#1: Use caution with holiday decor around pets 

Festive decor, Christmas trees, dangling ornaments, and candles can transform your home into a magical but potentially dangerous winter wonderland. Take precautions when adorning your home with the following:

• Christmas trees — Many pets will want to investigate the new smells and tree branches so ensure they can’t tip the tree over and possibly injure themselves by securing it to a ceiling or doorway with fishing line. In addition, never use water additives in the tree stand. Pets can mistake tree water for their personal water dish, and drinking additive-laden water can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
• Ornaments — Place all fragile ornaments such as glass balls and food-based decorations high on the tree to prevent mischievous pets from injuring their paws on broken ornaments or ingesting dangerous ingredients. 
• Tinsel —Tinsel and ribbon are common culprits in many feline holiday emergencies, leading to intestinal blockages that often require surgical removal. Ensure you place all tinsel and decorative ribbons out of paw’s reach. 
• Candles and potpourri — Place lighted candles far out of reach of swatting paws or wagging tails to prevent burned fur or house fires. Avoid using scented candles or potpourri that contains essential oils because they can be toxic to pets, especially the oils described here.

#2: Keep pets out of the kitchen and away from the dinner table 

Many holiday celebrations revolve around large savory meals and endless sweet treats. The kitchen is a popular gathering place during family festivities and the delicious aromas are difficult for pets—and most humans—to resist. However, kitchen chaos can lead to counter-surfing and dumpster-diving pets eager to sample the day’s bounty. Many holiday ingredients and dishes are toxic or difficult for pets to digest. Sharing your plate with your pet can lead to gastrointestinal (GI) distress and inflammation including pancreatitis which is a potentially deadly inflammatory condition that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration. Additionally, never share leftover bones with your pet as they can cause dangerous GI blockages which may require emergency surgery. Also ensure you put a pet-proof lid on all garbage cans within your pet’s reach and frequently remove all garbage and food scraps from the home.

#3: Avoid pet-toxic holiday plants and flowers

Floral centerpieces and seasonal plants are popular holiday gifts; however, ensure you do not bring any pet-toxic plants into your home. Many plants and especially lilies are severely toxic to cats. Eating only a small amount of any part of the plant, including the pollen and leaves, can cause drooling, vomiting, and decreased appetite, and can lead to kidney failure. While the popular poinsettia is no longer considered toxic unless large amounts are consumed, the sap in poinsettia leaves is irritating to your pet’s mouth and throat and eating the leaves likely will cause your pet to become nauseated and vomit. Always check the ASPCA toxic plant list before adorning your table or home with floral or plant centerpieces, and keep these other popular holiday plants out of pet’s reach:

• Mistletoe
• Balsam
• Amaryllis
• Pine
• Cedar
• Holly
• Christmas cactus 

#4: Keep wires, batteries, and small toys out of paw’s reach

The numerous cords and wires required for your twinkling lights, electric candles, and other holiday decorations can be dangerous to curious pets who may mistake them for new chew toys. Keep all cords and wires out of paw’s reach because chewing or swallowing them can lead to serious injury including oral burns, electric shock, or GI distress or blockages. 

Ensure your pet does not have access to any batteries because most contain zinc which is toxic if ingested. It also can cause GI distress, anemia, seizures, and death in some cases. Keep a watchful eye as well on any small children’s toys since your pet could mistake them for new pet toys and swallow them which could cause intestinal damage or a blockage that requires surgical removal. 

#5: Prepare for unexpected pet emergencies  

It is not uncommon for Christmas cats and “Holidogs” to let their mischievous nature get the better of them despite your best efforts to keep them out of holiday trouble. Ensure you have the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number, your family veterinarian’s contact information, and our Animal Emergency Care number and address easily accessible in the event of an accidental toxin ingestion or injury. Common pet holiday emergencies may require an extended hospital stay which can result in a larger veterinary bill. Consider purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion to ensure funds are available to cover emergency treatment costs. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for your reimbursement. Other pet emergency payment options include pet health savings accounts, Care Credit, Scratch Pay, and short-term loans.

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet gets into any holiday trouble. If you need help after hours, Animal Emergency Care is open 24 hours a day. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/holiday-pet-safety

https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_multi_dangerous_winter_holiday_plants

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/holiday-safety-tips

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/zinc-toxicosis/overview-of-zinc-toxicosis

The post Happy Pawlidays: 5 Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pet appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is feline calicivirus in cats? 

FCV is a highly contagious RNA virus affecting cats that is a significant cause of upper respiratory and oral infections. In fact, FCV causes more than 50 percent of cat respiratory infections. This virus most commonly occurs in multi-cat environments, such as shelters, breeding colonies, or pet stores. This virus readily mutates and vaccinations may not fully prevent new strains. However, most cats who contract FCV will recover. In rare cases some cats may contract a severe case of FCV-associated virulent systemic disease (FCV-VSD), which is fatal in 60 percent of cases. FCV spreads through direct contact with saliva, eye discharge, nasal discharge, or aerosolized sneeze droplets from infected cats. Common ways a cat may become infected include:

• Direct contact with an infected cat
• Kittens born to a FCV-carrier mother
• Sharing food bowls, water bowls, or litter trays with an infected cat
• Contact with a human who recently interacted with an infected cat
• Contact with contaminated environments and objects, including bedding or grooming tools

Feline calicivirus signs in cats

FCV signs in cats are similar to other infections that may cause an upper respiratory infection. Severity will depend on the viral strain type, and the strength of the infected cat’s immune system. Young cats, kittens, and cats who have other chronic conditions have an increased risk for more severe FCV signs. Signs may occur between 2 and 14 days following the initial infection and can persist for more than six weeks. Cats who contract FCV may shed the virus for more than three weeks following an infection, and some pets may become long-term FCV carriers. Signs may include:

• Uncontrollable, sudden sneezing attacks 
• Nasal congestion
• Excessive eye blinking and squinting
• Mouth and tongue ulcers
• Inflamed gums
• Drooling
• Clear, yellow, or green nasal and eye discharge
• Redness around and in the eye
• Loss of smell
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Painful joints

Cats who contract FCV-VSD may show the following signs:

• High fever
• Swelling of the head and legs
• Crusting sores around the face and mouth
• Hair loss around the nose, ears, eyes, and foot pads
• Skin yellowing

Feline calicivirus diagnosis and treatment in cats 

Your cat needs a veterinary examination if they are showing FCV or FCV-VSD infection signs, which are similar to other respiratory infections including feline viral rhinotracheitis. Ensure you inform your veterinarian if your cat has interacted with a potentially infected kitten or adult cat, or if they have recently been adopted from a shelter. Diagnosis is based on your cat’s medical history, clinical signs, and potential FCV exposure history. A PCR test to look for FCV DNA in samples of an infected cat’s eye, nose, or throat will provide a definitive diagnosis. Other diagnostics tests may include a complete blood count to check for secondary infections or an associated disease and a serum biochemistry test to evaluate organ function. Specialized eye tests to check for corneal ulcerations and dry eye may also be recommended. An X-ray may be recommended to check for joint swelling or pneumonia. 

No treatment can stop an FCV infection, although cats who receive immediate veterinary care have a good prognosis. Most pets will recover following at-home supportive care and treatments, including keeping their nose and eyes clean. Kittens or adult cats with severe signs or cats who have FCV-VSD may require hospitalization. Treatments may include:

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration from excess nasal or eye discharge
• Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
• Decongestants 
• Oxygen therapy 
• Topical eye medications
• Antiviral medications
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to decrease fever and alleviate any oral ulcer or joint pain
• L-lysine supplements for immune system support
• Environmental humidification or nebulization
• Specialized diet   

Financial options for your cat’s feline calicivirus treatment  

FCV often requires treatment for several weeks in addition to multiple follow -up appointments. Cats with severe cases may require an extended hospital stay, and such care can result in a large veterinary bill. However, several payment options are available to cover treatment costs including:

• Pet health insurance such as Trupanion which will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s emergency FCV treatment 
• Care Credit and Scratch Pay which allow payments to be spread out over longer periods
• Pet health savings accounts or short-term loans offered by most financial institutions

Feline calicivirus prevention in cats

Vaccinating your cat when they are young is the best prevention against a severe FCV infection. The FVRCP vaccine is a core cat vaccine that provides protection against FCV and other dangerous respiratory agents. FCV is a mutating virus (i.e., vaccinated cats can still be infected), but disease severity will be greatly reduced, and some infected cats may never show signs. Do not let your cat outside or around other cats or people with cats until they are fully vaccinated against the virus. FCV can survive in the environment for extended periods, so ensure you use diluted bleach to clean areas where an infected cat was present. Use hot water and detergent to clean an infected cat’s bedding. 

Ensure your cat is vaccinated by your family veterinarian to prevent a severe FCV infection. If your cat is showing FCV signs after hours, bring them to Animal Emergency Care for immediate care. #AECprevents

Sources: 

https://www.petmd.com/cat/wellness/what-fvrcp-cat-vaccine

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951489

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/baker-institute/our-research/animal-health-articles-and-helpful-links/feline-calicivirus

The post Feline Calicivirus: More Than a Cold appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is feline viral rhinotracheitis in cats?

FVR is a highly contagious infectious disease affecting cats, and a major cause of upper respiratory infections (URI). FVR is caused by infection from feline herpes virus type-1 (FHV-1) and does not affect other species. Cats who contract FVR will have a lifelong FHV-1 infection that will likely remain inactive unless the cat is exposed to a stressful event, when the virus may reactivate. Additionally, cats with FVR are at risk for respiratory problems, long-term eye problems, and secondary bacterial infections, which may cause pneumonia in severe cases. The FHV-1 virus spreads to other cats through direct contact with saliva, eye discharge, or nasal discharge of infected cats. Common ways a cat may become infected include:

• Direct contact with an infected cat
• Sharing food bowls, water bowls, or litter trays with an infected cat
• Inhaling an infected cat’s sneeze droplets 
• Contact with contaminated environments or objects, including bedding or grooming tools

Feline viral rhinotracheitis signs in cats

FVR signs are similar to other agents, which may cause a URI in cats, and severity will depend on the strength of the infected cat’s immune system. Young cats, kittens, and cats who have other chronic conditions have an increased FVR risk. FVR signs occur between two days and five days following the initial infection, and can persist for one month. Signs may include:

• Uncontrollable, sudden, sneezing attacks 
• Nasal congestion
• Excessive eye blinking and squinting
• Clear, yellow, or green nasal and eye discharge
• Redness around and in the eye
• Loss of smell
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Enlarged lymph nodes

Feline viral rhinotracheitis diagnosis and treatment in cats 

Your cat needs a veterinary examination if they are showing FVR infection signs, which are similar to other respiratory infections. Ensure you inform your veterinarian if your cat has interacted with a potentially infected kitten or adult cat, because some infected adult cats may not show FVR signs. Diagnosis is based on your cat’s medical history, clinical signs, and potential FVR exposure history. A PCR test to look for FHV-1 DNA in samples from an infected cat’s eye, nose, or throat will provide a definitive diagnosis. Other diagnostic tests may include a complete blood count to check for secondary infections or an associated disease, and a serum biochemistry test to evaluate organ function. Specialized eye tests to check for corneal ulcerations and dry eye may also be recommended. 

An FVR infection has no cure and some adult cats with mild signs may recover without treatment. Pets who receive immediate veterinary care have a good prognosis. Kittens or adult cats with severe signs may require hospitalization. Treatments may include:

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration from excess nasal or eye discharge
• Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
• Topical eye medications
• Antiviral medications
• Probiotics
• L-lysine supplements for immune system support
• Environmental humidification or nebulization
• Specialized diet   

Financial options for your cat’s feline viral rhinotracheitis treatment  

Cats who are diagnosed with FVR will require long-term specialized home care with regular checkups, and some pets may also require extended treatment in a veterinary hospital, which can be expensive. Fortunately, many payment options are available, including pet health insurance, to help ease the financial stress. Research the various pet insurance policies and consider purchasing a plan when bringing a feline companion into your family. Most pet insurance providers including Trupanion have policies that include reimbursement for emergency veterinary care and hospitalization. Other payment methods include:

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

Feline viral rhinotracheitis prevention in cats

Vaccinating your cat when they are young is the best prevention against an FVR infection. The FVRCP vaccine is a core cat vaccine that provides protection against FHV-1 and other dangerous respiratory agents. Cats who have had previous FHV-1 infection may require more frequent vaccine boosters, to prevent the infection from reactivating. Vaccinated cats can still be infected with FHV-1, but disease severity will be greatly reduced, and some infected cats may never show signs. Additionally, your cat should not be outside, or around other felines or people with cats, until they are fully vaccinated against the virus. Avoid exposing your cat to stressful situations, which can also cause reactivation of an FHV-1 infection. Frequent hand washing and keeping a clean environment will also help prevent infection. FHV-1 will survive in a moist environment, but will die as soon as the infected secretions dry. Diluted bleach is the most effective household cleaner against this virus. Clean an infected cat’s bedding with hot water and detergent. 

Ensure your cat is vaccinated by your family veterinarian to prevent a severe URI. However, call Animal Emergency Care if your cat has any FVR signs after hours, and bring them in for immediate care. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951824

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951489

https://icatcare.org/advice/feline-herpesvirus-fhv-infection

The post Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis: A Potential Lifelong Infection appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What are pregnancy complications in pets? 

Pregnant pets are most at risk of problems during labor and immediately after giving birth. Pet owners must understand pregnancy basics so that they recognize any problems. Cats and dogs are pregnant for approximately 63 days, and fetuses are visible on X-ray after 45 days into pregnancy. Your pet will become restless 20 hours before labor and their temperature will decrease to 98 or 99 degrees. The most common complication during labor is dystocia which occurs when a puppy or kitten becomes stuck in the birth canal due to their position or size. Certain dog breeds including French bulldogs, Boston terriers, pugs, and Chihuahuas have an increased dystocia risk because of their size and body conformation.

Mother pets are at risk for other complications during the weeks following giving birth including:

• Metritis —This condition occurs when your pet’s uterus is inflamed because of trauma during birth or a retained placenta. 
• Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia —Some mothers cannot manage the calcium demand of their growing fetuses or from nursing puppies or kittens, and develop dangerously low calcium levels. This condition is more common in toy-breed dogs. 
• Mastitis —Mastitis is a painful, inflammatory condition of the mammary glands that can occur during and after pregnancy, and is caused by a bacterial infection. 

Pregnancy complication signs in pets

Labor can take up to 24 hours and depends on the number of kittens or puppies in the litter. Birth complication signs may include:

• Absence of labor signs more than 24 hours after a mother‘s body temperature has decreased
• Strong contractions for more than 30 minutes that do not result in a birth
• More than four hours between births
• More than 70 days of gestation
• Extreme pain including vocalization and excessive panting
• Excessive vaginal bleeding 

Pets will normally experience a fever for 24 to 48 hours after giving birth and may experience vaginal discharge for eight weeks. However, fever for more than 48 hours or foul smelling vaginal discharge,commonly signal metritis. Other postpartum complications may include these signs:

• Decreased appetite
• Lack of interest in their young
• Inability to stand
• Muscle stiffness
• Painful gait
• Seizures
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing

Pregnancy complication treatments in pets

Immediately bring your pet for a veterinary examination if they are showing pregnancy or postpartum complication signs. Pets who are experiencing a dystocia will likely require a Cesarean section to remove the litter. Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests and imaging such as X-rays prior to surgery to determine the number of fetuses, and the mother’s overall health. Additional treatments may include:

• Intravenous (IV) fluids
• Localized pain control
• Antibiotics 
• Spay surgery following delivery of the litter
• Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
• Body temperature monitoring and regulation with specialized warming pads

Your veterinarian may recommend additional blood tests to check for an infection or calcium levels if your pet is showing postpartum complication signs. Treatment for postpartum complications may include:

• Antibiotics
• IV calcium
• IV fluid therapy

Payment options for pregnancy complications in pets

Dystocia surgery and treatment for post-pregnancy complications may require an extended hospital stay in addition to several follow up appointments, and can result in a large veterinary bill. However, pet health insurance like Trupanion will ensure you can cover your pet’s emergency care expenses for pregnancy complications. Trupanion will pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other payment methods include:

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

Pregnancy complication prevention for pets

The only guaranteed way to prevent pregnancy complications is sterilization by spaying or neutering your pets. Pregnancy-related complications are always a possibility. Proper care during and after pregnancy is vital to decrease the risk of complications and should include  the following:

• A diet that is Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)-approved for pregnancy, and nursing
• Wellness veterinary examinations to confirm pregnancy
• Veterinary examination and X-rays after 45 days of pregnancy to determine the number of puppies or kittens
• Regular walks but not intense exercise
• Isolation from other pets in the final three weeks to prevent the mother from contracting any infections 

Immediately contact your family veterinarian if your pet is experiencing pregnancy complications or bring them to Animal Emergency Care if they need help after hours. #AECprevents

Sources: 

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951916

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951546

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951324

https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/risk-factors-prevalence-dystocia-dogs

The post What to Expect When Your Expecting Pet Has Pregnancy Complications appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is a pet microchip?

Many mischievous pets can accidentally sneak outside or decide to leave the yard to chase the pesky neighborhood squirrel and become lost. All pets should have identification whether or not they spend most or all their time indoors. A microchip is a small electronic biocompatible transponder similar to a GPS and is the safest, most effective, and permanent means of identifying your pet. This high radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip stores your pet’s unique number and letter combination similar to a human’s social security number. Your pet’s microchip does not store private information or specifics of your pet’s medical history.  

How is a microchip implanted in my pet? 

Many pet owners are concerned about the microchipping process or the possibility of pain or complications for their pet. Your pet’s microchip can be inserted at any age and during any routine veterinary visit although some pet owners prefer that the microchip be implanted during their pet’s spay or neuter procedure. Your veterinarian will insert the microchip under your pet’s skin between their shoulder blades with a hypodermic needle that is slightly larger than a vaccination needle. The entire process takes less than one minute and causes minimal to no observable pain. Your veterinarian will immediately scan your pet to ensure the chip is active and will record the identification number in your pet’s medical record. 

What maintenance is required for my pet’s microchip?

Replacement is not usually necessary and malfunction is rare because microchips do not contain any moving parts or batteries. Ask your veterinarian to check your pet’s microchip during their yearly exam or schedule an appointment on national Check the Chip day to ensure the chip is functioning properly. Your pet’s microchip will come with a chip registration form and company website. Ensure that you register your pet’s chip and keep your contact information current with the microchip registration company. A 2009 Journal of the American Veterinary Association studyfound that 42% of microchips were not registered by pet owners. 

What do I do if my pet is lost?  

Losing a pet is a terrifying experience, and pet owners often do not know where to start looking for their wayward pet. Good Samaritans who find pets often take them to an animal shelter or veterinary hospital. Most hospitals and shelters use a universal microchip scanner that will detect your pet’s identification number that is stored in a database. Authorized veterinary hospitals and shelters are permitted to retrieve the pet’s owner information. The microchip can then be searched on the American Animal Hospital Association’s universal website https://petmicrochiplookup.org, which is like a Google database for microchips. This generator informs the finder who to contact to verify owner contact information. Other steps to help recover your lost pet include:  

• Contacting your pet’s microchip registry and ensuring your pet is flagged as lost 
• Contacting local animal shelters, rescue organizations, and veterinary hospitals and providing them a photo and description of your lost pet 
• Walking or driving through your neighborhood and alerting your neighbors that your pet is missing
• Placing visible signs in the area with a clear photo of your pet and your contact information
• Listing your pet as missing on local and national pet-finder websites
• Listing your pet on The Lost Pets of Whatcom County and Bellingham Lost and Found Pets Facebook pages if your are local to our area

Pets who run away are often injured before they are found. This can require emergency veterinary care so consider purchasing pet insurance like Trupanion to ensure funds are available for such care. 

Lost pet preventions tips  

Preventing a mischievous pet from sneaking outside is not always possible. However, pet owners can take steps to decrease the chances of their pets going missing and to increase their chances of being quickly returned home. Ensure you do the following:

• Always have a secondary form of identification such as an embroidered collar on your pet. 
• Consider placing a GPS collar on your pet for extra safety. 
• Spay or neuter your pet to decrease their desire to roam.
• Always keep your pet on a leash in public.
• Properly socialize your pet to ensure new people, places, or sounds do not scare them and cause them to run. 
• Teach your pet to sit and stay on command. 
• Secure your yard and home because many pets accidentally escape from their yards through an open fence or broken gate. 
• Stay alert when you walk or go anywhere in public with your pet. 
• Don’t leave pets outside and unsupervised at night or when you are sleeping. 

Our Animal Emergency Care team hopes you never have to experience the worry of a lost pet. Call our office if you need to report a lost pet in our area and schedule an appointment with your family veterinarian to have your pet microchipped. #AECprevents

The post From Lost to Found: Importance of Microchipping Your Pet appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

Why do dogs bite?

Many dog breeds have been blamed unjustifiably and earned reputations for being aggressive.  The truth of the matter is any dog breed, age, sex, size, or personality can bite people or animals. Even dogs who are generally calm or friendly have the potential to bite. Common reasons a dog may bite include:

• Being startled by an unexpected sound or a person suddenly approaching
• Stress or anxiety
• Fear of a person, object, or situation such as being touched by a stranger
• Fearing their territory is being invaded or threatened since they are territorial
• Trying to protect themselves or their owner
• Sickness, injury, or pain
• Play biting

Dog socialization for dog-bite prevention  

Many dog-bite incidents can be avoided with proper training and socialization for your dog. Proper socialization prepares your dog to enjoy interactions and become comfortable in any situation. Early training and socialization is critical because dogs are most receptive to learning between the ages of 3 and 14 weeks. However, learning is a lifelong process and your furry pal could grow fearful and anxious of new experiences or could develop aggression toward people or other animals without proper positive socialization. Recommendations for proper socialization and training include:

• Enrolling your puppy or adult dog in reward-based behavior training class
• Exposing them to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells in high-traffic areas after they are vaccinated and on parasite control
• Providing ample praise and treats after each positive interaction with a new sound, animal, or person
• Always keeping your dog on a fixed-length leash in public
• Providing your dog with a consistent daily routine of training, socialization, and play
• Teaching your dog to sit and come on command should they accidentally get loose
• Providing your dog with lifelong diverse experiences to encourage them to enjoy and not fear new places, people, or animals

Responsible pet ownership for dog-bite prevention

Responsible pet ownership will decrease the chances of your dog biting or being adversely affected by another biting dog. Regular preventive care visits will ensure your dog is current with their vaccinations and protect them from contracting or spreading dangerous infectious diseases. Dogs who bite another human or animal require extensive quarantining and are at risk for euthanasia, especially if they have not been vaccinated against rabies. Dogs who are bitten require immediate veterinary care so consider purchasing pet insurance like Trupanion to ensure funds are available for emergency medical care. Other responsible pet ownership steps include:

• Spaying or neutering your dog to decrease aggressive tendencies and their desire to roam
• Scheduling a veterinary wellness exam to rule out medical causes for your dog’s aggressive behavior
• Scheduling a veterinary behavior consultation exam if your dog shows aggressive tendencies and medical problems have been ruled out
• Providing your dog with ample opportunities for daily exercise and play to prevent aggression because of boredom or pent-up energy 

Understanding dog body language 

Dogs have unique communication methods. Understanding that a dog staring longingly at the cookie jar wants another treat is easy. However, subtle changes in a dog’s body language can signal that they are anxious or uncomfortable and have the potential to bite. Never make direct eye contact or approach a dog who is barking, growling, or aggressively advancing toward you or your pet. Never scold or yell at a dog who is growling or behaving aggressively since this can make them feel more threatened. Body posture warning signs include: 

• Ears up, forward, or flattened
• Raised hair on their back or tail
• Straight or raised tail with possible tail wagging
• Stiff and straight-legged stance
• Staring aggressively and walking toward a perceived threat
• Baring teeth or repeatedly licking lips
• Crouching to appear small because of fear
• Tail between their legs

Dog-bite prevention methods 

Dog bites are often unexpected and can be stressful for the people and dogs involved. Avoiding risky situations will decrease the chances of a bite. Dog lovers may find it difficult to hold back their desire to cuddle a new friend but you should avoid petting or aggressively approaching an unfamiliar dog. Never approach a dog when:

• An unfamiliar dog is without their owner
• The owner of an unfamiliar dog does not give you permission to approach them
• The dog is on the other side of a fence or in a crate or kennel
• An unfamiliar dog is injured
• A mother dog is resting with their puppies
• A dog is hiding or seeking time alone  

Ensure you safely restrain your dog and remove them from the situation if they bite a person or another animal. Check on the person or pet affected and call for emergency care if needed. Provide your contact information and your pet’s proof of rabies vaccination. Pets who are bitten by a dog could require emergency veterinary care because dog bites are painful, are often more serious than they appear on the surface, and can lead to dangerous infections without treatment. Immediately call your family veterinarian or bring your dog to Animal Emergency Care if another dog bites them. #AECprevents

The post Pet Owners’ Guide to Dog Bite Prevention  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is lily toxicity in pets?

Lily plants and flowers are popular springtime decor in many homes and gardens. A variety of plants and flowers are referred to as lilies, including hybrid lily plants. This diversity can be confusing to pet owners who are unfamiliar with pet-toxic plants. True lilies or daylilies are extremely toxic to cats, and the entire plant including the stems, leaves, flowers, pollen, and vase water can be deadly if ingested. Small amounts of any lily part are toxic, and cats who groom only a few pollen grains from their paws or body can become poisoned. The exact chemical that is toxic to cats has not been identified. Cats who ingest lilies are at risk for renal failure and death without treatment. Dogs who ingest lilies do not develop renal failure but may experience minor gastrointestinal (GI) upset. Other plants named “lily” which are not true lilies, including lily of the valley and flame lilies, can cause heart problems and organ failure when ingested by dogs and cats.

Lily toxicity signs in pets

Lily toxicity signs will vary among cats and these dangerous plants affect some pets more than others. The reason is unclear. Lily toxicity signs occur less than 12 hours after ingestion and renal damage occurs between 12 and 24 hours after exposure. Signs include: 

• Decreased activity
• Lethargy 
• Excess drooling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Dehydration
• Lack of urination after one or two days

Lily toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

Diagnosis of lily toxicity is based on clinical signs, a history of ingestion, or owners who found plant pieces in their pet’s vomit. Your pet will require immediate veterinary care if you suspect they have had contact with this plant or you have observed them eating a portion of a lily plant or flower. Bring a photo or flower from the plant to the veterinary hospital for identification when possible to help with a fast diagnosis and treatment plan. Cats who ingest lilies are at risk for irreversible kidney damage and some do not recover despite aggressive veterinary medical care. Cats who do not receive treatment less than 18 hours after toxic lily ingestion will experience irreversible kidney failure and will not likely survive. Your veterinarian will recommend blood and urine tests to closely monitor your pet’s kidney and organ function. Treatment for lily toxicity includes:

• Induced vomiting if the pet ingested the plant less than two or three hours ago
• Anti-nausea medication
• Activated charcoal for toxin absorption
• Intravenous fluids to support the kidneys and prevent dehydration
• Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
• Body temperature monitoring and regulation 
• Dialysis if urine production has stopped

Payment options for lily toxicity treatment in pets 

Pets undergoing treatment for lily toxicity will likely require an extended hospital stay and several follow-up appointments to ensure their kidneys are healthy. This long-term care can result in a large veterinary bill but several payment options are available to cover treatment costs. Purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion will ensure funds are available for emergency treatment. Trupanion will pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other payment options include:

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

Lily toxicity prevention for pets

Cats will naturally investigate plants by chewing or pawing at the flowers, so you must ensure they do not have access to any lily plants or flowers. Do not let your pets have access to the yard if lilies are present. Check the ASPCA toxic plant list before bringing any plants indoors or planting them in your garden. Provide pet-safe plant material such as fresh catnip to decrease your cat’s desire to seek out other plants. 

A quick response and treatment is critical for a successful outcome in pets who ingest toxic lilies. Immediately call your family veterinarian or bring your pet to Animal Emergency Care if it is after hours. #AECprevents

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

What is xylitol toxicity in pets?

Xylitol is found naturally as sugar alcohol in berries, plums, oats, corn, mushrooms, and other fruits, and has increased recently in popularity as a sugar substitute because of its low glycemic index and dental plaque fighting properties. Xylitol looks and tastes like sugar, has 40% less calories, and is commonly used in diabetic and low-carbohydrate diets. Humans who ingest xylitol may experience a laxative effect. However, pets, especially dogs, who ingest xylitol can become hypoglycemic in 30 minutes and can be affected for more than 12 hours. Xylitol is quickly released in a pet’s bloodstream and triggers the pancreas to release three to seven times the amount of insulin that is normally released with an equivalent amount of sugar. Small amounts can be deadly and only one stick of sugarless gum can cause poisoning in small dogs. Toxicity is variable and pets who ingest large amounts of xylitol are at risk of liver failure and death. Why xylitol affects the liver in dogs and whether cats experience the same effect is not known.

Xylitol toxicity signs in pets

Xylitol toxicity signs may not be immediately obvious and can take up 8 to 12 hours in some cases. However, most dogs will show signs within 30 minutes of ingesting a product that contains xylitol. Signs depend on the amount ingested and include:

• Vomiting
• Weakness or lethargy
• Depression
• Difficulty standing
• Incoordination
• Tremors
• Yellowing of skin or mucous membranes
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Coma

Xylitol toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

A xylitol toxicity diagnosis is based on a pet’s ingestion history and clinical signs. Some dogs will not show immediate signs of poisoning, but you must bring them to your veterinarian immediately if you observe them eating anything that contains xylitol. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting if the ingestion has occurred recently, but you should never induce vomiting in your pet unless directed by a veterinarian. Vomiting can be dangerous for some pets with xylitol poisoning and can lead to increased dehydration or aspiration pneumonia. Poisoned pets will likely require an extended hospital stay for emergency care, treatment, and continued observation. Your veterinarian may recommend several blood tests to closely monitor for changes in blood sugar, organ function, and electrolytes. Treatments to combat hypoglycemia, electrolyte imbalances, and potential liver failure may include: 

• Intravenous (IV) dextrose
• IV fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Liver protecting medications
• Hourly blood glucose tests for more than 12 hours
• Anti-nausea medication
• Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
• Body temperature monitoring and regulation with specialized warming pads
• Anticonvulsants if seizures develop

Dogs who are treated immediately for xylitol toxicity will usually recover. However, dogs who do not receive immediate treatment or who have ingested large amounts of xylitol that has affected their liver have a low survival chance. 

Financial planning for treatment of xylitol toxicity in pets

Pets undergoing xylitol toxicity treatment often require an extended hospital stay and several checkups which can result in a large veterinary bill. However, pet health insurance like Trupanion will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s emergency care for an accidental poisoning. Trupanion will pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other alternative payment options 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 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.

Xylitol toxicity prevention in pets

Keeping any products containing xylitol out of paws’ reach is the easiest, most important method of preventing xylitol toxicity in your pet. In addition, always check the label before giving human food treats such as peanut butter to your pet. Never brush your pet’s teeth with human toothpaste which may contain xylitol. Some veterinary dental products also contain non-toxic amounts of xylitol, and you should always follow veterinary instructions when using these products. 

Call your family veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested a product with xylitol or bring them to Animal Emergency Care immediately if they are showing xylitol toxicity signs. #AECprevents

Sources: 

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952819

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/xylitol?query=xylitol%20ingestion

https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/paws-xylitol-its-dangerous-dogs

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

What is rodenticide toxicity in pets?

Many types of commercial rodenticides are available and all vary in toxicity and action mechanism but have the same goal of ridding homes and surrounding areas of rats or mice. However, the deadly effects of these dangerous poisons often affect more than rats and mice, including your pets. The toxic effects depend on the type and category of rodenticide that is ingested. Common rodenticides include:

• Anticoagulant —These include warfarin, brodifacoum, dopaquinone, and bromadiolone. Anticoagulant rodenticides are the most common type and they function to disrupt blood clotting in an animal by inhibiting the body’s ability to activate vitamin K reserves. This poison leads to widespread blood vessel destruction and bleeding. 
• Non-anticoagulant — Bromethalin is the most commonly used poison in this category, and small amounts are deadly to rats or wildlife. Bromethalin disrupts the brain’s ability to oxygenate and leads to swelling and other neurologic problems. There is no antidote for bromethalin toxicity. 
• Cholecalciferol — This poison produces excess calcium in the blood and leads to hardening of soft tissue throughout the body. Kidney damage can also occur. 
• Zinc Phosphide — This poison is intended for outdoor use only, and is commonly used around farms. Ingestion causes the formation of a dangerous gas that leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs and the inability to breathe. 

Rodenticide toxicity signs in pets

Clinical signs of rodenticide toxicity in your pet can take several days before they are obvious. Type and severity of signs will vary depending on the type and amount of rodenticide that was ingested and may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea which may contain blood
• Bruising
• Pale gums
• Nose bleeds
• Hyperexcitability
• Depression
• Decreased appetite
• Weakness
• Rapid breathing
• Difficulty regulating body temperature
• Seizures
• Muscle tremors
• Bleeding in multiple body locations
• Hind limb paralysis
• Increased thirst and urination

Rodenticide toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

Immediately take your pet for emergency care if you suspect they have ingested any rodenticide. Diagnosing rodenticide toxicity without first-hand knowledge of ingestion and the type of poison can be difficult, and you must ensure you let your veterinarian know if there is any rat poison in or around your pet’s environment, whether or not you saw them actually eat anything. Diagnosis is based on history and clinical signs. Bringing the poison box or label to the veterinary clinic will help with a fast diagnosis and treatment plan. Pets who have been accidently poisoned will require hospitalization for treatment and prolonged observation. Treatment will depend on severity and type of poisoning and may include:

• Blood tests to determine clotting ability 
• Blood tests to check for organ damage and anemia
• Advanced imaging (i.e., MRI, CT) to monitor for brain damage 
• Intravenous fluids
• Specialized warming pads to regulate body temperature
• Heart and blood pressure monitoring
• Induction of vomiting
• Activated charcoal to absorb poison 
• Anti-nausea medication
• Medication to control seizures
• Blood transfusions
• Vitamin K
• Gastroprotectants
• Feeding tubes
• Specialized diet

Financial options for rodenticide toxicity treatment in pets

Pets undergoing treatment for rodenticide toxicity may require an extended hospital stay and several follow-up appointments. This is because the lasting effects and respective treatment can span several weeks. This long-term care can be expensive but several financial options are available to cover treatment costs. Consider purchasing a health insurance plan like Trupanion before an accidental poisoning with your pet occurs. Other options such as Care Credit and Scratch Pay allow payments to be spread out over longer periods with delayed interest rates in some cases. You can also invest in a pet health savings account to ensure funds are available for your pet’s health care. 

Rodenticide toxicity prevention in pets

Preventing access is vital to ensure your pet does not accidentally ingest any rodenticide. Humane traps are a safer alternative and do not involve placing any poison around your pet’s environment. You could also hire a professional exterminator if rodents have become unmanageable; a professional team should be able to develop a plan to remove the problem while keeping your pet family safe. Keep pets out of rooms or yards where poison is present and immediately remove any deceased rodents or wildlife. 

Bring your pet for immediate care if you suspect they have ingested rodenticide or if they are showing rodenticide toxicity signs. Call your family veterinarian or bring your pet to Animal Emergency Care. Rodenticide toxicity can be fatal to pets and immediate treatment will give your pet the best chance of survival. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952117

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/special-pet-topics/poisoning/rodenticide-poisoning?query=rodenticide%20poisoning

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=8671284

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

What is marijuana toxicity in pets?

Marijuana is a mix of cut, dried, and ground flowers and leaves from the Cannabis sativa plant. The psychoactive agent delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most potent cannabinoid chemical and is responsible for the euphoric or high feeling that humans seek from this recreational drug. THC is also the culprit behind many pet emergencies. Other cannabinoid compounds, including CBD and hemp, are non-psychoactive derivative compounds from the cannabis plant and rarely lead to veterinary emergencies. Pets most commonly become intoxicated from eating marijuana in edible, plant, or oil forms. THC is the portion of marijuana that affects pets and is metabolized by the liver, and then distributed to the brain and other fatty tissues in the body. Many marijuana edibles contain other chemicals toxic to pets including chocolate or xylitol which can be deadly without treatment. 

Marijuana toxicity signs in pets

Pets can show toxicity signs only 30 to 90 minutes following ingestion. Marijuana toxicity signs vary and depend on the amount and type of marijuana ingested. Signs include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Slow heart rate
• Incoordination
• Listlessness
• Difficulty balancing
• Easily startled
• Vocalization
• Excess salivation or drooling
• Seizures 
• Coma
• Urinary incontinence
• Low body temperature

Marijuana toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

Many pet owners may be reluctant or embarrassed to admit that their pets have ingested marijuana in their home. However, you must tell your veterinarian if you think your pet has eaten any type of marijuana-derived substance or plant. Treatment is determined by the type and amount of toxic agent that your pet ingests, and early marijuana signs can mimic other toxicities such as antifreeze. Therefore your veterinarian needs to know the toxin in order to formulate the appropriate treatment. Marijuana toxicity may be diagnosed on the pet’s ingestion history, clinical signs, or a positive urine test. Fortunately marijuana toxicity is rarely fatal but can be deadly in pets who ingest large amounts or concentrated oil products. Immediately bring your pet for emergency care if you suspect marijuana toxicity. Treatment may include:

• Inducing vomiting if the pet ingested marijuana less than 30 minutes ago and has not developed clinical symptoms.
• Anti-nausea medication
• Activated charcoal for toxin absorption
• Intravenous fluids
• Specialized warming pads
• Sedation to decrease stress
• Seizure treatment
• Heart rate monitoring

Pets should remain hospitalized until all marijuana signs have subsided which can take up to 72 hours. 

Payment options for marijuana toxicity treatment in pets 

Emergency care and hospitalization for marijuana toxicity can lead to 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. Consider purchasing a pet insurance plan like Trupanion which has policies that will pay your veterinary clinic directly and eliminate the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other payment options include:

• CareCredit
• Scratch Pay
• Pet health savings account
• Short-term loans

Marijuana toxicity prevention for pets

A pet’s curious nature can lead to accidental ingestion of a variety of toxic ingredients. Follow these tips to reduce the chance of your pet experiencing marijuana toxicity:

• Keep all recreational and prescribed medications out of paws’ reach.
• Store marijuana in a locked box or medicine container.
• Don’t leave marijuana edibles on the table or in a room with unsupervised pets.
• Keep pets out of rooms when smoking and don’t allow them back until the air is clear of any residual smoke. 
• Consider keeping marijuana plants in a separate room that is off-limits to all pets, especially cats. 

Call your family veterinarian right away or bring your pet to our hospital at Animal Emergency Care if you suspect they have ingested marijuana. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951863

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/toxicities-from-human-drugs/toxicities-from-illicit-and-abused-drugs?query=marijuana%20toxicosis#v3353183

https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/marijuana-toxicosis-animals

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