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Happy Freedom Day!

In celebration of Black resilience and joy, as well as recognition of our collective responsibility to address systemic barriers to inclusion in our profession, the AEC team invites our community to learn more about the history of Juneteenth and what we can do to help advance racial equity and remove barriers to inclusivity in the work we love.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is the oldest national celebration which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is also known by names including: Jubilee, Black Independence Day, Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and its official title as the 11th U.S. Federal Holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day. Though it is our most recent federal holiday, officially recognized in 2021, Juneteenth celebrations are nothing new. Americans have been celebrating the end of slavery since the 1860s and in many parts of the United States, Juneteenth has been legally recognized on a state level for decades.

The stain of chattel slavery will exist forever on the history of the United States and it is important to understand that slavery and slavery-adjacent conditions continued beyond Galveston and the symbol of June 19th, 1865. The far-reaching impact on the lives of generations of Black Americans still remains undeniable in June 2026, over 160 years later. Juneteenth is a celebration of African-American culture, resilience, and joy, as well as a time to reflect on both the history and the future of our nation.

Impact on the veterinary medicine

Veterinary medicine is one of the most occupationally segregated professions in the United States of America on the basis of race. Though gender representation in the profession has radically shifted over the last 50 years and it boasts a higher than average representation of LGBTQ+ individuals, significant racial inequity persists. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests between 88% and 92% of veterinarians are white, a number significantly higher than the average representation of white Americans in the workforce. Only 1-2% of American veterinarians are Black. 

While representation is only one consideration of many when looking at parity and equity, the importance of representation in professional leadership is undeniable: it is hard to imagine possibilities for ourselves that we cannot see in the world, especially when we are young. The veterinary medical field struggles with diverse representation at all levels of the profession, including paraveterinary workers. Lack of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging hinders the advancement of veterinary science and creates barriers to care access for many pet owners.

How to help advance racial equity in veterinary medicine

Learn the truth, tell the truth

Our nation’s history is important to the lives of all Americans, but the occupational impact of systemic racism is of particular relevance to those of us who work in the veterinary medical field. Veterinary professionals recognize the importance of identifying an injury or illness in the process of seeking to ameliorate it. It is vital that we readily name and acknowledge the reality of racial inequity in veterinary medicine as we work to change it. We cannot hope to heal what we cannot see or speak about.

Support, Uplift, Advocate

Animal Emergency Care is a 24-hour emergency hospital and our facility is open on all federal holidays. AEC donates a percentage of our total Juneteenth labor expenses (equivalent to a holiday differential) to an organization advancing equity for Black veterinary professionals in our industry, such as the National Association for Black Veterinarians (NABV). AEC is grateful for the opportunity to materially contribute to the NABV in its mission to celebrate the achievements of Black veterinarians, create a pathway for Black students entering veterinary medicine, and foster advocacy, community, and support at every level of the profession.

Last year, our team connected with Dr. Annie J. Daniel, PhD, founder of the NABV, as well as Founder and CEO of iHELP- the Institute for Healthcare Education Leadership and Professionals. Dr. Daniel graciously collaborated with us to determine how to best support the organization’s important work beyond our planned holiday donation. This year, Animal Emergency Care is proud to be a sponsor of the 2026 NABV Conference and Scholarship Gala, an educational conference by and for Black veterinary professionals and students.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Inspiring the Next Generation of Black Veterinarians: Empowering Voices for Diversity in Veterinary Medicine.”

Resources

Juneteenth Fact Sheet by the Congressional Research Service

Juneteenth Resources – City of Bellingham

Anti-Racism Resources by Western Libraries (WWU)

The 2022-2023 iHELP and NABV Impact Report

VetREDI – a RACE-approved certification on Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in veterinary medicine

Being Black in a white profession – AVMA

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The post Pet Poison Prevention: Understanding Acetaminophen Toxicosis in Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What are burns in pets? 

Burns can occur as a result of tissue injury from heat, flames, chemicals, or electricity. Thermal burns caused by agents that include fire, steam, hot liquids, and heating devices are the most common in pets. Burn injuries are painful and can lead to partial or complete skin damage, as well as secondary problems including heart abnormalities, respiratory problems, dehydration, and metabolic disease. Severe burn injuries can be life-threatening. Burns are classified by the number of damaged skin layers and by injury severity. Burn classification includes:

• First-degree (superficial) — Only the outermost skin layer, or epidermis, is affected and these burns will typically heal quickly. 
• Second-degree (partial thickness) — Deeper skin layers are affected and blistering and skin draining can occur. Pets with second-degree burns are at risk for infection. 
• Third-degree (full thickness) — All skin layers are affected, as well as subcutaneous tissue. Bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons may also be damaged. Pets will lose sensation in the affected area and will develop scars after healing.  

Clinical burn signs in pets

Clinical burn signs will vary depending on the burn type and severity and may not be immediately obvious to pet owners. Pets who have superficial burns will likely have mildly red painful skin. Pets who have had fire or smoke exposure are at risk for associated medical problems. Read more about smoke inhalation in our previous blog. Clinical burn signs may include:

• Pale, yellow, gray, tan, or black skin
• Hair loss around burn area
• Hair that is easily removed around a burn
• Blistered skin
• Foul-smelling skin
• Pale or blue gums
• Vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Heart arrhythmias
• Muscle spasms
• Seizures
• Excess salivation

Burn diagnosis and treatment in pets

If you observe your pet being burned, immediately rinse the area with cool water and call your veterinarian. Your pet will need immediate veterinary care if they have any burn signs or have been exposed to smoke or fire. Diagnosis is based on the extent of your pet’s skin damage. Burn severity may not be immediately obvious so ensure you inform your veterinarian the burn source, such as steam or a stove, and the length of exposure if possible. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to rule out any concurrent medical problems. Advanced imaging such an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan may be recommended to check heart function, potential airway injury, and overall respiratory tract function. Treatment will depend on your pet’s burn type and severity and may include:

• Intravenous fluids
• Pain medications
• Topical antibiotic or wound healing medications
• Daily bandages
• Antibiotics
• Specialized diet or feeding tube
• Surgical wound management 

Financial options for your pet’s burn treatment  

Pets undergoing burn treatment may require an extended hospital stay and several checkups, which can be expensive. Consider purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion when your pet is young to ensure funds are available for such long-term care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options that can cover treatment costs include: 

• Care Credit 
• Scratch Pay 
• Pet health savings accounts 
• Short-term loans 

Burn prevention in pets 

Ensure you keep your pet out of the kitchen or away from outdoor grills when you are cooking to prevent them from being accidentally  burned. Store all chemicals out of paws’ reach and keep pets in a separate area when you are cleaning or using chemicals. Additional burn prevention tips include:

• Never leave your pet unsupervised around lit candles or fireplaces.
• Always check for a resting pet before turning on the clothes dryer.
• Never allow your pet to lie directly on your heating pad.
• Equip your home with monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure a quick response following a fire or chemical exposure.

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet has been burned. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care, and bring in your pet for immediate treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/accidents-injuries/e_dg_burns_and_scalding

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951347

https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/burns

https://www.hillspet.com/pet-care/routine-care/pet-fire-safety-and-burn-treatment

The post Understanding and Treating Burns on Your Pet appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is salmon poisoning in pets? 

Salmon poisoning, which is also referred to as salmon poisoning disease (SPD), is an acute infectious disease affecting dogs and other canid species caused by a rickettsial bacteria found in parasitic flukes, or flatworms. This disease is found only in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. SPD is a misleading name because no toxin is involved in this disease. Rather, infection occurs when a dog ingests a raw trout, salmon, or Pacific salamander that contains flukes infected with the Neorickettsia helminthoeca rickettsial organism. SPD can be complicated when dogs are infected with a secondary bacterium, Neorickettsia elokominica, which may cause a less severe illness and is referred to as Elokomin fluke fever. Dog-to-dog transmission of these bacteria is rare. 

Salmon poisoning signs in pets

Dogs who ingest raw fish infected with fluke larvae that do not contain rickettsia bacteria may show minor gastrointestinal signs such as diarrhea. Dogs who are infected with the Elokomin fluke fever bacterium may experience a milder infection and enlarged lymph nodes. Your dog will usually show signs in 10 days if they ingest a fish containing flukes infected with the SPD bacterium, but infection signs may not be present for 33 days in some cases. Signs may include:

• Fever, followed by hypothermia
• Depression 
• Decreased appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloody diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Weight loss
• Nasal or eye discharge
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Seizures

Salmon poisoning diagnosis and treatment in pets

Bring your dog for immediate veterinary care if they have ingested a raw fish or have SPD signs because SPD is fatal in 90% of pets who do not receive treatment. However, dogs who receive immediate veterinary care have a good prognosis. Diagnostic tests including a fecal examination to look for fluke eggs, serologic tests, a DNA PCR test, and a lymph node cytology exam may be recommended to confirm a SPD diagnosis. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count, electrolyte test, and serum biochemistry test to rule out any concurrent or underlying medical problems. Dogs who are infected will require antibiotics. Additional treatments may include:

• Intravenous fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances 
• Gastrointestinal protectants
• Anti-nausea medication
• Specialized warming pads
• Deworming medication 
• Blood transfusions
• Specialized diet

Payment options for a pet’s salmon poisoning treatment

Pets undergoing SPD treatment may require an extended hospital stay and several checkups which can be expensive. Consider purchasing a health insurance plan like Trupanion when your dog is young to ensure funds are available for such long-term care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options available to cover treatment costs include: 

• Care Credit — Care Credit offers specialized credit cards that can help delay interest payments.
• Scratch Pay — This service provides fast flexible payment options with variable interest rates depending on an individual’s credit. 
• Pet health savings account — Many financial institutions offer incentives for opening pet health savings accounts which ensure you have funds budgeted for your pet’s medical care.
• Short-term loans — These loans often have high interest rates but can be used as a last resort.

Salmon poisoning prevention in pets

Ensure you prevent your dog from consuming Pacific salamanders in addition to raw salmon, trout, steelhead, or similar freshwater fish. Secure your pet and closely monitor them when they are near or in any fresh water streams to prevent an accidental ingestion of infected fish. Additionally, prevent your dog from contacting any trash cans which may contain raw fish.  

Salmon disease poisoning is fatal without treatment. If you observe your dog ingesting raw fish or if they are showing SPD signs immediately bring them to Animal Emergency Care or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents

Sources: 

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/disorders-affecting-multiple-body-systems-of-dogs/salmon-poisoning-disease-and-elokomin-fluke-fever-in-dogs

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/generalized-conditions/rickettsial-diseases/salmon-poisoning-disease-and-elokomin-fluke-fever-in-animals

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952985

The post Something’s Fishy: Salmon Poisoning in Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is flea and tick preventive toxicity in cats? 

Flea and tick prevention medication is a vital component of your pet’s health and prevents uncomfortable itching, skin infections, and infectious disease. However, pyrethrin and pyrethroid-containing insecticides which are used in many commercially available OTC preventives are the culprit for many cat emergencies. Pyrethrins are naturally occurring ingredients derived from chrysanthemum plants and other pyrethrum-related plant species. This ingredient is also used in many gardens to prevent insects from destroying plants and flowers. Pyrethroids are synthetically made insecticides that have a longer-lasting effect. Pyrethrin-containing flea and tick prevention products may be safely used in dogs, but cats metabolize medications differently than dogs and they lack the required enzymes to safely break down pyrethrins. The most common cause of flea and tick preventive toxicity in cats occurs when dog-specific flea preventives are accidentally given to a cat. Additionally, cats who lick or groom excessively after receiving spot-on prevention, or cats who groom a dog who has topical flea medication on their fur, have an increased risk for toxicity. Young kittens, senior cats, cats with underlying health issues, and cats with hypothermia also have an increased risk for flea and tick preventive toxicity. Pyrethrin and pyrethroid toxicity affects your cat’s nervous system, and can be deadly without treatment. 

Flea and tick preventive toxicity signs in cats 

Toxicity signs can occur immediately or more than 12 hours after exposure. Signs are variable and depend on the cat’s age and weight, and the type and amount of toxin exposure, and may include:

• Ear twitching
• Paw flicking
• Muscle tremors
• Incoordination 
• Fever
• Hypersalivation
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Hives
• Respiratory distress
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Seizures

Flea and tick preventive toxicity diagnosis and treatment in cats

Your pet needs immediate veterinary care if they have flea and tick preventive toxicity signs. Diagnosis is based on their history of flea and tick preventive exposure and clinical signs. Additional diagnostic tests may include a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to check overall organ function and rule out any underlying medical problems. Pets with severe signs who receive immediate veterinary care will usually recover. Treatment may include:

• A warm water bath with liquid dish soap to remove remaining residue
• Monitoring their heart rate and blood pressure
• Monitoring and regulating body temperature
• Intravenous fluids
• Antihistamine medications if hives are present
• Anti-nausea medications 
• Gastrointestinal protectant medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Anti-seizure medication

Financial planning for treatment of flea and tick preventive toxicity in cats

Cats who are experiencing flea and tick preventive toxicity may require hospitalization for several days, which can result in a large veterinary bill. Fortunately, multiple payment options are available to ensure you can cover the cost of your pet’s emergency care for an accidental poisoning. Care Credit and Scratch Pay allow you to spread payments over longer periods with delayed interest rates in some cases. Additionally, pet health insurance providers like Trupanion offer policies that can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Pet health savings accounts and short-term loans can also be used to pay for your cat’s emergency veterinary care. 

Flea and tick preventive toxicity prevention in cats

Many accidental cat poisonings occur from giving a cat a dog-specific preventive. Ensure you read all directions carefully before giving your cat any medications and never apply any dog products on your cat. Other prevention tips include:

• Consult your family veterinarian on the safest flea and tick prevention method for your cat.
• Keep household animals separated after applying any spot-on flea medication so the treatment can absorb and dry on their fur.
• Prevent your cat from accessing any yard that has been treated with an insecticide.
• Ensure you give your cat the correct amount of flea and tick preventive according to their weight and age because some products cannot be given to young, small pets.

If your cat is showing flea and tick preventive toxicity signs, immediately bring them to Animal Emergency Care if it is after hours, or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/neurological/c_ct_pyrethrin_pyrethroid_toxicity

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/blog/common-flea-tick-toxicity-questions-answers

https://icatcare.org/advice/permethrin-poisoning

The post Pet Poison Prevention: Understanding Flea and Tick Preventive Toxicity in Cats appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is smoke inhalation in pets?

Smoke inhalation injury can occur following exposure to smoke in small or large quantities. Fires produce a variety of toxins that can affect your pet’s respiratory tract and overall well-being. Pets who are exposed to a fire are at risk for skin burns, in addition to the following:

• Carbon monoxide — This colorless, odorless gas is produced during a fire and affects the body’s ability to properly deliver oxygen to the tissues. Some home appliances including clothes dryers, water heaters, and gas stoves, can produce carbon monoxide. 

• Hydrogen cyanide — This chemical may be released during a fire as a result of burning plastic, cotton, wool, or other synthetic materials. Like carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide also prevents the body from delivering required oxygen to tissues. 
• Thermal injury — Heat that is associated with smoke and fire exposure can cause burns on the face and through the respiratory tract which can lead to severe inflammation. 
• Chemical irritants — Pets are at risk for exposure to a variety of chemical irritants which will depend on the type of substance burning. Chemical burns can lead to severe lung and airway damage. 

Smoke inhalation signs in pets

Clinical smoke inhalation signs are variable, and depend on the amount of smoke exposure, type of associated chemicals, and duration of exposure. Smaller pets and pets who have underlying respiratory problems are most at risk for smoke inhalation complications or increased sign severity. Clinical signs may not be immediately obvious and can occur more than 24 to 36 hours following exposure. Smoke inhalation signs may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Increased respiratory rate
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Eye redness
• Eye squinting
• Changes in barking or meowing sounds 
• Facial swelling and burns
• Blisters over the mouth
• Excess salivation
• Vomiting
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Uncoordinated gait
• Seizures
• Coma

Smoke inhalation diagnosis and treatment in pets

Immediately bring your pet for a veterinary examination if they have been exposed to smoke or if they have any smoke inhalation signs. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to rule out any concurrent medical problems. Advanced imaging such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan may be recommended to check for airway injury and overall respiratory tract function. Repeat imaging may be required because of delayed onset of respiratory injury signs. Smoke inhalation monitoring and treatment may include:

• Electrocardiogram for heart rate monitoring
• Pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen levels
• Respiratory observation and monitoring
• Regular temperature monitoring 
• Oxygen therapy
• Intravenous fluids
• Antibiotic medications
• Pain medications
• Bronchodilator medications to improve your pet’s ability to breath properly
• Breathing tube placement  

Financial options for your pet’s smoke inhalation treatment  

Smoke inhalation treatment may require hospitalization for your pet for several days as well as numerous progress checks. Such long-term care can result in a large veterinary bill. Fortunately, multiple payment options are available to ensure you can cover the cost of your pet’s smoke inhalation emergency care. Care Credit and Scratch Pay allow you to spread payments over longer periods with delayed interest rates in some cases. Additionally, pet health insurance providers like Trupanion offer policies that can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Pet health savings accounts and short-term loans are also available to ensure your pet’s veterinary treatment costs are covered. 

Smoke inhalation prevention in pets 

Equip your home with monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure a quick response following a fire or chemical exposure. Regularly check that your detectors are properly functioning and change the batteries twice yearly or more frequently. Other smoke inhalation prevention tips include:

• Keeping pets indoors when the outdoor air is smoky 
• Creating and practicing a home evacuation plan that includes your pets
• Pet-proofing your home to prevent animal-induced house fires

If your pet has been exposed to smoke, call your family veterinarian right away. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care, and bring in your pet for immediate treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/smoke-inhalation/overview-of-smoke-inhalation

https://vetmed.illinois.edu/pet_column/smoke-inhalation-dangerous-pets

https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/accidents-injuries/5-dangers-smoke-inhalation-pets

https://www.dvm360.com/view/smoke-inhalation-proceedings

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/smoke-inhalation

The post Understanding and Treating Smoke Inhalation in Your Pet appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is algae poisoning in pets?

Algae poisoning is a potentially fatal infection from exposure to microscopic cyanobacteria, which can occur where blue-green algae accumulates such as freshwater lakes, streams, ponds, backyard fountains, bird baths, garden pots, and brackish water ecosystems, or anywhere stagnant water is present. Poisoning mostly occurs in the warmer months when the algal blooms increase and remain alive longer. Some blue-green algae may not contain toxic bacteria, but water safety can be determined only with testing. Potentially dangerous water may have a bluish-green or reddish-brown hue over the water’s surface or water may appear the color of pea soup. There are more than 30 species of toxic cyanobacteria and ingestion can lead to liver, kidney, skin, or nervous system problems.

Algae poisoning signs in pets

Clinical signs of algae poisoning are variable and depend on the amount and type of bacteria ingested. Poisoning signs may occur from 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion and only a few ounces can be fatal. Death can occur after a few minutes or a few weeks following exposure. Signs may include:

• Vomiting
• Bloody or dark, tarry diarrhea
• Pale, blue, or yellow gums
• Yellowing of the skin
• Muscle tremors
• Disorientation
• Lethargy
• Excessive salivation or watering eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Coma
• Greenish stains around the mouth, nose, legs, or paws
• Sudden death

Algae poisoning diagnosis and treatment in pets

Bring your pet for immediate veterinary care if they have algae poisoning signs or if they have been exposed to blue-green algae. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count, electrolyte test, and serum biochemistry test to rule out any concurrent medical problems. Algae poisoning has no antidote, but immediate decontamination and supportive care will give your pet the best chance of survival. Treatment may include:

• Inducing vomiting to prevent further absorption of bacteria-containing algae
• Activated charcoal for toxin absorption
• Gastric lavage to pump your pet’s stomach and remove infected algae
• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Liver protecting medications
• Anti-nausea medication
• Gastroprotectant medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Plasma or blood transfusions
• Anti-seizure medications
• Oxygen therapy

Financial options for your pet’s algae poisoning treatment  

Pets undergoing algae poisoning treatment may require an extended hospital stay, and recovery can take weeks to months. Many pets who survive will have long-term liver damage and other complications requiring regular veterinary check-ups, which can be expensive. Pet health insurance like Trupanion will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s emergency and long-term care for an accidental poisoning. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other alternative payment options include:

• Care Credit 
• Scratch Pay 
• Pet health savings accounts
• Short-term loans 

Algae poisoning prevention in pets 

An algae poisoning diagnosis can be devastating for pet owners because many pets will not survive. Do not allow pets to drink or swim in water that appears green or brown, is discolored, or has scum on the surface. Keep your pet secure and closely monitor them when they are near any freshwater streams, lakes, or ponds to prevent an accidental ingestion of infected water.

Also, ensure you remove any standing water from your outdoor plants, bird feeders, or fish ponds, and fence off any backyard ponds or streams.

Algae poisoning can be fatal to pets but prompt veterinary care will increase their survival chances. If you observe your pet drinking water that contains blue-green algae or if they are showing algae poisoning signs immediately bring them to Animal Emergency Care or call  your family veterinarian. #AECprevents

Sources: 
https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/algal-poisoning/overview-of-algal-poisoning

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/blue-green-algae/

https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/articles/veterinarians-blue-green-algae-cyanobacteria-is-toxic-for-dogs/

The post When Water Is Dangerous: Algae Poisoning in Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is fireworks trauma in pets?

Dogs can hear more than twice as many frequencies and can hear sounds four times further away compared within humans. That the booming sounds of fireworks elicit a fear or anxiety response in pets is no surprise. Like people, a pet’s genetic makeup and their life experiences contribute to their response to certain noises and the way they deal with fear and anxiety. For example, pets with a history of abuse or neglect are likely more easily spooked. Noise aversion typically worsens over time and pets who do not receive treatment will become increasingly stressed rather than learning to ignore non-threatening sounds like fireworks or thunderstorms. Dogs are most at risk for noise aversion reactions although cats may also respond to specific noises with anxiety. Noise aversion is defined as an anxious or fearful response to a specific noise and fireworks are one of the most common triggers. Pets with noise aversions may respond by hiding and many pets may become confused about the direction of the sounds and react by looking for an escape route. Their fight-or-flight response puts them at risk for becoming lost or being injured when they jump through windows or run into the street in front of moving cars. 

Fireworks trauma signs in pets

Fireworks trauma signs are variable and may mimic signs of other underlying medical problems. Traumatic injuries such as broken bones after being hit by a car or soft tissue wounds from jumping through a closed window may also occur. Fireworks anxiety signs may include:

• Pacing
• Trembling
• Panting
• Drooling 
• Yawning
• Inappropriate urination or defecation
• Holding their tail between the legs
• Increased water consumption
• Vocalizing
• Pawing or climbing on people
• Nuzzling 
• Hiding behind furniture or in a closet
• Unpredictable, sudden, or destructive behaviors such as escaping or jumping through glass windows or doors

Fireworks trauma diagnosis and treatment in pets  

Bring your pet for immediate veterinary care if they are injured as a result of their fireworks noise aversion. Pets who show anxiety signs should also receive a veterinary examination since signs may mimic other underlying medical problems. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count and a serum biochemistry test to check for overall organ health. Pets who have a traumatic injury may require an X-ray to look for broken bones or other injuries as well as treatments to address any pain or shock.  

Once underlying medical problems have been ruled out your veterinarian will discuss methods to prevent firework anxiety or other noise aversion problems. Treatments may include:

• Pheromone sprays such as Adaptil or Feliway to promote a sense of well-being
• Calming supplements or diets
• Short-term sedatives 
• Medications to increase their serotonin levels—although similar to human prescription medications, never give your pet any medication unless prescribed by your veterinarian
• Referral to a veterinary behaviorist or a training program that includes desensitization and counterconditioning
• Anxiety vest or thundershirt which provides gentle pressure around your pet’s torso to help decrease stress

Financial options for pets undergoing fireworks trauma treatment

Pets who are injured as a response to their fireworks anxiety may require an extended hospital stay, especially if they are hit by a car or suffer other traumatic injuries. Pets who have a noise aversion may require several veterinary checkups to adjust medications or treatment protocols. Therefore treating a noise averse pet can lead to a large veterinary bill, but a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion will ensure funds are available for such emergency treatments and long-term care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options available to cover treatment costs include Care Credit, Scratch Pay, pet health savings accounts, and short-term loans. 

Firework trauma prevention in pets  

Discuss options with your veterinarian in the months or weeks before Independence Day if your pet has a noise aversion history. Ensure that your pet’s microchip is functioning and the registration has up-to-date contact information should your pet go missing. Other prevention tips include:

• Schedule your pet’s meal and bathroom breaks so they are not during peak fireworks times.
• Don’t bring an anxious pet to a fireworks celebration.
• Always have your pet on a leash, including in your fenced-in backyard, if bathroom breaks are needed after dark.
• Designate a quiet safe space such as a crate or back of a closet as your pet’s retreat during fireworks displays. 
• Provide your pet their favorite toy and treats during the fireworks to encourage a positive association with the noise. 

Diagnosing and treating noise aversion in pets requires patience and time to desensitize them and address their anxiety. Bring your pet to your family veterinarian to discuss options for treating their noise aversion. Immediately bring your pet to Animal Emergency Care if they are injured as a result of their anxiety, if it is after hours, or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents 

Sources:
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952947

https://fearfreepets.com/noise-aversion-in-dogs/

https://www.petmd.com/dog/8-tips-helping-dogs-thats-scared-fireworks

The post Silence Is Golden: Understanding Fireworks Trauma in Pets  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is slug bait toxicity in pets? 

Most commercial slug and snail baits available at garden shop supply stores contain the chemical metaldehyde which is extremely toxic to dogs, cats, and wildlife, although the toxicity mechanism is not fully understood. Many baits also contain other insecticides which can increase the potency and toxicity to pets. Snail and slug baits are typically formulated as pellets, granules, powders, and liquids, and contain either molasses or bran to attract garden pests. Many pets, especially dogs, are attracted by the sweet flavoring and mistake these pellets for kibble. Pets who walk through gardens containing the bait in liquid or powder form are also at risk for toxin ingestion if they groom or lick their powder-covered paws. Less than a teaspoon of bait that contains metaldehyde can be toxic to pets and may be fatal without treatment.   

Slug bait toxicity signs in pets

Slug bait toxicity signs can occur between 30 minutes and three hours after ingestion. Pets are at risk for liver failure two to three days following exposure. Toxicity signs depend on the amount ingested and may include:

• Anxious behavior
• Muscle tremors or twitches
• Fever
• Hypersensitivity when touched
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Increased respiratory rate
• Difficulty breathing or respiratory failure
• Uncoordinated walk
• Seizures
• Rigidity
• Collapse

Slug bait toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

Your pet needs immediate veterinary care if they have slug bait toxicity signs to have the best chance of recovery. Diagnosis is based on their history of slug bait ingestion and clinical signs. Your veterinarian may recommend testing stomach contents or urine for metaldehyde. Additional diagnostic tests may include a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to check overall organ function, and rule out any underlying medical problems or infections. No specific antidote is available for metaldehyde poisoning. Treatment may include:

• Inducing vomiting
• Monitoring heart rate and blood pressure
• Monitoring body temperature 
• Gastric lavage to remove remaining slug bait
• Activated charcoal for toxin absorption
• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Muscle relaxants
• Anti-seizure medication
• Liver protecting medications

Pets who are treated immediately for slug bait toxicity will usually recover. However, pets who do not receive immediate treatment or who have ingested large amounts of metaldehyde that has affected their liver and neurologic function have a low survival chance.

Financial planning for treatment of slug bait toxicity in pets

Pets undergoing slug bait toxicity treatment often require an extended hospital stay and several checkups, which can be expensive. Pet health insurance like Trupanion will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s emergency care for an accidental poisoning. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Additional alternative payment options include Care Credit, Scratch Pay, pet health savings accounts, and short-term loans. 

Slug bait toxicity prevention in pets

Ensure that all slug bait and insecticides are stored out of paws’ reach. Many poisonings occur when pets ingest pellets with their enticing flavor that are stored in the home. Fence off backyard gardens treated with any metaldehyde-containing baits. Alternative pet-safe methods for garden pest prevention include:

• Placing lava rock or shells around plants to deter slugs
• Placing copper bands around plants
• Planting lavender, mint, or rosemary herbs 
• Using safer slug bait that contains iron-phosphate instead of metaldehyde

If you suspect your pet has ingested slug bait or if they are showing slug bait toxicity signs immediately bring them to Animal Emergency Care or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents

Sources: 

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951893

https://veterinary-practice.com/article/metaldehyde-poisoning-in-the-dog

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/metaldehyde/

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/metaldehyde-poisoning/overview-of-metaldehyde-poisoning

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