Posts

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

/in , , /by

vet

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

Pioneering Access to Veterinary Behavioral Care, Ease Pet Vet Wins Top Prize at VMX 2025

/in , , , /by
Veterinary

Ease Pet CEO, Brandy Kuentzel presenting at the Pet Pitch Competition at VMX 2025, presented by the North American Veterinary Community

Pioneering Access to Veterinary Behavioral Care, Ease Pet Vet Wins Top Prize at VMX 2025

Startup company provides greater access to board-certified veterinary behaviorists

Innovation and creativity took center stage at the 8th Annual Pet Pitch Competition, a highly anticipated annual event showcasing cutting-edge startups poised to transform veterinary medicine. Held during the 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) hosted by the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), this Shark Tank-style business pitch event provides a platform for emerging companies to present solutions for some of the veterinary industry’s most pressing challenges.

This year, Ease Pet Vet claimed the top prize for its groundbreaking behavioral health platform, which is designed to bridge the gap between general practice veterinarians and board-certified veterinary behaviorists. Common behavioral problems like separation anxiety and reactivity are among the top reasons pets are surrendered to shelters; this forward-thinking solution offers science-based, tailored treatment to help pets and families thrive.

“Access to veterinary behavior care remains tragically limited. While an estimated 15 million pets need this crucial support, the current system serves a mere 50,000 annually,” said Ease Pet Vet CEO Brandy Kuentzel. “With many states lacking even a single board-certified veterinary behaviorist, the gaps in care are staggering. Yet, research shows that 94% of pets who receive veterinary-guided behavior support avoid surrender, highlighting how we keep pets in their loving homes. The founding veterinary team at Ease Pet Vet has already demonstrated the potential for change, having helped more than 100,000 pets lead happier, healthier lives. Winning the VMX Pet Pitch Competition supercharges what we do at Ease, unlocking greater access to veterinary behavior care and ultimately helping more pets.”

“Ease Pet Vet’s behavioral health platform is an excellent example of how technology and forward-thinking innovation can bridge gaps in pet care, making essential behavioral treatment more accessible to veterinarians and—most importantly—pets in need,” said Gene O’Neill, CEO of the NAVC, which presents the annual VMX event. “The VMX annual Pet Pitch Competition continues to showcase and accelerate groundbreaking innovations like this, providing a platform for startups that are shaping the future of veterinary medicine.”

In addition to Ease Pet Vet’s first-place win, Kubanda Cryotherapy earned second place for its minimally invasive cancer treatment that improves the quality of life for pets by offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional surgeries. CoVet, an AI-powered scribe and copilot app designed to automate administrative tasks for veterinarians, took third place. Kubanda Cryotherapy also received the audience favorite award, created in honor of Kelly Clay, a lifelong advocate for startups. Winners receive cash awards to enable their growth.

The annual Pet Pitch Competition has become a staple at VMX, offering startups a valuable platform to share their innovations with a global audience. As the veterinary industry’s first major event of the year, VMX sets the stage for innovation and progress, showcasing cutting-edge advancements that transform the lives of animals and the professionals who care for them.

Learn more about VMX 2025 and the Pet Pitch Competition from NAVC here.

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 www.navc.com/calendar

Source: North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) 

A Good Winter’s Rest: Hibernation of Brown Bears as a Sign of Their Well-Being

/in , , , /by

bear

A Good Winter’s Rest: Hibernation of Brown Bears as a Sign of Their Well-Being

How former dancing bear Dana and other bears prepared for the cold winter months at the FOUR PAWS sanctuaries

Unbothered by the cold temperatures, former dancing bear Dana and other brown bears at the sanctuaries and cooperation projects of global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS, are still enjoying a good winter’s rest. After being busy preparing their winter dens and building up a thick layer of fat at the end of last year, many bears have been hibernating since and only occasionally wake up to enjoy a quick treat or have a look around their enclosures. Most bears have relearned this natural behaviour since arriving at the sanctuaries, despite their often traumatic past in private keeping. Being exposed to continuous stress and big crowds of visitors in their prior keeping did not allow bears to hibernate and rest.

“Unlike other animals like hedgehogs, who sleep deeply during the winter, brown bears go into a lighter form of hibernation. In fact, if disturbed, they can become quickly mobile and reactive. Our caretakers provide the bears with everything needed to allow them to hibernate, including dens and seasonally adapted diet. Moreover, they track the bears’ individual hibernation patterns and preferences to adjust the care to the bears’ needs,”

Elena Stagni, Animal Behaviour and Welfare Specialist at FOUR PAWS

Former dancing bear Dana made herself comfortable in her new retreat

Though bears are unaffected by minus temperatures or snow, some bears are very invested in the task of building their own dens and take their time to dig and fill them with straw and other materials. Others, who do not know yet how to prepare a den or do not like digging it themselves, prefer retreats prepared by their caretakers.

31-year-old Dana is a former dancing bear from Bulgaria, who arrived in BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa in Bulgaria over twenty years ago in 2003. Given her age, she is one of the oldest brown bears in the sanctuary but still very invested in preparing her den. This winter, her caretakers built her a den which they then covered with branches: “While Dana curiously explored the den and approved it by sitting inside, it seems like it wasn’t cushioned well enough for her, as we spotted her adding more straw inside,“ says Gergana Basina, Chief Animal Caretaker at BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa.

Former restaurant bear Dasha from Müritz took some early test naps in November

19-year-old Dasha from BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz in Germany did not wait long to start attempting to hibernate and was already spotted resting in front of her barrel den in early November. The brown bear and her sister Lelya were locked up in tiny cages and kept as tourist attractions in a hotel-restaurant complex in Ukraine, until they were rescued and transported to BEAR SANCTUARY Domazhyr in Ukraine in 2019. As they required further specialised care, the sisters were moved to Müritz in April 2023. “We are glad to see that Dasha and Lelya feel comfortable in their new forever home. Though we prepared a barrel den for Dasha, it was amusing to see that she preferred taking naps in front of it at first, before going inside,” comments Thomas Beer, Chief Animal Caretaker at BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz in Germany.

High levels of stress in improper private keeping can stop bears from hibernating

The majority of brown bears living at the FOUR PAWS sanctuaries and cooperation projects share a story similar to Dasha in BEAR SANCTUARY Müritz and Dana in BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa and come from improper private keeping and circuses, where they were exposed to high levels of stress, abuse and had no spaces to withdraw to hibernate.

Given those previous hardships, some rescued bears were only able to hibernate for the first time in their lives after arriving in the sanctuaries. “Sometimes we can see that bears learn hibernation practices from other bears living next to them at the sanctuaries. Once they saw other bears digging their winter dens, they curiously started imitating the activity and preparing their own,” says Albana Hoti, Head of Animal & Facility Management at BEAR SANCTUARY Prishtina in Kosovo.

Hibernation – an essential part of a bear’s year

In the wilderness, brown bears retreat into small stone caves or dens to hibernate, which they dig out and fill with straw, branches and other materials. They normally start hibernating between October and December, which then can last up to six months. To save energy during this resting period, the animals lower their heart rate, slow down their breathing and hardly move.

As they can lose up to 40% of their body weight in this process, a thick layer of fat protects them from not losing any muscle mass or ending their hibernation in late spring weakened. Experienced caretakers at the FOUR PAWS sanctuaries and cooperation projects help the bears gain this protective layer by increasing the quantity of nutrient-rich foods like nuts, berries and seeds from September onwards.

FOUR PAWS bear sanctuaries and cooperation projects: Species-appropriate homes for traumatised bears

FOUR PAWS bear sanctuaries and cooperation projects across the world are home to over 80 brown bears and over 40 Asiatic black bears rescued from cruel private keeping, circuses, bile bear farms and other facilities, where they were exploited, abused, locked up in tiny cages and kept in inappropriate conditions. Experienced caretakers and veterinarians help the bears recover from their previous trauma, conduct regular in-depth veterinary checks and allow the animals to live a species-appropriate life with daily enrichments and a diet tailored to their specific needs.

Source: FOUR PAWS

How to avoid heat stress or overheating your dogs

/in , , , , , , , , /by

heat

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.

heat

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 

Pet Emergencies – What can I do?

/in , , , , , , , /by

Pet

Pet Emergencies – What can I do?

The following advice is not meant to replace the role of the veterinarian. However, for animals, we as the owners are generally the first responders to our pets in need. Being prepared for such unforeseen emergencies, will help ease your stress and hopefully help save your pets life.

The aim is to stabilise the pet, relieve pain if possible and provide safe transportation until you reach your vet.

Always remember, the safety of humans takes priority. You cannot help your pet if you put yourself or others in danger.

Stay Safe
Asses the environment and avoid danger or remove possibilities of further injuries.
Eg. if the animal is in the road, get it onto the side of the road immediately.

Animals in pain can be dangerous, even your own dog may want to bite due to being in shock and/or pain. If necessary, restrain the pet with a muzzle, towel or blanket (warm jacket etc) to prevent you being bitten or scratched.

If possible, transport a cat in a box to the vet.

Pet

During Car Accidents – Where you are able to assist
Remove the animal to the side of the road to a shady area, it may require you to drag them if they are large and unable to walk.

Check them to see if they are conscious and breathing (rise and fall of the chest, holding a hand or tissue in front of the nose). Check the eyes & pupils – If the eyes are open and staring with a dilated pupil, the animal will need CPR (IF NO obvious severe evisceration etc is seen).

Perform CPR if no sign of breathing – Remember ABC :  A – Airway /  B – Breathing / C- Circulation (Heart beat)

How to perform CPR in your pet.

Pet

A – Airway;
Ensure the airway is clear, remove any vomit, fluid, foreign body and pull the tongue forward.

B- Breathing;
Perform Nose-to-mouth breathing: Nose-to-mouth resuscitation is administered by first pulling the tongue forward so the tip is just through the teeth and closing the mouth.  Place your hands around the closed mouth sealing it as best you can.  Extend the neck to make a straight line from the nose to the tail and breathe into the animal’s nose.  Small dogs or cats need smaller breaths than large dogs.  After five breaths, re-assess the animal by feeling for a heartbeat and breathing.  If the animal still has a heartbeat but is not breathing, continue with resuscitation at 12 breaths a minute for small dogs and cats and 20 breaths for large dogs.  If the animal doesn’t have a heartbeat, start performing chest compressions

C- Circulation;
Check for a heart beat – Lay the dog on their right side, push the front elbow back to the chest. The spot where the elbow touches the chest is called the inter-costal space and marks where the heart is located. If you don’t see any movement in this area, place your hand over the same location and feel for a heartbeat. If no heartbeat, then start compressions.

Put both hands on the chest with straight arms, and perform cardiac compressions. For the number of compressions, the beat of “staying alive” from the Beegies is ideal.

Lay your hand over the heart (at the inter-costal space) and press firmly enough to compress the chest about one-third to one-half its usual depth. You should aim for 10 – 12 compressions over a five-second span. Repeat these steps at a one breath to 10 – 12 compressions ratio. Because you will be doing more than 100 compressions per minute, a new person should take over compressions after two minutes.

In very large dogs, if a third person is available, also compress the abdomen in large breeds. (If you’re gently compress the front part of the belly or squeeze the dog’s abdomen. Performing these chest compressions can help circulate blood back to the heart. However, it’s most important to focus on the rescue breathing and compressions. Abdominal compressions should be a secondary focus).

In deep chested dogs (eg Bull Dog, Boxer, Boerboel) perform compressions with the dog lying on its back instead of on its side.

Assess the dog
Check periodically to see if the dog has started breathing again – about every two minutes. If not, continue with the artificial respirations until help arrives or you are able to continue CPR while someone drives everyone to the vet.

Recovery Position
If the animal is breathing but still unconscious, lay it on its side with the head and neck slightly extended.  Fold a blanket or towels and place it under the shoulder but not the neck so that the chest is above the head.  This prevents fluids from the mouth going into the lungs.  Keep the pet warm with blankets and transport it as soon as possible to the veterinarian.

Wounds and Bleeding
Approach wounds as you would for a person. Wounds can be anything from a cut, punctures, scrapes or abrasions, to burn wounds.

If excessive bleeding – apply pressure above the wound (between the heart and the wound), cover the wound with a clean cloth or gauze swabs, and bandage until you can reach the vet. Do not remove the initial layers, (this may remove the clot that is forming and cause more bleeding).

Wounds with debri – gently trim excess hair around wound, rinse with running water / saline or flush with a syringe, apply silbecor / anti-septic cream, cover and bandage until you can reach the vet. Paw wounds can be soaked.

Penetration wounds – DO NOT remove any sticks / sharp objects penetrating the chest or abdomen – this may exacerbate internal problems. If necessary, apply dressings around the foreign objects and stabilize the pet and get to the vet as soon as possible.

Grazes and abrasions can be dealt with by trimming the fur around the area, cleaning with water or saline and apply a dressing making sure that it won’t stick to the wound.   

Shock
Knowing your animal is important to distinguish what is not “normal” and gauging how they are doing in a case of emergency.

What is shock? Shock is the body’s way of protecting itself. Recognizing symptoms of shock may save your animals life. There are different reasons for a shocked state, e.g blood loss, being septic due to severe infection, anaphylaxis, extreme pain to name a few obvious examples.

Symptoms will include: weakness (an animal is unable to stand/walk), pale gums (pale pink to white, or bright red to even purple), short shallow breaths, cold legs and paws or having seizures.

Examples that can lead to shock; Car accidents, falling off a height, severe infection (pyometra) or disease (diabetes), weather extremities, seizures, severe bleeding from wounds, burn wounds, knife stab wounds, gun shot wounds (including pellet guns), ruptured stomach ulcers, toxin ingestion for example.

In most cases, manage severe bleeding, keep the animal warm (wrap in a blanket) and try to keep them quiet, continue to talk calmy and gently to them and stroke them softly if they’ll allow. Do not offer food or water, alert the vet you are on the way and transport the animal there immediately.

Poisoning
Obvious signs of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, severe diarrhoea, twitching, tiredness, difficulty breathing and convulsions / seizures, collapsed pet.

Identify the toxin if possible and call your vet for immediate advice, have the following information at hand:

  • How much does your pet weigh?
  • What is the name of the toxin?
  • If the toxin is a medicine:
    • What is the strength?
    • What is the generic name?
    • Is it a special formulation (e.g., extended release)?
  • What is the active ingredient of the toxin?
  • How much do you think your pet ingested?
  • How much could your pet have ingested? (worst-case scenario)
  • How long ago (or what general time frame) did your pet ingest the toxin?
  • Is your pet showing any signs/symptoms?
  • If so, how long have you noticed the signs/symptoms?
  • How old is your pet?
  • Does your pet have any underlying health issues?
  • Is your pet currently on any medications?

It is vital to keep the pet quiet and warm and only act on the vet’s instructions as this will differ depending on the substance that was swallowed.

In the event that an animal has consumed something toxic, and you are aware of this in time, to get them to vomit (inducing emesis) before most of the absorption can take place is the best option. The golden window is within the first 30 minutes of ingestion, but even then, we can only hope for a maximum of 60% of the content to be expelled.

3% hydrogen peroxide has been recommended to use at home in the past, but the latest information has confirmed complications with oesophageal lesions and stomach ulceration, which is why it should be best avoided.

Emesis induction is contraindicated in patients that are symptomatic, have airway disease, have an altered mentation, have already been vomiting, or have ingested a corrosive/caustic agent.

Most common poisonings are due to garden chemicals, rat and snail bait, chocolate, paint or human medications in the home, consuming batteries.

At home remedy: You can attempt to get your dog to vomit by giving it a bolus of a “golf ball size” of non-exothermic washing powder (if you wet the washing power and hold it in your hand, and it does not become warm it is safe to use). If they do not vomit within 5 min, get them to the vet immediately.

Most poisonings will still require veterinary treatment as mentioned we can at best hope for only 40-60% of the toxin being expelled, but if you can prevent the major source of absorption, this can help reduce the long term effects.

If you are not sure if a product is toxic, you can always call your emergency vet for advice.
The American Animal Poisoning Control website and app can be helpful to refer to as well.

Choking
Choking is one of the most stressful emergencies one will experience. This occurs when an object blocks air from interring and leaving the lungs. The foreign object may even be lodged in the oesophagus. Physiological choking may occur due to laryngeal paralysis, anaphylaxis or heat stroke.

Symptoms include a very distressed animal, pawing at the mouth, severe respiratory distress (forceful breathing attempts), blue tongue or gums, gasping / choking sounds, excessive salivation and bulging, large eyes.

If the animal is in extreme distress, and no obvious foreign body can be identified, stay calm and bring that animal to vet as soon as possible.

Alternatively, one can try to remove the object from a choking dog’s windpipe, if it is conscious, open the mouth by grasping the upper jaw with one hand and the lower jaw with the other, tilting the head back slightly.  Pull the tongue to the side and remove the object if possible.  If this isn’t possible, stand behind the dog, put your arms under their belly just in front of the rear limbs and lift their hind legs high off the ground like a wheelbarrow.  Gently shake to see if the object will fall out.  This procedure can be repeated up to 4 times. If the foreign object cannot be dislodged or it is dangerous for you to attempt removing it, contact the vet for advice immediately.

Pet

Cats should be restrained in a towel first. Their mouth can be opened by gently pulling the head upwards and slightly back by placing the thumb and finger on either side of the jaw and the palm across the head. Use the other hand to lower the bottom jaw and remove the object.

See this video and image of the Heimlich manoeuvre in a pet.

Convulsions / Seizures / Fits
Seizures can be a symptom of a problem or a medical condition in your dog. If your dog shows this for the first time, a veterinarian must always be consulted. Causes for these can be due to poisoning, illness, infections and epilepsy.

What does a seizure look like? The animal will become distressed and restless. The first signs usually will be that of excessive drooling, lip smacking, moving into champing jaws / jaw clattering, staring eyes, urination, defecation, collapse, falling over and paddling.

IF you see this, do not approach the animal or try to “remove the tongue from the mouth”. Stay calm and start timing the seizure. Move objects away that may fall on the animal or hurt the animal, and tone done lights and noise (eg. the radio playing).

IF the seizure continues for longer than 5min, roll the animal on a towel or blanket and with the help of someone if it is a large dog, place into the car and take to the vet.

If the seizure is short acting, wait calmly until it is over, contact your vet and take it in for examination. Seizures generally only last for a few seconds, it will always feel longer. Convulsions or ‘fits’ can be quite traumatizing for a pet owner to witness.

Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is when the body’s core temperature rises above normal and due certain factors, they are not able to cool down. This starts a series of events in the body that may lead to complete organ failure and death. This is a very serious condition.

Common causes are from animals exercising in the heat of the day. From a pet being left in a car or area with no shade or ventilation. Brachycephalic dogs and cats are even more predisposed to this due to their restricted airways.

Symptoms are an animal panting excessively with increased breathing noises (from the throat), vomiting, drooling, distress, loss of coordination, collapse and acute death. The animal will also feel very warm by touch.

Should you suspect your pet maybe suffering from heat stroke, remove the animal from the hot environment, start cooling them down with cool to luke warm water. Place a fan on them or drive with the aircon on / windows open. Ice packs covered in a wet towel can be placed between the legs front (auxilla) and back (inguinal).

Transport the animal to the vet as soon as possible.

NEVER immerse the pet or use ice cold water over the body. It will only trap the core temperature due to vasoconstriction and make the heat stroke worse.

Once the pet is comfortable again offer cool water but only in small amounts.  Too much water taken in quickly may cause vomiting.

Bites and Stings
Although knowing what caused the bite or sting is helpful to the veterinarian, never put yourself at risk to try to kill or locate it.

Bee Stings
One of the most common stings that we see. Most bee stings are fortunately not a lethal problem, but may cause allergies.  Most will be stung around the mouth & face, sometimes paw. They can develop fascial swelling, urticaria (lumps and bumps everywhere) and worse case scenario, develop anaphylaxis.

In minor reactions, see if you can find the sting and remove with a sharp knife / bank card by scraping against the angle of sting. Do not struggle with fingers as it will “pump” more venom into the animal.

A cold compress can be applied to the area swelling up, and animal should be taken to the vet.

In the unfortunate event that the animals have been attacked by a swarm of bees, get them to the vet immediately. This is a very serious matter.

Scorpion Stings
Scorpion stings are extremely painful and maybe lethal. Symptoms will range from vocalizing due to unrelenting pain, excessive drooling, tremors, weakness, ataxia, collapse, paralysis and even death.

Anti-venom must be administered and generally the treatment of choice is an induced coma to manage the pain.

Snake Bites
As for snake bites, the treatment of choice is anti-venom administered by your emergency veterinarian.

Stay safe, remove the animal away from the culprit snake if possible and remain calm. Call your emergency vet while on the way. If possible, take a picture / identify the snake.

In South Africa we have 3 types of snake venom – Anti-coagulant (Boom slang), Neurotoxic (eg. Cobra’s) and Cytotoxic ( eg. Puff adder). Boom slang anti-venom must be obtained specifically and fortunately, for the rest we have multi-venom anti-venom vials available in South Africa.

Spider bites
Spider bites are mostly cytotoxic and can cause severe necrotic wounds.

What you can do on the way to vet with in these situations;

Stay calm, and if possible, identify the poisonous animal – take a picture with your phone.

In the case of limbs, initial treatment is to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. This is done using a crepe or conforming bandage (or panty hose if a bandage is not available) over the bitten area and around the limb. Apply it firmly but not so tight that it stops the blood flow. Bandage down to the paw and then up as far as possible on the limb. A splint can be applied using a rolled-up newspaper or piece of wood with a second bandage. Do not remove the bandages, keep the animal as quiet as possible and transport him to the vet immediately.

Near Drowning
In the event that an animal is found in the pool – Immediately remove the animal, hang upside down to allow for excess fluid to drain from the lungs, neck and mouth.

If non-responsive, check for heart beat and breathing.
If a heartbeat is present start to perform CPR, with the heart beat only perform breathing until animal become responsive. Take to the vet as soon as possible.

Please note whether you have a salt or chlorine pool.

If no heart beat present, full on CPR is required.

CPR on dogs

First Aid for Pets – How to prepare for the unexpected

Source: TEARS Animal Rescue

Coccidiosis – What you need to know

/in , , , , , , , , , /by

Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis – What you need to know

Coccidia is a microscopic organism that lives in the intestines of a dog or other animal and causes a disease referred to as coccidiosis.

Though there are several types of coccidia, dogs with this condition are usually infected with Isospora canis. Infected dogs shed cysts containing the parasite in their stool. These cysts can survive in the environment for as long as a year. Other pets can become infected by swallowing the cysts from a contaminated environment, usually during grooming themselves.

Once inside the pet’s digestive tract, the cysts break open and the parasite enters an intestinal cell, where it reproduces. The cell eventually ruptures, releasing the parasites and damaging the intestinal lining.

The coccidia species that infect dogs don’t infect cats, and vice versa. However, the cysts in the feces from one dog can infect another dog, and the cysts in the feces from one cat may be infective to another cat. It’s very unlikely that a human will become infected with the species of coccidia that affect dogs and cats.

A high incidence of coccidiosis is seen in kennelled dogs, especially when they are housed under intensive conditions for a long time. Puppy mills and other busy breeding kennels are most often plagued by coccidiosis, so buyers are cautioned to investigate these facilities for signs of diarrhea.

Signs of coccidiosis include watery diarrhea that will often be tinged with blood or mucus. Pets with this condition may also experience vomiting, a loss of appetite and lethargy. Puppies and kittens can be severely affected, exhibiting dehydration, weight loss, and, in some cases, even death.

Older pets usually have milder signs. Some pets can show no signs at all while still shedding the parasite cysts in their feces.

A diagnosis of coccidiosis is made by identifying parasite cysts on a fecal exam. Any new pet being introduced into the home should have a fecal sample tested as soon as possible to diagnose coccidiosis or other intestinal parasite infections. Because some pets never show any signs, fecal tests during annual physical examinations are considered standard practice for all pets.

Several oral medications may be used to treat coccidiosis. Most pets will require daily treatment for 5 to 10 days, but some pets will have to be retreated if the infection isn’t resolved after the first or even second go-round. In multi-dog or multi-cat households, it’s a good idea to treat the other dogs and cats, respectively, to prevent reinfection from other pets that may carry the parasite but show no signs.

Pets (particularly puppies and kittens) with severe dehydration may need fluid therapy and hospitalization.

Since the cysts are often difficult to find on a fecal exam, veterinarians will sometimes treat pets if there’s a high suspicion of coccidiosis, even if no cysts are found in their stool.

Can it be prevented? Yes!

Preventing pets from being infected by coccidia cysts in the environment, washing his or her bedding and cleaning any kennel/heavily populated areas with an ammonia product should be a basic practice, especially if multiple dogs/cats share the area. Picking up and disposing of feces as soon as possible, and keeping pets from hunting rodents, if possible, are also considered fundamental preventive measures.

Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA – October 2024 Newsletter

Critical Skills at Risk: South African Veterinarians Leaving the Country in Increasing Numbers

/in , , , , /by

Veterinarians

Critical Skills at Risk: South African Veterinarians Leaving the Country in Increasing Numbers

South Africa, September 2024 – The South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) is sounding the alarm as an increasing number of veterinarians are leaving the country, taking with them critical skills that are essential to the health and well-being of animals, humans and the environment. This growing exodus is a concerning trend that could have severe implications for the veterinary profession and the broader public health sector in South Africa.

According to recent data, the migration of veterinarians from South Africa has accelerated, driven by a combination of factors including better employment opportunities abroad, challenging working conditions locally, unrealistic client expectations and concerns about the country’s economic and social stability. The loss of these highly trained professionals is not only a blow to the veterinary community but also to the agricultural sector, wildlife conservation efforts, and public health initiatives that rely heavily on their expertise.

Dr. Paul van der Merwe, President of SAVA, emphasises the urgency of addressing this issue: “Veterinarians are a cornerstone of our nation’s health services, and their departure creates a void that will be nearly impossible to fill. We need to take immediate action to retain these critical skills within our borders, or we risk compromising the health and well-being of our animals, our food safety and security, and ultimately, our population.”

The South African Veterinary Association is calling for a collaborative effort between the government, the private sector, and the veterinary community to develop strategies aimed at retaining veterinarians. Key proposals include improving working conditions, offering competitive salaries, mentorship and providing greater support for the challenges faced by veterinarians in South Africa.

As the exodus continues, the future of veterinary services in South Africa is bleak. The South African Veterinary Association is committed to finding solutions that will encourage veterinarians to remain in the country and continue their vital work. SAVA will be engaging with stakeholders across the board and canvass support for its programs to address this pressing issue and ensure that South Africa does not lose more of its invaluable veterinary professionals.

Pioneer of Small Animal Clinical Medicine in China, Professor XIA Zhaofei Wins WSAVA Scientific Achievement Award for his Outstanding Contribution to Veterinary Science

/in , , , /by

animal

Pioneer of Small Animal Clinical Medicine in China, Professor XIA Zhaofei Wins WSAVA Scientific Achievement Award for his Outstanding Contribution to Veterinary Science

Professor XIA Zhaofei, the Dean Principal of the Clinical Veterinary Medicine Department at the China Agriculture University, has been honored with the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Scientific Achievement Award, following his nomination by the Beijing Small Animal Veterinary Association (BJSAVA). This award recognizes Professor Xia’s exceptional contributions to veterinary science, particularly in the small animal medicine field in China and will be presented to him at the 49th WSAVA World Congress later this year.

A pillar of the small animal clinical veterinary sector in China, Professor Xia has devoted nearly four decades to medicine in this field. He is currently engaged in teaching, research, clinical practice, and hospital management at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the China Agricultural University, as Chair of the Clinical Veterinary Medicine Department and Director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. He also serves as the President of the BJSAVA and the companion animal medicine chapter of the Chinese Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). Professor Xia is the associate Editor of the Chinese Journal of Veterinary Medicine and a member of the Specialized Construction Committee of Chinese Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA).

Professor Xia has published nearly 200 research papers as first or corresponding author and has supervised over 100 master’s and doctoral students. He has authored and edited six textbooks for undergraduate and graduate students, including Clinical Diagnosis of Small Animals, Veterinary Clinical Pathology, and Clinical Case Analysis of Dogs and Cats, widely used in veterinary schools across China. He has also translated some 30 specialized works on small animal clinical practice, enriching academic literature and educational resources in Chinese veterinary medicine.

Under his guidance, small animal antimicrobial stewardship and the development of the small animal internal medicine specialty have flourished, and he has pioneered high-impact research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Beijing Natural Science Foundation. In 2021, Professor Xia led the establishment of the China Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network for Pets (CARPet). The reports provided by this platform on antimicrobial resistance have made a major contribution to shaping effective strategies to combat bacterial resistance in China.

Through his active participation in CVMA activities and his leadership in organizing the annual BJSAVA conferences, Professor Xia has been at the forefront of progress in the veterinary profession. These conferences are today a key platform for knowledge exchange and professional development in China. Similarly, under his leadership, the veterinary teaching hospital at CAU has emerged as a premier institution for small animal clinical training and research, setting new standards in veterinary education and patient care. His insight, pragmatic approach, and dedication have greatly enhanced the quality of veterinary science and services in China.

Dr. Ellen van Nierop, President of WSAVA, shared her satisfaction at the announcement: “I’m thrilled that Professor Xia has been selected to receive the award, as he plays an incredibly active role within academia and clinical practice and is a driving force for innovation in the field of veterinary science.”

Torren Stone, Vice President of BJSAVA, said that, “Professor Xia’s pioneering contributions to this industry, this era and this country, advancing veterinary science and education, make him highly deserving of the WSAVA Scientific Award.”

Professor XIA Zhaofei expressed his gratitude for the designation, stating that, “I am deeply honored to receive the WSAVA Scientific Achievement Award. This recognition is a testimony to the collective efforts of my colleagues and students in advancing veterinary medicine in China.”

About WSAVA

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) represents 200,000 veterinarians globally through 113 member associations dedicated to enhancing companion animal care standards. The WSAVA Scientific Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of small animal medicine through research, education, and clinical practice. The WSAVA 49th World Congress is being held from the 3rd to the 5th of September in partnership with the BJSAVA and the Shanghai Small Animal Veterinary Association.

About BJSAVA

The Beijing Small Animal Veterinary Association (BJSAVA) is a leading professional organization committed to the advancement of small animal veterinary practice in China.

Source: WSAVA

WSAVA Calls for a ‘Paradigm Shift’ in Thinking on Reproduction Control

/in , , , , , /by

WSAVA

WSAVA Calls for a ‘Paradigm Shift’ in Thinking on Reproduction Control

New Global Guidelines highlight the need move away from ‘routine’ neutering

Calls for veterinarians to ensure that clients have all the information they require to make an informed decision about neutering their animals and to move away from the traditional approach of ‘routine’ spaying and neutering of owned animals are central to the world’s first Global Guidelines on Reproduction Control.

The Guidelines have been prepared by the Reproduction Control Committee (RCC) of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice, the WSAVA’s official scientific journal. They aim to help WSAVA members make science-based choices for the management of reproduction in their patients, while safeguarding animal welfare and supporting the human-companion animal bond. Included are discussions of current practice, together with explanations of newer approaches, both surgical and non-surgical.  They also explore the health benefits and drawbacks of each method and explore ethical questions.

Commenting on the launch of the new Global Guidelines, RCC Chair Professor Stefano Romagnoli said: “Managing reproduction is a critical and rapidly evolving area of companion animal practice. For many years, our default advice has been that dogs should be neutered and bitches spayed – but, in the light of new scientific evidence, it’s time for a paradigm shift in our thinking.

“Emerging scientific data shows that gonadectomy can adversely impact the health of some animals. It also shows that recommending castration in older dogs to reduce their risk of developing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPC) may not be appropriate because, in fact, in some cases, late castration can actually increase the risk of prostatic carcinoma.

“We also have concerns about increasing moves to early neutering or for neutering to be used as a method of behavioural control.”

The Guidelines call on veterinarians to update their own knowledge and to spend more time with clients, advising them on the benefits, risks and side-effects of surgical and non-surgical castration and the options for their particular animal. This should take into account their breed, age, any behavioural issues and other relevant factors.  While veterinarians may need to spend more time in neutering consultations in order to convey all the necessary information, the RCC believes this to be in the best interests of the animal and essential to ensure that owners are fully informed and guided towards the most appropriate solution.

Available for free download from the WSAVA website, the Guidelines acknowledge that shelter animals are in a different situation and provide recommendations tailored to their needs, including the need to secure a new home. Setting global standards for companion animal veterinary care is one of the WSAVA’s key goals with the RCC working to ensure that veterinarians globally have access to the latest resources and knowledge in this area.  The work of the Committee is kindly supported by Virbac.

Professor Romagnoli added: “We hope that WSAVA members find the Guidelines a valuable resource and that they will be a catalyst for change in reproduction control practice globally.”

The WSAVA represents more than 200,000 veterinarians worldwide through its 113 member associations and works to enhance standards of clinical care for companion animals.  Its core activities include the development of WSAVA Global Guidelines in key areas of veterinary practice, including pain management, nutrition and vaccination, together with campaigning for change on issues affecting its members.

Source: WSAVA

Registration Opens for First WSAVA World Congress in China

/in , , /by

WSAVA

Registration Opens for First WSAVA World Congress in China

Suzhou set to welcome veterinary professionals from around the world

Registration is now open for the first World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) World Congress to take place in China, one of the world’s fastest growing veterinary markets. With a scientific program offering a host of international speakers, the three-day event takes place from 3-5 September 2024 at the International Expo Center in Suzhou, a city with a rich historic and cultural heritage to the west of Shanghai.

WSAVA World Congress 2024 will feature its trademark high quality, evidence-based lectures on clinical and non-clinical topics delivered by global experts. Following the launch of the new WSAVA Reproduction Control Guidelines, the latest thinking on reproduction will be a key focus. Given growing demand for knowledge on dermatology and oncology in Asia, these topics will feature in dedicated streams, while the program also includes a range of lectures on dentistry, diagnostics, cardiology, internal medicine, nutrition and surgery. Streams in Chinese, together with a focus on Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), will run alongside the WSAVA program.

Commenting, WSAVA President Dr Ellen van Nierop said: “Our vision is that all companion animals worldwide receive the standard of veterinary care that ensures their optimal health and welfare – and WSAVA World Congress is one of the key ways in which we work towards it. We’re delighted at the quality and depth of the scientific program and we’re particularly looking forward to welcoming recent WSAVA Award recipients, who will share their experiences of leading change in their areas of specialism and of the challenges and opportunities they found along the way.”

She added: “Whatever delegates’ level of experience, they will learn innovative approaches and techniques and practical ideas that they can implement to benefit their patients and their colleagues. And, while the learning on offer is second to none, World Congress is also an opportunity to network with colleagues from around the world and to share experiences and learnings in a friendly environment. This includes during the exciting social program which will showcase Suzhou’s fascinating history and current status as one of China’s most dynamic and modern cities. We can’t wait for the annual gathering of our global veterinary community in one of the most dynamic and exciting veterinary markets in the world.”

WSAVA World Congress is the leading global forum for companion animal veterinary professionals. In 2024, it is being hosted jointly by two of the WSAVA’s member associations in the country, the Beijing Small Animal Veterinary Association (BJSAVA) and the Shanghai Small Animal Veterinary Association (SHSAVA). Members of WSAVA member associations receive a discount on registration. Further information is available at www.2024wsava.com

Source: WSAVA