Monday, May 4, 2015

IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO ALL DOG LOVERS !!



There are numerous complaints of cheating by Breeders / Kennel owners including misrepresentation of facts, selling sub-standard puppies, giving false information of facts about KCI while dealing with prospective customers etc,etc…
For the general information of Dog lovers planning to own / buy a puppy we give below some precautionary and possible steps that may be taken in order to avoid being taken for a ride by some of the unscrupulous breeders :


  • Do not make any financial commitments before you see the Dog physically.
  • Take the help of a Veterinary Doctor and see the Dog physically.
  • Ensure yourself that you get whatever is promised.
  • Insist for a copy of the Registration certificate if the Breeder claims it is registered with the Kennel Club of India.
  • If it is registered, scan for Microchip with the help of a Vet as every Dog registered with KCI must compulsorily be micro-chipped.
  • Do not fall prey to false promises and statements like “ we have applied to KCI for registration, the process will take 4-6 months , there is no microchip available” etc..etc.. We take only a maximum of 30 days to complete the registration process and dispatch of Certificates to the Breeders /owners.
  • Never make any Cash payments. Pay only by crossed Cheque or thru Bank which may help you later in case of any hassle.
  • Always insist and get a proper agreement executed and signed by both parties involved which again will help in case of any dispute.
  • Never commit yourself just on the basis of an email / face book or a chat thru any other social media.

Saturday, March 15, 2014

How to Tame Your Dog

Animal, if not tamed and dealt with properly, turns out to be wild and unruly. However, this does not mean that they will forever stay this way. There are things that an owner can do to tame his pet especially dogs. Training your pet isn’t such a difficult thing to do. Learn helpful tips on how to do it through this article.

Early Training
Just like humans, your pet dog can be better trained when it is still a puppy. You will already find difficulties training when it is already an adult. Puppies are easier to train and they can learn the things you taught them until they become full-blown adults. So, if you have puppy, might as well try training it now. The earlier it is, the better the outcomes are.

Knowing Your Pet
It is a must that an owner is really keen towards its pet’s behavior and attitude. You will not know the right approach that you can use in training your pet unless you thoroughly know its characteristics. Pets need constant guidance. They possess qualities that might be very improper and it’s up to its owner to stop it by way of proper training. Once you get to know your pet a whole lot better then it would be very easy for you to point out the things that you need to correct.

Pacify Your Dog
It is innate for dogs to have an aggressive behavior but it’s up for the owner on how he can pacify it. Learning how to tame your dog is somewhat a difficult pursuit. This requires enough time in order to see any improvements. You can only pacify your dog if you get to earn its trust otherwise all your efforts would be useless. The owner should also take time to bond with its pet. Through this, the owner strengthens his bond with the dog. Thus, it would now be very easy to manipulate the behavior of your dog.



Break Bad Habits
It is very crucial that a pet’s unhealthy behavior is stopped before it becomes too severe. If you just tolerate it, for sure, it’s not the dog’s fault but yours. Dogs and other pets should be taught what behaviors are acceptable and what are not. If for example the dog keeps on biting a piece of furniture and the owner doesn’t seem to care, it would think that it’s okay to do that. Just like humans, dogs would keep repeating a certain behavior if not reprimanded.

Good Command
Dog training can only be effective through an excellent command and communication. The owner himself should be clear enough in giving his instructions and should be very specific on what he’d like the dog to do.

Pamper Itself
Dogs want to feel pampered just like the other pets do. They would like to experience comfort, too. Just as you provide these felines a cat bed and a cat scratching post, dogs would like to share a soft and crisp bed, too. They would also like to be groomed. Pamper your dog by giving it a regular bath. You can also shampoo it and make it smell so clean. 

Tip :

Along for the Car Ride
If you have a dog who is wary of car rides, there's hope. Get your pooch used to going for car rides in ou canine small steps. Start by just sitting with yin the car. It also helps if you bring along his favorite toy, blanket and a few treats. When he's comfortable, try going down just to end of the street. Lengthen each trip and in no time your canine friend will be used to car rides.

Friday, May 31, 2013

Common Cat Health Problems

List of Common Cat Health Problems

Here's a partial list of common cat health problems. You can click on the live links to learn more about some of these particular cat problems.

Cat Hairballs

Cat hairballs (also written or called hair balls, furballs or fur balls) are a very common problem many felines have. Usually, your cat can pass the excessive hair that accumulates in his or her stomach either through the feces or through vomiting up the hairball.

Fleas

Fleas are an external parasite that can cause a myriad of common cat health problems in your cat or kitten, including anemia and tapeworm infection.

Controlling Fleas is Critical to Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Uncontrollable itching and scratching. Allergies. Tapeworm. Hair loss. Major discomfort. Even anemia and more serious health problems. Fleas hurt your cat.
Controlling fleas on your precious cat and in your cat's environment is so important in helping you deal with one of the worst external parasites your cat will ever face. Keeping your cat and your home flea-free is not only important for your cat's health, but for your own health, as well.
At the worst, even one single flea bite can lead to serious problems for your cat. Uncontrolled fleas, flea infestation, and flea bites can lead to allergies, tapeworm, anemia, etc. Diligence is an important part of taking care of your cat.

Flea Prevention is the Best Method

Prevention is your absolute best method of controlling this parasite. The two best ways to prevent infestation are excellent nutrition and keeping your cat's environment clean.
No matter how much you directly treat your cat for fleas, if you don't treat her environment and keep it clean, you won't be able to eliminate all the fleas in your home and on your cat.

Indoor Cats Need Protection, Too!

Flea control is critical for all cats, even those cats who never go outside. As a matter of fact, your indoor cat and cat environment can have an even worse flea problem than your outdoor cat.
We often make the mistake of thinking that just because our cat lives indoors, he will never have any fleas. Wrong! Fleas can be brought into your home from various sources, such as other animals and even you. Fleas are excellent hitchhikers! They can hop on your clothes when you're outside and jump off once inside your home.
One flea can lay up to 20 eggs at a time and at their worse, they can lay eggs every day! So by the time you realize you have fleas, your home may already be severely infested.

Weak Cats Have Worse Flea Problems

Fleas are parasites. They prey on weakened and less healthy cats. Veterinarians commonly observe that cats in the poorest health attract the most fleas. So the healthier your cat is, the less likely you'll have flea infestations on your cat and in your home.
And if you end up with a flea problem, your healthy cat will be in a stronger position to deal with your flea control efforts.
To keep your cat healthy, feed him a diet of the highest quality cat food you can afford, make sure he gets regular exercise with safe and interactive cat toys, and keep his environment clean.
Add regular grooming to these preventative measures and you should be able to keep your cat in excellent health and flea-free.

How to Tell if Your Cat Has Fleas

The most obvious sign of a flea is the flea body itself. These are reddish-brown little guys about the size of a pinhead. They have incredible jumping ability. Fleas are often easily found around your cat's neck and base of the tail.
But just because you don't see the body, don't assume there aren't any fleas. Fleas go through various life cycle stages, and they can be present in your home in different (almost invisible) stages.
To check your cat for fleas, part his hair around his neck, back, hind legs, and near the base of his tail. You can also use a special flea comb and run it gently through these areas to check for fleas.
In addition to actual fleas, you are also looking for any tiny black flecks. These black flecks are flea excrement (or "flea dirt") and are a sure sign that these pesky parasites are around. To be extra sure that these black flecks are flea dirt, you can place the flecks on a wet paper towel. If you see a reddish brown circle form around the fleck, you've got yourself some flea droppings and a flea problem (the flecks are your cat's digested blood).
And although not every itch means that your cat has fleas, you should suspect fleas if your cat is doing a good deal of licking and chewing around her hind legs and back, especially near the base of the tail. This is often accompanied by hair loss. If your cat is licking and chewing a lot, be sure to give her a thorough inspection.
Inspecting your outdoor cats for fleas should be a regular part of your flea control efforts.

How To Get Rid of Fleas

If you find yourself with a flea problem, you'll probably need to try a couple of different flea control methods before you get rid of all of the fleas on your cat and in your home.
It's up to you to choose which treatment you think is best for your cat, you, and your home. Treatments may include using flea combs, flea collars flea dips, flea powders flea exterminators, and other flea control methods.
In addition to treating your cat and your home, you may also have to treat your yard.
Taking care of a flea problem doesn't mean only getting rid of the adult fleas or just the fleas you can see. You also have to get rid of all the fleas in their various life stages throughout your home and your yard. This will require diligence on your part to get rid of all the fleas, but it is well worth it for your cat's health.
Choosing a safe, as well as effective, method of flea control is critical.
Different levels of danger accompany all flea control products and methods and you should choose only the safest and most effective method for your cat and you.
Be careful when applying chemical flea treatments to your cat, as these will irritate any open sores she may have. Also, chemical flea medicines should not be used on kittens under the age of four months. These are two good reasons for trying to stick with natural flea control products, as they are generally less irritating to your cat and her skin, and overall, less dangerous for your cat, the environment, and you.

Plant Poisoning

Cats and kittens like to chew on green things! Certain indoor and outdoor plants, and even the insecticides on the plants, can poison your cat.

Worms in Cats

Worms are also parasites that can affect your cat's health.
Here's a list of the common types of worms in cats:
  • ringworm,
  • roundworms,
  • tapeworm,
  • hookworms, and
  • Lungworms.
These cat worms can be classified as either external parasites (aka "ectoparasites") or internal parasites (aka "endoparasites").
External parasites are found on the outside of your cat's body. Fleas, ticks and ear mites are also common external parasites.
Internal parasites live inside the body of your cat.
All of these worms are unhealthy for your cat or kitten, and depending on the severity of the infestation, some can even be debilitating to your cat's health.

Ringworms
 
Ringworms (Dermatophytosis) are external parasites. This type of worm is not technically a "worm," but rather a fungal disease of the skin and hair.
Ringworm is highly contagious to you and to other animals.
It's always a good idea to wash your hands after petting a cat, especially one you don't know. Cats can sometimes be carriers and infect you without showing any symptoms.
Many longhaired cats can carry the ringworm spores and not show any signs at all of the parasite.

Roundworms

Roundworms (ascarids) are internal parasites. They are very common. Some statistics say that almost one-third of all kittens under three months old have roundworm, and about 10 per cent of all adult felines have it.
Roundworms are to be suspected if your cat or kitten is in otherwise good health, but somehow seems in poor shape (for example, a dull coat, gas in the intestines, diarrhea, or a pot belly).

Tapeworms
Among tapeworms (Cestodes), the most common is Dipylidium caninum (this worm also infests dogs). A tapeworm is an internal parasite and you can find evidence of these worms in your cat's litter box.
These are the worms in cats that look like little grains of rice or sesame seeds that can be found in your cat's feces.

Hookworms

Hookworms are internal parasites and are found inside your cat's intestines. They get their name from their hook-like teeth that attach to your cat's intestines. Hookworms are particularly dangerous to kittens.

Lungworms

Lungworms are types of worms in cats that often go undiagnosed because their symptoms (coughing and difficulty breathing) are usually only exhibited with a really heavy infection.

Worm Treatment

If you suspect that your cat or kitten is suffering from any of these types of worms in cats, it's best to get veterinary advice or treatment immediately to prevent the infestation in your cat from becoming worse, and also to protect other pets and the humans around your cat.
If caught early, many worms are easily gotten rid of through conventional methods or natural homeopathic remedies.

Viral and Other Infections

·         More serious infections that can plague your cat or kitten include feline infectious enteritis, rabies, and cat flu. There's also feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and the feline leukemia virus (FeLV).
·         All of these are more serious diseases and you should consult with your veterinarian about vaccinations and/or treatment.

Miscellaneous Cat Health Issues

·         Just as with humans, a healthy cat is susceptible to a multitude of different health issues. They can have digestive problems, urinary problems, respiratory problems, skin problems, etc.
·         They can also suffer a number of other problems like road accidents, heat stroke, electric shock, falls, and other wounds. Having veterinarian's phone number and an emergency pet hospital number available is a wise thing to do to take care of your cat or kitten (or dog or other pets).

Disclaimer—Consult a Vet!




Friday, December 2, 2011

Things to Know About the Canine Influenza ( H3N8 ) Dog Flu..!!

What is canine influenza?

Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs caused by a novel influenza virus that was first discovered in 2004. We do not use the general term “dog flu” because it could refer to any flu-like illness in dogs due to various causes. Rather, canine influenza is a specific disease caused by a particular subtype, H3N8, of the influenza A virus.

What type of infection does canine influenza virus cause?

Like influenza viruses that infect other mammals, canine influenza virus causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs. It is one of several viruses and bacteria that are associated with canine infectious respiratory disease, or what’s commonly referred to as “kennel cough.” The canine influenza virus can cause respiratory disease by itself or along with other canine respiratory pathogens. Unlike human influenza, canine influenza is not a “seasonal” infection. Infections can occur year round.

What are the symptoms and clinical signs of canine influenza?

Like influenza viruses in other species, canine influenza virus causes a flu-like illness consisting of cough, sneezing and nasal discharge (“runny nose”). Fever can also occur, but it is usually transient and rarely noticed by pet owners. There are no clinical signs that distinguish canine influenza from other respiratory infections. That is why diagnostic tests must be performed to determine the cause of respiratory infections in dogs.
Virtually all dogs exposed to the canine influenza virus become infected; about 80 percent develop a flu-like illness, while another 20 percent do not become ill. Fortunately, most dogs recover within two weeks without any further health complications. However, some dogs progress to pneumonia, which is usually due to secondary bacterial infections.
While the death rate for canine influenza is very low, the secondary pneumonia can be life-threatening in some cases. There is no evidence that dogs of particular age or breed are more susceptible to developing pneumonia from canine influenza.
  
Who is susceptible to canine influenza?

Because canine influenza is due to a virus that is novel to the canine population, dogs lack preexisting immunity to the virus. Dogs of any breed, age or vaccination status are therefore susceptible to infection. It is likely that dogs that have recovered from infection retain immunity to re-infection for an undetermined time period, although studies have not verified for how long.
Canine influenza is most likely to spread in facilities where dogs are housed together and where there is a high turnover of dogs in and out of the facility. Dogs in shelters, boarding and training facilities, day care centers, veterinary clinics, pet stores and grooming parlors are at highest risk for exposure to the virus, especially if these facilities are located in communities where the virus is prevalent. Dogs that mostly stay at home and walk around the neighborhood are at low risk.
Canine influenza virus does not infect people, and there is no documentation that cats have become infected by exposure to dogs with canine influenza. Nor is there any evidence that the canine virus can infect birds.

How is canine influenza transmitted?

As with other respiratory pathogens, the most efficient transmission occurs by direct contact with infected dogs and by aerosols generated by coughing and sneezing. The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs. Fortunately, the virus is easily inactivated by washing hands, clothes and other items with soap and water.

How is canine influenza treated?

Since canine influenza is a viral infection, treatment consists mainly of supportive care while the virus runs its course, much like for human influenza. Dog owners should consult with their veterinarians if they think their dog has canine influenza. The veterinarian can determine what type of supportive care is needed, including whether antibiotics should be given for secondary bacterial infections. Dogs with pneumonia most likely require more intensive care provided in a hospital setting under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Is canine influenza contagious?

Like influenza infections in other species, canine influenza is highly contagious. Infected dogs shed virus in their respiratory secretions for 7 to 10 days, during which time the dog is contagious to other dogs. Infected dogs that do not show clinical signs are also contagious.
Once the virus has run its course, the dog is no longer contagious. Therefore, we recommend that dogs with canine influenza be isolated from other dogs for two weeks to err on the conservative side. The canine influenza virus does not cause a permanent infection.

How is canine influenza diagnosed?

Canine influenza cannot be diagnosed by clinical signs because all of the other respiratory pathogens cause similar signs of coughing, sneezing and nasal discharge. For dogs that have been ill for less than four days, veterinarians can collect swabs from the nose or throat and submit them to a diagnostic laboratory that offers a validated PCR test for canine influenza virus. The most accurate test recommended for confirmation of infection requires the collection of a small blood sample from the dog during the first week of illness, followed by collection of another sample 10 to 14 days later. The paired serum samples are submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for measurement of antibodies to CIV that were formed in response to infection. 

Is there a vaccine for canine influenza?

In May 2009, the United States Department of Agriculture approved for licensure the first influenza vaccine for dogs. The vaccine was developed by Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health Corporation.
The canine influenza vaccine contains inactivated whole virus, so there is no chance that the vaccine itself can cause respiratory infections. During tests to evaluate vaccine performance, there were no side effects or safety issues in a field trial that included more than 700 dogs ranging in age from six weeks to 10 years and representing 30 breeds.
The vaccine is intended as an aid in the control of disease associated with C.I.V. infection. Although the vaccine may not prevent infection, efficacy trials have shown that vaccination significantly reduces the severity and duration of clinical illness, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs. In addition, the vaccine reduces the amount of virus shed and shortens the shedding interval. This means that vaccinated dogs that become infected are less likely to have severe symptoms and are not as contagious to other dogs. These benefits are similar to those provided by influenza vaccines used in other species, including people.
The canine influenza vaccine is a “lifestyle” vaccine in that it is intended for dogs at risk for exposure to C.I.V., including those that participate in activities with many other dogs or those housed in communal facilities, particularly in communities where the virus is prevalent. Dogs that may benefit from canine influenza vaccination include those that are already receiving the kennel cough vaccine for Bordello because the risk groups are the same.
Dog owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine whether their dog’s lifestyle includes risk for exposure to C.I.V., and the protection provided by the canine influenza vaccine. The vaccine is not yet available in veterinarians’ offices, and the price has not yet been set.

How long has canine influenza been around?

The H3N8 equine influenza virus has been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, however, cases of an unknown respiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported. An investigation showed that this respiratory illness was caused by the equine influenza A H3N8 virus. Scientists believe that this virus jumped species (from horses to dogs) and has now adapted to cause illness in dogs and spread efficiently among dogs. This is now considered a new dog-specific lineage of H3N8.
  

What is the risk to humans from this virus?

To date, there is no evidence of transmission of canine influenza virus from dogs to people and there has not been a single reported case of human infection with the canine influenza virus. While this virus infects dogs and spreads between dogs, there is no evidence that this virus infects humans.
However, human infections with new influenza viruses (against which the human population has little immunity) would be concerning if they occurred. Influenza viruses are constantly changing and it is possible for a virus to change so that it could infect humans and spread easily between humans. Such a virus could represent a pandemic influenza threat. For this reason, CDC and its partners are monitoring the H3N8 influenza virus (as well as other animal influenza viruses) along with instances of possible human exposure to these viruses very closely. In general, however, canine influenza viruses are considered to pose a low threat to humans. As mentioned earlier, while these viruses are well established in horse and dog populations, there is no evidence of infection among humans with this virus.

 
 

Thursday, April 28, 2011

An Accurate Blood Test for Pregnancy Diagnosis in Dogs

Is my dog pregnant?
As much as veterinarians would like to give a definite answer to this question, we have not always been able to. An accurate, easily accessible test was needed for pregnancy diagnosis. Traditionally, pregnancy diagnosis has been by palpation of the bitch between 22nd and 28th day after breeding. But, unless the bitch was thin and very cooperative, even the most experienced veterinarian could often only say, “I think so.” rather than, “Yes, she is.” X-rays are more definitive, but only after day 40. Ultrasonography, as alternative to palpation, often involves referrals to a distant location and imposes greater expense.
The first pregnancy test for women, based on the erythocyte sedimentaion rate(ESR), was developed by Robin Fahraeus in 1918. With the advent of more specific tests based on human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), ERS for pregnancy indication faded into the past. Fahraeus did not realize it, but it was an increase in the fibrinogen during pregnancy that caused the ESR to increase, maybe it could be used as a pregnancy test for dogs. In 1991, Allan HartBVSc, Robert Levine M.D. and Steven Wardlaw M.D. developed accurate, repeatable heat precipitation fibringoen as part of the quantitative buffy caot(QBC) analysis technology. In 1997, the fibrinogen parameter was added as part of the QBCVetAutaread (Idexx Laboratories). Using this technology, which is now available in many veterinary clinic laboratories, Allan Hart began researching pregnancy diagnosis in dogs. Fibrinogen proved to be a reliable marker for pregnancy when measured by a precise and reproducible method. Increase of over 300 ug/dL (from a normal of 100-250 ug/dL) between days 28 to 30 of gestation, in healthy bitches are positive for pregnancy. False negatives may be seen in large breed dogs with single puppy litters. But, even in these cases, a significant increase in fibrinogen between a prebreeding and a 28 to 30 day post breeding level would be diagnostic.
In conclusion, measuring firinogen levels over 300 ug/dL, using the Idexx QBC VetAutoread, at 28 to 30 days postbreeding, is positive for pregnancy in bitches.

Reference
A Rapid, Accurate IN-House Pregnancy Test for Dogs, By: Dr. Allan
H. Hart B.V.Sc, Veterinary Forum, August 1997.

DISEASES IN DOGS

Infectious Diseases
1. Canine Distemper
Also known as Hard Pad Disease, this is a highly contagious, systemic, viral disease of dogs and is the leading cause of  infectious disease deaths in dogs worldwide.
It is most common in unvaccinated puppies prior to 3-8 months of age, because these puppies have lost the protection of Maternal antibodies.
Etiology & Symptoms
Canine Distemper is caused by Paramyxovirus, closely related to Measles virus
It has a special affinity for attacking epithelial cells
Symtoms : 1st Stage: Begins with fever, loss of appetite, listlessness and a watery discharge from eyes along with diarrhoea. Dog continues to run a fever, gets better for a day or two and then seems to get worse. 2nd Stage: 2-3 weeks after the onset of the diseases some dogs develop signs of brain involvement - attacks of slobbering, head shaking and chewing movements followed by epileptic seizures.
Hard Pad: This is a form of distemper in which the virus attacks the skin of feet and nose, causing a thick horny layer to form on the nose, and callus like pads to form on the feet.
Treatment & Prevention
This is directed at limiting secondary bacterial infection.. Antibiotics, Electrolyte solutions, dietary supplements and anti-convulsants are used. Prevention is the best approach by using Modified Live Vaccines from 6-8 weeks of age. 
2. Canine Hepatitis
This is caused by Canine Adenovirus Type I  and is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted only to dogs. Ingestion of saliva, urine or faeces of infected dogs is the main route by which the infection is spread. Recovered dogs shed the virus in their urine for over 6 months.
Clinical Symptoms vary from slight fever to death. The first sign is fever (biphasic) followed by annorexia, thirst, conjuctivitis and serous discharge from the eyes and nose.
Treatment & Prevention
Extensive fluid therapy, broad spectrum antibiotics and symptomatic treatment is given. But the disease is best prevented by modified live vaccines.
3. Parvo
This is one of the most dreaded diseases in dogs, as the onset is rapid, and the morbidity and mortality are very high. It is an enteric (intestinal) disease, caused by the Canine Parvovirus, which mostly affects puppies because it has a special affinity for rapidly dividing cells. But dogs of all ages can be affected, but puppies less than five months are most prone.
There are 2 forms of the disease.
Enteric form: Severe depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, tucked up appearance, high fever followed by profuse diarrhoea which is usually bloody.
Cardiac form: Muscles of the heart are affected in puppies less than 3 months of age. There could be sudden death.
Treatment & Prevention
Treatment may be successful or not depending on the severity of the disease and the age of the dog. Fuid therapy with electrolytes is usually combined with antibiotics and symptomatic therapy.
A vaccination schedule including a series of vaccinations given to young puppies with the advice of your vet, can prevent this deadly disease. Annual vaccinations are required to maintain the immunity.
4.Corona Virus Enteritis:
This is a highly contagious disease worldwide. It is very similar to Parvo, but less severe. It spreads rapidly and the severity depends on the condition of the dog. The mode of infection is through the infected faeces.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea with soft faeces that maybe yellow or mixed with blood.
the disease is more severe in puppies though it may affect dogs of any age.
Some veterinarians feel that Canine Corona Viral enteritis is underdiagnosed because the symptoms in the dog closely resembles that of parvo and also there maybe an actual concurrent infection by parvo virus.
It should be suspected whenever there is rapid spread of gasdtrointestinal disease among dogs.
Treatment & Prevention
Fluid therapy, electrlytes and antibiotics are used to treat the symptoms. Prevention is by the use of Modified Live vaccines.
5. Leptospirosis
This is caused by L. Coanicola and L. Icteohaemorrahgiae, it spreads by the urine of infected animals.
The dogs get infected either by a break in the skin or when it drinks water or food that is contaminated by infected urine. Most cases are mild.
Though it affects many organs the kidneys are most affected.
A hunched gait because of pain in the kidneys, formation of ulcers in the mouth and tongue, bleeding from the mouth, passage of bloody stools and severe thirst with increased urination are the main symptoms.
Sometime the liver is involved causing jaundice. This disease is realtively rare these days
Treatment & Prevention
Treatment is by fluid therapy and broad spectrum antibiotics. It is found that dogs which have been vaccinated, still get affected sometimes.
6. Parainfluenza
Parainfluenza and Canine Adenovirus-2 are highly infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. They are transmitted by air, and readily cause localised infections.
The disease itself is mild, but secondary bacterial infections cause a more severe manifestation.
Coughing of various intensity and frequency, along with fever is the common symptom.
The dogs usually recover within 3-7 days.
There is no specific anti-viral treatment, but antibiotics are used to control the secondary bacterial infection.
7. Rabies
One of the most feared diseases, rabies is an acute viral encephalomyelitis (affecting the brain), that particularly affects carnivores and insectivore bats although it can affect any mammal.
Once the clinical signs appear, the disease is almost invariably fatal.
Many countries have managed to become free of rabies through successful eradication programmes.
Transmission is by the introduction of the virus laden saliva into the tissues. The incubation period maybe prolonged and variable.
After entering the muscle cells, the virus replicates itself, and travels via the peripheral nerves to the spinal cord, and ascends to the brain. From here it once again travels through the peripheral nerves to the salivary glands.
Rabid animals of all species exhibit typical signs of CNS disturbance. The most reliable signs are unexplained behavioural changes and paralysis. Clinical disease has 3 forms.
Prodromal Stage: Lasts for 1-3 days. Typical signs are vague CNS symptoms progressing rapidly.
Furious form: This is classical Mad Dog Syndrome. The animal becomes irrational and with the slightest provocation, viciously and aggressively uses its teeth, claws (and horns or hooves in the case of other animals). The posture gives an appearance of alertness and anxiety with dilated pupils. Such dogs when allowe to roam, frequently attack people, or any moving object. They chew the wire and frames of their cages. Muscular incoordination and seizures develop. Death is the result of progressive paralysis.
Paralytic form: This presents with paralysis of the throat and muscles of trhe jaw, with profuse salivation and inability to swallow. The lower jaw drops down. The paralysis progresses to all parts of the bodyand coma and death follow in a few hours.
Features of the various Anti-Rabies vaccines used currently.
a) Modified Live Vaccines (MLV)
b) Killed Vaccines
c) Subunit vaccines
Modified Live Vaccines:
Micro organisms used in the vaccine are altered in such a way that they are no longer virulent to the majority of host species. But they still retain their antigenic properties to stimulate a protective immune response.
Strong systemic immunity and local immune response are produced by local administration of certain MLV vaccines.
MLV must replicate after innoculation to produce enough antigen to induce interferon in the next few days after immunization, providing early protection against some virulent viral infections.
Certain MLV can induce immunosuppression, may be shed into the environment and may revert to virulence or cause vaccine induced disease.
Killed Vaccines:
Safer than MLV
To induce a protective immuno response, killed vaccines require a large antigenic dose, multiple immunizations and use of an adjuvant.
More costly than MLV
Local and systemic vaccine reactions may occur.
Provide a strong immune response and a long duration of immunity.
Killed vaccines work by using more antigen (since killed products can not grow in the body of the recipient) and contain an adjuvant which mimics a live replicating vaccine by releasing the antigen slowly over a period of time and by stimulating WBC's to produce a better immune response.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Pets Insurance

Apart from insurance for human beings (life insurance, health insurance, and others) or for properties (car insurance, home insurance, and others), there are even arrangements for insurance for pet animals .Pet insurance is slowly but surely catching up in India. Pet Insurance schemes essentially pay for the veterinary costs in case one's pet falls sick or suffers an accident or injury. Some pet plan insurance products also make payments for loss or death of the insured pet.

Pet Insurance is the insurance which pays the veterinary costs if one's pet is ill, injured due to an accident, or in case it has died, or is lost or stolen (all payment towards a claim have to be made by the pet owner). It does not cover veterinary treatment like vaccination and neutering.
Pet insurance largely means insurance for dogs and cats, with some special insurance available for horses. (Insurance agency like Veterinary Pet Insurance in US covers other exotic animals also like chameleons and turtles). Such insurance are more practiced in developed countries and insurance cover policies differ from company to company.

Nature of Pet Insurance Policies :
Generally pet insurance policies limit the (insurance) amount payable by either:
• capping the total sum payable annually
• placing limit per illness or accident
• placing cap per claim (after limiting the claim period to a year)
 
In India the concept of pet insurance is still not very popular unlike other forms of insurance. There are a few insurance agencies in India that provide pet insurance such as: Oriental Insurance, United India 

Insurance, and National Insurance .

Oriental Insurance, a premier Indian insurance company, provides insurance for dogs, horses and elephants. Currently the other key players in the Indian pet insurance market are United India Insurance Co, National Insurance Co, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance and New India Assurance Co.
                                                                                   Usually the premium for pet insurance varies between three to five percent of the amount insured in India. Pet medical insurance plans in India normally provide coverage for death from disease, disability and sickness. Insurance coverage is also extended for public liability and accidental death of pets.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Early Sign Of A Sick Dog

Losing a pet who has been with you for sometime is one painful experience that dog owners don’t want to go through. They will do their best to take care of their canine and make sure that their dog is well-fed and healthy.  But there will be instances where your pet dog will experience sickness or illnesses. Knowing how to determine if your pet dog is sick or not is one important skill any dog owners must know.
We have outlined below some typical symptoms a sick dog might have and if any of these are present in your pet dog, it’s best to immediately consult a veterenarian to address the situation.
  • Eyes:  The eye is swelling, there is a discharge and redness
  • Nose : The dog has running nose, discharge and crusting
  • Breathing : Having prolonged panting, shortness of breath and irregular breathing
  • Intestinal Activity:  You notice blood on the stool, consistent bowel discharge and frequency of defacation
  • Odor Changes: If you started to notice foul odor from the ears, skin, mouth and others
  • Behavior : If you notice fatigue, trembling, anxiety and depression
Generally speaking, a healthy dog have the following:
  • Body temparature ranging from 101-102 Farenheit
  • Breaths per minute is between 15 to 20  breaths
  • Heart rate is between 80 to 120 beats per minute
  • Have pink gums, tongue, inside of lips, and inside eyelids
  • Have a  clean smelling ears and breath
We hope that this short guide gave you an idea on what to look at if you suspect that your pet dog is sick and needs medical attention.

Health Problems With Cats


If You Think Your Cat is Sick...
Common cat health problems range from simple inconveniences to life-threatening accidents and illnesses.
If you notice anything unusual or unusual behavior in your cat or kitten (especially things like not eating, constipation, lethargy, or a dull coat), you should contact your veterinarian. Your cat may be sick and may need immediate veterinary care.
Sick Cat Health Symptoms
Symptoms that something is wrong with your cat or kitten include the following:
  • loss of appetite,
  • a dull coat,
  • excessive grooming or itching,
  • not grooming after eating,
  • lethargy,
  • hiding in unusual places (places your cat normally doesn't hide),
  • vomiting,
  • diarrhea,
  • appearance of the third eyelid extending from the corner of your cat's eyes while awake,
  • difficulty using the cat litter box (from either end) or using another location for elimination when your cat usually uses her litter pan,
  • excessive drooling,
  • drinking lots and lots of water, or
  • any other behavior that seems unusual for your cat.
This is not an exhaustive list of all the possible symptoms of kitten or common cat health problems; just the basics.
You need to know your cat and know his or her regular behavior.
If you're a new cat owner, it's a really good idea to read information about cat behavior and cat health. Sometimes, local animal shelters offer classes to help you get to know your cat better, as well as how to train your cat, and make adjustments in your home for your new cat or kitten.
If you suspect something is wrong with your kitty, you should consult a veterinarian immediately. There is no way for you to know the extent of the problem with your cat or kitten without having a vet take a look.
And you really should consult your vet as soon as possible to avoid a possible minor problem from becoming more serious. For example, if your cat refuses to eat, it can lead to a serious health problem called hepatic lipidosis.
If your kitty doesn't eat for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian right away.


Helping Stray Animals & Laws For Their Support

It is against the law to:
• Give an animal any injurious substance. It is illegal to put out poisoned food. (PCA, Section 11)

• Transport any animal in any manner that will cause him or her unnecessary suffering. This includes loading cows into trucks without ramps and overcrowding the vehicle as well as tying up pigs and carrying them on cycles (PCA, Section 11). All violations of Section 11 are punishable with a fine of Rs 100 and/or up to three months in jail.

• It is illegal to kill homeless animals. Citizens may only report what they perceive as a nuisance to the municipal authorities. The municipality is required to maintain an animal pound for animals. Previously, municipalities would kill these animals (mainly dogs) cruelly by electrocution, starvation and burying alive. After 1992, it became illegal for municipalities to kill stray dogs. The High Courts of Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Mumbai and several other states have specifically forbidden the killing of stray dogs and have directed the municipality to introduce a sensible sterilisation programme instead. The Animal Welfare Board of India has established a code of conduct for municipalities. Failure to follow the code can invite contempt of court proceedings.

• Sections 428 and 429 of the Indian Penal Code make it illegal to maim or cause injury to any animal with a monetary value greater than Rs 10. It is illegal to throw acid on cows (something that vegetable sellers do as a matter of routine). The Code also makes it illegal for cars to purposefully injure or kill dogs, cats and cows on the street. Offenders can be reported to the local animal protection group and police station and a case filed under the above-referenced sections. Punishment is a fine of Rs 2000 and/or a jail term of up to five years.

• Stray animals may not be used for research. The Rules for Experimental Animals, as formulated by the Committee for the Control and Supervision of Experimental Animals, state that only animals bred for the purpose of research by institutes registered by the Committee may be used for experimentation (although, of course, such animals suffer and feel pain just as much as strays or any other animal). It is illegal for any medical, educational or commercial research institute to pick up stray animals from the street or from the municipal pound for this purpose.
What You Can Do to Help Stray Animals
• When you see a dog or cow being hit or stoned, be sure to inform the offender of the law and get him or her to stop. Should the abuse persist, register an FIR at the closest police station. Do not become discouraged if the police do not, at first, take you seriously. In many cases, they may not know the laws pertaining to animals. Be polite but firm.

• If the municipality in your area is still cruelly killing homeless dogs, make an appointment with the municipal commissioner. Inform the commissioner that it has been proven that cruelly killing dogs reduces neither their number nor the incidence of bites and rabies and that the courts have ruled that it is illegal to cruelly kill stray animals. The Animal Welfare Board of India has developed a set of guidelines for all municipalities directing the implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme. If there is an animal welfare organisation in the area, urge it to take up the ABC programme. Should the municipality refuse to stop the cruel killing,

• It is illegal for a municipality to round up stray dogs and abandon them outside city limits, as it places them in circumstances likely to cause their death from starvation and thirst. Therefore, you should challenge this cruelty in court.

• When you find cows or buffaloes on the street or tethered on public pavements, ask those nearby if anyone knows their owner or the dairy to which they belong. Inform the owner that it is illegal to allow cows to wander. If the owner does not have enough space to keep the cows comfortable or the means to feed them, file a complaint with the municipality asking that the cows be sent to a suitable shelter. Cows and buffaloes left on the street are often hit by cars and die from eating plastic bags, broken glass and other trash.

• If you notice cows or other animals with burn marks, usually on their rumps, near particular fruit and vegetable markets, it is probable that the vegetable sellers throw acid on the animals to drive them away from their stalls. If there is a market association, approach the head and inform her or him of the law (IPC, Sections 428 and 429). Request that all vegetable vendors be warned against this practice. Inform the police station in the area to keep an eye out for such violations.

• When you see an animal knocked over by a vehicle, get the number of the vehicle. Check the animal for signs of life. If possible, move him or her to safety and administer life-saving first aid. If you can take the animal to a veterinarian yourself, do so. If not, call an animal welfare organisation that has an ambulance. Once the animal is taken care of, file a complaint against the offender with the closest police station (IPC, Sections 428 and 429).

• If you know of any research institute that is using animals, ask for the source of the animals. If you suspect the animals have been taken from the street or a pound or that the animals are being abused, contact the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA).

In the meantime, file a case with the police.
CPCSEA
AWBI Complex
3rd Seaward Road
Valmiki Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur Chennai 600 041

Tel.: 044 441 6814

Or U can Contact Peta India for any other help: http://www.petaindia.com/