June2011_DAYBORO VET TOPIC
– Coming into Winter
As we start our fires and get out our woolies we need to think about how it is affecting our pets. Do they have adequate bedding and shelter from prevailing winds.
Our wonderful old mates with their associated creaks and groans may not be able to climb up into/onto the bed they have had for years. They may need a low softer version. They may also need to go onto pain relief.
“Arthritis” is a common term we tend to use for all types of lameness in our aged and not so aged mates. There are a multitude of causes and the origin of the pain needs to be identified so that the treatment can be tailored for their needs. Bone issues, worn cartilage, nerve problems and muscle wastage caused by a variety of reasons can all contribute to lameness.
Early intervention and preventative measure can go a long way to relieving their suffering.
Observe your pet, early signs could be:
1. A little slower getting up after a sleep or lying for a length of time.
2. Reluctant to go for a walk
3. Balking at hills or stairs
4. Stumbling or tripping
5. Have swollen joints
6. Getting snappy if forced to move suddenly
7. Intolerance to being played with
Most animals, like us, benefit from joint supplements. So if you suspect your pet is suffering see what you can do to give them a happy Winter. We have a range of products that can help and are willing to have a chat.
RAT BAITS – we have had an increasing number of dogs coming in with rat bait poisoning. If you suspect your pet may have eaten rat bait we NEED TO SEE THEM ASAP and bring the BOX. There are several types of bait on the market and our treatment depends on what sort of bait your pet has consumed. The first thing we will do if they have just eaten it or you are unsure when they ate it is to make them vomit. The less they absorb the more successful the treatment. Rat bait stops the blood from clotting – firstly it will stop the circulating blood from clotting, then as this becomes more severe, they will bleed from the gums, bowel, bruise excessively and eventually bleed into the lungs. Vitamin K is the antidote to the poisoning but depending on the brand, some of the poisons have a long term effect which means they are on medication for a long time.
During treatment animals need to be kept quiet and confined to avoid excessive bruising and bleeding. The key to successful treatment for any poisoning is EARLY INTERVENTION.
TICKS: Just a reminder that even though the incidence of tick paralysis is less in the cooler months we do see cases ALL year round in this district so don’t be caught out by letting your tick prevention lapse.
“Arthritis” is a common term we tend to use for all types of lameness in our aged and not so aged mates. There are a multitude of causes and the origin of the pain needs to be identified so that the treatment can be tailored for their needs. Bone issues, worn cartilage, nerve problems and muscle wastage caused by a variety of reasons can all contribute to lameness.
Early intervention and preventative measure can go a long way to relieving their suffering.
Observe your pet, early signs could be:
1. A little slower getting up after a sleep or lying for a length of time.
2. Reluctant to go for a walk
3. Balking at hills or stairs
4. Stumbling or tripping
5. Have swollen joints
6. Getting snappy if forced to move suddenly
7. Intolerance to being played with
Most animals, like us, benefit from joint supplements. So if you suspect your pet is suffering see what you can do to give them a happy Winter. We have a range of products that can help and are willing to have a chat.
RAT BAITS – we have had an increasing number of dogs coming in with rat bait poisoning. If you suspect your pet may have eaten rat bait we NEED TO SEE THEM ASAP and bring the BOX. There are several types of bait on the market and our treatment depends on what sort of bait your pet has consumed. The first thing we will do if they have just eaten it or you are unsure when they ate it is to make them vomit. The less they absorb the more successful the treatment. Rat bait stops the blood from clotting – firstly it will stop the circulating blood from clotting, then as this becomes more severe, they will bleed from the gums, bowel, bruise excessively and eventually bleed into the lungs. Vitamin K is the antidote to the poisoning but depending on the brand, some of the poisons have a long term effect which means they are on medication for a long time.
During treatment animals need to be kept quiet and confined to avoid excessive bruising and bleeding. The key to successful treatment for any poisoning is EARLY INTERVENTION.
TICKS: Just a reminder that even though the incidence of tick paralysis is less in the cooler months we do see cases ALL year round in this district so don’t be caught out by letting your tick prevention lapse.
Our wonderful vets Mal and Jane have welcomed the safe arrival of David into their family on the 5th of May. The little fellow is making his presence felt and we are sure they will quickly work out who is boss. Every one wishes them every happiness.
All at the Dayboro Vets.
