As a veterinarian with years of experience, I’ve seen the difference that timely and effective training can make in the lives of dogs and their families. The question isn’t just if you should train your dog, but when. Understanding the role of your veterinarian in this process can enhance your dog’s training journey, helping them to grow into well-adjusted, happy pets.

The Right Time for Training: It’s Earlier Than You Think

The early bird gets the worm, and training your pup is no different! One common misconception is that puppies must reach a certain age before training begins. In reality, training starts the moment your furry friend steps paw into your home. Puppies are like sponges, eager and ready to soak up everything they can learn about the world around them. Starting with basic directives like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” as early as eight weeks old can set a strong foundation for more advanced training later on.

Training isn’t just about commands and control; it’s about nurturing good manners. The goal is for our dogs to be well-behaved members of society. Start as soon as possible – good behaviors and manners tend to stick better when learned early. Think of unwanted behavior as a habit – the more a dog practices it, the more ingrained it becomes. Addressing behaviors early on can prevent them from becoming rooted, making the training process more straightforward and effective.

Breed-Specific Behavior Tendencies and Traits

While certain breeds may exhibit consistent behavior patterns due to their genetic makeup, it’s important to treat each dog as an individual. Overgeneralizing based on breed can lead to misconceptions and unfair treatment, as seen in breed-specific legislation.

Selecting the right dog breed for your family is also an important piece of the puzzle of creating a match between your training goals and your pet’s needs. Certain breeds come with a predisposition for specific behaviors, such as herding, guarding, or serving as companions. For instance, if your heart is set on a companion to snuggle up on the couch and have basic manners, breeds known for their calm and affectionate demeanor might suit you best.

On the flip side, if you’re enthusiastic about agility, sports, or work, opting for a breed that thrives on physical activity and mental challenges would be ideal. Understanding these breed-specific traits can guide you in choosing a dog that aligns with your expectations, ensuring a fulfilling relationship for both you and your pet from the get-go. Early recognition of these traits is also instrumental in tailoring your training approach to bring out the best in your dog, paving the way for a well-adjusted and happy canine member of your family.

Is Change Possible in Dogs with Behavior Problems?

Absolutely! It’s true, I haven’t met every dog on the planet, but the majority of dogs are trainable. In most cases, your dog’s behaviors are learned, which means they can unlearn them too. The flexibility of the canine nervous system allows for remarkable adaptability. Whether it’s replacing unwanted behaviors or extinguishing them completely, there’s always room for positive change.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to behavioral training, the diversity of techniques available means that there’s almost always a way to address and modify any given issue. From nuisance behaviors like excessive barking to more complex issues like separation anxiety, there’s a spectrum of behaviors that dogs exhibit. Addressing these effectively requires a blend of behavior modification techniques, management strategies, and sometimes even medication.

In future discussions, we’ll delve deeper into specific strategies for various behavioral challenges. However, the foundation of any successful training journey begins with a positive mindset and knowing your dog’s potential to learn and adapt.

Your Vet’s Role in Behavioral Management

Your veterinarian is a valuable resource in your dog’s training process. We’re not only here to address physical health concerns but also to support your dog’s behavioral health. During routine check-ups, feel free to discuss any behavior concerns or questions you might have. We can provide insights into breed-specific characteristics that might influence training methods or suggest behavioral signs that indicate readiness for certain types of training.

One important note is that as your veterinarian, we will first rule out any physical reasons or illnesses for behavioral changes. After that, we can guide you on managing your dog’s behavior, recommend a skilled trainer, or refer you to an animal behavior specialist.

Prevention is better than cure. A well-balanced diet, a healthy environment, regular exercise, and a stable social structure at home can significantly reduce the likelihood of behavior problems developing.

The Impact of Spaying or Neutering

In the clinic, we hear about spaying and neutering as a cure from a lot of pet owners. While spaying or neutering can eliminate certain behaviors linked to reproductive hormones, it’s not a catch-all solution for behavioral issues. A multifaceted approach is often required for lasting behavioral change. This is another reason to have a check-in with your pet’s veterinarian!

No Time Like the Present

Whether it’s addressing minor behavioral quirks or more significant issues, remember that the environment plays a pivotal role in shaping your dog’s behavior. Ignoring the root causes or triggers can lead to persistent problems. Behavioral challenges don’t typically resolve on their own, and early professional intervention can be key. The longer the problem behavior occurs, the more difficult it is to change. Practice may not make it perfect, but it sure will make it permanent.

Starting early training and setting expectations is easier than correcting behavior issues later on. So, embrace early training with patience and persistence, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance when needed.

If you have questions and you’d like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (818) 248-3963, or you can email us at vet@petprimecareanimalclinic.site. Don’t forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.

Know the signs.

Symptoms of a drug reaction are often wide-ranging, as they depend on both the type of medication and the individual pet. Responses may vary from mild lethargy or nausea to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Common signs of a medication reaction include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching
• Hair loss
• Skin or ear infections
• Hives
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse

Be prepared.

If your pet experiences any of these signs following a dose of oral medication or application of a topical substance to the skin, stop the medication immediately and contact your veterinarian.

While veterinarians choose every prescription carefully, it is important to recognize that any pet could have an adverse response. While these reactions are almost always unforeseen, you can help prevent them with these tips.

Familiarize yourself with your pet’s medication and its side effects.

Prescription medications can be confusing, especially if your dog or cat is taking multiple drugs. A clear understanding of a pet’s medication — including its side effects — can help pet owners know what to expect and, more importantly, recognize when something is not right.

Speak with your veterinarian to understand when and how the drug should be used, why it was prescribed and what to do if you miss a dose or overdose.

When using a medication long-term to manage a chronic condition, it is very important to have your pet examined regularly. Depending on the drug prescribed, regular blood work or other tests may be needed to ensure the medication is working effectively. These tests may also be required before your veterinarian can provide a refill prescription for certain medications.

Always let your veterinarian know what your pet is taking.

This includes any over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements, such as fish oil or vitamins. Dosage and frequency should also be provided.

This information is especially important when adding a new medication into an existing regimen, as it can prevent dangerous drug interactions.

In addition, it is important to tell your veterinarian if your pet has had any adverse reactions to medication in the past.

Do not give your pet any medications without consulting your veterinarian first.

Again, this includes any OTC medications and supplements as these can interact with other drugs and cause a problem. Additionally, some OTC medications, like aspirin, are toxic to pets.

Never use one pet’s medication for another pet.

Medications are prescribed for the individual. What works well for one pet may be harmful for another.

There are also many differences between canine and feline prescription needs. In addition to dosage differences, many drugs that are safe for dogs are toxic to cats.

Always give medications as prescribed.

Be sure to follow the label directions carefully, especially if your pet is on more than one medication. Do not adjust your pet’s medication without first speaking to your veterinarian.

Finding a lump or bump on your pet can be a worrisome experience, but don’t panic. Masses of all kinds, from harmless skin growths to malignant tumors, are fairly common. While most are benign, it’s always better to err on the side of caution by following these steps.

Take a Closer Look

The moment you discover a new lump on your pet’s body, take the time to examine it. Is it on the surface of the skin or is it underneath? What is the size and shape? Use references—is it closer to a pea or a golf ball? Is it flat or raised? Bumpy or smooth? Is it firm or soft? Does it move? Is it bleeding?

During your inspection, be sure to scan your pet’s body for any other masses and make note of them as well. How long have they been there? Have you noticed any changes in size, color, texture, shape, or firmness? Does your pet have any sores or open wounds that aren’t healing?

The more information you can give your veterinarian, the better.

Mark the Spot

If you have an older pet or one who is prone to masses, it can be especially difficult to keep track of new growths. Once you’ve given your pet a thorough once-over and identified all lumps and bumps, it’s important to write down or otherwise mark the location of each one. This will help you to be able to successfully locate the mass again and keep track of any significant or rapid changes.

See Your Veterinarian

Most lumps and bumps are harmless, but it’s important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian for every new growth you find just in case.

Your veterinarian will perform a full physical exam, checking for masses on the neck, trunk, and limbs as well as under the chin, on the front of the shoulders, and behind the knees. She will also palpate your pet’s abdomen to feel for any potential masses within the body. In addition, an examination of your pet’s mouth may allow detection of malignant cancers that are often missed until they become advanced.

Like you, she will also keep a record of each mass and its location to help monitor any changes that may occur over time.

Identify It

When it comes to cancer, early detection is the key to successful treatment. The first step in diagnosing any new lump or bump is to perform a fine needle aspiration, or FNA. This simple procedure allows your veterinarian to determine the nature of the growth by collecting a sample of cells and viewing them under a microscope. Keep in mind that malignant masses are not painful; therefore the only definitive way to know whether a growth is cancerous is to examine the cells.

Occasionally, an FNA does not provide enough information and a biopsy is also needed. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), while an FNA can provide basic information about the tumor type and identify certain types of cancer, a biopsy “is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis and help determine if the neoplasm (abnormal mass) is benign or malignant.” This procedure involves collecting a small tissue sample and sending it to a laboratory for examination.

Consider the Options

Once a mass has been identified, your veterinarian will decide whether removal is necessary. Fatty tumors known as lipomas are benign and typically do not require additional treatment, unless their size or location is bothersome to your pet.

If a mass removal is recommended, there are a few options depending on the cell type, location, and size of the growth.

Surgery

Surgical excision involves your pet undergoing local or general anesthesia to remove the mass. This procedure is best for large or malignant growths, as well as those located in areas that may affect your pet’s quality of life. Occasionally, excision may be scheduled with another procedure, like a dental cleaning, to minimize your pet’s time under anesthesia.

Cryotherapy

Noninvasive cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery, is the process of rapidly freezing tissue to destroy unwanted growths on the skin. This is a great option for small, superficial masses and lesions such as warts or skin tags.

Follow Up

Regular annual or semiannual exams with your veterinarian and monthly examinations at home can help you stay on top of any changes in your pet’s existing lumps and bumps—and quickly detect any new ones.

Worried about a lump or bump on your pet? Get it checked! Contact us or schedule an appointment today.

Our goal is to provide a great veterinary experience for everyone visiting our hospital. There is some basic etiquette that pet owners should be aware of and follow. Here we provide some safety tips and guidelines on bringing your dog to the vet’s office to ensure that everyone can have a comfortable, calm, and safe experience.

Control That Leash

No matter how well trained your pup is, having them on-leash is a necessity while visiting the vet’s office. There is just too much activity in the enclosed confines of the lobby and situations can arise quickly. The leash should be held by an adult and be 6 feet or shorter in length. A standard nylon leash is preferable to a retractable leash, which doesn’t provide the control needed. Leashes should be attached to a sturdy collar, harness, or Gentle Leader. It’s always a good idea to check the leash and collar at home before heading out to the hospital to make sure they are working properly. If you have a very small dog, especially one that is timid, a carrier is also an option for them.

Know Your Dog’s Demeanor

By being aware of your dog’s demeanor and personality, you can take steps to provide a stress-free visit or greatly reduce the stress they experience at the vet’s office, as well as ensure that those pets and pet owners around them don’t get stressed too.

Timid Dogs

With timid dogs you can use treats or other rewards to make the visit a fun experience for them. Consider asking us about “happy” visits where your dog can just come to say hello and get treats with no exam, vaccines, or any potentially stressful procedures. These are a good practice run to get your dog familiar with the experience.

Excited Dogs

For excited dogs, be sure to have a firm hold on the leash. Communicate with people in the lobby and encourage them to only say “hi” when your dog is sitting so as to not create more excitement.

Aggressive Dogs

For aggressive dogs, you should call from the parking lot so that the staff can ensure there is an open exam room. This way, you and your dog can be brought directly into a room without waiting in the lobby.

Very Ill Dogs

The safety and comfort of all animals visiting our hospital are vitally important. Any pets that are very sick, especially if contagious, should be kept out of contact with other animals. If you have a very ill dog, we can discuss protocols for handling them to get them to the hospital. Additionally, you should call from the parking lot so that the staff can make the appropriate arrangements to get your dog into the exam room without any contact with other animals in the lobby.

Puppies

Young puppies will not have their vaccines and preventive medicines administered until they reach a certain age. As such, it’s best practice to keep them from interacting with other animals in the lobby as an extra precautionary step. Puppy classes will be a great time to have them interact with other puppies. Once they have received all of their vaccines and preventives, the dog park will be a great place to socialize them.

Basic Training

By working on basic training with your dog you can help keep them under control when interacting with other pets as well as with the veterinary staff. Simple commands such as “sit” and “stay” are effective ways of keeping them from making other animals uncomfortable in the hospital lobby.

General Safety Tips

There are other basic safety considerations that may seem obvious, but it’s always good to remind yourself.

Don’t Leave Your Pet Unattended

Even if you have a small dog and use a carrier, you should never leave your dog unattended. Whether to take a phone call or text, or to talk with a friend, never let go of the leash or tether them someplace. It’s a good idea to avoid those distractions altogether while in the lobby so you can keep a watchful eye on your dog. Other animals and people can approach your pup quickly, so it’s best to keep focused.

Don’t Let Go of the Leash

Again, it may just be simple distractions that can cause you to let go of the leash, so keep alert. Be sure to check the collar and leash at home to make sure they are working properly.

Don’t Leave Your Pet in a Hot or Cold Car

Despite all of the messaging and awareness, incidents of pets being left in hot or cold cars still occur. Even on a 70-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle with windows cracked can reach 90-100 degrees within minutes. Save your errands to do for another trip out.

We hope these tips help you in ensuring a safe and comfortable visit for you and your dog, as well as the other pets visiting the hospital. If you have any questions before scheduling an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Just like humans, pets can develop a number of new health issues as they enter their senior years. Often attributed to simply “slowing down,” it is not uncommon for many of these age-related problems to go untreated or even unnoticed. However, many of these changes can be effectively managed with proper veterinary care.

Common age-related medical issues in pets include:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term that describes a variety of diseases characterized by inflammation within the joints. These disorders often result in progressive joint pain and stiffness.

Signs of arthritis include limping, muscle atrophy, stiffness, repeated licking over a joint and reluctance to run, jump or climb. Treatment aims to control the pain associated with arthritis as well as slow any further progression of the disease.

This can be accomplished with diet, weight management, oral medication, joint supplements and acupuncture.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Also known as “doggie dementia” or senility, cognitive dysfunction is an age-related deterioration of mental abilities, including learning, memory and awareness.

Signs of cognitive dysfunction in pets include disorientation, confusion, anxiety, decreased interaction with family members, loss of house training and changes in sleep cycles.

Unfortunately, cognitive dysfunction cannot be cured; instead, the goal of treatment is to address the pet’s symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. Treatment options include an antioxidant-rich diet, oral medication, nutritional supplements and regular moderate exercise.

Heart Disease and Kidney Disease

As pets age, their organs gradually begin to decline. The organs most commonly affected by this “wearing out” process are the heart and kidneys. Heart and kidney failure includes a progressive loss of organ function over a period of time.

Heart disease progresses slowly in most pets. The symptoms may be difficult to recognize or may appear to come on very quickly. Signs to look for include slowness to recover from exercise, increase in respiratory rate (rapid breathing), coughing and lethargy. Heart disease can be treated to improve your pet’s quality of life. Most forms of heart disease can be detected during an annual exam and with the help of X-rays, EKG and ultrasound.

Signs of kidney disease include lethargy, decreased appetite and increased thirst, as well as an increase or decrease in urination. Early kidney disease can be identified with blood work and urinalysis. This disease process can be slow and symptoms may not be evident to the owner right away. It is possible to treat some forms of kidney disease and slow the progression of others.

Treatment for both diseases may consist of oral medication, nutritional supplements, fluid therapy, diet changes and acupuncture.

Dental and Periodontal Disease

Dental disease is very common in pets — in fact, it is just as common in dogs and cats as it is in humans!

While it comes on slowly, dental disease tends to worsen as pets age due to a decline in immune function. Dental and periodontal disease puts a strain on your pet’s health and can be quite painful. We know that these factors affect quality of life; fortunately, this condition is completely treatable.

Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment may include daily tooth brushing and oral care at home, dental cleaning under anesthesia or oral surgery to remove broken or infected teeth.

Hyperthyroidism

One of the most common diseases affecting older cats, hyperthyroidism, is caused by the overproduction of thyroid hormones that increase the body’s rate of metabolism, resulting in weight loss and increased appetite. This disease also often leads to hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Other symptoms may include increased thirst and urination, a rough or unkempt hair coat, increased vocalization and poor body condition.

Traditional methods of treatment include oral medication, diet, radioactive iodine therapy and surgery.

Remember, because dogs and cats age so rapidly (about seven times faster than humans), health problems tend to progress faster in pets as well. Early detection can help prevent disease and minimize suffering of an older pet. Bi-annual exams and yearly wellness lab work are highly recommended for all pets eight years and older. Comprehensive integrative consultations can help address many quality of life issues as well.

For more information about caring for your senior dog, click here. For your senior cat, click here.

If you need to schedule an exam for your senior pet, contact us today!

Yeah, we’ve experienced that too.

However, it is possible to train your cat to be okay with the carrier — maybe even to like it a little. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could safely transport your cat? With a little patience, it is possible to train your cat to not to hate the carrier!

Imagine if you could take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups easily. That could make a big difference in the health of your cat. Too many cats don’t get regular wellness visits because of the drama that can ensue with the cat carrier. Then, by the time they do get to the doctor, it’s because they’re very ill.

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by helping your cat become comfortable with the cat carrier.

5 Steps to Change Your Cat’s Relationship With the Cat Carrier

• Start Them Young – If you have a kitten, this is ideal. If they’re not old enough to have negative associations with the carrier yet, then help them make positive ones right from the start by following these steps.
  If you have an older cat, it will take more patience. But it’s worth it for drama-free episodes when you need the carrier.
• Make the Carrier Familiar – This is probably the simplest thing you can do to make the carrier less scary for your cat. Think about it from their perspective: you probably keep the carrier hidden away in a closet, the garage, or another out of the way location. Then, right before you need to take your cat to the vet, let’s say, you haul it out. Cats by nature aren’t big on traveling, and they aren’t fans of medical offices. Combine the two and it’s no wonder they’re terrified.
  However, the best way to conquer fear is to face it. The carrier itself isn’t scary; the fear comes from what it represents. Defang it, so to speak, by letting your cat get to know the carrier. Bring it out of hiding and let it sit in your living room. Just like many dogs feel safe in their crates and hang out in them, cats can do the same.
• Create Positive Associations – Does your kitty have favorite treats? Why not put a couple of them on the floor near the carrier? Depending on how panicked your cat is, you may have to put them down across the room and then ignore your cat for a while — watch tv, go about your day — until they see that’s okay. They’ll eventually let down their guard if they see you behaving normally.
  If your kitty is suspicious but okay being in the vicinity of the carrier, then you can put the treats closer to its entrance. Your goal is to eventually put the treats INSIDE the carrier so that your cat gets accustomed to good things happening there. But don’t rush it. Let your cat’s behavior be your guide.
• Play with Your Cat Near the Carrier – Continuing with the positive associations, play with your kitty and pet him near the carrier. As your cat gets used to it being in the room and begins to associate it with positive things, then he’ll feel better about it.
  If your cat likes catnip, you can put some of that inside the carrier once your cat adjusts to it.
• Practice – Once they’re okay with the carrier being around and even going in the carrier, then practice closing the door and feeding treats to show them it’s okay. Then, let them out. As your cat gets comfortable being in a closed carrier on the floor, you can practice picking them up carrying them across the room.

Have Patience

Now this entire process can take days or weeks depending on your cat. As you know, they’re slow to accept new things, so have patience.

Eventually, even the most stubborn cats will come to accept the carrier, and some will even like it. Having your cat willingly enter a cat carrier will make life much easier for you. You’ll be able to transport your cat safely to the vet or anywhere else you may need to go — and don’t forget to contact us if you need an appointment!

How does your cat handle the cat carrier?

Our goal is to provide a great veterinary experience for everyone visiting our hospital. There is some basic etiquette that pet owners should be aware of and follow. Here are some safety tips and guidelines on bringing your cat to the vet’s office so that everyone can have a comfortable, calm, and safe experience.

Cat Carriers

A carrier is the safest way to transport your kitty to and from the veterinarian. Although it’s possible to leash your cat into the hospital, a carrier is the ideal and recommended method. It provides much more safety for your cat for the entire journey. A carrier protects your cat during the car ride to the hospital. It also keeps them from escaping as you go from your car to the entrance door to the hospital. Although a leash can work for this, leashes are not foolproof, and the carrier is much more secure. The carrier is also a much better option once you get into the hospital lobby as it will shelter and keep your cat away from anything that may startle, irritate, or flat out frighten them. If you have difficulty using a carrier with your cat, please contact our veterinary team as we can provide tips on getting your cat to be more comfortable with using it.

Know Your Cat’s Demeanor

By being aware of your cat’s demeanor and personality, you can take steps to provide them a stress-free visit or greatly reduce the stress they experience at the vet’s office.

Timid Cats

With timid cats, you can use treats or other rewards to make the visit a fun experience for them. Consider asking us about “happy” visits where your cat can just come to say hello. We can feed them treats and scratch their chin, instead of examining them or giving vaccines. They can start to associate the veterinary staff with good experiences and be familiar with us when it’s time for an actual appointment.

Excited, Curious Cats

You should keep an excited or curious cat in the carrier to keep them from finding hiding places in the lobby or wherever you wouldn’t be able to reach them.

Fractious or Fearful Cats

These cats should be handled essentially the same as excited cats: kept inside the carrier. However, you may want to consider calling from the parking lot so that the staff can ensure there is an open exam room so you can bring them directly in without waiting in the lobby. If there is a lot of activity and loud noise in the lobby, with a fearful cat it’s best to avoid that situation altogether.

Very Ill Cats

The safety and comfort of all animals visiting our hospital are vitally important. Any pets that are very sick, especially if contagious, should be kept out of contact with other animals. If you have a very ill cat, we can discuss how to get them to the hospital. For example, you can call from the parking lot so that the staff can make the appropriate arrangements. This could include ushering you and your cat directly into an exam room without any contact with other animals in the lobby.

Kittens

Young kittens will not have their vaccines and preventive medicines administered until they reach a certain age. As such, it’s best practice to keep them from interacting with other animals in the lobby as an extra precautionary step. Your veterinary team will advise you about what is safe for your kitten as she grows.

Basic Training

By working on basic training with your cat you can help keep them under control when interacting with other pets as well as with the veterinary staff. Yes, in fact, cats can be trained! Simple commands such as “stay”, “look”, and “paw” can be learned and are effective ways of keeping your cat calm and in control for various situations.

General Safety Tips

There are other basic safety considerations to keep in mind when you visit us for an appointment:

Don’t Leave Your Pet Unattended

Even in the safety of the carrier, you should never leave your cat unattended. Whether to take a phone call or text, or to talk with a friend, never leave them unattended. It’s a good idea to avoid those distractions altogether while in the lobby so you can keep a watchful eye on your cat.

Don’t Let Go of the Leash

Again, it may just be simple distractions that can cause you to let go of the leash so keep alert. If you do choose to go the route of using a leash instead of a carrier, be sure to check the collar or harness and leash at home to make sure they are working properly.

Don’t Leave Your Pet in a Hot or Cold Car

Despite all of the messaging and awareness, incidents of pets being left in hot or cold cars still occurs. Even on a 70-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle with windows cracked can reach 90-100 degrees within minutes. Save your errands to do for another trip out.

We hope these tips help you in ensuring a safe and comfortable visit for you and your cat, as well as the other pets visiting the hospital. If you have any questions before scheduling an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Let’s look at some frequently asked questions about pet ultrasound.

What is an Ultrasound Machine?

An ultrasound machine emits ultrasound waves that penetrate into your pet’s organs. These waves are reflected back into the hand-held probe that is placed on the skin. The pattern of the reflected sound waves creates an image that is viewed on a screen.

Is Radiation Involved?

Unlike X-rays, radiation is not part of an ultrasound examination. As the name suggests, this type of imaging works via sound waves. That means that your dog or cat, plus the veterinarian and staff, would not be exposed to any radiation from proximity to an ultrasound machine.

Which Types of Disease are Typically Diagnosed with an Ultrasound Examination?

The ultrasound examination permits a detailed view of many of the body’s organs that may not be available with other diagnostic imaging methods. For example, the kidneys can be seen on X-rays, but only their size and shape can be determined, whereas ultrasound allows us to actually view the internal structures of these and other vital organs.

An ultrasound examination is especially helpful for diseases of the heart. An ultrasound of the heart is called an echocardiogram, or “echo.” Via ultrasound, the heart’s wall thicknesses and the size of its chambers can be determined. Visualization of the valves determines whether they are functioning properly. Motion can also be detected, which gives us an assessment of the heart’s ability to move blood.

Some diseases can be diagnosed with this method because they have a specific ultrasound appearance. Others, however, produce ultrasound findings that are not definitive. In these cases, we would choose another imaging method, or even a combination of methods, to gather the diagnostic information needed to provide the best care for your dog or cat.

What Could Be the Next Steps After an Ultrasound?

One of the important features of an ultrasound examination is the ability to find abnormal areas in the organs. This permits precise biopsy of those areas, particularly because the live, moving ultrasound image can serve as a guide for a veterinarian to obtain a sample of the area in question. This can be done, for example, by inserting a needle that can be seen on the ultrasound image and obtaining cells from the organ, or even a sterile urine sample from the bladder.

A technician may test a sample, or a pathologist could examine the biopsied section of tissue under a microscope to gain more information. In many cases, the ultimate diagnosis is made by the pathologist.

What Steps Need to be Taken to Prepare for an Ultrasound Exam?

Special preparation would likely not be necessary for an echocardiogram. However, if organs in the abdomen are to be studied, we may instruct you to withhold food from your pet for the 12 hours ahead of the exam.

Additionally, the urinary bladder is best visualized if it is full of urine. Therefore, your pet should not urinate within three to six hours of the study, if possible. Cover or put away litter boxes for cats before you head to your appointment. For smaller dogs, you can try to keep them from urinating by carrying them into our office. For larger dogs who will walk on-leash and will want to explore and “mark” while they walk, try to encourage them to move quickly. Get them excited, maybe even by jogging, through our front door, so they don’t have time to empty their bladder anywhere. If you need any other tips for keeping your pet’s bladder full for an ultrasound, please get in touch!

If anesthesia is needed, there may be other steps to prepare your pet for the ultrasound procedure.

Is Anesthesia Required?

If your pet is calm and/or cooperative, no anesthesia or sedation is needed to perform an ultrasound on the heart or the abdomen. However, if biopsies are to be taken, a short-acting anesthetic will be needed to help prevent complications.

We may ask you to withhold food and water ahead of your pet’s visit, should anesthesia be required. You will receive specific instructions for your dog or cat if this is the case.

Is it Necessary to Shave My Pet’s Hair?

In most cases, yes. It is important that the hand-held ultrasound probe makes complete contact with the skin. Sometimes the hair can be moistened with alcohol, but most studies require hair removal. Our staff will take care of this step before the exam, and we’ll work to keep any “haircuts” as neat and even as possible!

Which Organs Cannot Be Studied with Ultrasound?

Air is the enemy of ultrasound waves. Since the lungs are filled with air, they cannot be studied. An exception is made for a mass that is located within the lungs. Bone also stops ultrasound waves, so the brain and spinal cord are not seen with an ultrasound study. The skeletal system itself is also not examined with ultrasound.

When Will I Know the Results of the Examination?

Since an ultrasound study is performed in real time, the visual results are known immediately. In some cases, the ultrasound images are sent to a veterinary radiologist for further consultation. If this happens, the final report may not be available for a few days. We will let you know what to expect once the ultrasound exam is complete.

If you have any other questions about ultrasound and veterinary digital imaging, please reach out to us! We’re happy to talk with you about your dog or cat’s health care needs.

Symptoms of Pain in Cats

As mentioned above, the biggest sign of pain in your cat is if he or she has been hiding more so than usual as of late. Your cat might even try to escape due to the pain despite being an indoor pet. Thankfully, though, there are other – albeit subtle – signs of pain in cats that you should always pay attention to, and we list them below:

• Reduced activity?
• Dilated pupils?
• Weight loss?
• Quietness or lack of curiosity in things that normally pique interest
• Failure to groom resulting in matted fur, or excessive grooming/licking
• Unusual gait, inability to walk, or stiffness?
  • Tail flicking?
  • Tucked belly or legs?
• Guarding behavior?
• Arched or hunched head or back?
• Changes in urinary and/or defecation habits?
• Reluctance to move or lying flat for long periods of time?
• Changes in posture, such as a drooped head or slumped body?
• Aggression, irritability, or biting, especially when painful area is touched
• Crying, screaming, or moaning
• Hissing or spitting?
• Carrying one leg
• Limping or lameness
• Reluctance or inability to jump
• Decreased interest in food or play?

Symptoms of Pain in Dogs

There are some of the same symptoms of pain in dogs as in cats, although signs of pain in dogs tend to be more overt. Some of the things you might see are:

• Decreased appetite
• Lying flat for extended periods, reluctance to move
• Drooped head
• Unusually submissive behavior?
• Aggression; biting; irritability
• Refusal to move
• Hiding or trying to escape?
• Howling?
• Moaning?
• Whimpering?
• Anxious expression?
• Self-mutilation (chewing or excessive licking of painful area)?
• Carrying one leg?
• Guarding behavior, or protection of the pained area?
• Lameness or limping?
• Changes in posture, such as an arched or hunched back?
• Unusual gait or inability to walk?
• Reluctance or inability to jump when jumping is a typical behavior?

Acute Vs. Chronic Pain

It will also help you to understand what acute pain is in comparison to chronic pain, and how this relates to your cat and/or dog. Acute pain is a reasonable and predictable reaction in response to an injury that should be fairly easy to notice in your cat or dog. Humans describe acute pain as sharp, aching, burning, or throbbing. In other words, the onset is usually fast as is the relief from it (within three days or so).  On the other hand, chronic pain persists longer than what one might expect when it comes to healing, and is often associated with progressive diseases such as arthritis. As pet owners, it’s far too easy for us to dismiss chronic pain as our cats and dogs simply slowing down due to getting older, but it’s imperative that you don’t disregard any pain in your animals. That’s because early treatment of diseases like arthritis can not only head the conditions off at the pass, but they can also minimize the pain in your precious pets.

When Should I Bring My Dog or Cat into the Veterinarian for Pain?

As we just explained, the best approach to pain in dogs and cats is prevention. if possible, or at least catching whatever is causing the pain at the beginning of the issue or disease. If you notice any significant changes in your dog or cat’s behavior, take your pet to the vet immediately to prevent causing any further pain. If you have been faithful about your wellness exams, you and your veterinarian should have a good baseline to use for comparison.

How to Avoid Snakebites

Dogs are naturally curious animals and are not afraid of snakes. Learning where snakes live is one of the keys to keeping your dogs from coming into contact with them. Snakes tend to live in tall grass, woodpiles, bushes, and underneath outdoor debris to avoid sunlight. Snakes will bite when they feel threatened. The cottonmouth snake lives in tall grass in and near the water’s edge.

When going outdoors, it’s advised to keep your dog on a leash and to avoid these areas. Yard maintenance is also necessary to keep away an attractive nesting ground for snakes near your home. When walking your dog, stay on well-kept trails and avoid walks at night unless in a well-lit area. Don’t let your dogs stray from your sight.

Outdoor Enthusiasts Should Take Classes

Snake avoidance training is helpful for owners and dogs who live on large properties, take off-leash hikes, and spend a lot of time outdoors. Snake training can help anyone with a dog who wants to prevent future snakebites. Seek advice from your veterinarian on whether you have trainers that touch on this subject in your area.

What About a Rattlesnake Vaccine?

There is a rattlesnake vaccine, but there have been no controlled studies in order to prove its effectiveness. That said, the vaccine may create protective antibodies that might be useful in neutralizing some of the injected venoms. It’s important to mention that even if the dog has been vaccinated, he will still need to be examined by a veterinarian to determine just how much treatment will be necessary. Please talk to your veterinarian about whether or not this vaccine is something you should consider for your pet.

How to Tell if Your Pet Has Been Bitten and What to Do

Snakes bite dogs and cats most commonly around their mouth, ankles, and legs. Snakebites are small and hard to identify, but the wound will begin to quickly swell, bruise, and bleed a little. There will be significant pain, but the amount of venom released will determine the seriousness of the bite.

Most pets will display similar signs when bitten by a venomous snake. Coral snake bites are different than pit vipers because they cause nervous system failure, which can manifest as tremors or even seizures. When bitten on the mouth or the head, it can cause trouble with your pet’s breathing. Some pets can go into cardiovascular shock, which raises their heart rate and can potentially cause your pet to go unconscious, as well as cause vomiting and diarrhea. After these signs, the area the snake has bitten can turn black and die from the venom, which can cause other serious complications.

What to Do If Your Pet Has Been Bitten By a Snake

All snakebites should be taken seriously and considered an emergency. Taking your pet to see a veterinarian immediately is critical. If it can be done safely, immobilize the part of the animal that has been bitten by the snake. Try to keep it at or below the level of the heart. Keep your pet calm and immobile; carry if necessary.

Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Try to identify the snake if it can be done without risk. Do not attempt to capture or kill the snake! It is helpful to identify the type of snake to aid your veterinarian with treatment. Do not bring the snake into the veterinarian’s office – a photograph will do.

It is NOT recommended to use a tourniquet or ice pack, to attempt to remove the venom, or to administer medication to your pet unless directed to do so by a veterinarian.

Treatment for Snakebites

The first goal in snakebite treatment is to keep the venom from circulating in large quantities throughout the body. However, keeping all the venom in the area of a bite (as happens with ice packs or tourniquets) may cause severe muscle damage.

Antivenin (aka “antivenom”) administered at the hospital is the most direct and helpful treatment for your pet. Ideally, Antivenin is administered within two hours of the bite to be the most effective. Antivenin can cause severe allergic reactions in some pets, and must be administered under controlled conditions and monitored closely. Most pets that have been bitten will need to be admitted to the hospital for treatment, and some pets can have large areas of dead tissue that need to be surgically cleaned over several days or weeks.

Once you arrive at the clinic, your pet will receive pain medication, IV fluids, and the area where the pet was bitten will most likely be shaved. Some diagnostics should be performed (including bloodwork). Plasma may also be helpful in cases where there is severe vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels). Once the venom is in the bloodstream, it can destroy a patient’s blood cells. Antivenin works to neutralize the effects of the venom and, in some cases, more than one dose of antivenin might be necessary.

As you’ve gathered, a venomous snake biting your dog or your cat is a traumatic and possibly deadly experience, so being aware of your surroundings and following the advice in this post is crucial to keeping your pets safe. If you have any further questions on how to avoid snakebites, please don’t hesitate to call us.