The diagnosis
“Your dog has hip dysplasia.” A dreaded diagnosis that confirms an owner’s worst fears, these words conjure up feelings of guilt (why did I buy my puppy from a pet store?) or betrayal (I thought mixed breed dogs were healthier than purebreds, or I thought Bosco’s breeder certified her stock against genetic diseases). But neither response is productive or appropriate. The job now is to develop a treatment program for your dog.
The facts about canine hip dysplasia appear simple. Hip dysplasia is a polygenetic disease, one that is caused by several genes, with an environmental influence. Thus some dogs that are predisposed to the disease by their genes will not develop it if the environmental factors are missing from their lives.
The hip joint is a ball and socket arrangement in which the femoral head (the ball) of the thigh bone (the femur) fits into the acetabulum (the socket) of the pelvic structure. The assembly is held in place by ligaments and muscles. Malformation of either the femoral head or the acetabulum, laxity in the ligaments, and poor muscle condition all contribute to the pain and ultimate arthritis of the disease.
But the disease is not as simple as this description implies. A dog can be dysplastic in one or both hips, can have a shallow socket and a normal ball, a malformed ball and normal socket, a shallow socket and malformed ball, a misaligned joint, loose ligaments, or a combination of these structural problems complicated by environmental factors such as rate of growth, level of nutrition, and exercise. Fast-growing puppies of large breeds are more at risk, even if both parents had excellent hips, because their bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments may grow at different rates. Other factors include abnormal forces during weight-bearing that can stretch and tear the joint capsule, fracture the acetabular rim, or otherwise deform the joint.

Treatment
Surgery is a viable option for dogs with severe dysplasia. In these severe cases, veterinary surgeons can replace the hip with an artificial joint. However, most dogs require relief from pain and a moderate diet and exercise program to reduce the effects of the disease. John Cargill and Susan Thorpe-Vargas wrote a multiple-part series on hip dysplasia in Dog World in 1995 that covered the disease from diagnosis to surgical intervention. Although geared to breeders, the series had some useful information for the pet owner who discovers that his dog has hip problems. MedVet Review, a newsletter published by MedVet in Columbus, Ohio, also has some tips for management of the dysplastic dog.
Many dysplastic dogs are overweight, so a reducing diet is in order if the dog’s weight is causing undue pressure on his hips. Enforced rest is the simplest therapy for short-term relief, according to MedVet, and swimming is the best exercise because it can strengthen the muscles around the hips without causing pain from weight-bearing. MedVet recommends 15-20 minutes of swimming two-to-five times per week for relief.
Like humans with an injury, dogs with hip dysplasia may compensate for the loss of rear end motion and the pain involved in weight-bearing exercise by shifting balance, a disturbance that can cause spinal problems. Range-of-motion stretching exercises can help prevent muscle atrophy and keep the joints flexible. Chiropractic treatment may help relieve the stress of the disease on the spine. Owners of dysplastic dogs can learn to do stretching exercises from their veterinarian or a chiropractor.
Drug therapies are helpful to deal with pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, naproxen, adequan, and cosequin have been proven effective in many cases. A dose of aspirin or other drug is often helpful before a bout of exercise. However, since aspirin is not tolerated by some dogs and can cause internal bleeding, and determining proper doses of naproxen can be difficult, doses should be prescribed by a veterinarian who has examined the dog, not by the dog owner. Some dogs respond well to phenylbutazone, but this drug can suppress bone marrow formation.
Corticosteroids should not be used to treat arthritis because they have adverse effects on cartilage and other unacceptable side effects.
Although no scientific studies have been done on the effects of acupuncture on hip dysplasia, anecdotal evidence attests to the potential for its successful use to relieve pain and promote natural healing, according to Cargill and Thorpe-Vargas in the October 1995 Dog World.
There are cases in which surgery is necessary. If the dog does not respond to the chosen therapies and continues to be in pain, a veterinarian may recommend one of the following surgeries:
• Triple pelvic osteotomy, a procedure to stabilize the joint and prevent degenerative changes that accompany weight-bearing stress on an abnormal hip;
• Femoral head excision to prevent bone-on-bone friction; or
• Total hip replacement.
The decision on type of surgery is based on the age of the dog, the progress of the disease, and the general health of the animal.
Sally and Dr. Jones decided to use a combination of therapies for Ranger. She could take him swimming a couple of times a week, learn to do the range-of-motion exercises, try a course of adequan treatment, keep him from climbing stairs and jumping (no more agility class or open obedience), and have him examined by a chiropractor. Dr. Jones would examine him again in six months and prescribe changes in the protocol if necessary.
Like most dogs with mild hip dysplasia, Ranger has good days and bad days. Sally has learned to accept his limitations and to relax about the diagnosis – while often painful and sometimes debilitating, mild-to-moderate hip dysplasia in the young dog can be successfully treated without resorting to surgery.
Norma Bennett Woolf

Norma Bennett Woolf

Distemper
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, distemper is the “greatest single disease threat to the world’s dog population. Better than 50 percent of the adult dogs that contract the disease die from it. Among puppies, the death rate from distemper often reaches 80 percent.” Distemper affects other animals as well; raccoons, coyotes, wolves, foxes, ferrets, skunks, weasels, mink, badgers, hyenas, and jackals can also catch the disease and a population of lions in Africa has been decimated by it. The virus is spread through secretions in saliva, respiratory passages, urine, and feces and by inhalation of airborne droplets from sneezes and coughs. There is a difference of opinion about the longevity of the virus in the environment, with some sources saying it does not survive for extended periods and others
saying that the virus can survive freezing in winter. Whether it is long-lived or not, there’s no doubt that distemper is widespread and potentially deadly. The most common victim is an unvaccinated pup between the ages of three months and eight months. However, older dogs can contract the disease as well if they have not been vaccinated or if their immunity is incomplete.
About half of infected dogs – those with strong immune systems – show little or no symptoms of the disease. In other dogs, the illness is mild. In those dogs with compromised immune symptoms, the disease and its secondary infections can be serious or even fatal.

Distemper symptoms
Distemper may be misdiagnosed in its early stages because it begins as an upper respiratory infection resembling a cold., including fever of 103-105 degrees (normal for a dog is 100-102.5), loss of appetite, listlessness, and a watery discharge from eyes and nose. But dogs do not get colds like people do, so if these symptoms arise with a puppy, call the veterinary clinic immediately. Within a few days, the discharge turns yellow and becomes thick and sticky and the pup has a dry cough, and may have diarrhea and vomiting. Within the first two weeks of the disease, the symptoms fluctuate.
Some dogs shake off the disease after this stage, but others progress into pneumonia and neurological involvement. Seizures, encephalitis, partial paralysis, head-tilting, chorea (jerking or twitching) and other neurological signs can follow. Some dogs also experience a hardening of the nose leather and the footpads. Even if the initial disease has been mild, these symptoms can show up weeks later.
The virus can also persist in the system, attacking the spleen, thymus gland and lymph nodes of the immune system and creating immune deficiencies that allow bacterial infections to gain hold.

Distemper treatment and prevention
Treatment consists of fluids to prevent dehydration, antibiotics to treat or prevent secondary infection, drugs to stop diarrhea and vomiting, and anti-convulsants and sedatives to control seizures. Prevention is better. There are vaccines for puppies and adult dogs that provide immunity to the disease. Most veterinarians and breeders recommend a course of vaccinations for puppies to build immunity as the mother’s antibodies diminish in the puppy’s body. Boosters are also recommended, although a yearly booster is probably not necessary according to the latest research.

Parvovirus
In the late 1970s, a previously unknown rapid-onset, deadly virus began attacking canine digestive systems with great fury, often killing puppies in 48 hours. Spread through contact with infected feces, the long-lived virus attacked rapidly reproducing cells such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and heart.
Researchers identified the disease as a canine parvovirus, CPV-2, perhaps a mutation of feline panleukopenia or a parvovirus that affects wildlife. CPV-2 also infects coyotes and other canids.
Canine parvovirus survives in the environment for five months or more and clings to shoes, floors, beds, and other surfaces where it can infect the next unprotected puppy to enter the house. It is resistant to most household cleansers but can be killed by bleach.
Parvovirus can decimate a litter, a kennel, a shelter, a pet store once it gets hold. Kennels that experience the disease often close their doors until they bleach every surface, towel, and dog bed.
ntroduction
Puppy buyers are constantly reminded to look for clean conditions when considering the source of that new family pet. Whether looking at puppies at a breeder’s kennel, a shelter, a pet store, or in the neighbor’s garage, the puppy and his living area should be clean. This caution is not merely a matter of housekeeping, it is a matter of life and death for the puppy and potential heartbreak for the owner.
Distemper and parvovirus thrive in dirty conditions. These viruses can strike in a matter of hours, especially if the litter was born to an unvaccinated mother and the pups are stressed by intestinal parasites, poor nutrition, temperature extremes, or shipping.

Distemper
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, distemper is the “greatest single disease threat to the world’s dog population. Better than 50 percent of the adult dogs that contract the disease die from it. Among puppies, the death rate from distemper often reaches 80 percent.” Distemper affects other animals as well; raccoons, coyotes, wolves, foxes, ferrets, skunks, weasels, mink, badgers, hyenas, and jackals can also catch the disease and a population of lions in Africa has been decimated by it. The virus is spread through secretions in saliva, respiratory passages, urine, and feces and by inhalation of airborne droplets from sneezes and coughs. There is a difference of opinion about the longevity of the virus in the environment, with some sources saying it does not survive for extended periods and others
saying that the virus can survive freezing in winter. Whether it is long-lived or not, there’s no doubt that distemper is widespread and potentially deadly. The most common victim is an unvaccinated pup between the ages of three months and eight months. However, older dogs can contract the disease as well if they have not been vaccinated or if their immunity is incomplete.
About half of infected dogs – those with strong immune systems – show little or no symptoms of the disease. In other dogs, the illness is mild. In those dogs with compromised immune symptoms, the disease and its secondary infections can be serious or even fatal.

Distemper symptoms
Distemper may be misdiagnosed in its early stages because it begins as an upper respiratory infection resembling a cold., including fever of 103-105 degrees (normal for a dog is 100-102.5), loss of appetite, listlessness, and a watery discharge from eyes and nose. But dogs do not get colds like people do, so if these symptoms arise with a puppy, call the veterinary clinic immediately. Within a few days, the discharge turns yellow and becomes thick and sticky and the pup has a dry cough, and may have diarrhea and vomiting. Within the first two weeks of the disease, the symptoms fluctuate.
Some dogs shake off the disease after this stage, but others progress into pneumonia and neurological involvement. Seizures, encephalitis, partial paralysis, head-tilting, chorea (jerking or twitching) and other neurological signs can follow. Some dogs also experience a hardening of the nose leather and the footpads. Even if the initial disease has been mild, these symptoms can show up weeks later.
The virus can also persist in the system, attacking the spleen, thymus gland and lymph nodes of the immune system and creating immune deficiencies that allow bacterial infections to gain hold.

Distemper treatment and prevention
Treatment consists of fluids to prevent dehydration, antibiotics to treat or prevent secondary infection, drugs to stop diarrhea and vomiting, and anti-convulsants and sedatives to control seizures. Prevention is better. There are vaccines for puppies and adult dogs that provide immunity to the disease. Most veterinarians and breeders recommend a course of vaccinations for puppies to build immunity as the mother’s antibodies diminish in the puppy’s body. Boosters are also recommended, although a yearly booster is probably not necessary according to the latest research.

Parvovirus
In the late 1970s, a previously unknown rapid-onset, deadly virus began attacking canine digestive systems with great fury, often killing puppies in 48 hours. Spread through contact with infected feces, the long-lived virus attacked rapidly reproducing cells such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and heart.
Researchers identified the disease as a canine parvovirus, CPV-2, perhaps a mutation of feline panleukopenia or a parvovirus that affects wildlife. CPV-2 also infects coyotes and other canids.
Canine parvovirus survives in the environment for five months or more and clings to shoes, floors, beds, and other surfaces where it can infect the next unprotected puppy to enter the house. It is resistant to most household cleansers but can be killed by bleach.
Parvovirus can decimate a litter, a kennel, a shelter, a pet store once it gets hold. Kennels that experience the disease often close their doors until they bleach every surface, towel, and dog bed.

Parvovirus symptoms and treatment
Parvovirus incubates for seven to 14 days. Initial signs of illness are lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting, followed within 24 hours by high fever (up to 106 degrees) and profuse, often bloody diarrhea. The dog’s abdomen is tucked up and he appears to be in extreme pain. Some puppies show only the first stage of depression and abdominal pain, then go into shock and die.
Parvovirus can also attack the rapidly-growing myocardial (muscle) cells of the heart in puppies born to a bitch who is not vaccinated against the disease. Those puppies that survive this form of the disease often have heart problems and die young.
There are several available tests to determine if parvovirus is the disease-causing agent, but treatment with fluids and antibiotics should commence while waiting for the test results. Puppies with bloody diarrhea are in danger from loss of fluids and electrolytes; they must be rehydrated and given antibiotics to prevent secondary infections such as pneumonia and septicemia.
Food and water should be withheld until the puppy’s system begins to overcome the disease. Small amounts of a bland diet of cottage cheese and rice or a prescription diet can be offered once the diarrhea and vomiting have subsided.

Parvovirus prevention
As with distemper, parvovirus is best prevented by vaccination. However, because there can be a gap between the gradual decline in residual immunity from mother’s milk and the pup’s ability to respond to the vaccination, some
vaccinated puppies may still get the disease. Therefore, cleanliness of the kennel facilities is imperative, especially in kennels with lots of litters and shelters or pet stores that constantly receive new dogs. Kennel runs and puppy cages should be cleaned of organic matter and then bleached before new animals are brought in. Adjacent runs should be bleached if they are contaminated by flowing water during the hosing.
Although it is not as serious in adults as in puppies, parvovirus can attack adult dogs. Therefore booster vaccinations are also recommended, although they may not be necessary every year for pet dogs not exposed to unvaccinated animals or their feces.

Sources
Information for this article came from
UC Davis Book of Dogs : The Complete Medical Reference Guide for Dogs and Puppies, School of Veterinary Medicine Staff, Mordecai Siegal editor/Hardcover/1995
Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook Delbert G. Carlson, James M. Giffin/Hardcover/1992
The American Veterinary Medical Association, www.avma.org. disparv
Norma Bennett Woolf

Obesity is one of the most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats in the U.S., according to recent studies indicating that 30 to 40 percent of U.S. pets are overweight and 25 percent of pets in the U.S. are obese. Similar to people, too much weight causes health issues in pets such as respiratory problems, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. Overweight pets also have a greater chance of tearing ligaments and wearing down their joints, both of which make getting around painful.

Pets weigh much less than people, so an extra pound or two makes a big difference. It is important to keep an eye on your pet’s diet, exercise routine and weight throughout his or her life. Average-sized cats should weigh between eight and 10 pounds, while a dog’s ideal weight varies with his breed and size. A small dog may weigh about the same as a cat, while large-breed dogs may weigh sixty pounds or more. Your veterinarian can tell you what your dog’s ideal weight should be based on his size and breed.
How do I determine if my pet is overweight?

Your veterinarian can tell you if your pet is overweight during your pet’s regular wellness exam. Your veterinarian may take a sample of your pet’s blood for laboratory tests to determine if there is a medical reason for your pet’s increased weight. If your pet is older, his weight gain may be attributed to lower activity and metabolism levels. Another cause of weight gain is giving your pet too many treats.

At home, you can monitor your pet’s weight by feeling her ribs. Place your fingers on the side of her rib cage and press or rub gently. If you can easily feel your pet’s ribs, she is probably not overweight, but if you have to press against her sides to feel her ribs, she may be overweight. You should also be able to easily spot your pet’s “waist,” that is, her body should become more slender as you look from the end of the ribs to the hindquarters.
What should I feed my pet?

The same weight loss methods that work in humans also apply to pets. Controlling your pet’s caloric intake and making sure he gets the right amount of exercise is the best way to help keep your pet at a healthy weight. Your veterinarian can help you develop a diet and exercise plan to keep your pet fit and trim.

If your pet needs to lose weight, he should do so gradually — a one to two percent loss per week is best. You can control his caloric intake in a few ways:

* Give him less food
* Give him dry food rather than canned food (dry food usually has fewer calories)
* Your veterinarian may prescribe a special diet designed specifically for weight loss

For dogs, the best diet is low in fat and high in fiber. Puppies (dogs that are less than one-year old) need a diet with extra protein, calcium and iron that is specially formulated for their developing bodies. Cats need a diet that is higher in protein.
“Treat” your pet right

If your dog gets too many treats because you just can’t resist his charm, try feeding him low-calorie treats. Your dog may enjoy fruits and raw vegetables such as apples, oranges, carrots, broccoli, potatoes and green beans. If he has trouble digesting raw vegetables and fruit or if the weather is hot, you can also give him an ice cube for a calorie-free treat!

Dog and cat treats are widely available at pet food and grocery stores. It is important to consider your pet’s entire daily caloric intake, no matter what type of treat you give him. Therefore, you should not add treats to his daily food allotment, but rather substitute treats for a small portion of your pet’s food. An easy way to do this is to take a few pieces of dry food from one of your pet’s meals and give them as treats.

Never give your pet table scraps. People food usually contains fat, salt and other ingredients that your pet does not need and will cause him to gain weight. People food may even cause indigestion or diarrhea in your pet. Make sure to keep all people food in a place where your pet can’t reach, such as your refrigerator or a covered trash can.

Most pets get the appropriate amount of fat, protein and other nutrients from their pet food, so treats should be only occasional indulgences. You should not make it a habit to vary from your pet’s regular diet of pet food. Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet and treat plan to meet your pet’s unique needs.

Your pet’s diet is just half the battle. Regular exercise is also important to help keep your pet in shape. Visit Exercising Your Pet for more information.

To protect themselves from predators, animals naturally hide their pain. Your pet may be suffering even though he isn’t showing obvious signs. Advancements in veterinary science have decoded subtle telltale signs of animal distress. Observing your pet’s behavior is vital to managing his or her pain. How well do you know your pet? Use these five clues from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to help you understand your pet’s body language.
Clue 1: Abnormal chewing habits

If your pet is showing abnormal chewing habits, such as dropping its food or chewing on one side of the mouth, it may have a dental disorder or a mouth tumor. Additional signs may include weight loss, bad breath or excessive face rubbing. Routine dental checkups are important to prevent and treat dental disorders and related pain.
Clue 2: Drastic weight gain or loss

Pain directly influences your pet’s weight and eating habits. Animals carrying excess weight have an increased chance of tearing ligaments and damaging joints. Pets with arthritis or muscle soreness may not want to access their food because bending over is uncomfortable. Arthritis pain may also cause pets to gain weight while their eating habits remain the same due to lack of exercise. Pain can also cause animals to loose their appetites which will lead to weight loss.
Clue 3: Avoids affection or handling

Did Fluffy used to be active and energetic, but now sits quietly around the house? Avoiding affection or handling may be a sign of a progressive disease such as osteoarthritis or intervertebral disc disease. Although your pet may appear to be normal before petting or handling it, the added pressure applied to its body may expose sensitive and painful areas. Hiding is also a sign of pain. Because the animal is hurting, she will hide to avoid a vulnerable position (this allows the pet to prevent painful interactions).
Clue 4: Decreased movement and exercise

Osteoarthritis or joint disease is the most common cause of pain. Pets that limp may be reluctant to go up or down stairs, exercise, or play. Weight and joint injuries can also go hand-in-hand. Losing unnecessary pounds will help overweight pets decrease pressure on sore joints and reduce pain. Consult your veterinarian about exercises, diets and medical therapies that can help improve your pet’s health.
Clue 5: “Accidents”

Pet owners often believe that “accidents” are a result of behavioral issues. Although behavioral issues may cause unwanted surprises, going to the bathroom in inappropriate places may be caused by pain. Pets with sore joints or arthritis may not make it to a convenient location due to painful obstacles like stairs.

Urinary tract infections also may cause a messy situation. In addition to having “accidents,” symptoms of a urinary tract infection may include, lethargy, fever, tender lower abdomen and difficulty urinating. Even after the urinary tract infection is dealt with it may be necessary to get a new litter box because the cat makes painful associations with the old litter box.

The lack of verbal expression does not mean that your pet is not experiencing pain. Minor behavioral change can be cause for alarm. Being aware of your pet’s habits can help you and your veterinarian assess and treat your pet’s pain. Pain management has become an integral part of your pet’s overall healthcare. Diagnosing and managing pain is among the 900 standards an animal hospital is evaluated on in order to become accredited through AAHA. For more information about the advancement of pain management, check out the AAHA/AAFP Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. Feel free to download a handout that help detects cat and dog pain courtesy of AAHA Trends online.

The normal, transparent lens in the eye focuses beams of light onto the retina so that your pet can see clearly. A cataract is a disruption of the normal arrangement of the lens fibers that interferes with sight by partially or completely blocking the clarity of the lens. A cataract may be quite small and not significantly interfere with your pet’s vision, but if the cataract becomes dense enough, vision may be lost.

It is not unusual for your pet’s eyes to become slightly blue-gray as they age. As a normal part of the aging process, the lens becomes thicker, making the eyes appear grayer. This condition, called nuclear sclerosis, usually occurs in dogs over six years of age and typically does not affect their vision. Therefore treatment for this condition is not recommended.

Cataracts can be hereditary or due to old age. Inherited conditions are the most common cause of cataracts and may be present at birth or develop when the animal is very young. They can also be caused by injury, or illness such as diabetes. If your pet’s cataracts are due to an underlying condition, such as diabetes, treating the condition may diminish the cataracts.

There is no effective medical treatment for cataracts. Cataracts are not painful, but when your pet has trouble navigating due to vision loss, his sight can be restored to near normal through surgery. A veterinary ophthalmologist will surgically remove the lens, replacing it with a plastic or acrylic prosthetic lens to allow for more focused vision. Cataract surgery generally has a 90-95% success rate, but it is also a very delicate procedure that requires extensive postoperative care by the pet owner.

After surgery, your pet will have to wear a protective collar (Elizabethan Collar) until his eye heals and you will need to keep him quiet and calm. Your pet will also require eye drops to be administered several times a day for a few weeks.

You and your veterinarian can decide if cataracts are affecting your pet’s vision enough to warrant surgery. For more information, consult with your veterinarian.

The signs may be hard to spot at first: your gray-in-the-muzzle Labrador retriever takes a little longer to get up in the morning, or your fuzzy Persian doesn’t jump as high as she used to. As time goes on, it becomes more and more clear that your pet is having a hard time moving, and soon you realize that she is in pain whenever she walks, jumps, or even sits up. It can be a hard moment for a pet owner—learning that the animal you love has arthritis. Arthritis is a condition in which an animal’s joints become inflamed. It is accompanied by pain, heat, and swelling in the joints, and it usually results in increasing stiffness and immobility. It doesn’t have to mean a poor quality of life for your pet, however. There are medications, therapies, and ways you can accommodate your home to help your pet be more comfortable and enjoy her life with you.
Step One – Your Veterinarian

The first step in caring for your pet with arthritis is making sure the disease is diagnosed correctly. The symptoms of arthritis can be hard to distinguish—animals can’t complain about their aching joints, so all that pet “parents” see is a response to pain. Animals with arthritis might avoid the activities they used to enjoy, stop jumping onto the furniture, or they might nip or seem upset when touched. Some animals may become depressed or change their eating habits; others may simply seem grumpier than usual. These symptoms can also indicate very serious problems, however, such as hypokalemia (low blood potassium) in cats, cognitive dysfunction, or certain cancers. To be sure your pet is healthy, it’s important that you take you pet to the veterinarian if you suspect she has arthrit is.

Your veterinarian can also help your pet by finding out what kind of arthritis she has, using a combination of a medical history, physical exams, X rays, blood tests, and occasionally tests on the fluid inside the joint or MRI imaging. Though it is relatively uncommon, sometimes arthritis can be caused by a bacterial infection inside a joint or an autoimmune disorder. These are treated with different medications than the more common osteoarthritis. Arthritis caused by hip or elbow dysplasia can sometimes be treated surgically. Your veterinarian needs to rule out these options before you move on to treating your pet’s arthritis.

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis in animals as well as in humans. Most elderly dogs and cats suffer from osteoarthritis to some degree. Over time, the cartilage that cushions joints wears down and bones start rubbing against each other. As the condition progresses, the friction can wear down and damage the bones themselves. This kind of arthritis can occur anywhere there is a joint, though it is most common and causes the most pain in the weight-bearing joints like the shoulders, hips, elbows, knees, and ankles. It can be easily seen in large-breed dogs, because their frames have to carry the most weight, but cats and smaller dogs are affected as well. Though there is no cure for osteoarthritis, it can be managed well through medical treatment, environmental adaptation, and diet and exercise.
Treating Your Pet Right

After diagnosing your pet’s arthritis and determining the severity of the disease, your veterinarian will decide which treatment will be most effective in treating her. In recent years, many new medications have made the treatment of arthritis much more promising. Your veterinarian might prescribe steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs to decrease the swelling in joints and make movement easier. Some veterinarians also recommend dietary supplements, which fortify the cartilage in damaged joints. It is very important that you not try to medicate your pet’s arthritis on your own, however, as human anti-inflammatories and supplements can be dangerous for animals. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is toxic to cats, for example, and cats metabolize aspirin extremely slowly and are easy to overdose.

Surgery is also an option for some animals with arthritis, particularly younger animals. Veterinary surgeons can try to reconstruct joints to give them more stability, or they may perform an arthroscopy to remove chips of damaged bone. In some large and medium breed dogs, veterinarians will chose to replace the entire hip joint. In cats and smaller breeds, they may recommend removing the top of the femoral (upper leg) bone—the leg muscles are able to compensate for the loss. In some extreme cases, where joints are very painful, unstable, and immobile, a veterinarian may perform arthrodesis—”fusing” the joint together. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you how viable surgery is for your animal—depending on your pet’s age and general health and the progression of the arthritis, surgery may or may not be an option.

Many pet owners and veterinarians are turning to complementary or holistic therapies to reduce arthritis symptoms. Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment for chronic pain, for example. Some practitioners support the use of herbal supplements and antioxidant vitamins. Massage is also gaining support, as it benefits animals both physically and emotionally. Because arthritic animals have such sore joints and muscles, however, massages can be painful for them if performed by an untrained person. Ask your veterinarian how to massage your pet without hurting her tender joints, or take her to a trained animal massage therapist.
Making Life a Little Easier

Even with treatment, arthritis makes animals less able to deal with the physical challenges of their world, whether it be slick floors, steep steps, or cold drafts. As your pet’s human “parent,” however, you have the ability to take some of those challenges away and make it easier for your furry friend to cope. A few alterations around the house can help your arthritic pet to move around more easily and confidently.

* Keep litter boxes and food and water dishes at a comfortable height, easily accessible, and on a non-slip surface such as a rubber bath mat or a piece of indoor-outdoor carpet. In a multi-level house, keep them on every floor.
* Supply a padded surface to cushion your pet’s joints while she sits and sleeps. Pet store dog and cat beds will work, as will bean bag chairs and old mattresses. Place the padding in a warm, draft-free spot.
* Make slippery surfaces like wood or linoleum floors safer with non-skid runners, available at most home improvement and hardware stores.
* If your cat’s litter box has high sides, cut a cat-sized opening in one side to let him step in and out easily, leaving one to two inches at the bottom to keep litter from spilling out.
* Ramps can help animals make it up and down stairs, on and off the porch, on and off the couch, and anywhere else where the jump may be too far for their sore joints. You can construct your own ramp with a sheet of heavy plywood covered in indoor-outdoor carpeting. Just make sure that both ends are completely secure when your pet is on the ramp, and be sure that the angle is not too steep.
* Some pets that are too stiff to use the stairs will try to use them regardless, possibly falling and hurting themselves in the process. Supervise your pet when she is using the stairs, and use a baby gate or sheet of plywood to keep the steps off limits the rest of the time.
* If you have large dog, a homemade sling can help you support a little of her weight as she tries to move around. Slip a long, wide strap made of leather, canvas, or a thick, durable fabric under her chest and hold one end in each hand. You can pull up on the ends to help her stand up and get her balance; you can also use the sling to help your dog into the car and up the stairs.
* A little warmth can help a sore animal get through a long night. Consider wrapping a hot water bottle in towels or tucking a microwaveable heating pad into your pet’s bed.
* If your pet is used to spending time alone in the yard, be sure you have a clear view to keep an eye on her. Pets with arthritis are vulnerable to attacks from other animals, they can fall and injure themselves easily, and they can become very stiff in cold or damp weather. Stay by the window and watch them when they’re outside; even better, sit outside with them.
* Groom your pet regularly. As animals lose flexibility in their joints, they can’t reach around to scratch or groom themselves the way they used to. Cats, particularly, may develop matted or dirty fur—very upsetting to a finicky feline! Regular brushing will help your pet feel comfortable and allow you to spend some quiet, affectionate time with her.

There are other ways you can help your pet at home. Think about how she spends her day, what she likes to do, and where she has to go. Think about what you can do to make each activity less strenuous and safer. If she has a favorite place to sleep, consider how you can help her get there. If she wants to climb upstairs with you to watch TV, try watching TV downstairs. You have the best awareness of your pet’s specific needs, and you may be inspired with some creative solutions!
Keep them moving

Once you have modified your pet’s environment, you can modify her lifestyle as well. A little exercise can go a long way toward making your pet more comfortable. Light activity helps strengthen muscles, keeps ligaments and tendons flexible, prevents obesity and helps blood circulate to stiff joints. Many arthritic animals move more easily and with less pain after they “warm up” with a minute or two of walking or gentle playing. Your pet may be reluctant to move at first—it can be hard to convince animals to get up when their joints are aching. You may have to provide an incentive—trail Kitty’s favorite feather toy across the floor or fill a Kong ball with food for your pup and make him chase after it. Make the exercise as positive an experience as possible by including lots of petting and affection before and after, or perhaps a healthy treat afterward.

Exercise has a flip side for arthritis patients, however. While a little moderate exercise is vital to your pet’s health, exercise that is too strenuous can cause damage to their joints. You may have to keep a close eye on your pet to prevent her from overexerting and injuring herself, particularly if she has always been used to a lot of activity. Monitor her while she’s exercising—watch for signs of exhaustion or pain, and stop the activity if you notice any discomfort.

Your pet will also benefit from a healthy diet and weight management. Obesity makes arthritis hard to manage. It increases the stress on an animal’s joints and makes it harder for them to move. Arthritis patients do well on high quality diets, fed in controlled portions, which maintain their weight at a healthy level. If you can’t feel your pet’s ribs easily, consult your veterinarian about dietary and exercise management to bring her weight down to normal.

There are a lot of options for coping with a pet with arthritis, and sometimes they can be overwhelming. Your closest ally in your battle against the disease is your family veterinarian. Talk to your veterinarian: he or she will know which treatment or combination of treatments is best for your pet’s individual needs. Most importantly, try not to get discouraged. Arthritis may well change your life with your pet, but it certainly doesn’t mean that that life is over. You may not be able to jog with your dog like you used to, for example, or get your cat to jump up after his feather toy, but you can replace these lost activities with time spent petting, grooming, massaging, or simply being near your animal friend. As you spend time caring for your pet with arthritis, you may find your bond with your pet actually increasing. Your energetic, playful friendship may eventually be replaced with the joy of a gentle, caring life together.

Diabetes mellitus, the medical name for diabetes, is a disease caused by a lack of insulin, or the inability of the body to utilize the insulin properly, that affects the level of glucose, or sugar, in your dog or cat’s blood. The glucose comes from the food that your pet eats. The food is broken down into very small components by the pet’s digestive system so their bodies can use it for energy. Glucose is one of these components, and an important source of energy.

Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream where it travels to cells throughout the body. Insulin is required for the cells to absorb glucose. Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. Healthy pets produce insulin easily, but pets with diabetes don’t. In canine and feline diabetes, unused glucose builds up in the bloodstream.
Is diabetes in my pet the same as diabetes in people?

The two conditions are very similar. In fact, your veterinarian will be using medication, equipment, and monitoring systems that are similar to those used for diabetic people.
How common is diabetes in dogs and cats?

Diabetes usually affects less than 1% of dogs and cats. But experts believe that it is on the rise.
Can diabetes lead to other health problems?

Yes. Dogs and cats with diabetes can develop other health problems, usually after living with diabetes for a year or more. For dogs, a common complication of diabetes is cataract formation. Persistently high blood glucose levels can make the lens of the eye opaque, causing blindness. For cats, weakness of the hind legs is a common complication. Persistently high blood glucose levels may damage nerves, causing weakness and muscle wasting. For both dogs and cats, controlling high blood glucose levels can lead to healthier outcomes. For this reason, early diagnosis of diabetes in your dog or cat is important.
Will diabetes affect my dog or cat’s life expectancy?

Today, with effective treatment and monitoring, a diabetic dog or cat should have the same life expectancy as a non-diabetic dog or cat of the same age. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps diabetic pets maintain a good quality of life.
Is my dog or cat at risk for diabetes?

While diabetes has been diagnosed in dogs and cats of all ages, genders, and breeds, certain pets are at greater risk for the disease.
Risk factors in dogs

* Age (middle-aged to older dogs are more affected)
* Unspayed females
* Genetics
* Obesity

Breed—these breeds have a higher risk for developing diabetes:

* Cocker Spaniels
* Dachshunds
* Doberman Pinschers
* German Shepherds
* Golden Retrievers
* Labrador Retrievers
* Pomeranians
* Terriers
* Toy Poodles

Risk factors in cats

* Age (older cats are more susceptible)
* Neutered males
* Genetics
* Other insulin-resistant disorders or diseases, such as chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormones)
* Obesity
* Physical inactivity
* Indoor lifestyle

Are there warning signs I should be aware of?

Some common signs of diabetes in dogs and cats include:

* Excessive thirst
* Excessive urination—your pet produces more urine per day or has “accidents” in the house (dogs) or outside the litterbox (cats)
* Excessive hunger while losing weight
* Lethargy (less active/sleeps more)
* Cloudy eyes (dogs)
* Doesn’t groom (cats)
* Thinning, dry, and dull hair

How will my veterinarian test my pet for diabetes?

Your veterinarian may begin by performing a general health examination and asking questions about any signs your pet may be displaying. Then, a sample of your pet’s urine will be tested for the presence of glucose (a type of sugar) or ketones (acids produced by the body as it breaks down fat instead of glucose for energy). If glucose is present in your pet’s urine, your veterinarian will then test your pet’s blood to determine the blood glucose level. A diabetes diagnosis is considered definite when persistently high glucose levels are found in both the blood and urine.
How do I take care of a pet with diabetes?

Although there is no cure for diabetes, the disease can be successfully managed with the help of your veterinarian. Daily insulin injections are usually required to restore a pet’s insulin level and control blood glucose levels. Many owners are anxious about giving injections, but it’s easier than you think, and you can quickly learn how to handle the dosing routine with little stress for you or your pet. Diet plays a vital role in helping to keep your pet’s diabetes regulated.

Your veterinarian can recommend a diet that’s best suited to the needs of your pet. A high-quality, consistent source of protein is an essential part of any diabetic diet. High-protein, low-carbohydrate foods are currently recommended for diabetic cats because they provide the extra energy cats need to get through their active days, without the extra carbs that can turn into excess sugar. It is important to feed your pet based on its ideal body weight.

Consistent timing and size of meals is also very important. Exercise can help dogs with diabetes, but it needs to be regulated because activity affects blood glucose levels. It’s best to create a consistent exercise routine for your diabetic dog and stick to it. (There is no clear recommendation for exercise in diabetic cats because their activity is difficult to regulate.) Regular veterinary checkups can help identify changes in your pet’s condition and help you to manage this disease successfully over time.

Managing your dog or cat’s diabetes will require some effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Pets whose diabetes is under control have normal thirst, appetite, urination, and activity levels. Their weight is generally stable and they are less likely to develop complications.
Where can I learn more about diabetes in dogs and cats?

The following websites provide useful information:

* www.petdiabetesmonth.com
* www.pet-diabetes.com

JEN REEDER

Slim your dog and shape yourself up in the New Year.

When Charley Stone took her four-year-old Welsh corgi, Bernice, for a routine checkup last year, her veterinarian, Greg McDonald, DVM, of McDonald Animal Hospital in Santa Barbara, Calif., said that Bernice was overweight and needed to lose about eight pounds to get healthy. So Stone and Bernice began walking together five times a week up a hill near their home in southern California for 25 to 30 minutes.

Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to excess weight gain, including cocker spaniels, Labrador retrievers, dalmatians, dachshunds, rottweilers, golden retrievers, Shetland sheepdogs, and mixed breeds. Older dogs of any breed also run a higher risk of being overweight or obese.

“Within two or three months, we both lost five pounds! And now we do two hills in 30 minutes,” Stone says.

She’s happy to have noticed a marked change in Bernice’s behavior since she lost the excess weight.

Walk your way to health with your best friend“She was a couch potato — we couldn’t get her to play. Now she’s more playful and gets so excited when I put her collar on, because she knows we’re going on a walk.”

And working out together made it easier for Stone to stick to an exercise regimen and lose weight herself.

“It’s like having an exercise buddy — it’s so much fun!”

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and losing weight is one of the most common resolutions Americans make — and break — each year. But resolving to get in shape with your dog can help you lose weight and extend the life span of your pet.

Studies have shown that the extra pounds can have serious health implications, putting dogs at risk for osteoarthritis and respiratory problems, as well as diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, ruptured cruciate ligament and neoplasia, which results in tumors. Moreover, the lives of obese dogs are considerably shorter.

Fortunately, health problems related to being overweight or obese are preventable. Because the key to weight loss is to burn more calories than are consumed, controlling your dogs’ diets and making sure that they exercise can help them lead longer, healthier lives.

A 2008 study by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention showed that more than 44% of dogs in America are considered overweight — about 33 million.

Why not resolve to get your dog in shape in 2010? You can start by signing the pledge and tracking treats on this printable handout. To help you keep your resolution, AAHA’s booklet Dogs Lose Lbs! You Win! is filled with helpful tips to make it easy to slim down your dog and shape up yourself in the New Year. To order your copy, visit aahanet.org. After all, the healthier you and your dog are, the more time you’ll have to enjoy together.

Jen Reeder writes about pet health topics from her home office in Denver.

Diseases that affect the skin can be placed into one of two categories, primary and secondary skin disease. Primary skin diseases are those that affect the skin directly, such as mange or flea and tick hypersensitivities. Secondary diseases are those that initially involve other organs, and thereby affect the skin, such as hypothyroidism.

The diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases can be difficult and time consuming. The following are some of the common diseases and conditions affecting the skin. A brief description of their diagnosis and treatments is provided.
Allergies

Humans with allergies usually react by sneezing, but your pet reacts by scratching. Both you and your pet are reacting to an allergen, which is a substance that causes sensitivity. Most allergens are inhaled, but a few are the contact type, such as an allergy to wool. Some allergens are found in food, most commonly corn, wheat, soy, beef and dairy products. The first signs of allergic reactions are scratching, licking, biting or rubbing the skin. This can lead to infection characterized by red bumps and pimples. Because of the discomfort, it is important to get professional help as soon as possible.
Bacterial Infection

A bacterial infection is common, but is usually secondary to another underlying disease such as an allergy. Treatment for bacterial infections may include antibiotics— either given orally or topically. It is important to seek professional help to treat the bacterial infection while searching for the underlying disease.
Hot Spots or Acute Moist Dermatitis

Hot spots are usually a result of self-trauma and occur as your pet tries to relieve itself from some pain or itch. Treatment includes thorough cleaning, topical and systemic antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory agents.
Pyoderma

Pyodermas include a wide range of infections that result in the formation of pus. Pyodermas vary in severity. Treatment is similar to that for hot spots, but typically is longer-term. Shampoos and rinses are also helpful.
Atopy or Allergic Inhalant Dermatitis

Atopy is a very itchy skin disease that is the result of allergies to microscopic particles in the air. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and absence of other causes such as ectoparasites. Treatment includes dietary supplements, antihistamines and steroids and is often long term. In refractory cases, skin allergin testing and hyposensitization may be helpful. Shampoos and rinses are also often helpful.
Ectoparasites (external parasites)

External parasites include mites, fleas and ticks. These parasites break the barrier formed by the skin and allow bacterial infections to occur. They also may lead to allergic conditions. Diagnosis is achieved with gross observation and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Treatment depends on the parasites present and includes antiparasitic drugs and antiparasitic shampoos and rinses.
Fungal Infections

These include Malassezia sp., Dermatophytosis (Ring Worm) and Dermal Coccidioidomycosis. Diagnosis is achieved via culture of the organisms, microscopic examination of skin scrapings, and blood tests that identify antibodies for Coccidioides immitis. Treatment includes topical and systemic antifungal drugs and antifungal shampoos and rinses.
Food allergies

Food allergies often manifest themselves as skin problems. Food allergies are usually diagnosed by ruling out other possible conditions. Treatment is trial feeding of hypoallergenic diets for a minimum of six weeks.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Contact allergies are diagnosed based on history of contact and clinical presentation. Treatment involves washing the exposed areas to remove the irritant. Patients experiencing itching are given steroids for a short period of time. It is important to prevent re-exposure.
Autoimmune Skin Diseases

There are several autoimmune skin diseases, and the foundation of diagnosis is surgical biopsy. Treatment includes combinations of dietary supplementation, steroids and immune modulation drugs.
Secondary Skin Disease

Secondary skin diseases, such as hypothyroidism, are diagnosed via clinical testing for the underlying disease. Diagnosis often requires blood tests, biopsies and X-rays. Treatment of the underlying condition usually results in improvement of the skin problems.
Diagnosis and Treatment

Your pet’s skin problems often combine two or more of the previously mentioned diseases. For example, flea infestation hypersensitivity can lead to pyoderma. Because of the complicated interactions between the skin and other organs within the body, and due to skin’s varied response to insult, diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases may be difficult and time consuming.

The skin scrape is the mainstay of diagnoses. Several small areas of your pets skin are shaved to remove hair. A scalpel blade is used to scrape up the top layers of skin. The resulting material is viewed under a high-powered microscope. In addition to skin scrapes, blood tests and surgical biopsies are necessary to diagnose some skin diseases.

Treatment of skin disease may include steroids, antibiotics, antihistamines, topical drugs, antifungal drugs, shampoos and rinses, dietary supplementation, or modification and surgical removal of masses. In some cases, therapy must be continued for months, and even for life. (Information provided by Dr. Brett Hinsch, Animal Health Hospital.)