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MESSENGER POST MEDIA

SUMMER EDITION Advertising supplement for June 22, 2017

2 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017
THIRD ANNUAL EVENT!
Pups for Prostate Cancer
Mans Best Friends Walk for Mens Health
According to the Monroe County Department of Health, the cancer incidence and
mortality rates for men in Monroe County is greater than the cancer incidence
and mortality rates for women. And, prostate cancer is the leading cancer among
males. Like most cancer types, early detection of prostate cancer is key.
In an effort to increase awareness about advances in screening, imaging and
treatment options, local survivors and their families created the Annual S.E.A.
Blue Ribbon Walk that now includes Pups for Prostate Cancer.
The two-mile walk on the trails of Genesee Valley Park provides families and
friends an opportunity to walk together in honor of men they know affected by
the disease.
And, since dogs have long been dubbed as mans best friend, it seemed only right
that pups be invited too.
There are prizes for individuals and teams that raise funds. There is also a prize
for the best dog collar or leash decorated to represent the blue theme. Due to
potential summer heat, dog costumes and fur coloring are discouraged and are
not considered for prizes. Lollypop Farm volunteers will judge winning entries.
The walk begins and ends at the Roundhouse Shelter in Genesee Valley
Park on Saturday August 19th. Registration at the event is $30 [children
13 and under are FREE]. Registrants can save $10 and get a free event T-shirt,
by registering online at www.seabluerochester.org no later than 5:00 pm,
July 15. Details about packet pick-up dates and locations are also posted at the
website.
Screening, imaging and the standard of care for prostate cancer has changed in
recent years. However, patient education regarding genetic testing, biomarkers
and the risk vs. benefit of all treatment options, including active surveillance, lags
behind.
Unlike walks that raise funds for much needed research, proceeds from the S.E.A.
Blue Ribbon Walk help to advance Support, Education and Awareness programs
provided by Us TOO Rochester. Us TOO Rochester is the regional chapter of Us TOO
International, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to those affected by
prostate cancer.
The chapters educational seminars are led by subject matter experts and include
a wealth of related topics that enable men to get the unbiased information they
need to make informed treatment decisions, while providers get quality time
with their patients.
Blue is to prostate cancer as pink is to breast cancer. Just as mens sporting teams
make headlines wearing pink gloves, pink shirts and pink shoelaces in a show of
support for breast cancer, local prostate cancer survivors want a sea of blue at
their 3rd Annual S.E.A. Blue Ribbon Walk.
Participants will be welcomed with blue balloons, blue bracelets, and blue
ribbons. Blue surgical gloves and blue facemasks will also be available for even
greater impact.
This event is made possible, in part, by UR Medicine (Labs, Radiation Oncology,
Urology), Us TOO International, Wegmans and Wilmot Cancer Institute.
Parking is available in the University of Rochester PARK LOT. From Elmwood
Avenue, turn onto Wilson Boulevard toward the UR campus. Then, just before the
information booth turn right onto Trustee Road. Go to the end and turn right again
onto the extension of Intercampus Drive. Proceed across the Elmwood Avenue
overpass into the larger parking lot on your right. The park is adjacent to this lot.
Accessible public restrooms are available.
For more information, send email to ustoorochesterny@gmail.com or call (585)
787-4011 and ask for Patrick.
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 3

FORGET IT FIDO! Four toxic treats to keep out of reach

Dogs and cats love treats and pets. The ethanol is also toxic
have the nose to find them! when absorbed, which leads
Chocolate, bread dough, to acid-base imbalance and
grapes/raisins and items severe illness. The best way
containing xylitol are just to prevent these toxic effects
some of the toxic items to is to contact your veterinarian
watch out for. Preventative immediately.
measures should be taken to Raisins are most frequently
decrease the risk of exposure, ingested when pets eat trail
but we understand that mix. Grapes and raisins have
mistakes do happen. the potential to cause an
Heres what should happen if upset stomach as well as
your pet eats any of the above kidney damage, which could
listed items: potentially lead to kidney
First, call your veterinarian failure. The specific toxin
or Veterinary Specialists within grapes that causes
& Emergency Services for these harmful effects has not
instructions. It is important been identified but has been
to act fast so that digestion seen at various amounts
of the food can be limited. consumed.
A veterinarian will be able Xylitol is commonly used as a
to calculate and determine sugar substitute in chewing
the risk level of toxic effects gums, candies, toothpaste,
by understanding how much baked goods and some nut
your pet consumed and the animals weight. If the amount your butters (including peanut butter). Xylitol is extremely toxic to
animal consumed is determined to be potentially toxic, you will be dogs! Ingestion of xylitol stimulates insulin secretion from the
advised to bring your animal to a veterinarian for further care. pancreas, which leads to deadly hypoglycemia, or low blood
Whether the toxin is chemical or food based, treatment for both sugar. These low levels can lead to vomiting, depression, diarrhea,
follow the same basic steps: decontaminate/detoxify, prevent weakness, seizures, liver failure and potentially death.
further absorption, monitor and then treat the effects. If you find that your dog ingested a product containing xylitol,
Decontaminating/detoxifying your pet involves preventing contact a veterinarian immediately. Xylitol is rapidly absorbed in
digestion and absorption of the toxic food. If your dog or cat the stomach and many side effects can be prevented with an IV
has recently eaten the item, then a veterinarian may advise you supplementation in a veterinary hospital. So be sure to always
to induce vomiting. In some cases, an IV injection of medication check your peanut butter before giving Fido a treat!
is given by your veterinarian to prompt vomiting. After your pet Frances Hinkle, DVM In the end, prevention is better and overall a cheaper option than
vomits, medications to prevent further absorption of any remaining Veterinary Specialists an emergency vet visit. If a mistake does happen, call a veterinarian
toxins in the digestive system will be given. Depending on the toxic & Emergency Services immediately for swift treatment and prevention of life threatening
dose consumed, it may be advised that your pet stay in the hospital Monroe Veterinary Associates toxic effects.
for monitoring, IV fluid therapy and additional medications. If you think your pet has ingested a toxic food, call your
What will happen if my pet eats these items? veterinarian or Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services at
Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, upsets your pets digestive system and can 585-424-1277 for 24-hour emergency support.
result in vomiting and diarrhea, hyperactivity and irregular heartbeat which can Dr. Frances Hinkle is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services.
be deadly. No toxic effects are seen from very small amounts of milk chocolate, She grew up in Temple, TX. She attended Texas A&M University where she studied
but larger amounts of milk chocolate and any amount of dark chocolate can biomedical sciences before starting work on her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
be toxic. Therefore, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately degree, which she obtained in 2015. While in veterinary school she received
regardless of how much was consumed so that appropriate medical care can be the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Scholarship and the Texas Veterinary Medical
advised and provided. Association Legends Scholarship. She recently completed an equine internship in
Raw bread or pizza dough is toxic due to the yeast within the dough. When dough Lexington, KY. Her professional interests include diagnostic imaging, sports medicine
rises, the yeast produces ethanol gas which can cause the stomach to bloat in and emergency medicine. Dr. Hinkle has a six-year-old Schnauzer mix named Poppy.
In her free time, she enjoys polo, photography, cooking and traveling.

If a dog jumps into your lap it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing
it is because your lap is warmer. A.N. Whitehead, mathematician and philosopher
4 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017

housebreaking FOR DIFFICULT DOGS

BY JODI PIACELLI | PUPPY PRESCHOOL | MONROE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES

Going back to puppy basics is the most effective when training dogs
old and young. Its important to keep the Three Cs in mind
consistency, confinement and cleaning. While this might be difficult,
it is one of the most successful ways to regain control of the problem.
Consistency: This is key because having a schedule helps build bladder
control during the tricky phases of getting your dog to hold it. Your
pet will typically have to go within an hour of drinking and eating. Other
times to let them out can include: after playing hard, getting out of their
crate or after they wake up. Use these times to really drive home your
commands and praise.
Catching your pet in the act is going to be the number one thing that
sets boundaries and teaches them that eliminating inside is bad. Use
a loud noise, preferably not their name, to get them to stop in mid-
accident and usher them outside to finish. When taking your pet outside,
be sure to give them an established command such as go outside. After
a successful trip, be sure to give your pet major praise.
Another trick to get your pet into a consistent bathroom habit is to attach
a bell to the door they use to go outside. You can smear it with hot dog
juice and ring it in front of them every time they need to go out. After
a few days, present the bell to your pet and let them bop it with their
nose. When they do, act very excited and give the outside command.
This will give your pet a way to let you know when they need to go to
the bathroom.
Confine: Since most dogs wont eliminate where they sleep, it is
important to confine your dog in a suitable sized crate to help them used for dogs experiencing a problem they cant control.
learn to hold their bladder. Placing their food where they mark the most If this is a sudden onset of consistent accidents in the house, be sure
will also help during the training process since they dont mark where to talk to your veterinarian for further assistance.
they eat.
Jodi Piacelli, former owner of Dogs at Your Feet, currently teaches
Clean: Cleaning up after your animal eliminates in the house is another Puppy Preschool at Stone Ridge Veterinary Hospital. Her training covers
important practice during the housebreaking process. I recommend using topics including basic commands, handling techniques, socialization,
Natures Miracle or Odor Ban as these are very effective odor removers. play skill development and confidence building. For more information
If you have an elderly or sick dog, a helpful way to manage your dogs on upcoming classes, please visit: www.monroevets.com/puppy-
potty training habits are diapers. Keep in mind that these are only to be training-classes.html

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 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 5

FELINE CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: What you need to know

Feline chronic kidney disease Treatment options
(CKD), also known as kidney
For some cats, a diet change is
failure, is one of the most
all that is required to manage
common conditions affecting
signs of CKD. Your veterinarian
senior cats. But dont fear
may recommend a prescription
with the proper knowledge
kidney diet, which has higher
and treatment, your cat can be
quality protein and reduced
the same old feline you know
levels of sodium and phosphorus.
and love.
A canned diet is ideal since it
In order to comprehend contains more water, which
what CKD is, we first need to keeps your cat hydrated and
understand the vital role our increase blood filtration through
kidneys play in the body. The the kidneys.
purpose of the kidney is to
Some cats will also require
filter toxins from blood and
periodic injections of fluids under
excrete them in the urine.
the skin to manage dehydration.
Each kidney is composed of
If your cat is not eating well
millions of microscopic units
or vomiting, anti-nausea and
called nephrons that help in
antacid medications may also be
the process of filtering your
recommended.
pets blood.
Depending on your cats lab work
CKD is the result of slow decline in the kidneys functionality over
values, phosphate binding medications may also be recommended.
time. With age, many nephrons become damaged or stop working.
Secondary problems such as high blood pressure and anemia need
This decline can be managed, but never reversed.
to be addressed as they arise as well.
When 75 percent of the nephrons in each kidney stop working,
Overall, the goal of treatment is to make sure that your companion
clinical signs of kidney disease begin to show. Signs of CKD that
maintains a good quality of life for as long as possible. With proper
you can recognize at home include increased thirst and urination,
care and management of the disease, you and your cat can lead a
lethargy, nausea and loss of appetite.
long and happy life together!
Along with signs observed at home, a veterinarians examination
Dr. Arielle Herberger is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists &
can provide clues when making a diagnosis of CKD. Your cats
Emergency Services. She grew up in East Aurora, NY and graduated
doctor will look for poor body condition, dehydration, bad breath,
Arielle Herberger, DVM from SUNY Geneseo with a bachelors degree in biochemistry. She
oral ulcers, loose teeth, pale gums and irregularly shaped kidneys
Veterinary Specialists received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Western
found on a physical exam.
& Emergency Services University of Health Sciences, where she was on the Deans List,
Bloodwork and urine testing are ultimately needed to make Monroe Veterinary Associates received the Zoetis Scholarship, was a member of the Phi Zeta Honor
a diagnosis of CKD. Classic lab work findings in a cat with CKD Society and earned the Silver Certificate from the Student Chapter
include elevated kidney values and diluted urine. Some patients of the Veterinary Business Management Association. Dr. Herbergers
will also have abnormal phosphorus and calcium levels, or a urinary tract professional interests include animal neurology and wildlife rehabilitation. She has
infection. two dogs named Chloe and Paige. In her free time, she enjoys yoga and hiking.

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6 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017

at ease SOOTHING STORM-STRESSED PETS

BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW

Summer is a season of fun and relaxation, but warm-

weather storms can induce staggering anxiety in our
four-legged friends.
If your pet already has a set-in phobia of thunder-
storms, theres not much you can really do for them
except be there for them, reassure them and distract
them. Do you best for this poor animal who must just
think the world is ending with the darkening sky,
cracks of thunder, lightning, rain and wind, said Dr.
Nicholas Dodman, director of the animal behavior
program at Cummings School of Veterinary Medi-
cine at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts,
and author of several books including Pets on the
Couch, available in August.
With their hypersensitive ears, many dogs are more
than just uncomfortable with loud noises such as
fireworks and thunderstorms. A dog terrified by
thunder can wreak havoc in a house, trashing fur-
niture and chewing up possessions.
Dog parents know their dogs best, so if your dog is
not acting like him- or herself, youll know it almost
immediately, said Asha Olivia, owner, Hoby Dogy, If a dog is uncomfortable during storms when it is younger, at age 5 to 9 a change may
a professional pet care company with branches in occur and the behavior exacerbates to an extreme phobia, Dodman said.
Hoboken, New Jersey, and Boca Raton, Florida. How to help
Some of the signs your dog is frightened include Have a safe place to go to with your pet. If you can, create a thunderstorm bunker in a
nervous shaking, hiding under blankets or furniture, subterranean basement. Otherwise, choose a room that is insulated from light and sound
loss of appetite, or behaving in a catatonic manner and filled with your pets food and water, toys and bed or crate.
and unable to move, Olivia said.
Block out the storm by covering the windows and turning on bright lights so your dog
Should you suddenly get caught in a thunderstorm wont see any bolts of lightning. Play soothing music or white noise to drown out any
while outside on a walk, your dog may demonstrate sound. When the storm is coming, retreat to your safe place and try your best to distract
anxiety by zigzagging back and forth on the leash your dog. When trained, your pet will seek his thunderstorm shelter on his own.
while pulling hard for home, bucking the collar or
harness, shaking uncontrollably, trying to jump Protective wear
into your arms or even staying absolutely frozen, Similar to swaddling a baby, wrapping a dog tightly in a product like a ThunderShirt,
said Olivia, who recommends the use of harnesses Anxiety Wrap or Storm Defender can have a calming effect.
on walks for anxiety-prone dogs to help maintain ThunderShirt was an extremely effective aid to calm my own dog during thunderstorms,
optimal control in any scenario. said Olivia. The ThunderShirt may not be in everyones household budget, so what can
In his animal behavior research with storm-phobic be just as effective is wrapping your dog very comfortably in a nice blanket.
dogs, Dodman developed a static electrical theory. In addition to the pressure of the coat, Storm Defender adds an anti-static lining to
Some breeds of dogs with their dense coats of prevent the build-up of static electricity in a dogs coat, Dodman said.
fur and footpads are like wooly angora sweat-
ers. Theyre statically charged, he said. During a Medication
thunderstorm static fields change. If a dog touches At its worst, a dogs thunderstorm fears are a phobia almost like post-traumatic stress
something metal, perhaps with its sensitive nose, disorder. Sometimes medications are necessary to assuage the problem, Dodman said.
it receives a shocking zap and a connection is made Medications such as Prozac or Zoloft can help stabilize a dogs mood and build confidence,
between the pain and the storm, Dodman said. while others in the Valium family can reduce anxiety.
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 7

BOARDING your pet

Summer travel season is upon us instructions on the container match
and when it comes to our pets this what you are currently giving the pet
may mean a visit to a local boarding and what you tell the kennel staff at
facility. Many boarding facilities drop off. Be sure to provide sufficient
offer extra amenities to ensure that medication for the duration of the
your animal has the best experience boarding stay. Consider bringing extra
possible. At any kennel, cleanliness, medication if there is a chance that
safety and comfort should be there may be a delay in picking your
primary concerns. Here are a few pet up.
tips to be sure that your pet has an Be sure to let the kennel staff know
uneventful boarding stay. about any special needs that your pet
Call and schedule your pets boarding may have. This may include a particular
stay well in advance of your trip. medical condition, phobia, or behavior.
Boarding facilities fill up quickly The more that the boarding facility
around major holidays and in the summer and frequently have knows about your pet the better the staff can care for them.
waiting lists for these periods. Be sure to leave accurate contact information when dropping
Before your pet needs to board, be sure to check the kennels your pet off for boarding. There is nothing more frustrating from
requirements for vaccinations. Update any vaccines ahead of the kennel facilitys standpoint than being unable to reach an
time if needed. Come prepared with copies of your animals owner when there is a problem.
records when you check him in for boarding so that you arent Take advantage of extra amenities that the facility offers such as
turned away. play time and walking. While these features may add a little bit
Check in at many boarding facilities can take several minutes. Be of cost to your pets stay, they go along way to decreasing stress
sure to give yourself extra time when dropping off your pet to fill and boredom and providing extra exercise and stimulation.
out the necessary paperwork. Many facilities have their check in With a little preparation, boarding your pet should be a stress
forms on line which you can fill out in advance, greatly reducing Carolyn Fisher, DVM free experience. When you leave your pet at a trusted facility
the check in time. Suburban Animal Hospital you should feel comfortable that they will be safe and well
If your dog eats a special diet, bring it along to the kennel. Be Monroe Veterinary Associates cared for. This way you can have a relaxing, worry free trip and
sure to bring enough food for the duration of the stay and to give your pet will come home having been pampered and spoiled
the kennel staff clear feeding instructions. while you were away.
Be sure to label any food bags or cans with your pets name and your last name. Dr. Carolyn Fisher is the hospital director of Suburban Animal Hospital, where she has
If your dog has a special toy, treat or blanket, check with the boarding facility cared for pets since 1997. She enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine and particularly
likes observing and experiencing the special bonds people and their pets share. A native
regarding their policy about bringing these items. Most kennels will allow people
of Rochester, Dr. Fisher attended the State University of New York at Geneseo and
to bring special items with the understanding that sometimes they become lost received her Bachelors Degree in Biology in 1993. She went on to attend the Cornell
or destroyed. Again labeling these items with your pets name and your last name University College of Veterinary Medicine and was awarded her Doctorate of Veterinary
is recommended. Medicine in 1997. Dr. Fisher is a member of numerous professional organizations,
If your pet is on medication please be sure that all containers are properly labelled including the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Genesee Valley Veterinary
with the dose, medication name, instructions and pet name. Be sure that the Medical Association and the Cornell Feline Health Center.

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8 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 9

Recognizing and handling SEIZURES

When it comes to seizures, there are a few things some tumors can be potential candidates for surgical
to keep in mind for the well-being of your pet. You removal while others may respond better with
may notice your pet displays behavior before a chemotherapy.
seizure event that makes it possible to tell when one Once the cause of your pets seizures is diagnosed,
is coming, but this is not always the case. During a your veterinarian will usually suggest starting your
seizure, your pet will lie down on their side with their pet on anticonvulsant therapy. It is important to
legs paddling and foaming at the mouth, not aware keep in mind that your pet may not be seizure free
of their surroundings, or passing urine or feces. once starting anticonvulsant therapy, but that the
Both dogs and cats are susceptible to seizure activity. goal is a significant reduction in seizure frequency
If your dog or cat has a seizure, you should closely and duration. Some common anticonvulsant drugs
monitor them and contact your veterinarian. There include phenobarbital, zonisamide, levetiracetam,
are cases where an animal has an isolated seizure Staceyann Doobar, DVM potassium bromide, gabapentin, pregabalin,
Veterinary Specialists
event and then does not have one again for a long & Emergency Services
felbamate and topiramate.
period of time. If your pets seizure lasts for more Monroe Veterinary Associates One of the side effects of most anticonvulsant
than three to five minutes or if they have more than medication that is most striking to owners is
two to three seizures in a 24-hour period, then you will need to seek sedation. If you feel that your pet is too drowsy, please discuss this
veterinary attention. with your veterinarian and never make changes to the medications
The causes of seizures can be divided into either extracranial on your own.
(outside the brain) or intracranial (within the brain). An extracranial Overall, always visit your pets veterinarian when health issues such as
cause can be anything from toxin ingestion, liver or kidney disease, seizures occur. Although it may be scary to witness your pet having a
low blood sugar, low calcium levels or electrolyte disturbances. seizure; the best thing to do for your pet is to consult your veterinarian
Intracranial causes for seizures could include infections, cancer, to see what you can do to help your pet.
hemorrhage or inflammation.
Dr. Staceyann Doobar is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists &
Before focusing on issues that could be at work within your pets Emergency Services. She grew up in Queens, NY. She graduated from the
brain, your vet will try to rule out extracranial problems by having City College of New York in 2007 with a bachelors degree in chemistry.
bloodwork done. If bloodwork results are normal, then your She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Cornell
veterinarian will start to focus on possible intracranial issues by University in 2016, where she won the Research Award for Best Overall
ordering diagnostic imaging such as an MRI. Presentation at the Annual DVM Research Symposium. Her professional
There may be other neurologic deficits and clinical signs causing interests include small animal internal medicine. Dr. Doobar has two
your pets seizures, like a brain tumor or epilepsy. To deal with this, dogs named Buster and Luna.

Dogs dont rationalize. They dont hold anything against a person. They dont see
the outside of a human but the inside of a human. Cesar Millan (dog trainer)

Dogs dont rationalize. They dont hold anything against a person.

They dont see the outside of a human but the inside of a human.
Cesar Millan (dog trainer)
10 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017

DIG it!
HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG FROM RUINING YOUR YARD
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW

Is your dog delighted by digging holes in your Digging in the yard can also be an attention-
yard? Is it making you crazy? Before you banish getting behavior.
your pet to the house or worse begin Dogs may dig down below
a warm surface to create Owners need to be concerned if dogs are digging
punishment realize that theres probably a to break out of the yard.
good reason your dog is digging. a cool space to relax.
Owners should check for holes or escape routes
Digging is a normal behavior in dogs and could Brandie Gonzales near fences. If you can, dig a trench around the
be caused by several different reasons. Some breeds Rover.com fence line and fill it with concrete. If youre unable
are more likely to dig, but the first cause of unwanted to do so, you can use bricks or large rocks to block off the
digging is probably boredom and lack of exercise, said Brandie dirt directly below the fence, Gonzales said.
Gonzales, pet lifestyle expert for Rover.com. If you dont have space for
your dog to burn off that excess energy, or if you miss walks, your dog is Some dogs dig instinctually. Its definitely best to read up on different
more likely to use the yard for running, jumping, rolling and digging. breed behaviors for insights. Terriers, for example, love to dig. Puppies
are particularly prone to digging as well, but all dogs may turn to this
Why dogs dig behavior if they are feeling neglected, bored or under-exercised,
Since its summer, a dogs predilection for digging could be because Gonzales said.
hes overheated. Dogs may dig down below a warm surface to create Create a dig zone
a cool space to relax, Gonzales said. It could even be the opposite
on a cold day. Pet parents should plan their yard to ensure it includes If a dog is going to dig no matter what youve tried, give him a place to
a safe, shady space for cooling off or a dog house if theyre outdoors do it. Dogs generally love dirt and digging: Its a fun and stimulating
when its cold. way for them to express themselves. Designating a spot in the yard,
for instance with a dog sandbox, thats just for their needs will help
Some dogs are hunters and dig to catch prey like burrowing insects. A satiate those digging urges, Gonzales said.
clue to this would be if your dog is focused on a single area of the yard
or digs at the roots of trees or shrubs. If you catch your dog digging away from the designated area, the
Humane Society suggests immediately interrupting the behavior with
Dogs may also dig to bury valuable items like toys, or to track rodents a loud noise and a firm No dig! Then take them to the digging zone.
like gophers, squirrels and rats. To stop unwanted digging, the most Just filling the hole back in or covering it up is probably not going to
important step is figuring out the cause, Gonzales said. stop a determined digger, Gonzales said.
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 11

What is GDV and why should you look out for it?
Gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV), aka
twisted stomach or gastric torsion, is a
rapidly progressive life-threatening condition
where the stomach dilates while processing
food and gas and can rotate in the abdomen.
Why is it so bad? The increased pressure and
size of the stomach can cause:
decreased blood flow to your pets heart
loss of blood supply to the spleen and
stomach causing tissue death
difficulty breathing caused by pressure
on your pets diaphragm
The condition also leads to poor oxygen
delivery to many tissues and can cause your
pets heart to beat abnormally. As the condition
progresses, toxins can also increase locally in
the stomach. When the stomach deflates, these
toxins may circulate throughout the body,
resulting in additional complications.
Early signs to look for include the inability
to get comfortable, constantly standing and
stretching, restlessness, drooling, dry heaving
and panting. As it progresses clinical signs will
worsen to a bloated belly, weakness and even abdominal wall. The stomach will still be able to dilate, but the surgery will
collapse. prevent rotation. During surgery other organs will also be evaluated for damage
Treatment is best when performed early in and treated appropriately.
the disease. Therefore, if your pet is showing The potential risk of death can occur before, during or after the procedure and
any of the above clinical signs, they should be becomes more likely the longer the condition is left untreated.
evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. Aftercare will include hospitalization with intravenous fluids, supportive care and
GDV can occur in ANY dog, but breeds close monitoring post-operatively. Once home, you will need to restrict your pets
predisposed to it include the Great Dane, exercise for a few weeks to allow the incisions to heal. They will also need to wear
German Shepherd, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, an e-collar during this time and you should consider long-term management
Weimaraner, Saint Bernard, Standard Poodle changes such as small meals two-three times per day.
and Bassett Hound. Other components thought Nicole Bonaventura, DVM Another consideration is prevention. Many veterinarians will recommend a
to increase the risk of GDV include feeding Veterinary Specialists prophylactic gastropexy in breeds that are at high risk of GDV. This is when the
your pet a large meal only once a day, old age, & Emergency Services stomach is sutured to the abdominal wall, which will prevent the stomach from
stress, previous removal of the spleen or if your Monroe Veterinary Associates being able to twist on itself and becoming an emergency in the future. It can
pet is related to another dog that has had this often be done at same time as spay/neuter in young dogs and minimally invasive
condition. techniques are available.
Your veterinarian will need to perform tests to confirm diagnosis. Abdominal If you believe your dog is likely to experience GDV, talk to your veterinarian for tips
radiographs can show if the stomach is twisted. Other diagnostics include on how to prevent this life-threatening disease.
bloodwork, urinalysis, electrocardiogram (ECG) and checking your dogs blood
pressure. Dr. Nicole Bonaventura is a staff doctor at Veterinary Specialists & Emergency
Services. She grew up in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. She graduated from the
After diagnosing the issue, the first thing your veterinarian will want to do University of Guelph with a bachelors degree in biochemistry in 2012. She received
in treating GDV is to stabilize your dog as best as possible. This will include her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ontario Veterinary College. While
administering medication for pain, intravenous fluid and possibly temporarily in veterinary school, Dr. Bonaventura was consistently on the Deans Honour List
decompressing the stomach. and received the Richard and Sophia Hungerford Travel Grant. In the future, Dr.
Unfortunately, the only treatment option for a rotated stomach is surgery. Bonaventura would like to pursue a small animal surgical residency.
Surgery involves de-rotating the stomach and permanently fixing it to the

Cats know how to obtain food without labor, shelter without confinement, and love without penalties.
Walter Lionel George, author
12 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017

Ask a Vet...
My cat really enjoys an occasional treat of catnip but Im
worried it may not be good for him. Is it OK to allow him
to have it, and is there such a thing as too much?
Catnip is the common name for the herb Nepeta cataria, a
mint-like herb native to the Mediterranean but now found
wild throughout North and South America. Catnip contains
a chemical called Nepetalactone, which is commonly
considered to be a mild hallucinogen for cats of all species.
Upon encountering catnip a cat may roll in it and rub his chin
and face with it. His eyes may become dilated and he may
become temporarily hyperactive or very sedated and snuggly.
The effect usually lasts from two to 10 minutes, and then the
cat will return to normal.
Interestingly, the cats brain needs time to reset itself
after exposure to catnip. Administration of more catnip
immediately after the first dose will have
no additional effect. After waiting an hour
or two your cat will once again become Many cats will happily accept some fresh
receptive to catnip and the fun can start grass, and you can easily grow it yourself year
again. round in a small indoor planter. Any nursery
Up to 30 percent of cats have no effect from will sell the wheat grass seeds you need to
catnip at all. The predisposition appears get started, and periodic replanting will keep
to be genetic and can be passed through a patch of fresh, nutritious greenery readily
generations of cats. All types of cats, accessible to your pet.
including lions and tigers, have a similar
reaction to catnip, though very old or very
young cats often have a diminished response to the herb.
Most importantly, catnip is 100 percent safe. It has no toxicity
at all and will never do damage to your cat. It is not addictive
and has no residual effects. You can offer it daily if your cat Cat have
seems interested. Think of it as a legal recreational drug for
your cat. you curious?
While were on the subject of plants cats love, lets discuss the
cats affinity for grass. Many folks ask me why their cats insist
on chewing on house plants or going outside and eating grass.
As you might imagine, the National Science Foundation isnt
currently awarding grants to study this subject, so no one is
sure of the exact reason for this behavior. What we can say
for certain is that many cats seem to enjoy a little greenery in
their diet and that so long as the plant is not toxic theres no
harm in allowing your cat an occasional nibble. Theres a list
of common toxic plants available here: http://user.xmission.
Pooch have
com/~emailbox/plants.htm
Some have postulated that wild cats primarily hunt plant-
you puzzled?
eating animals (like mice or birds) and that the greenery in
their preys digestive tract provides nutrients and fiber that
Want answers to your questions?
the cat requires. In the absence of hunting and consuming Email your questions to
small prey items, cats can find similar nutrients in house marketingmva@yahoo.com!
plants or some fresh grass.
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 13

travel companions
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL GETAWAY WITH YOUR PET
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW

Now there are genuinely pet-friendly

hotels with all sorts of amenities
For pet owners, taking a vacation is just
like room service pet menus, and pet concierges that can offer lists of
more fun if they bring their dog along and pet massages and pet concierges dog-friendly restaurants and parks nearby.
the travel industry is keen to cater to the that offer lists of dog-friendly
restaurants and parks nearby. The biggest pet travel trend lately is the
needs of both owners and their furry friends. number of restaurants than now accept pets,
For many, pets are like family and leaving them because once youve found a place to stay, you still
behind can be stressful, not to mention pricey. By taking need to go out and eat, Thompson said.
them along you wont have to worry about how well they are Top hotel chains
being taken care of or have to miss them while away, said Lauren
Greer, social media manager for BringFido.com. Kimpton hotels and restaurants have a pet-friendly history since 1981.
Our founder, Bill Kimpton, knew that pets help alleviate the stress of
The trend of hotels accepting pets started with no-frill chains, but travel. He would bring his miniature collie, Chianti, with him when
now hotels realize theres a huge market and people are willing to he visited our first hotel, said Nick Gregory, senior vice president,
pay extra to bring their pet along, said Tracey Thompson, owner of Kimpton Hotel Operations. Recent surveys show that more than half
PetFriendlyTravel.com and PetFriendlyRestaurants.com. of all pet owners travel with their pets and look for hotels that will
It used to be that there were hotels that didnt accept pets and those cater to their specific needs. Our guests truly love their pets and see
that were tolerant of pets. Now, there are genuinely pet-friendly hotels them as extensions of their families, so weve created a welcoming,
with all sorts of amenities like room service pet menus, pet massages pet-friendly environment.
14 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017
The Kimpton pet policy is pretty simple: If the pet can fit through the hotel doors,
hes welcome to stay.
We have no size, weight or breed restrictions and never tack on additional
charges. At a minimum, each of our 60 hotels provides water bowls, treats, pet
beds, toys and pooper-scooper bags, Gregory said.
La Quinta, Red Roof Inn, Motel 6 and Aloft hotels also offer guests great pet
policies and low or no pet fees, Greer said. With the Pets on Trains program,
small dogs and cats can even ride most Amtrak routes for a $25 fee.
Prep your pet
Before traveling with your pet, be sure its emotionally ready for the adventure.
Some dogs do well in new situations, others dont, Thompson said. Pets can
become stressed in unfamiliar environments, and most hotels do not want pets
left alone in a hotel room, she said.
Some of the best amenities and experiences can be found at boutique hotels and
resorts. With a designated dog beach and plenty of walking trails, Basin Harbor
Resort & Boat Club on Lake Champlain, Vermont, takes pleasure in welcoming
the dogs as well as the guests, said Jen Wyman, spokeswoman.
Its not unusual to have a dog at the switchboard while their owner is at dinner
or getting a massage, she said.
Here are some of Wymans tips to remember if youre traveling with your dog:
Tire that dog out in the morning. Take them walking often.
Dont assume everyone else is a dog lover.
Be sure to have plenty of dog food, an easy-to-pack dog bed and
some familiar toys. Make them feel at home and comfortable.

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Bandana!
www.SEABlueRochester.org
Dogs on leash welcome. Must have current shot record. Prize for best collar or leash representing a blue theme. Rules at website.
Proceeds benefit prostate cancer patient Support, Education & Advocacy programs at Us TOO Rochester.
Us TOO Rochester is the regional chapter of Us TOO International, a 501c3 nonprofit organization [EIN 36-3723349].
 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017 15

PetTales
Pe
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16 PET TALES SUMMER EDITION 2017

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for your best friend.