up into our bed all on his own and snuggled with me for 10 whole minutes! I feel like maybe he was trying to say *Happy Birthday? Thank you for feeding & loving me everyday?*...hey I can dream haha!We spent the beautiful cool morning walking through the park and splashing in the river. Ace is sure becoming a great swimmer. We are very proud :DI can tell once he swims a nice lap he walks out and struts his stuff as if to say "Hey ma, dad! Did you guys see those moves out there?!?!"
After a lengthy park playtime Ace got a deep clean! (He gets SO grimy at the park)He might be the cleanest dog ever. He has actually grown to really enjoy his baths and jumps in the shower if he gets a chance. This is such an improvement from a few months ago when he would whine and cry and struggle to get out.Now if we could only get him to shake off....he usually just stands there and waits to be dried while he is sopping wet! SO CUTE :D
While Ace napped I dragged Daddy out for an adventure (and besides, he said I could pick out a birthday gift) hehe.We shopped a bit and I must say I totally recommend signing up for Sephora's beauty insiders club...they give you free gifts on your birthday WITHOUT a purchase! haha Oh how I love free things.Ace loves free things as well as when I returned home he thought the little gift pack was for him and stole it, ran away with it and tried to eat it...*sigh* Dog & makeup were unharmed in the end!
After a delicious dinner we came back to enjoy a quiet evening with our little guy while he chewed his kneecap bone (YES the SAME kneecap bone from my post a few months ago) I must say, that thing has some serious staying power!
Sadly, we may be saying goodbye to Ace's FAVOURITE orange monkey toy soon. I am looking for a replacement before I toss the original. (He sleeps with it every night, so I don't want him to be sad) It was a VERY strong toy for Ace, but I suppose 24/7 loving for the last few months took it's toll as he now has a hole in his neck and we had to remove the stuffing....
Here is a beautiful picture for your viewing pleasure!This is Ace's lip curl...he does this ALL the time (Happy, sad, angry) He has about 10 different versions of the lip curl... It's hilarious.



It's Beginning to Feel A Lot like Christmas!

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Ace's First Snow Play! He saw snow for the first time just after Thanksgiving when I took him with me to stay with a friend a few hours North of the City. It was light snow though, and he only got to see it for a few minutes on the ground before it melted. This morning at home however, we woke up to find snow everywhere!!!I think he is in his element....he just can't get enough!Even though I was freeezing, I piled on 10 layers and took Ace and Sammy to the park before Work this morning. He didn't want to get into the car to leave he was having so much fun!On a side note, I noticed lately that Ace's bum hairs have gotten so wild that "yucky stuff" gets stuck in the hair. I have to wash his butt constantly! (which of course he doesn't like)With treats in one hand, and scissors in the other, I went scissor happy on his long hairs on his bum. Let's just say...I will probably never be hired as a dog groomer....I will try and get a photo, it's pretty funny actually. Poor guy, shoulda seen his face when he looked over at the huge pile of hair on the floor. I think he was pretty upset with me. I'm going to do a touch up tomorrow...How often do you usually bathe your fur baby? I usually have to bathe him once a week or once every 2 weeks. He gets SOOO smelly...I don't understand!*I have been trying to measure Ace to see how tall he stands, but he ate my tape measure..., so I'm still trying to get on that*

27 Aralık 2012 Perşembe

It's Beginning to Feel A Lot like Christmas!

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Ace's First Snow Play! He saw snow for the first time just after Thanksgiving when I took him with me to stay with a friend a few hours North of the City. It was light snow though, and he only got to see it for a few minutes on the ground before it melted. This morning at home however, we woke up to find snow everywhere!!!I think he is in his element....he just can't get enough!Even though I was freeezing, I piled on 10 layers and took Ace and Sammy to the park before Work this morning. He didn't want to get into the car to leave he was having so much fun!On a side note, I noticed lately that Ace's bum hairs have gotten so wild that "yucky stuff" gets stuck in the hair. I have to wash his butt constantly! (which of course he doesn't like)With treats in one hand, and scissors in the other, I went scissor happy on his long hairs on his bum. Let's just say...I will probably never be hired as a dog groomer....I will try and get a photo, it's pretty funny actually. Poor guy, shoulda seen his face when he looked over at the huge pile of hair on the floor. I think he was pretty upset with me. I'm going to do a touch up tomorrow...How often do you usually bathe your fur baby? I usually have to bathe him once a week or once every 2 weeks. He gets SOOO smelly...I don't understand!*I have been trying to measure Ace to see how tall he stands, but he ate my tape measure..., so I'm still trying to get on that*

Your puppy - owner's House a pet guide training

To contact us Click HERE
[]

Getting a new puppy and bring him home is a very exciting experience because this pet can bring fun and joy in the owner's life. However, it is important that your puppy in following rules to train. Techniques in the house training your pets are very similar and can be used to teach them where you go to the potty and what they are allowed to eat.

The expectations

She will act puppies machine such as a small input-output, and it is quite normal. As your puppy grows, he will develop quickly. While this starts time he eating more and more energy to burn. In this phase his ability not developed yet a puppy to control his bowel and bladder, so he ' they do not "contain what do as adult dogs." Therefore successful house training is very important and it can be done by your careful monitoring of the puppy.

TOILET train your puppy

The most important part of the house training your puppy is potty training. The process can be long, or up to six months. Toilet training your puppy, you should it especially during periods he monitor most likely going to do it. These are usually immediately after the meal, or on foot. You determine an area where you want to make your puppy, his business, and let him remain in this area after the wake and food, has done to it. After that you should reward your puppy with many verbal praise and treats. Keep in mind that it will be times when your puppy not at these times must go, or if your pet to other areas, to do it.

For example, you start pet do it in a wrong area. quiet stop move him and him to its designated area. You should not shout or scold your puppy he does something wrong. Before too long your puppy is with your chosen area alone. Make sure that you select a section in your home, because this is also important so that your pet do it in a wrong way. You should area to mark and your puppy in this during the times probably, to do it. At home, you can check purchase cat litter or useful pads. In addition, you can also plain old newspaper, because this is just as effective and much cheaper.


[]

Are Poinsettias Toxic to Pets?

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Yes, Poinsettia is toxic when chewed, swallowed, or rubbed onto skin.

Poinsettia is Euphorbia pulcherrima, a seasonal plant with green and red, pink or yellow leaves. Dogs or cats eating the leaves may have gastrointestinal (GI) signs, including vomiting and diarrhea. Dogs or cats that rub the sap from the stem or leaves onto their skin may develop dermatitis.
So, enjoy the poinsettia, but put your plant where your pet can’t enjoy it.
 Other Toxic Plants
There are several other plants even more toxic to pets than are Poinsettias:
  • Angel’s Trumpet
  • Azalea
  • Christmas Tree (Melia azendarach)
  • Daffodil
  • Daphne
  • English Holly
  • English Ivy
  • Lily
  • Mistletoe
  • Narcissus
  • Oleander
  • Philodendron (Monstera and Philodendron species)
  • Rhododendron
  • Yellow Jessamine (Gelsemium)
  • Yew

 

Holiday Hazards for Dogs & Cats

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Wow, holidays are to celebrate and you’d never guess it looking at how many ways our dogs, cats, & birds can get into trouble over the next few weeks.
 Here’s a list of dangerous plants, foods, and other hazards you’ll want to protect your pets from:
  • Angel hair
  • Antifreeze with ethylene glycol
  • Chocolate, especially dark chocolate
  • Christmas tree water with preservatives
  • Grapes
  • Hiding under a car’s hood and being torn by the fan belt when the car is turned on
  • Holly bushes & berries,
  • Leavening agents and bread dough 
  • Lights & extension cords
  • Lillies
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Onions
  • Poinsettias
  • Raisins
  • Road salt and ice-melt products
  • String that secured the turkey’s legs
  • Sugar-free candy & gum that contains xylitol
  • Sugar-free drinks with xylitol (Propel water)
  • Tinsel
  • Turkey carcass in the garbage can
  • Windshield de-icer with isopropanol
  • Windshield wiper fluid with methanol

ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435)ASPCA Web site http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-controlfor information.

Aspirin in Dogs, Not Wise

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 Aspirin

Aspirin is a good pain reliever for people, but not so good for dogs because it causes ulcers.
The ulcers can be subclinical, that is, the ulcers are in the dog’s stomach but you won’t know that just looking at your pet.
If your dog becomes stressed, the ulcers can become clinical and your dog will look as sick and painful as any human with gastric ulcers. It will walk with its back hunched, not want to eat, vomit, and pass dark bloody stools. Many families think that a pet with gastric ulcers has disc disease because they walk stiffly and cry out in pain when touched.
COX 2 Meds Safer Than Aspirin
  • carprofen (Rimadyl)
  • deracoxib (Deramaxx)
  • etodolac (EtoGesic)
  • piroxicam (Feldene)
  • Safer pain relief comes from using drugs similar to aspirin but less likely to affect the stomach. These are the COX 2 specific non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): meloxicam (Metacam)

 While these NSAIDs are safer than aspirin and more likely to spare your dog’s stomach while helping with pain, these NSAIDs don’t actually make your dog’s joints better. Meds that actually improve joints are called disease modifying agents (DMO). Acupuncture, Adequan, and fish oil are DMOs.

20 Aralık 2012 Perşembe

Disease Modifying Agents

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When treating pain in dogs and cats, we can just address the pain, or we can actually change the pet so that its body is producing pain. We call therapeutic agents that actually improve a pet, disease modifying agents or DMOs.

Many veterinarians, including me, think one of the best DMOs we have for dogs & cats is Adequan. Adequan is injected just below the skin (subcutaneously) or into the muscle. Adequan is given multiple times the first two months (twice a week for 3 weeks, then once a week for 4 weeks) to load the joints with materials to make healthy cartilage and synovial fluid. After the initial injections, Adequan is given every 2-4 weeks as needed. And, hallelujah, it doesn’t sting.
Other DMO’s include
  • Acupuncture
  • Boswellia
  • Chiropractic
  • Dasuquin
  • Fish oil, such as Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet
  • Fresh ground flax, such as Missing Link Vet Plus
  • Icing
  • Massage
  • Moxa
  • Niacinamide
  • Swimming
  • Turmeric

Your puppy - owner's House a pet guide training

To contact us Click HERE
[]

Getting a new puppy and bring him home is a very exciting experience because this pet can bring fun and joy in the owner's life. However, it is important that your puppy in following rules to train. Techniques in the house training your pets are very similar and can be used to teach them where you go to the potty and what they are allowed to eat.

The expectations

She will act puppies machine such as a small input-output, and it is quite normal. As your puppy grows, he will develop quickly. While this starts time he eating more and more energy to burn. In this phase his ability not developed yet a puppy to control his bowel and bladder, so he ' they do not "contain what do as adult dogs." Therefore successful house training is very important and it can be done by your careful monitoring of the puppy.

TOILET train your puppy

The most important part of the house training your puppy is potty training. The process can be long, or up to six months. Toilet training your puppy, you should it especially during periods he monitor most likely going to do it. These are usually immediately after the meal, or on foot. You determine an area where you want to make your puppy, his business, and let him remain in this area after the wake and food, has done to it. After that you should reward your puppy with many verbal praise and treats. Keep in mind that it will be times when your puppy not at these times must go, or if your pet to other areas, to do it.

For example, you start pet do it in a wrong area. quiet stop move him and him to its designated area. You should not shout or scold your puppy he does something wrong. Before too long your puppy is with your chosen area alone. Make sure that you select a section in your home, because this is also important so that your pet do it in a wrong way. You should area to mark and your puppy in this during the times probably, to do it. At home, you can check purchase cat litter or useful pads. In addition, you can also plain old newspaper, because this is just as effective and much cheaper.


[]

Ace's Update @ 18 weeks!

To contact us Click HERE
Okay, well technically Ace is 18 weeks until Wednesday, but I felt like doing the post now =)
Since we got him at 7 weeks on March 10th 2010, it's really amazing how far he has come!I thought I would never sleep through the night again and there would never be an end to cleaning up paper misses! It is truly amazing to watch a puppy grow and develop. I never realized the changes with our family pets growing up. I feel it must be because he is all ours and he depends on us completely.I noticed a lot lately how many people comment on how well behaved he is! When I think of Ace I think of a mischievous little guy who finds socks in places unknown, stashes pine cones in our house, digs holes, and flattens flowers.We had friends over on Saturday for a get together and everyone couldn't believe he was only 4 months old! I really started thinking about it and realized how lucky we are that those snatched socks and a messy garden are nothing compared to some fur kid stories I have heard!
-Ace now sleeps until 7 or 7 30 (with an occasional 6 30 am wakeup)-He goes to the door and barks when he wants to go potty-He will lay at our feet and chew on a bone when we watch tv (instead of jumping and whining for attention)- He stands still during bath time!-His recall is about 98% haha
There are many other things he does as well that demonstrate good behaviour, and to some it may seem very little, but I know when he does these little things, it makes me so proud! In such a short time he has learned so much! It's bittersweet because he is not acting like a naughty puppy as much as he is acting like a little puppy gentleman, and it means he is growing up <3
The most recent thing Ace has been doing (which he started Saturday night after our guests left), I allowed Ace to stay up later than usual (12:30, he usually goes to his crate around 10:30pm, he loves his routine haha) He must have been very sleepy after all the playtime with everyone because after I finished cleaning the kitchen, I noticed Ace wasn't sitting on the rug in the kitchen anymore. My first thought was Oh no what is he getting into now. So I walked downstairs looking for him and when I got to our bedroom, there he was, sitting on the floor at the foot of our bed whining at me! Of course, I was immediately like "Oh goodness are you hurt?!?!"but nope, he whined one more time, rolled on his back, so I rubbed his tummy.After a few seconds of tummy rubbing, he stood up and walked RIGHT INTO HIS CRATE!!!! All on his own!!!I couldn't believe it! The little booger waited in our room for someone to rub his tummy before bedtime! I hadn't realized at the moment, but before bedtime every night, I always rub his belly to calm him! So once his belly was rubbed, Ace wanted to go to sleep!I was so proud, and no lie, he has gone into his crate on his own each night since!!!
My little Genius <3
haha Sorry about a huge post bragging about Ace, but I am sure you other fur kid parents who went through puppy training and development understand my excitement & enthusiasm about things as little as being able to sleep in a bit longer!!! haha

Celebrating Mommy's Birthday!

To contact us Click HERE
Today was a wonderful birthday (mine) and Canada Day! yay July 1st!The highlight was this morning when for the FIRST time, Ace jumped up into our bed all on his own and snuggled with me for 10 whole minutes! I feel like maybe he was trying to say *Happy Birthday? Thank you for feeding & loving me everyday?*...hey I can dream haha!We spent the beautiful cool morning walking through the park and splashing in the river. Ace is sure becoming a great swimmer. We are very proud :DI can tell once he swims a nice lap he walks out and struts his stuff as if to say "Hey ma, dad! Did you guys see those moves out there?!?!"
After a lengthy park playtime Ace got a deep clean! (He gets SO grimy at the park)He might be the cleanest dog ever. He has actually grown to really enjoy his baths and jumps in the shower if he gets a chance. This is such an improvement from a few months ago when he would whine and cry and struggle to get out.Now if we could only get him to shake off....he usually just stands there and waits to be dried while he is sopping wet! SO CUTE :D
While Ace napped I dragged Daddy out for an adventure (and besides, he said I could pick out a birthday gift) hehe.We shopped a bit and I must say I totally recommend signing up for Sephora's beauty insiders club...they give you free gifts on your birthday WITHOUT a purchase! haha Oh how I love free things.Ace loves free things as well as when I returned home he thought the little gift pack was for him and stole it, ran away with it and tried to eat it...*sigh* Dog & makeup were unharmed in the end!
After a delicious dinner we came back to enjoy a quiet evening with our little guy while he chewed his kneecap bone (YES the SAME kneecap bone from my post a few months ago) I must say, that thing has some serious staying power!
Sadly, we may be saying goodbye to Ace's FAVOURITE orange monkey toy soon. I am looking for a replacement before I toss the original. (He sleeps with it every night, so I don't want him to be sad) It was a VERY strong toy for Ace, but I suppose 24/7 loving for the last few months took it's toll as he now has a hole in his neck and we had to remove the stuffing....
Here is a beautiful picture for your viewing pleasure!This is Ace's lip curl...he does this ALL the time (Happy, sad, angry) He has about 10 different versions of the lip curl... It's hilarious.



It's Beginning to Feel A Lot like Christmas!

To contact us Click HERE







Ace's First Snow Play! He saw snow for the first time just after Thanksgiving when I took him with me to stay with a friend a few hours North of the City. It was light snow though, and he only got to see it for a few minutes on the ground before it melted. This morning at home however, we woke up to find snow everywhere!!!I think he is in his element....he just can't get enough!Even though I was freeezing, I piled on 10 layers and took Ace and Sammy to the park before Work this morning. He didn't want to get into the car to leave he was having so much fun!On a side note, I noticed lately that Ace's bum hairs have gotten so wild that "yucky stuff" gets stuck in the hair. I have to wash his butt constantly! (which of course he doesn't like)With treats in one hand, and scissors in the other, I went scissor happy on his long hairs on his bum. Let's just say...I will probably never be hired as a dog groomer....I will try and get a photo, it's pretty funny actually. Poor guy, shoulda seen his face when he looked over at the huge pile of hair on the floor. I think he was pretty upset with me. I'm going to do a touch up tomorrow...How often do you usually bathe your fur baby? I usually have to bathe him once a week or once every 2 weeks. He gets SOOO smelly...I don't understand!*I have been trying to measure Ace to see how tall he stands, but he ate my tape measure..., so I'm still trying to get on that*

16 Aralık 2012 Pazar

ACL INJURY, Limping dogs, conservative treatment often better than surgery.

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ACL Injury and Limping DogsThe following is an article from Veterinary Practice News Oct 2012 written by Dr. Narda Robinson. Dr Robinson oversees complementary veterinary education at Colorado State University Cruciate Surgery, which means she teaches vets how to think and evaluate whether what they are doing is helpful. Here she questions the benefit of surgery to fix the knee ligaments, (canine cruciate ligament)  in lame dogs. She notes that the surgery does not stop arthritis; 1/3 of the dogs have complications from surgery, and there is no research that shows dogs do better if they have surgery than if they are treated conservatively. In addition, there are cases of dogs developing cancer at the site of surgery, perhaps due to the use of metal plates and screws.
The article is available at the Veterinary Practice Website: http://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/vet-practice-news-columns/complementary-medicine/questioning-canine-cruciate-surgery.aspx
Questioning Canine Cruciate Ligament Surgery
By Narda Robinson, DO, DVM
Posted: Oct. 15, 2012, Veterinary Practice News
Imagine you twisted your knee and your doctor diagnosed an injured anterior cruciate ligament. What if she offered you only surgery or euthanasia (hypothetically legalized for humans)? Would you explore alternatives or accept this false dilemma? Would it change your mind if you discovered that more enlightened surgeons are exhorting their colleagues to stop cutting cruciates at least until patients have undergone a month or more of conservative care?
In the same vein, why do some veterinary surgeons limit options for dogs, forcing clients to choose between breaking their hearts and breaking their banks? Yes, canine and human stifles differ, but the chronicity and persistence of canine cruciate disease argues in favor of a long-term, rehabilitative and integrative approach, not for bone saws.
Moreover, far from being a slam-dunk diagnosis and treatment, confusion lingers. Unknowns persist about whether a lameness is indeed due to cruciate injury and if so, what caused it. Furthermore, “The ideal treatment modality for cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) injury has yet to be determined...”1
Consumers want options.2-6 Many in our profession insist that only surgery or euthanasia allows dogs to avoid a life of disabling pain, arthritis and poor quality of life.
What does the evidence say about their claims?
Claim No. 1
“A chance to cut is a chance to cure.”7,8 False.

Cutting does not cure cruciate disease. In fact, about half of Labradors rupture the contralateral CCL within six months after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.9 Evidence indicates that TPLO does not halt the progression of osteoarthritis in dogs.10,11 TPLO outcomes vary widely and long-term clinical trials are lacking.12 In fact, three studies show that radiographic signs of OA significantly worsen after TPLO. This concurs with human evidence indicating higher OA morbidity following surgery as opposed to conservative care.13
Claim No. 2
“Studies with force plates demonstrate the superiority of the TPLO.” False again.

“There is little good scientific evidence that any one surgical procedure is better than any other,”14 even though many surgeons advertise or teach that TPLO is the “gold standard.”15-17 Also, force plate analyses paint an incomplete picture, especially for dogs with naturally occurring disease and multi-limb lameness. Kinematic parameters differ between breeds, arguing for the establishment of normative data in healthy dog populations before making inferences about injured clinic patients.18
Claim No. 3
Pelvic limb lameness is cruciate injury until proven otherwise.” Untrue.

Who hasn’t stumbled off a curb or strained a muscle after a run? Dogs’ paws, too, may slip and injure soft tissue.19However, most injuries do not require surgery for their successful resolution. Rest and wrap, massage, acupuncture, laser therapy and proprioceptive retraining may produce a full recovery for many problems whereas cruciate surgery never restores the limb to normal function.20 Who pays for the diagnostic error when the surgeon finds an intact ligament? The dog and the client.
Claim No. 4
“The canine stifle differs from the human stifle; therefore, comparisons cannot be made.” This statement merely reinforces the case for conservative care.

The chronic, unrelenting course of cruciate disease in dogs emphasizes the need to try a multifaceted non-operative strategy first. Even in humans who usually acutely rupture their cruciate, many advocate rehabilitation: “At present, there are no evidence-based arguments to recommend a systematic surgical reconstruction to any patient who tore his ACL.”21-23
Claim No. 5
“Don’t look for things that you don’t want to find (a surgeon’s aphorism).”

It is difficult to ignore the long list of complications from TPLO. Up to one-third of dogs experience complications, many require a second surgery to address them, amplifying post-operative pain that much more.24 TPLO risks include osteosarcoma (with Slocum or non-Slocum plates),25 soft tissue injuries (lacerated blood vessels, patellar tendon, medial collateral ligament, or long digital extensor tendon); severe intra-operative hemorrhage; tissue reactions to sponge retention; swelling; bruising; infection; and seroma formation. Surgeons may inadvertently fracture the tibia or fibula. Hardware can travel into a joint or break. Additional complications include osteomyelitis, internal tibial torsion, delayed union, ring sequestrum, screw loosening, Kirschner wire loosening, implant failure and draining tracts.26
Claim No. 6
“Your dog will be as good as new after TPLO.” No.

All surgical approaches for cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency result in some lameness and restricted limb use in the first two weeks. Four to six weeks after that, as the osteotomy heals, muscle mass and thigh circumference typically decrease. While some recovery of TC takes place over time, it likely will not recover fully, and stiffness in that stifle can last five or more years.27Alternatively, continued instability of the stifle following TPLO may result in persistent lameness.28
Claim No. 7
“There is no evidence that acupuncture benefits patients with OA of the stifle (or knee).” Untrue.

A systematic review and updated meta-analysis of acupuncture for patients with OA of the knee showed “significantly better relief from knee OA pain and a larger improvement in function than sham acupuncture, standard care treatment, or waiting for further treatment.”29 Thus, those dogs that do develop OA, with or without TPLO, may benefit from acupuncture, shown to be a safe and effective method to improve physical function, quality of life, range of motion and pain control.30,31
Claim No. 8
“Conservative options have no evidence; strict crate rest for six to eight weeks is the only other option.” False on both counts.

While research on non-surgical approaches to cruciate disease is growing for humans and for dogs, no evidence supports confining dogs in crates for weeks on end. Between dogs who did and did not have stifle surgery, research shows no differences in scores for lameness, stifle instability, OA, and/or force plate outcomes.32,33Conservative management consists of weight loss,34omega-3 fatty acids,35,36electrotherapy, cryotherapy,37massage,38 acupuncture, laser therapy, 39,40 and more, and can be tailored to dogs’ specific diagnosis and athletic performance requirements.41
Conclusion
The integrative medicine credo “primum non nocere” (“firstly, do no harm”) compels us to consider why, given the facts, clients are forced to choose between surgery or euthanasia and not provided with alternatives. This problem exists in other areas as well, such as the treatment of disk disease, where the case for conservative care rivals or outcompetes that for surgery, for both humans and dogs. Now that 94 percent of Americans feel closer to their dogs than they may to their mothers (87 percent), cat (84 percent) or father (74 percent),42 let us honor this bond by providing clients options and answers, not just surgery or euthanasia.

Dr. Robinson, DVM, DO, Dipl. ABMA, FAAMA, oversees complementary veterinary education at Colorado State University.
 
 

Your puppy - owner's House a pet guide training

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Getting a new puppy and bring him home is a very exciting experience because this pet can bring fun and joy in the owner's life. However, it is important that your puppy in following rules to train. Techniques in the house training your pets are very similar and can be used to teach them where you go to the potty and what they are allowed to eat.

The expectations

She will act puppies machine such as a small input-output, and it is quite normal. As your puppy grows, he will develop quickly. While this starts time he eating more and more energy to burn. In this phase his ability not developed yet a puppy to control his bowel and bladder, so he ' they do not "contain what do as adult dogs." Therefore successful house training is very important and it can be done by your careful monitoring of the puppy.

TOILET train your puppy

The most important part of the house training your puppy is potty training. The process can be long, or up to six months. Toilet training your puppy, you should it especially during periods he monitor most likely going to do it. These are usually immediately after the meal, or on foot. You determine an area where you want to make your puppy, his business, and let him remain in this area after the wake and food, has done to it. After that you should reward your puppy with many verbal praise and treats. Keep in mind that it will be times when your puppy not at these times must go, or if your pet to other areas, to do it.

For example, you start pet do it in a wrong area. quiet stop move him and him to its designated area. You should not shout or scold your puppy he does something wrong. Before too long your puppy is with your chosen area alone. Make sure that you select a section in your home, because this is also important so that your pet do it in a wrong way. You should area to mark and your puppy in this during the times probably, to do it. At home, you can check purchase cat litter or useful pads. In addition, you can also plain old newspaper, because this is just as effective and much cheaper.


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Ace's Update @ 18 weeks!

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Okay, well technically Ace is 18 weeks until Wednesday, but I felt like doing the post now =)
Since we got him at 7 weeks on March 10th 2010, it's really amazing how far he has come!I thought I would never sleep through the night again and there would never be an end to cleaning up paper misses! It is truly amazing to watch a puppy grow and develop. I never realized the changes with our family pets growing up. I feel it must be because he is all ours and he depends on us completely.I noticed a lot lately how many people comment on how well behaved he is! When I think of Ace I think of a mischievous little guy who finds socks in places unknown, stashes pine cones in our house, digs holes, and flattens flowers.We had friends over on Saturday for a get together and everyone couldn't believe he was only 4 months old! I really started thinking about it and realized how lucky we are that those snatched socks and a messy garden are nothing compared to some fur kid stories I have heard!
-Ace now sleeps until 7 or 7 30 (with an occasional 6 30 am wakeup)-He goes to the door and barks when he wants to go potty-He will lay at our feet and chew on a bone when we watch tv (instead of jumping and whining for attention)- He stands still during bath time!-His recall is about 98% haha
There are many other things he does as well that demonstrate good behaviour, and to some it may seem very little, but I know when he does these little things, it makes me so proud! In such a short time he has learned so much! It's bittersweet because he is not acting like a naughty puppy as much as he is acting like a little puppy gentleman, and it means he is growing up <3
The most recent thing Ace has been doing (which he started Saturday night after our guests left), I allowed Ace to stay up later than usual (12:30, he usually goes to his crate around 10:30pm, he loves his routine haha) He must have been very sleepy after all the playtime with everyone because after I finished cleaning the kitchen, I noticed Ace wasn't sitting on the rug in the kitchen anymore. My first thought was Oh no what is he getting into now. So I walked downstairs looking for him and when I got to our bedroom, there he was, sitting on the floor at the foot of our bed whining at me! Of course, I was immediately like "Oh goodness are you hurt?!?!"but nope, he whined one more time, rolled on his back, so I rubbed his tummy.After a few seconds of tummy rubbing, he stood up and walked RIGHT INTO HIS CRATE!!!! All on his own!!!I couldn't believe it! The little booger waited in our room for someone to rub his tummy before bedtime! I hadn't realized at the moment, but before bedtime every night, I always rub his belly to calm him! So once his belly was rubbed, Ace wanted to go to sleep!I was so proud, and no lie, he has gone into his crate on his own each night since!!!
My little Genius <3
haha Sorry about a huge post bragging about Ace, but I am sure you other fur kid parents who went through puppy training and development understand my excitement & enthusiasm about things as little as being able to sleep in a bit longer!!! haha

Celebrating Mommy's Birthday!

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Today was a wonderful birthday (mine) and Canada Day! yay July 1st!The highlight was this morning when for the FIRST time, Ace jumped up into our bed all on his own and snuggled with me for 10 whole minutes! I feel like maybe he was trying to say *Happy Birthday? Thank you for feeding & loving me everyday?*...hey I can dream haha!We spent the beautiful cool morning walking through the park and splashing in the river. Ace is sure becoming a great swimmer. We are very proud :DI can tell once he swims a nice lap he walks out and struts his stuff as if to say "Hey ma, dad! Did you guys see those moves out there?!?!"
After a lengthy park playtime Ace got a deep clean! (He gets SO grimy at the park)He might be the cleanest dog ever. He has actually grown to really enjoy his baths and jumps in the shower if he gets a chance. This is such an improvement from a few months ago when he would whine and cry and struggle to get out.Now if we could only get him to shake off....he usually just stands there and waits to be dried while he is sopping wet! SO CUTE :D
While Ace napped I dragged Daddy out for an adventure (and besides, he said I could pick out a birthday gift) hehe.We shopped a bit and I must say I totally recommend signing up for Sephora's beauty insiders club...they give you free gifts on your birthday WITHOUT a purchase! haha Oh how I love free things.Ace loves free things as well as when I returned home he thought the little gift pack was for him and stole it, ran away with it and tried to eat it...*sigh* Dog & makeup were unharmed in the end!
After a delicious dinner we came back to enjoy a quiet evening with our little guy while he chewed his kneecap bone (YES the SAME kneecap bone from my post a few months ago) I must say, that thing has some serious staying power!
Sadly, we may be saying goodbye to Ace's FAVOURITE orange monkey toy soon. I am looking for a replacement before I toss the original. (He sleeps with it every night, so I don't want him to be sad) It was a VERY strong toy for Ace, but I suppose 24/7 loving for the last few months took it's toll as he now has a hole in his neck and we had to remove the stuffing....
Here is a beautiful picture for your viewing pleasure!This is Ace's lip curl...he does this ALL the time (Happy, sad, angry) He has about 10 different versions of the lip curl... It's hilarious.



It's Beginning to Feel A Lot like Christmas!

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Ace's First Snow Play! He saw snow for the first time just after Thanksgiving when I took him with me to stay with a friend a few hours North of the City. It was light snow though, and he only got to see it for a few minutes on the ground before it melted. This morning at home however, we woke up to find snow everywhere!!!I think he is in his element....he just can't get enough!Even though I was freeezing, I piled on 10 layers and took Ace and Sammy to the park before Work this morning. He didn't want to get into the car to leave he was having so much fun!On a side note, I noticed lately that Ace's bum hairs have gotten so wild that "yucky stuff" gets stuck in the hair. I have to wash his butt constantly! (which of course he doesn't like)With treats in one hand, and scissors in the other, I went scissor happy on his long hairs on his bum. Let's just say...I will probably never be hired as a dog groomer....I will try and get a photo, it's pretty funny actually. Poor guy, shoulda seen his face when he looked over at the huge pile of hair on the floor. I think he was pretty upset with me. I'm going to do a touch up tomorrow...How often do you usually bathe your fur baby? I usually have to bathe him once a week or once every 2 weeks. He gets SOOO smelly...I don't understand!*I have been trying to measure Ace to see how tall he stands, but he ate my tape measure..., so I'm still trying to get on that*