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MESSENGER POST MEDIA

WINTER EDITION Advertising supplement for December 28, 2017

FREEPIK
 Vaccinations protect dogs and cats from the most serious and deadly infectious viruses.
We recommend* that your pet receives vaccinations against the following diseases.
Canine Vaccinations
Canine Adenovirus:
The adenovirus is highly contagious
and can cause liver and kidney
damage.
Canine Parvovirus:
Parvovirus causes severe
gastrointestinal problems in dogs
of all ages and can be fatal,
especially in puppies.
Canine Influenza:
This is a viral respiratory infection
that can affect dogs of any age.
Bordetella (Kennel Cough):
This bacteria causes inflammation
of the lungs and respiratory
passages. It often occurs with the
parainfluenza virus.
*The rabies vaccination is REQUIRED by law in New York State
Rabies:
This is a fatal viral disease that
attacks the brain and can infect all
mammals including humans. The
main source of the rabies virus is
infected wildlife and infected
unvaccinated animals.
Canine Distemper:
The distemper virus affects the
nervous system and is
often fatal.
Parainfluenza:
This is a respiratory infection that
can affect dogs of any age and can
be involved in the kennel cough
complex.
Leptospirosis:
This is a serious bacterial disease
that is contracted through exposure
to contaminated water or infected
animals. This causes damage to the
liver and kidneys and may affect
other organs.
Feline Vaccinations
Feline Rhinotracheitis:
This is a contagious virus that causes
severe respiratory disease and often
presents with eye nose discharge.
Feline Leukemia:
This disease is caused by a virus that
affects the cat’s immune system,
making him or her more suceptible
to other infections. Signs of illness
vary; however, cancer (lymphoma) is
a common complication.
2 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017
Rabies:
This is a fatal viral disease that
attacks the brain and can infect
all mammals including humans.
The main source of the rabies
virus is infected wildlife and
infected unvaccinated animals.
Feline Calicivirus:
This virus causes severe upper
respiratory disease and fever. It
can cause oral ulcers.
Feline Panleukopenia:
This is a contagious virus that
causes serious and often fatal
gastrointestinal problems in
kittens and cats.
 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 3

VACCINATIONS and your dog!

Owning a new puppy is a disease, the virus becomes
very exciting experience; established in the cells lining
however, with a new puppy of the gastrointestinal system,
comes responsibility and tongue, oral cavity and the
concern regarding your new lymph nodes resulting in a
pet’s health and happiness! severe life-threatening gas-
New puppies are subject troenteritis.
to a host of growing pains What does Parvovirus
includingsusceptibility to viral in my dog look like?
diseases as they grow and as The first clinical signs that
their mother’s protective may be seen with Parvovirus
antibodies decrease. infection are generally subtle
Fatal viral diseases, such as and may manifest as lethargy,
Canine Parvovirus Enteritis, decreased appetite and fever.
can be prevented simply by These vague clinical signs are
having your veterinarian followed shortly thereafter
vaccinate your dog. by the sudden onset of severe
How do vaccines work vomiting and foul-smelling
and what vaccines liquid diarrhea which may be
will my veterinarian streaked with blood.
recommend? Dogs infected with Parvovirus
Vaccines work by stimulating may present with a wide
a host immune response to spread severity of clinical signs
a virus, which closely mimics the natural infection, without the and may present only mildly affected, all the way through to
detrimental clinical signs of disease. severely affected, listless and dehydrated, which can be fatal
without appropriate treatment.
Depending on the age of your puppy, your veterinarian may
recommend a specific vaccine schedule to protect your furry How does my vet know it’s Parvovirus?
friend. The first puppy vaccine is generally administered between Your veterinarian will take a full history including your dog’s
six to eight weeks of age followed by two additional vaccines vaccination history, clinical presentation and may test for
every three to four weeks up until 16 weeks and a booster at one Parvovirus using an ELISA snap test, to check for viral protein
year of age. in your dog’s feces. This test is very sensitive and specific for the
Core vaccines include the DAP and rabies vaccines and are detection of Parvovirus; but, the virus can only be detected when
recommended for all dogs. The DAP vaccine contains antigens DANIELA VOZNER, DVM it is actively being shed from the intestinal tract (usually four
that stimulate an immune response against Canine Distemper, to six days following infection through to 10 days past clinical
Veterinary Specialists
Canine Adenovirus and Canine Parvovirus. This vaccine is a core & Emergency Services
resolution).
(or required) vaccine in North America as the diseases mentioned Monroe Veterinary Associates How do you treat Canine Parvovirus?
above are rapidly transmitted through vulnerable populations. Dogs diagnosed with Parvovirus usually require several days in the hospital with
Affected animals can have severe clinical courses of the diseases, which are widely treatment focused on supportive care and management of the clinical signs of
distributed. diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. Parvovirus also lowers your pet’s immune
What is Canine Parvovirus Enteritis? defenses which may promote the establishment of secondary bacterial or viral
Canine Parvovirus Enteritis is a viral disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract infections making their recovery long and protracted. Since there is no cure for
in dogs. This virus is highly contagious and vulnerable dogs are easily infected canine Parvovirus, the best treatment for your furry friend is to prevent them from
when they come into contact with the fecal material of infected animals. The virus becoming infected by being proactive and vaccinating your puppy!
can survive for up to one year in some cases, is very resistant to disinfection, and Dr. Daniela Vozner is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services.
can be carried on the hair coat of animals for long periods of time. Originally from Toronto, Ontario, she graduated from the University of Western
Following infection, dogs may take up to two weeks before they begin to show Ontario with an honors specialization in animal physiology and a minor in visual
clinical signs of the disease. The most vulnerable animals are usually unvaccinated art. Dr. Vozner received her doctorate of veterinary medicine from the University
puppies between six weeks to six months old; however, all unvaccinated of Melbourne. Her professional interests include emergency medicine, soft tissue
animals are susceptible to infection with the virus. During the clinical course of surgery, oncology and exotic animal medicine, particularly avian medicine.

“It is amazing how much love and laughter dogs bring into our lives and even how much closer
we become with each other because of them.” — John Grogan (Author, Marley & Me)
4 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

A day in the life of a Veterinarian

BY JOSHUA PIETZOLD| MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
“We usually play music,” Dr. After he’s finished with
Ken Scheider said, looking over surgeries for the morning,
his patient on the operating Dr. Scheider then has regular
table. appointments from 2:00 to
But, the only music in the 5:00 pm. After 5:00 pm, he
room for this operation would takes the time to make more
be the steady beeps coming phone calls and catch up with
from the machines monitoring clients and paperwork before
his patient’s vitals and the seeing more appointments
shuffling of Sarah Lewis, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm,
LVT, as she assists with the completing his 12 hour day.
procedure. “I think having every day
This operation, however, being different is nice, just
wasn’t on a human. On the because it’s not the same-old-
table was a young Boxer same-old,” he explained. “One
whose owners had dropped day we’re doing orthopedic
him off at Perinton Veterinary surgery, then another day
Hospital that morning for a we’re doing soft tissue surgery.
routine neuter. Every day is different so you
never know what you’re going
“You’re a new man,” Dr. to be getting into.”
Scheider joked as he wrapped
up the surgery and closed his He has been working at
incision. He had finished with Perinton for nearly five years
time to spare from his initial and has seen his fair share of
estimate. animal health issues.
After he wrapped up, Lewis “We had a dog, not too
stepped in with a laser therapy long ago, that was hit by
machine she had pulled in from outside the room. She took the tool and began a motorcycle. He had severe trauma, as you can imagine, and required a lot
to laser the area where Dr. Scheider had closed. This was an extra step to promote of intensive care and technical staff and assistants to take care of him. He was
healing around the incision. After she had held the laser over the area for 39 here for five days before he was stable enough to undergo surgery to get his leg
seconds, she then got a warming blanket ready for the dog, as anesthesia causes amputated. But he made it through and the owner said he’s doing well.”
a dog’s blood pressure and body temperature to drop. For Dr. Scheider, it’s being able to help animals, when they need it most, that
Dr. Scheider stepped out of the operating room and began to make his way back makes the job worth it.
to his office. Normally after a procedure and after a dog wakes up happy and “You get the animals that come in really sick, like a Parvo puppy, and you and
healthy again, he calls the owners to let them know everything had gone alright. your team work hard to make them better. You get to see them go home, and it’s
“I think you would be surprised by how much time we spend on the phone,” he always really rewarding,” he said.
said. The entire Perinton team works together to make recovery possible for hundreds
Mondays and Wednesdays are surgery days, and he had two more surgeries of animals from the area. It’s a task that requires long hours, dedication and a love
scheduled for the morning. His next patient was already being prepped for their for their furry patients.
procedure, an oral assessment and treatment, by the hospital’s team of veterinary As doorbells chimed throughout the treatment room — one chime meant that
technicians and assistants. a doctor’s appointment had arrived, two meant an appointment for a technician
“There’s a whole process that doesn’t involve the doctor at all,” Dr. Scheider — as Dr. Scheider’s next patient sat nervously in their cage. The day’s surgery
explained as the team worked. “I’ll write up the anesthesia protocol for the case cases are kept in the treatment room before starting their operation so that the
and they will draw up and give the drugs, intubate the patient, shave any fur and team can easily get them ready for their procedure.
start the anesthesia process. Once the patient’s ready for surgery, they call me and “I saw your tail wagging,” a technician said sweetly as she took the dog out.
I’ll go do my part, and then the team does the recovery aspect of it.” And the process started again — sedation, IV catheter and anesthesia. There
The hospital’s team has been together for years, and it shows. wouldn’t be a break for the veterinary team this morning and working through
“I think one of the things that’s great about our hospital is the family atmosphere lunch was almost a guarantee.
we have with one another,” Dr. Scheider said. “If you’re not having fun at work it “That’s something that separates our hospitals from other hospitals,” Dr. Scheider
makes coming to work painful. Everybody has a lot of mutual respect for each said. “We all have that common goal of taking the best care of our patients.”
other.”
 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 5

FLEA MEDICINE toxicity

It’s the holiday season and your feline My cat was given the wrong flea
friend has given you an unwelcome gift: medication. Now what?
FLEAS! If topical flea medication or a collar is put on
Not only is your cat itchy but maybe you your cat, you need to remove the product as
are too. Fleas have begun to take over soon as possible. Take the collar off and give
your house! Something needs to be them a warm water bath with a dish soap. It is
done so you go to your local pet store, important to use dish soap as collars and topical
department store or grocery store. medications are greasy and will wash off best
Which medication do you choose? with dish soaps such as Dawn. Call or bring your
There are so many options from pet to a veterinarian immediately for additional
topical medications to shampoos and treatment.
the prices can be so varied. It can be Treatment from your veterinarian will include
overwhelmingly difficult to decide. What things such as muscle relaxants, anti-seizure
do you do? medications, intravenous fluids and medication
This is often the scenario that leads to flea to bind and pull the toxicity out of their system
medication toxicity in cats. This happens if your pet is severely affected.
when owners with the best intention Will my cat be ok?
of getting rid of a flea infestation The good news is that with veterinary treatment
accidentally overdose their pets with over-the-counter flea cats will usually recover within a couple of days and do not
medications. experience any ill effects long term.
Flea medication toxicity … Why cats? However, your pet’s best chance is to immediately remove the
The active ingredient in over-the-counter flea medications that flea product from their skin with a dish soap bath and seek
leads to toxicity is a pesticide called permethrin. This is a pesticide veterinary attention. If you do not have dish soap at home or are
that is most commonly found in shampoos, dips, foggers, spot- unable to bathe your cat, skip the bath and immediately bring
ons, sprays and collars for use on dogs. It is also sometimes found them to the closest veterinarian.
in feline products. Because permethrin products are so readily available over-the-
This pesticide is inexpensive, readily available in over-the counter and toxicity is a medical emergency that can be fatal, it
-counter products and easy to get hold of, but can also be AMANDA SALDIVIA- is recommended to avoid giving over-the-counter flea products
toxic. Cats are much more sensitive to permethrin compared to WOO, DVM to cats. Always consult your veterinarian prior to giving your pet
dogs because they have very minimal ability to metabolize the Veterinary Specialists medications. They can help you choose appropriate flea products
pesticide making it easier for them to overdose. & Emergency Services and avoid dangerous medications!
Cats typically experience toxicity when they are given dog flea Monroe Veterinary Associates Dr. Amanda Saldivia-Woo is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists
medications or an inappropriate dose of cat flea medications. They can also & Emergency Services. Originally from Toronto, Ontario, she graduated from the
experience toxicity if they groom or cuddle a dog that has been given a topical University of Guelph with a bachelor’s degree in animal biology. She was awarded
flea medication with permethrin in it. The pesticide is a neurotoxin, which is how a research grant from the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council
it kills fleas, but it can also be detrimental for cats. (NSERC) for animal behavior and welfare research in 2013 and was also awarded
Affected cats will tremble, shake uncontrollably, vomit and interact less with the undergraduate student citizenship award from the Canadian Institute of
their environment. This can progress to severe muscle spasms, seizures, difficulty Health Research (CIHR). She received her doctorate of veterinary medicine from the
breathing and loss of body control. Untreated permethrin toxicity can lead to University of Guelph. Dr. Saldivia-Woo’s professional interests include emergency
death. Clinical signs can show up within an hour and worsen rapidly with time. and critical care, neurology, surgery and anesthesia.

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6 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

Minimally invasive surgery

BY JOSHUA PIETZOLD| MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
When it was time to get her surgery include improved
cats spayed, Katelyn Spears, a recovery times, fewer and
licensed veterinary technician smaller incisions, shorter
at Veterinary Specialists & hospital stays for your pet,
Emergency Services, opted reduced anesthesia and surgical
for a relatively new option times and reduced morbidity.
in veterinary health care — “If you are worried about your
minimally invasive surgery. pet being in pain, it definitely
“I had done some research cuts down on the pain. If you
before I asked about doing are worried about your pet
the surgeries, and some of being under anesthesia, the
the research said it was 65 surgery team is amazing with
percent less painful,” Spears anesthesia,” Spears said. “And
explained. if you are worried about pain
Minimally invasive surgery control afterwards, the pain is
works by using a small so much less. My cats were on
video camera within a long their feet again in three days
sterile tube. The camera and they were trying to get their
can be inserted through a cone off in less than 12 hours. As
small skin incision and into much as they didn’t feel good,
a body cavity, such as the they were back to normal quite
chest (thoracoscopy), a joint quickly.”
(arthroscopy), or abdomen (laparoscopy). The image captured by the camera is Once a surgeon has undergone training in minimally invasive surgery, many
displayed on a video monitor. procedures can be performed without having to make a large incision into the
This allows the surgeon to visualize the interior of the body cavity. Specialized abdomen or chest cavity. This means less discomfort for your pet and more time
surgical equipment can be introduced through tiny incisions as well, and the that they can spend with you, happy and healthy.
surgeon can watch the monitor and manipulate these instruments to perform Talking about her cat’s recovery, Spears says they only needed minimal pain
various procedures. management and a little cage rest. “It was nothing you wouldn’t normally do for
“We see issues afterward where animals have gotten their collars off and they a typical spay, probably a little bit less actually. I didn’t have to keep the collar on
chew at their incision site, which means they have to come back into surgery,” them as long because they healed faster,” she said.
Spears said. “With the surgery that I chose, you don’t have to worry about that as If your pet needs surgery, consider talking to your veterinarian about possible
much, because the incision is roughly three millimeters in size.” minimally invasive options and research if it’s the right option for you and your pet.
Some of the benefits of opting for minimally invasive surgery over traditional For more information on minimally invasive surgery, please visit vsesrochester.
com.

“You really should advertise in the next issue of Pet Tales...”

It’s easy, call 585.394.0770 today!

 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 7

URINE SPRAYING in cats

Urine spraying is the most common What can I do to stop my cat from
behavior problem reported by cat owners. urine spraying?
It is predominantly an issue with non- • Spaying or neutering is an effective
neutered and non-spayed cats, but it treatment (90% males and 95% of
has been estimated that 10 percent of females).
neutered males and five percent of spayed
females will urine spray. In extreme cases, • Any urination outside the litter box may
owners have reported urine spraying of be an indication of disease. Please contact
up to 63 times a day! Without a doubt, your veterinarian to rule out any medical
this puts a heavy strain on the human- problems.
animal bond, and can even stimulate • Train using treats or other positive
owners to surrender or abandon their reinforcement to redirect the cat’s
cats. In fact, studies have reported that attention away from common urine
house-soiling, in general, is the leading spraying spots. Or socialize your cats to
cause of cat relinquishments to shelters. various stimuli reducing stress, reducing
This informative article will provide an in- this behavior.
depth look at urine spraying, in addition • Medications such as clomipramine,
to simple and cost-effective methods of diazepam and fluoxetine have been
managing and possibly curing urine spraying in cats. shown to reduce urine spraying by reducing anxiety or stress in
Why do cats spray? your cat. However, there are many side effects that can occur,
Urine spraying has three main functions: so it is best to consult with your veterinarian before using any
• Pheromonal signal, mainly for breeding medications.
• Territorial signal • Change the environment.
• Signal of environment-induced stress
Food and water should be located in several areas of the home.
What causes urine spraying?
Any stressors that may stimulate urine marking include: The litterbox should be regularly cleaned and cats should have
• Introduction of a new pet (especially another cat) easy access. Make sure you have enough litter boxes. One
• Home renovations (loud noise, strangers in territory) box for every cat, plus one is recommended. Check if there is
• New furniture (novel, unmarked object) SANGSOO (DANIEL) KIM, DVM something about the litterbox that your cat does not like, such
• Changes in schedule Veterinary Specialists as location, smell, box material, etc.
• Conflicts with cats outside or inside of the home, & Emergency Services Clean and neutralize odor. Thoroughly clean up urine spots as
and restricting outdoor access Monroe Veterinary Associates ammonia can attract your cat to that same spot to spray again.
How do I know my cat is urine spraying? Commercial enzymatic cleaner followed by a baking soda-
based air freshener is effective.
Urine spraying and inappropriate elimination are two behaviors that result in
urine being deposited in unwanted places, but the motivations behind each Create a comfortable environment. Know where your cat spends most of their
of the behaviors are very different. Inappropriate elimination can occur due to time, especially if there are other animals in the home. The space should meet all
illnesses, such as urinary tract infections and hyperthyroidism, in addition to their needs for comfortable resting and provide ample vision of its surroundings.
psychological conditioning. For example, your cat may have been conditioned to Relieve stress. Feliway, a synthetic cat pheromone, has been shown to relieve
avoid the location of your current litter box due to your dog constantly chasing stress in cats. It comes in a spray or diffuser plug form and is available in many pet
them when they attempt to access the litter box. Alternatively, your cat may have stores or online.
been using the litterbox in the basement since it was a kitten and has developed Play with your cats regularly! Provide scratching posts and facial/body rubbing
a preference for that location, but due to the renovations in the basement, you’ve stations that encourage cats to perform marking behaviors with their claws and
been forced to move the litterbox to a new location, resulting in inappropriately face instead of urine marking.
peeing in the basement.
Urine spraying is common and has multifactorial causes. Always be aware that
How is urine spraying different from inappropriate elimination? this behavior in cats is natural and part of their inborn instincts! A systematic and
The act of urine spraying and inappropriate elimination widely differs. In urine multi-faceted approach incorporating many of the treatments and techniques
spraying, the cat will find an object or space with some sort of vertical element, above is your key to success!
inspect it by sniffing and kneading the area with their paws. Then, they will Dr. Sangsoo Daniel Kim is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists & Emergency
back up to the target and raise their tail to urinate horizontally across the Services. He is originally from South Korea, but moved to Canada in ninth grade and
target. During urination, their pupils will dilate and tail may twitch. This is very grew up in Toronto. He graduated from the University of Waterloo with a bachelor’s
distinct from inappropriate elimination, in which the cat will perform the same degree in biomedical sciences. He then went on to the University of Guelph to earn
procedures as usual when going to the bathroom, such as attempting to cover his master’s degree in biomedical sciences and doctorate of veterinary medicine. Dr.
their urine, except in an unwanted area. Additionally, a much smaller amount of Kim’s professional interests include internal medicine, particularly endocrine and
urine is released when the urine sprays than when inappropriately eliminated. immune-mediated diseases.
8 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

What to do when your dog escapes

BY JOSHUA PIETZOLD| MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
The sun was bright today. I The absolute best way to
loved when the sun was bright. handle your dog escaping is to
It warmed up my fur and made be prepared for it. Make sure
me feel like a puppy again. that you train them to come on
I wanted desperately to go command and create a list of
outside and sun myself. emergency phone numbers of
I shifted anxiously by the back people or groups (shelter, vet’s
door, whining for my owner’s office, animal control, etc.) who
attention. I didn’t know what can help you look for your dog.
she could possibly be doing However, even the best
that was more important than preparations can be forgotten
my needs. in a moment of panic. Here are
Impatiently, I darted through three things to do immediately
the house looking for her. She if your dog gets loose:
wasn’t in the living room. She 1. Don’t chase them
wasn’t in the kitchen. I lifted up For some dogs, getting chased
my nose to smell her out but it by a bunch of people can be
was pointless. The whole house terrifying. For others, it can be a
smelled like her. super fun race that never ends.
I made my way to the back Instead of chasing, it’s best to
door. It was different than the walk or jog calmly, but still
other doors in the house. It slid quickly, while keeping them in
instead of swung, and it was sight.
made out of material that I could see through. I forgot what my owner called it. 2. Start calling
It rhymed with grass.
If you don’t see your dog in the immediate area, start calling the list of numbers
I pawed at the crack in the doorframe between the door and the wall. Sometimes you created.
I could open it. To my pleasure, the door nudged ever so slightly. Excited now, I
pawed faster until there was enough room for my head to fit through. Notify your local shelter in case your dog is turned in.
I poked my head out, enjoying the sudden rush of smells. Fresh grass, leaves, pool Call animal control in case they pick up your dog or spot him while making their
water, squirrels, kids on bikes. I could smell them all. rounds.
Suddenly, sunning myself wasn’t my top priority. I wanted to see everything. Call your vet’s office, your neighbors, anyone who can potentially help look for
your dog.
Pushing the door open the rest of the way with my body, I ran outside. There was a
fence around my yard that my owner had put up when I was a puppy. I didn’t like 3. Stay calm
it much, it blocked all my views. I had been digging a hole that she didn’t know If you’re in a panic, it will make finding your dog and bringing them home even
about near the back corner. Today felt like the day to finish my handiwork. harder. While you are doing everything else to bring your dog home, the most
••• important thing to keep in mind is to stay calm.

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indoors or out?
SAFE OPTIONS FOR YOUR CAT
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW
Cat lovers can be divided into two categories: those who keep
their pets indoors and those who let them outside to roam. An
expert on the subject, KC Theisen, director of pet care issues
for The Humane Society of the United States, answers some
questions about what’s best for kitty.
Are cats deprived of something if kept indoors? The answer
to whether a cat is “deprived” of something indoors is quite
simple: Make the indoors a more fun, stimulating place for
your cat. We can watch our cats and learn where they like to
hide, what windows or perches they prefer and when they
are playful or tired.
What are some ways to stimulate a cat’s sense of play? It’s
easy to bring in some new and interesting hiding spaces (a
simple non-handle paper grocery bag is great), build in or
organize furniture to provide safe space for climbing and
observing their world, and choose new toys that allow you
and your cat to interact every day. Rotating the toys and play
space keeps your cat’s world interesting. Be your cat’s best
friend and play partner, and there won’t be anything appeal-
ing outdoors.
What health reasons are there for keeping a pet inside?
Most important is the risk of a violent encounter with other
cats, dogs or wildlife like raccoons or coyotes. Cats are very
stoic about injuries, and you may not know they’ve been hurt
until the wound is abscessed or infected. If they are hunting,
they may become infected with fleas and parasites from the
animals they catch. Cats could also come into contact with
other cats who are carrying transmittable diseases like Feline
leukemia, or FIV, which put their health at long-term risk. The
risk of any of these problems is reduced to nearly zero by
keeping cats safely confined indoors.
What do people need to think about if the cat doesn’t come
back? Does she have a microchip? Is he wearing a collar with
visible ID tag, so he won’t be mistaken for a true stray if a
PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 9
Most important is
the risk of a violent
encounter with
other cats, dogs
or wildlife
like raccoons
or coyotes.
— KC Theisen
good Samaritan finds him? Do you want to risk having to go
to animal control to reclaim your cat and pay the fees? The
vast majority of cats who enter shelters are not found and
reclaimed by their owners. A little bit of fresh air isn’t worth
the worry that they may wander too far afield and become
lost, or be picked up by well-intentioned neighbors and taken
to a shelter.
Can a cat get outside time safely? This is another chance for
cat owners to make smart decisions for their cats. “Catios” are
gaining in popularity. These are enclosures that allow cats to
be outdoors while remaining confined in a safe space. Catios
can range from a small access box all the way to a few hun-
dred square feet of play space that can be shared by cats and
their families. High-rise dwellers can bring a wire mesh crate
or screened box onto their balcony, or even install a window
box that’s perfect for cats to get fresh air without the risk of
being lost.
Can cats be walked like dogs? Some owners train their cats
to walk on a harness and leash. It takes a cooperative cat, of
course, and a lot of patient training, but walking together
gives you great bonding time with your cat as she explores
the outdoor world safely.
What are some ways to keep indoor cats happy and active?
Remember that cats are predators, so chasing, tackling and
“killing” are really important activities for them. Use a mix of
toys that cats can use on their own when you’re at work or
school, and when you’re home have three or four play ses-
sions per day where you are using a toy to play chase and
pounce. When you are ready to end the session, give your
cat a couple of treats to reward her successful stalking. Play
times are especially helpful if you have a cat who likes to zoom
around the house at 3 a.m. A vigorous play session followed
by some treats or a small meal will entice him to settle down
for a bath and a nap.
10 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

Mange in dogs and cats

BY JOSHUA PIETZOLD| MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
Mange is a disease caused by itching, scabbing, hair loss/
an infestation of mites on your bald spots/alopecia, sores or
pet’s skin, taking the form lesions, redness and scaling.
of unsightly bald spots and The condition can be general
constant itching. or local, meaning it could be
While more common in dogs, focused on one area of your pets
cats can also be affected by the skin — like their face, elbows,
condition. As a pet owner, it’s paws or legs — or all over.
important to know how to look Sarcoptic mange in dogs is
for symptoms and how to treat caused by burrowing mites
your companion. called Sarcoptes scabiei, known
It’s also important to note that generally as canine scabies. In
mites in small numbers are cats, it’s caused by similar mites
normal to find on your pet. It’s called Notoedres cati, or feline
only when these mites start scabies.
to spread uncontrollably or Your pet may run into them on
another species of invasive other animals or in infested
mites come into contact with areas. Once on the skin, the
your pet’s skin that mange mites begin to mate. Female
starts to develop. mites then burrow under the
There are two types of mange skin and leave behind a trail of
— demodectic and sarcoptic eggs that hatch within three to
(scabies). Demodectic mange 10 days.
occurs when your pet’s immune system is unable to keep mites under control. Canine scabies is extremely contagious between dogs and can also be spread to
Your pet’s immune system can successfully fend off most typical mites, however humans and other animals. Feline scabies is also extremely contagious.
when it can’t keep up that fight, mites will begin to overpopulate and cause skin Symptoms of this type of mange are similar to demodectic mange and include
issues. persistent itching, redness, scabbing and sores. Signs will generally begin to show
In puppies and dogs under two years old, demodectic mange may develop due within a week of exposure.
to their newer and weaker immune systems. For older dogs, problems affecting To diagnose mange, your veterinarian will want to take skin scrapings and
their immune systems like hormonal imbalances, cancer or general old age could possibly examine hair follicles or do a urine test. Treatment will be either a topical
lead to mange. or oral medication. After beginning treatment, your veterinarian will want to do
For cats, this type of mange is very uncommon, and is usually a secondary illness two more skin scrapings. If your pet is diagnosed, it’s important that you wash
caused by something more serious. If your cat is diagnosed with demodectic or remove all bedding or toys that could have gotten infested and to check other
mange, your veterinarian should also check for any other illnesses that could be pets.
the cause. If you suspect your pet has mange, please make an appointment with your
Symptoms of demodectic mange that you should look for are persistent veterinarian.

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 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 11

open sundays

Convenient outpatient care

for common pet illnesses When should you visit
and injuries Animal Urgent Care?
Available at the anal gland abscess minor bite wounds
following locations: broken nail minor bleeding
pittsford coughing minor lacerations
animal hospital diarrhea parasites
2816 Monroe Avenue ear/skin infection sneezing
Rochester, NY 14618 end-of-life care upper respiratory
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10:00 am - 5:00 pm eye injuries
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4410 County Road 50
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12 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017
to the rescue
GIVING PETS A SECOND CHANCE
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW
N
atural disasters like hurricanes
Harvey and Irma shined a spotlight
on the challenges facing pets and
pet owners, with animal rescue
groups mobilizing to save beloved
pets who were lost or left behind.
While pets may react unpredictably during
harsh weather and try to escape, homeless
animals are in an even more precarious
situation. Before Harvey hit, Houston, Texas,
was home to over a million stray dogs, and that
number ballooned exponentially afterward,
said Peter Zheutlin, author of “Rescued: What
Second-Chance Dogs Teach Us About Living
with Purpose, Loving with Abandon and
Finding Joy in the Little Things.” An expert in
a collar with identification
Houston’s stray dog population, Zheutlin’s
new book interweaves stories, lessons and
advice from families who have welcomed
second-chance dogs into their homes and the
transformative effect of these adoptions.
Before disaster hits
If your area should be hit with a disaster, it
is usually safer to evacuate with your pet.
Emergency shelters often do not accept pets,
and the ones that do will fill up quickly.
“First and foremost, have a plan that includes
your pets,” Zheutlin said. “Unless your own life
would be in jeopardy by taking them with you,
don’t leave them behind. They are counting
“Unless your own life
would be in jeopardy on you. Practically speaking, and this applies
by taking them with you, especially to dogs and cats; be sure they are
don’t leave them behind. wearing a collar with identification and are
They are counting microchipped so they can be reunited with
on you. Practically you if you become separated.”
speaking, and this Geography of pet overpopulation
applies especially to
For “complicated and cultural reasons,” there is
dogs and cats; a large migration of rescued dogs that move
be sure they are wearing
from Southern to Northern states, Zheutlin said.
“The reasons why the problem is especially
and are microchipped
acute in Southern states is attributable to many
so they can be
factors, but perhaps most important is that in
reunited with you if
parts of the South people see dogs first and
you become separated.”
foremost as property, not as family members.
And the lack of a strong spay-and-neuter
— Peter Zheutlin, author
culture in many places has led to a problem that
cannot easily be reversed. Even if dog owners
Continued on next page ...
 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 13
were spaying and neutering their pets in large
Ask a Vet... numbers, you now have huge numbers of strays that don’t
have people to take them to get spayed and neutered. I’ve
seen these street dogs struggling on the streets of Houston,
and it’s heartbreaking,” Zheutlin said.
Why consider a second-chance dog
Adopting a pet from a shelter is saving its life.
“Countless dogs that find themselves in shelters will be put
to death in those shelters within a short period of time if no
one steps up for them, because every day another wave of
strays and surrendered dogs arrives at their doorsteps. The
vast majority of these dogs are gentle, sweet dogs that just
need a second chance,” said Zheutlin, whose first rescue dog,
Albie, came from a Louisiana shelter where about 90 percent
of the dogs are put to death.

Q: My veterinarian keeps telling me that my dog “He is the sweetest, most earnest and beautiful creature. I
wasn’t prepared for how intensely I would love him,” Zheutlin
needs to lose weight. Is it really a big deal if he is a
said. “Rescue dogs are not damaged goods. If you work with a
few pounds overweight? — Sam, Rochester reputable rescue organization they will do their level best to
A: Obesity in our pets is a “big” concern. Just as we see an make sure your dog is ready for adoption. Nothing comes with
increase in overweight people we are seeing an increase in a 100 percent guarantee, not breeder dogs or children or rescue
obese pets. Obesity is defined as weighing 30 percent more dogs, but in the vast majority of cases these second-chance
than the ideal weight. You can assess whether your pet is
dogs will be ready to be loved and to return that love tenfold.”
too heavy if you observe the following: ribs are difficult
to feel and have a moderate fat cover, from side view no Living with a dog is not one continuous Hallmark moment.
abdominal tuck or waist, and from overhead view the back “Yes, a dog needs to learn to live with people, but it is, first and
is slightly broadened.
foremost, your job to learn how to live with a dog,” he said.
Cats and dogs are just as susceptible to health issues related
to carrying extra weight as we are. The diseases we tend to
see more commonly in obese patients are Type II diabetes,
heart disease, arthritis and metabolic issues. All of these
can decrease the quality of your pet’s life.

Cat have
As we all know it is very easy to overeat. Your pet relies on
you to monitor their diet. Many of the excess pounds are
gained from feeding table scraps and too many treats. These
extra goodies do nothing but add extra calories and could
be doing more harm than good. Eliminating table food
is a healthy decision you can make for your pet. Another
you curious?
sound decision is to increase daily exercise for your pet.
Daily walks can help maintain a healthy weight and shed
extra pounds. A good daily goal is 30 minutes of walking
twice a day.
If your pet is in need of a total body makeover then restricted
calorie diets are also available, and can help provide a basis
for successful weight loss. Weight reduction is 60 percent
diet and 40 percent exercise.
Weight loss can be a challenge for owners. Be consistent and Pooch have
diligent. Pounds that are lost gradually are more likely to
stay gone. A multi-step approach is a good way to start. By
decreasing extra calories, increasing daily physical activity
you puzzled?
and promoting a healthier lifestyle for your pets you will
both be rewarded with less visits to the veterinarian and
Want answers to your questions?
more trips to the park! Email your questions to
Rebecca Nealey, DVM marketingmva@yahoo.com!
Palmyra Animal Hospital
Monroe Veterinary Associates
14 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

love on four legs

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIP
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW

P
ets make their owners feel special, but the
benefits of pet ownership are so much more
than unconditional love and someone to
greet you at the door when you arrive home.
There is much research that shows owning
a pet makes people happier and more
physically healthy.
Recognizing this, modern pet owners want their animals
to feel special, too.
“Young Americans are less likely to be homeowners or
parents than previous generations, but one category
they lead in is pet ownership,” said Brandie Gonzales, pet
lifestyle expert for Rover, a services site for dog owners.
“They shower their dogs with attention and splurge on
expensive gifts because their dog is their best friend, and
they want to be their dog’s best friend, too.”
Not surprisingly, all this love and affection lead to a
variety of benefits according to a recent Rover survey on
dog ownership:
• 94 percent of pet owners consider their dog family.
• 29 percent post more photos of their dog on social
media than of their family, friends or themselves.
• 79 percent of people said they would include their
dog in family moments like holiday cards, vacations
and marriage proposals.
• More than 25 percent of pet parents have brought
their pet on a date.
• 3 out of 4 dog owners have used their dog
or a dog video as a pick-me-up when they’re
having a rough day.
In addition to increasing a person’s
well-being and outlook, owning a
cat or dog brings plenty of health
benefits. According to the Centers for Young Americans are less
Disease Control and Prevention, pets likely to be homeowners
can decrease blood pressure and or parents than previous
cholesterol levels as well as feelings of generations, but one category
loneliness. One study of older men and they lead in is pet ownership.
women found that owning a cat or dog — Brandie Gonzales
helped maintain or even slightly enhance lifestyle expert for Rover
their Activities of Daily Living score. Pets can
also increase your opportunities for exercise and
outdoor activities.
 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017 15

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16 PET TALES • WINTER EDITION 2017

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