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Preview VMX 2026: Inside the World’s Most Comprehensive Veterinary Conference

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VMX

Preview VMX 2026: Inside the World’s Most Comprehensive Veterinary Conference

VMX 2026 Program Now Live: “World Classic – Celebrating the Champions of Care” Offers 1,200 Hours of Continuing Education for Veterinary Professionals

Press Registration Now Open for the Veterinary Industry’s Premier Global Educational Conference

Set to the theme of World Classic – Celebrating the Champions of Care, the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) launches the program this week for VMX 2026. The world’s largest and most comprehensive educational veterinary conference, and the first veterinary event of the year, VMX 2026 will take place January 17–21 in Orlando, FL and virtually worldwide. VMX 2026 is set to deliver first-class programming that spans veterinary care for species of nearly every kind from around the globe and showcase the latest innovations shaping the industry in the year ahead.

VMX

Building on record-breaking momentum from VMX 2025 — where nearly 30,000 attendees from 87 countries and 712 exhibitors gathered to set a new standard for veterinary education and engagement — VMX 2026 returns with a bold and inspiring theme — World Classic. This year’s program raises the bar for a high-energy, globally minded conference that honors the care, dedication, passion and performance of veterinary professionals.

“Our veterinary professionals embody everything it means to be world-class. Like true champions, they rise to challenges with courage and heart – delivering gold-level care to the animals we love,” said Gene O’Neill, NAVC CEO. “VMX 2026: World Classic will celebrate the passion, precision and perseverance they bring to their work every day. We can’t wait to welcome our veterinary community back to Orlando in January 2026 for our most exciting conference yet.”

Extensive CE Sessions

The VMX 2026 program, which is live this week, features 1,200 hours of CE and hundreds of program tracks happening throughout the five-day event. Veterinary professionals from around the globe can “go for the gold” with world-class continuing education, hands-on workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, masterclasses and unforgettable experiences. Sessions that are open to veterinarians, veterinary nurses/technicians and practice managers span a plethora of topics including: medical breakthroughs, new tools and technologies, best practices for veterinary practices, and more. A snapshot of VMX 2026 sessions includes: 

Small Animal Health

  • Navigating the Teenage Dog: Understanding and Supporting Canine Adolescents
  • You Got To Be Kitten Me: Orthopedic Disease in Cats
  • Anorexia in Small Rodents: It’s Not a Small Problem
  • Flatline to Fibrillation: Managing Arrest Rhythms During CPR            

Large Animal Health

  • Standing Sedation in the Horse: An Anesthesiologist’s Perspective
  • Better Living Through Chemistry When Things Get a Bit Too Western in Livestock
  • Behavior and Welfare Considerations for Managing Impaired Cattle 

Exotic Animal Health

  • Exotic Animal Triage and Common Appointment Presentations
  • Why Did the Turtle Cross the Road: Management of Traumatic Injuries in Chelonians
  • The Packed Cell Volume Is How Low? Importance of Blood Transfusions in Reptiles

Zoo and Aquatic Animal Health

  • Vet Techs to the Rescue: Navigating the Deep End of Aquatic Sedation and Anesthetic Procedures
  • Cheetah Conservation
  • What’s in the Box: Unexpected Rapid Fire Wildlife Cases 

Treating Toxins:

  • Urban Legends in Toxicology: Exploring the Myths and Realities of Potential Toxins in the Veterinary Patient          
  • Poultry Toxins: What They Eat When You’re Not Looking
  • Ingested Toxins in Birds: Polly Ate More Than a Cracker… 

Practice Management:

  • Leveraging AI for Enhanced Efficiency
  • Low-Cost Clinics: Supporting Access to Care in the Real World
  • Trying To Keep Rural Veterinary Practice: A New Perspective on an Old Profession
  • Front Desk, Front Lines: How CSRs Drive Practice Growth and Marketing 

Press Registration Now Open

Credentialed members of the media may attend VMX 2026 for free, either in person or virtually. Journalists will have exclusive access to interview world-renowned veterinary experts, explore the latest innovations in veterinary care, and cover key topics. To register and attend as a member of the press or to schedule one-on-one interviews with the experts about the latest in veterinary medicine, in advance of VMX 2026, please contact publicrelations@navc.com.

Veterinary professionals can secure their spot at VMX 2026 with Early Bird rates now available at $125 per person. This year also marks the return of the NAVC’s exclusive Lion Club registration tier. Launched in 2025 as an innovative, industry-first offering for the veterinary community, the Lion Club registration is designed for those seeking a champion’s experience. This includes premium perks such as priority access to sessions and entertainment, lunch vouchers and elevated experiences throughout the event, including exclusive access to the VIP Lion Club Lounge for the attendee and a guest.

Veterinary and veterinary nurse/technician students, as always, may attend for free. Guest registration is also available. VMX Virtual will also take place. Click here for VMX 2026 registration.

About the NAVC

The North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing veterinary professionals worldwide. As the world’s leading provider of veterinary continuing education, the NAVC delivers essential training, tools and resources for veterinary professionals to stay abreast of advances in animal medicine and provide the best care for animals everywhere. Through its commitment to innovation and excellence, the NAVC has developed a diverse portfolio of products and services, including: educational events, headlined by VMX (Veterinary Meeting & Expo), the world’s largest, most comprehensive continuing education conference and launchpad for new products and innovations within the veterinary industry; VetFolio.com, a robust digital platform for virtual learning and engagement; NAVC Media, the veterinary industry’s largest and award-winning portfolio of trade publications; and Embrace, an advocacy arm which unites the veterinary community and pet lovers. The NAVC was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Orlando, FL. Since 2017, the NAVC has been recognized annually as one of the Top Workplaces by the Orlando Sentinel. To learn more about the NAVC’s products and brands, visit https://navc.com/. To see our schedule of upcoming events, visit https://navc.com/calendar/.

Source: North American Veterinary Community

 

Where the Wild Horses Live

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horses

Where the Wild Horses Live

The Romanian wilderness in the Danube Delta is one of the few remaining places in Europe where wild horses can live free

However, their existence was at risk a few years ago before FOUR PAWS stepped in. 

Carefully, Dr Ovidiu Rosu aims his gun through the tilted window of his truck. There is no obstacle between him and the mare grazing on the sparse vegetation of the German Fields in the Danube Delta. A sea of purple coloured grasses that almost resemble corals in the sea stretches until the horizon in any direction. And in fact, 30,000 years ago the Black Sea used to expand to where we are standing today, thereby making the ground forever infertile with ocean salt. It is here, a stone’s throw away from “Kilometer 0”, the point at which the Danube mounds into the Black sea, where FOUR PAWS is executing a birth control programme for the wild horses of Letea. 

horses

Kilometer 0

Getting to this point is quite the journey: After making it passed the clogged highway that circles around Rumania’s capitol Bukarest it takes another four hours of driving towards the Eastern borders of the country. The roads are becoming emptier and emptier the further we approach our destination. Finally we reach the port town of Tulcea, from which we have to take a boat to cross the Danube river, as Letea and its surrounding municipalities are not connected to Romania’s road network. As the shores of the Danube Delta pass by left and right we further leave behind civilisation with every minute that passes. After setting anchor in Letea we get to gaze at our home for the next couple of days for the first time: a place without hotels, restaurants, shops and almost without tourists. For a visitor unfamiliar with our project it would be hard to understand that the horses inhabiting this remote part of the world  would cause a problem for anyone – but in 2011, their fate was almost put to extinction. 

horses

The 2800 hectar wide Letea forest bordering the German Fields and the town of Letea is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the oldest natural reservation in Romania. As the wild horses, in search for food, enter the forest and gnaw on the rare and protected trees and vegetation, it was decided that they pose a risk for the highly protected area. In 2011, the local population was offered a reward for every horse they catch, which lead to mares and stallions being captured using brutal methods. Some of the animals suffered severe injuries – and what is worse, they were meant to be delivered to the next slaughterhouse. In the last moment, FOUR PAWS stepped in to offer a solution for the problem: a birth control programme to keep the horse population numbers at bay.

horses

First night

We spend the night at Toni’s, a local farmer who has turned his place into a guesthouse, recognising the touristic potential the Romanian wilderness has. Since this year he is even operating a small shop next door, in which he sells fresh tomatoes and packed snacks he ships in from the mainland. At night, the locals sit at his porch and gaze at us, the new visitors who are not here to marvel  at the beauty of the landscape, but to make sure that the wild horses can keep existing. Tired from the long journey, we go to bed early, as we have another long day ahead of us. 

In the field

After an early breakfast, we board the loading area of a truck and make our way across the dusty paths that lead into the German Fields surrounding the Letea forest. It doesn’t take long until we spot the first horses, and after a quick check with his binoculars, Dr Rosu identifies a mare that hasn’t been treated yet. After successfully tranquillising her, he starts with the procedure: Together with the Austrian veterinarian Helga Kausel he inspects the sleeping horse and makes sure that the animal is doing alright before he injects the immune contraceptive named pZP (porcine zona pellucida) that will make the mare infertile – for one year. 

horses

Dr Horselittle

As the effect is only temporary, Dr Rosu and his colleague Kuki Barbuceanu, director of the FOUR PAWS ARCA programme, have to constantly return to provide refreshers and of course, find previously unvaccinated horses. “This time time of the year the work is not bad at all – but in winter things get tough when its -20 degrees outside and the wind is blowing over the wide plains. Just to get here we have to take one of large icebreaker ferries once the Danube freezes.”

horses

Dr Rosu and his colleague have been working together for a long time. They talk to each other like an old married couple and one can tell how much they appreciate one another. Out here in the wild, they watch out for each other – and for the hundreds of horses that have no idea that these two are making sure they can keep on existing.

horses

Long journey home

After three days in Letea our journey comes to an end. We walk over the town’s dusty main road, under the quiet gazes of the locals, passing the thatched roofs that shape the villages picturesque scenery. If one wanted to destroy all this peace and serenity it would be the perfect place to open up a yoga retreat for burnt out metropolitan’s. There is not much talking on the boat ride back as we are digesting the impressions from the past days. Our cell phones reception starts to get better while we are approaching the port of Tulcea, our starting point, which now seems like an eternity ago. We marvel at the ports skyline, it seems to be the center of the world after our days out in the wilderness. In Bukarest we have to say goodbye to our Rumanian colleagues Ovidiu Rosu and Kuki Barbuceanu. They will rest up for a couple of days before they will return back into the wild to make sure that the wild horses of Letea can keep running freely in the future. 

Source: FOUR PAWS

Elephant Seal’s Surprise Visit to Gordon’s Bay Streets Ends Safely

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Seal

Elephant Seal’s Surprise Visit to Gordon’s Bay Streets Ends Safely

It’s not every day that a Southern elephant seal makes an appearance in a residential neighbourhood—but that’s exactly what happened in Gordon’s Bay this morning when a sub-adult male was discovered lounging alongside Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, nearly one kilometre inland.

The call came in at 06:20am and by 7:00am, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA had arrived to assess the situation. What followed was a nearly nine-hour rescue operation involving a well-coordinated effort across multiple agencies to ensure the sub-adult male’s safety and eventual return to a more suitable coastal environment.

Seal

From Seaside to Suburbia

Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) are the world’s largest seal species and are usually found in sub-Antarctic regions. While sightings in South Africa are rare, occasional lone individuals, typically young males, do haul out along our coastline during moulting or rest phases. But making it inland and into a neighbourhood is, by all accounts, highly unusual.

“Wild animals don’t always follow the script, and this seal’s unexpected journey into a residential area created real cause for concern,” said Belinda Abraham, Spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. “With so many moving parts — traffic, onlookers, and a massive marine mammal in distress — it took rapid coordination and clear focus to keep everyone safe”.

Seal

A Safe Return to the Sea

While the seal appeared to be unharmed, his urban detour posed risks—both to himself and to motorists. With the assistance of the Law Enforcement, Traffic Services, SAPS, Gordon’s Bay Security and Gordon’s Bay Medical Ambulance Services, the area was secured and traffic redirected while the SPCA, City of Cape Town’s Coastal Management and Marine Unit, SANParks, Two Oceans Aquarium, Shark Spotters and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) stepped in.

The SPCA monitored the seal’s welfare throughout the incident, including during sedation by a wildlife veterinarian and the difficult process of loading the animal into the City’s large game capture trailer. 

By late afternoon, the seal had been given the all clear by the veterinarian and safely transported to Koggel Bay, where his recovery from sedation was monitored before our team left the site.

Seal

A Community Effort

“It truly takes a village says Abraham. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who stepped up today—for their professionalism, their compassion, and their quick response to an animal in distress.”

Residents who encounter wildlife in urban spaces are reminded not to approach, feed, or attempt to assist the animals, but rather to contact the Cape of Good Hope SPCA for assistance. The number to dial is 0217004158/9. We are available on this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

The top 5 questions you should be asking your vet, in celebration of World Veterinary Day

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The top 5 questions you should be asking your vet, in celebration of World Veterinary Day

This World Veterinary Day, on Saturday 26 April, we celebrate the people who work tirelessly to protect the health and wellbeing of our pets: vets.  The 2025 theme, Animal health takes a team, recognises the collaborative effort behind every healthy pet, and at the heart of is your vet and their team.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or have shared a home with pets for many years, regular vet check-ups are essential. However, more than simply ticking a box, this is an opportunity to ask the right questions. Questions that could improve the quality of life for your pet.

According to Dr. Guy Fyvie, Senior Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa, “Veterinary care isn’t about diagnosing problems alone, it’s about building a relationship with your vet and creating a shared plan for your pet’s lifelong health. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – vets welcome them.”

Dr. Fyvie shares the top five questions you should be asking your vet:

  1. Is my pet at a healthy weight, and how can I tell?

Obesity is one of the most common health issues in pets today, yet it’s easy to miss. Many pet parents only realise their pet is overweight once other health problems surface. Your vet can help assess your pet’s body condition score and recommend diet or lifestyle changes if necessary.

“Weight plays a major role in your pet’s joint health, mobility, and even lifespan,” says Dr Fyvie. “No matter how small a reduction in weight, it can make a big difference.”

  1. What should I be feeding my pet, and how much?

Your vet knows your pet’s unique medical, and lifestyle needs and can give clear, objective advice based on science rather than trends. In fact, extensive research has shown that the right nutrition can assist in managing disease conditions.

  1. Are my pet’s vaccinations and parasite preventions up to date?

It’s easy to fall behind on vaccinations, deworming or flea and tick treatments, especially with indoor pets. However, staying on top of these preventative measures can save your pet from potentially serious illnesses down the line.

  1. Is this behaviour normal, or should I be concerned?

Changes in behaviour, from hiding, whining, aggression, or going off food, can be early warning signs of discomfort, pain or emotional distress. Your vet can help identify the cause or refer you to a behaviourist if need be.

  1. What changes should I expect as my pet gets older?

Pets age faster than we do, and each life stage brings new health needs. Asking your vet about what’s coming next, from diet changes to more frequent check-ups, means you can plan and support your pet through every chapter of life.

“The earlier we can pick up on age-related issues, the better we can manage them,” explains Dr. Fyvie. “From dental care to mobility support, there are so many ways we can help pets age gracefully.”

By asking the right questions of your pet care team, you become more informed, more prepared, and more connected to the one who matters most, your pet.

Visit the Hill’s website for more information

Source: Hill’s

Burns and Dogs – (What to do – how to treat)

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Burns

Burns and Dogs – (What to do – how to treat)

How to Treat a Burned Dog
Dogs just love being underfoot while their owners are cooking. While this can be an admirable trait of man’s best friend, it can also be dangerous when boiling water or hot cooking oil is being used in the kitchen.

A dog may experience first-, second-, or third-degree burns that are caused by fire, heat, boiling liquids, chemicals, and electricity. All are painful and can cause damage, even death. Superficial burns, evidenced by pain and reddening of the skin, are usually not serious. However, first aid should be given as soon as possible to ease the pain.

The following tips will help you not only identify the type of burn you’re dealing with but will also give you suggestions on how to best treat the injury.

First – or Second-Degree Burns

The signs of a first-degree burn include fur intact or singed, painful lesions, or red skin with possible blisters. The signs of a second-degree burn are singed fur or painful lesions that turn tan in color with swelling and blisters. If you notice any of these warning signs, here’s what to do:

Step 1: Restrain the dog if necessary.

Step 2: Apply cold water or ice packs to the burned area and leave in contact with the skin for 15 minutes. DO NOT apply ointment or butter.

Step 3: If burns cover a large part of the dog’s body or are located where the dog can lick them, cover the area with a sterile dressing. DO NOT use cotton.

Step 4: Wrap torn rags or other soft material around the dressing and tie or tape it just tightly enough to keep it in place.

Step 5: Transport the dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Third-Degree Burns

The signs of a third-degree burn include destruction on entire skin area, black or pure white lesions, or fur that pulls out easily. Also watch for signs of shock, which include pale or white gums, a rapid heartbeat, or rapid breathing. If you notice these signs, here’s what to do:

Step 1: Restrain the dog if necessary.

Step 1a: Approach the dog slowly, speaking in a reassuring tone of voice.

Step 2: Examine the dog for shock. If he or she is not in shock, proceed to Step 3.

Step 2a: Examine the gums by gently lifting the upper lip so the gum is visible. Pale or white gums indicate the dog is almost certainly in shock. If the gums are pink, the dog is probably not in shock.

Step 2b: Determine the heartbeat. Place fingers firmly on the dog about 2 inches behind the dog’s elbow in the center of its chest. Count the number of beats in 10 seconds and multiply by 6. If the dog is in shock its heartbeat may be more than 150 beats per minute.

Step 2c: Place the dog on its side with its head extended. Gently pull out the dog’s tongue to keep the airway open.

Step 2d: Elevate the dog’s hindquarters slightly by placing them on a pillow or folded towels. To conserve body heat, wrap the dog in a blanket or jacket.

Step 3: DO NOT apply ointment or butter. Apply a dry, clean dressing over the burned area. DO NOT use cotton.

Step 4: Wrap torn rags or other soft material around the dressing and tie or tape it just tightly enough to keep it in place.

Step 5: Transport the dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Chemical Burns

The signs of a chemical burn include a chemical odor such as turpentine, gasoline, or insecticide; reddened skin; or pain. If you notice these signs, do the following:

Step 1: Restrain the dog if necessary.

Step 1a: Approach the dog slowly, speaking in a reassuring tone of voice.

Step 2: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water; repeat as many times as necessary to remove the chemical. Use mild soap and lather well. DO NOT use solvents of any kind.

Step 3: Call the veterinarian for further instructions.
Does your dog get into anything and everything? Check the next section for first-aid tips on treating a choking dog, including how to clear the airway and administer CPR.

Source: Friends of the dog

Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

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Heat

Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

Are you a pet parent living in an area with hot summers? If you don’t have air conditioning, you may be worried about your cat getting heat exhaustion. There may be a flurry of questions going through your mind: What will happen while you’re gone during the day? Will your kitty sweat — or suffer?

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep your home cool enough for your feline friend.

Hot Town, Summer for the Kitty

When temperatures start to rise, your cat might be more comfortable than you think: according to The Washington Post, her average body temperature stays around a toasty 38 degrees Celsius. Since her ancestors evolved in the desert, she can also get most of her moisture from food.

However, this doesn’t mean she’ll be safe and comfortable locked in a warm house. Cats can’t sweat as humans do. Instead, your feline friend needs to release heat continually by laying on cool surfaces, panting, and drinking cold water.

Make sure your kitty is comfortable by doing a few precautionary things around the house:

  • Water, water, everywhere: Since water will evaporate faster in the summer — and your cat might be disinclined to trek around the house — it’s a good idea to keep several bowls of cold water throughout your home. If you live in a multi-level house, keep a bowl on every floor. Putting them under a chair or away from sunlight and cat food might make them more appealing. You can even place some empty pet bowls in the freezer overnight and fill them in the morning to help the water stay colder longer.
  • Homemade ice pack: Leave a homemade ice pack where your cat likes to lounge. If your cat gets too warm, a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel is a good daytime nap buddy. (Remember to put it back in the freezer when you return home.) Never leave your cat alone with a commercial ice pack, since the chemicals in it could be dangerous to her if it pops or leaks.
  • Close the curtains: By darkening a few rooms, you can limit the amount of sun and heat that enters your home during the day. Not only will your feline friend be thankful for the shade, but you also won’t be hit with heat the minute you walk in the door.
  • Keep a fan running: A small fan or two in the right spots can help circulate air and keep your cat cooler throughout the day. You can also consider using a timer for the fan if you don’t want it running all day.
  • Make her a cool cave: Cats love to cool down under furniture, so consider putting your bed on risers to give her lots of room to relax and sleep comfortably. Alternatively, putting a tablecloth on your kitchen table might give her a breezy hideaway on a cool tile or wood floor.

Safety Tips

Cats need water and fresh air to keep cool — but more isn’t always better. Make sure your cat doesn’t have access to large tubs of water or swimming pools. Never leave your tub full of water or large buckets of water out for your cat since this can create a drowning hazard. If you have a pool, make sure your cat can’t access it when you’re not at home.

You should also be careful not to leave windows wide open. Since cats can push out screens and escape — or a heavy window could close on them suddenly — you should not leave low-to-the-ground or heavy windows open while you’re not at home. Do leave at least one window that your pet can’t reach cracked for fresh air. Blocking a small open window with a fan can also help circulate air while keeping kitty from getting any ideas.

Heat Exhaustion in Cats: Warning Signs

Even when you do everything you possibly can to help keep your kitty cool, heat exhaustion in cats is still a possibility. Heat stroke in cats is actually more common in certain breeds than others. Since Persians and other flat-faced cats can’t pant as well as other breeds, they have a harder time naturally cooling down their bodies and are more susceptible to heat exhaustion, according to Preventive Vet.

If you notice excessive panting, a rapid heart rate, sunken eyes, or little to no urine in your cat’s litter box, she may be dehydrated and suffering from heat exhaustion. Check her hydration levels by gently pinching the skin between her neck and shoulders: Does it stay “tented”? Is it slow to smooth down? If so, she is likely dehydrated, and it’s important to get her to the veterinarian right away. They may then need to administer intravenous fluids before the condition gets too severe.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends that cats with very flat faces and those who are elderly, obese, or have lung or heart issues be watched closely for heat exhaustion. If your cat has one of these conditions — and you have tried ways to keep her cool without air conditioning — you may want to talk to your vet. The most important thing to remember is to be proactive and observant when the thermometer climbs so you can spot the signs of heat exhaustion quickly and resolve them.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Correctly remove ticks

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ticks

Correctly remove ticks

Due to the mild weather, ticks are now active almost all year round

The small arachnids love our dogs and cats as a source of food but they can transmit dangerous pathogens such as borreliosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and TBE. In order to protect our pets, the tick should be removed as soon as it is discovered as these diseases can have fatal consequences. Not only does time play an important role in removing ticks, but also the aids you use.

Necessary aids
Before the tick is removed, the following aids should be available:

  • Tip Tweezers
  • Disposable gloves
  • Disinfectants
  • Treats

Gloves as a protective measure
Disposable gloves provide good protection against pathogens carried by ticks, which can enter the human bloodstream through injured skin.

Soothe dog and cat
In order to remove the tick quickly, the infected animal must remain calm. This is easier said than done as it’s not always easy to keep dogs and cats still, especially when they are subjected to an unusual ‘intervention’. Ideally, a second person should be present to help keep the animal still and calm or distracted with a few treats.

Animals must never be forced to keep still as some may become frightened or react aggressively if they cannot get away. If the animal is not still, there is also the added danger of only removing part of the tick, leaving the remainder under the skin.

Applying tweezers correctly
Tweezers with fine tips are recommended when removing ticks. They should be applied as close as possible to the animal’s skin without crushing it. The closer the tip of the tweezer is to the skin, the greater the chance of being able to pull out the entire tick.

Remove tick
The parasite must be fixed with an even pressure but do not squeeze the tick as this may cause it to release its infectious saliva into the dog or cat. Jerking or pulling out the tick, or – as was common in the past – twisting the tick, can be counterproductive as it may leave the head or mouthpiece (the proboscis) in the animal’s skin. It is better to pull the tick straight and upwards with a slow, even movement. A look at the area will show whether it has been completely removed. If part of the tick is still visible in the animal’s skin, a veterinarian should be consulted to remove the rest immediately.

Disinfecting the bite site
The bite site should be treated with a disinfectant recommended by the veterinarian for such purposes. Keepers must keep an eye on the affected area and on their animal. If the skin remains reddened and inflammation develops at the site, the animal must be seen by a veterinarian, especially if the affected dog or cat shows symptoms such as fever, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes, etc. Please ensure you dispose of the tick correctly by putting it in a sealed container and placing it in a suitable bin.

Protecting your own animal      
Measures should be taken to protect dogs and cats from tick bites; a veterinarian will be able to discuss which protection is most suitable for the individual animal.

Source: FOUR PAWS

When Your Dog Has a Cold – What to Do

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When Your Dog Has a Cold – What to Do

Tips for dog owners: how to help your four-legged patient recover

Dogs can show cold and flu-like symptoms during cold and damp seasons. These include a runny nose, sneezing, eye discharge, coughing, fever, shallow, noisy and laboured breathing due to congestion as well as a lack of energy and appetite.1,2

Measures for recovery

As long as your four-legged friend only shows mild symptoms, but still has an appetite and is behaving normally, you can help them with simple measures to speed up their recovery. Dry air can irritate the airways, so set up a humidifier. The vapour can help to alleviate breathing difficulties. Clean the areas around the eyes and nose carefully with a lukewarm, damp cloth and allow your dog plenty of rest. Offer your four-legged friend plenty of fresh water and ensure they drink a lot. A balanced diet helps to strengthen the immune system (more details below). Keep your dog warm and away from other four-legged friends so that they don’t become infected.3,4,5 Definitely don’t smoke in the dog’s presence and avoid the use of things like room sprays. Your four-legged patient should feel better again in one to two weeks.

If the above-mentioned symptoms worsen and severe breathing problems, bloody sputum when coughing, nosebleeds, reluctance to eat or drink and lethargic behaviour occur, you must have your dog examined by a veterinarian.6,7 They can offer appropriate treatment options based on the results of the examination.

How to Prevent Your Dog From Catching a Cold

Preventive measures

  • Dogs are most likely to catch the disease from another sick dog. Make sure that your dog avoids places where coughing and sneezing four-legged friends are present and do not let them drink from shared bowls or use shared toys.
  • Strengthen the immune system with a balanced diet. Vitamins, fats, proteins and minerals are essential in a dog’s diet.5
  • If your dog spends most of its time outside, allow it to retreat to a dry, wind-protected, possibly heated dog kennel. Do you have a dog without enough undercoat? Then grant him a warm and suitable item of clothing.
  • Have your dog examined regularly at a veterinary practice. This will help to recognise potential health problems before they become serious illnesses.
  • Make sure that your four-legged friend’s vaccination status is always up to date. A stable immune system is better equipped to fight off future infections.1,8

Conclusion

Bear in mind that the season of runny noses, watery eyes and coughs may be approaching for your dog. Be sure to protect them as much as you can. If they do fall ill, you can take simple measures to help; ask experts (e.g. vets) for advice. Observe your patient closely and do not hesitate to take them to a veterinary practice if the symptoms persist or worsen.

Source: FOUR PAWS

Healthy Mouth, Happy Pet: Preventing, Recognising and Treating Gingivitis

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Pet

Healthy Mouth, Happy Pet: Preventing, Recognising and Treating Gingivitis

Just like humans, pets are susceptible to dental issues, including the common problem of gingivitis. Unfortunately pet oral hygiene is easily overlooked to the detriment of a dog/cat’s overall health and wellbeing.

Pet

This recent visitor at our hospital presented with an advanced case of gingivitis that resulted in decay spreading to the jawbone.  Fortunately it was no match for the skills of our inhouse veterinarian and although several teeth had to be extracted, the patient is expected to make a full recovery. 

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a common dental problem in both dogs and cats, characterised by inflammation of the gums. It occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, leading to the growth of bacteria. If left untreated, gingivitis causes pain, tooth loss, and other health complications.

Recognising the Signs of Gingivitis

Dogs and cats should not have disagreeable mouth odour. Bad breath indicates the presence of infection.

  1. The leading sign of Gingivitis is bad breath, coupled with your pet’s reluctance to you touching their mouth. 
  2. Discoloured teeth or visible tartar build up that starts at the gum line.
  3. Red or swollen gums.
  4. Reluctance to eat or chew on favourite toys.

Treating Gingivitus

A thorough cleaning performed by a veterinarian is necessary to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your pet’s teeth and gums. This procedure is done under anesthesia to ensure the comfort and safety of your pet.

If Gingivitis is advanced, many cats or dogs will develop painful lesions at the gum line that invade the teeth. They are properly referred to as tooth resorptions. Unfortunately the causes of tooth resorption are unknown, and the most effective treatment is extraction of the affected tooth. 

Preventing Gingivitis

The good news is that gingivitis is preventable with consistent oral hygiene practices. Here are some effective strategies to safeguard your pet’s oral health:

Regular Brushing: Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specially formulated for pets. Brush their teeth gently in a circular motion, focusing on the gum line. Aim for daily brushing, but at least once a week is recommended.

Dental Chews and Toys: Offer dental chews or toys designed to promote oral health. These products can help remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of gingivitis. Look for options approved by veterinary professionals.

Balanced Diet: Feed your pet a balanced diet that supports their dental health. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure their nutritional needs are being met. Some specialised pet foods are formulated to support oral hygiene.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups with your veterinarian. They will examine your pet’s teeth and gums, perform professional cleanings if required, and offer guidance on home dental care.

Our Vets Recommend

Pet Dent Finger Toothbrushes and pastes for dogs and cats are available at our Vet Shops in Grassy Park and Plumstead.  Hills Dental Care Specialty Food can be used as an additive to an existing kibble to enhance your dog’s oral care.

Pet

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

How to avoid heat stress or overheating your dogs

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How to avoid heat stress or overheating your dogs

Dogs cool themselves in hot temperatures by panting and drinking cool water. A dog cannot sweat through their skin like humans do. Their sweat glands are located on the pads of their paws. So instead, they pant to circulate cool air through their bodies and cool their internal temperatures. Drinking cool, fresh water helps to do this – and if there’s no access to water, they can quickly overheat, resulting in permanent brain damage and even death.

Whilst all animals are at risk from heat stress, those with dark, heavy coats and dogs with short noses such as Pugs, Pekinese and Boxers are most susceptible to heat.

Here is what you can do to help your pets on hot summer days:

  1. Ensure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water. Refill their bowls regularly, especially after play sessions or walks.
  2. Hot temperatures can cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke in pets. Limit exercise on particularly hot days and opt for early morning or evening walks when it’s cooler. Hot pavement/asphalt can burn your pet’s paws. Follow the seven-second rule: “Hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds and if it’s too hot for you, it’ll be too hot for your dog.” Provide Indoor Play: On extremely hot days, engage your pet in indoor activities like puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or training exercises to keep them mentally stimulated without physical exertion.
  3. Ensure your pet has a shaded area to retreat to when outdoors. This could be under a tree, a canopy, or even a pet-friendly sunshade.
  4. Never Leave Pets in Cars: Even with the windows cracked, cars can quickly become ovens in the summer heat. A parked car, on a hot, summery day of 27 degrees Celsius, even with windows left slightly open “for air” can reach an internal temperature of almost 50 degrees Celsius – in just ten minutes! Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.

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Symptoms of heat stress include:

  • Intense, rapid panting
  • Wide eyes
  • Salivating, staggering, weak and dark red gums and tongue
  • Respiratory distress or hyperventilation
  • Advanced heat stroke victims will collapse and become unconscious.
  • Depression
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting – sometimes with blood
  • Diarrhea
  • Shock
  • Coma

Should your pet show any signs of these symptoms, please immediately take him/her to the nearest veterinarian.

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA