Caring For Senior Pets – What You Need To Know

In recent years there has been extensive research on the problems facing older pets and how their owners and veterinarians can best handle their special needs.

Older pets, especially large dogs, are vulnerable to arthritis and other joint diseases, and the signs you see can vary. Due to improved veterinary care and dietary habits, pets are living longer now than they ever have before.

One consequence of this is that pets, along with their owners and veterinarians, are faced with a whole new set of age-related conditions.

Q: When does a pet become “old”?

It varies, but cats and small dogs are generally considered geriatric at the age of 7. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans and are considered geriatric when they are approximately 6 years of age. Owners tend to want to think of their pet’s age in human terms.

Age: Human Equivalents for Older Pets

Q: What kinds of health problems can affect older pets?

Geriatric pets can develop many of the same problems seen in older people, such as:

• cancer 
• heart disease 
• kidney/urinary tract disease 
• liver disease 
• diabetes 
• joint or bone disease 
• senility 
• weakness 

Q: I know my pet is getting older. How do I help them stay happy and healthy for as long as possible?

Talk to your veterinarian about how to care for your older pet and be prepared for possible age-related health issues. 

Senior pets require increased attention, including more frequent visits to the veterinarian, possible changes in diet, and in some cases alterations to their home environment.

Here are some basic considerations when caring for older pets:

Area of concern	Description
Increased veterinary care	Geriatric pets should have semi-annual veterinary visits instead of annual visits so signs of illness or other problems can be detected early and treated. Senior pet exams are similar to those for younger pets, but are more in depth, and may include dental care, possible bloodwork, and specific checks for physical signs of diseases that are more likey in older pets.
Diet and nutrition	Geriatric pets often need foods that are more readily digested, and have different calorie levels and ingredients, and anti-aging nutrients
Weight control	Weight gain in geriatric dogs increases the risk of health problems, whereas weight loss is a bigger concern for geriatric cats.
Parasite control	Older pets’ immune systems are not as healthy as those of younger animals; as a result, they can’t fight off diseases or heal as fast as younger pets
Maintaining mobility	As with older people, keeping older pets mobile through appropriate exercise helps keep them healthier and more mobile.
Vaccination	Your pet’s vaccination needs may change with age. The vaccinations your pet received when younger last the lifetime of your pet. See Dangers of vaccinations.
Mental health	Pets can show signs of senility. Stimulating them through interactions can help keep them mentally active. If any changes in your pet’s behavior are noticed, please consult your veterinarian.
Environmental considerations	Older pets may need changes in their lifestyle, such as sleeping areas to avoid stairs, more time indoors, etc. Disabled pets have special needs which can be discussed with your veterinarian
Reproductive diseases	Non-neutered/non-spayed geriatric pets are at higher risk of mammary, testicular, and prostate cancers.

Q: My older pet is exhibiting changes in behavior. What’s going on?

Before any medical signs become apparent, behavioral changes can serve as important indicators that something is changing in an older pet, which may be due to medical or other reasons. 

As your pet’s owner, you serve a critical role in detecting early signs of disease because you interact and care for your pet on a daily basis and are familiar with your pet’s behavior and routines. 

If your pet is showing any change in behavior or other warning signs of disease, contact your veterinarian and provide them with a list of the changes you have observed in your pet. 

Sometimes, the changes may seem contradictory – such as an older pet that has symptoms of hearing loss but also seems more sensitive to strange sounds.

Possible Behavior Changes in Older Pets

• Increased reaction to sounds 
• Increased vocalization 
• Confusion 
• Disorientation 
• Decreased interaction w/humans 
• Increased irritability 
• Decreased response to commands 
• Increased aggressive/protective behavior 
• Increased anxiety 
• House soiling 
• Decreased self-hygiene/grooming 
• Repetitive activity 
• Increased wandering 
• Change in sleep cycles 

Q: Is my pet becoming senile?

Possibly. Once any underlying or other disease causes have been ruled out, there is a chance your pet may be experiencing cognitive dysfunction. 

Studies conducted in the early 1990s were the first to identify brain changes in older dogs that were similar to brain changes seen in humans with Alzheimer’s disease (ie, ß-amyloid deposits). 

Laboratory tests were also developed in the 1990s to detect learning and memory deficits in older dogs. Recently these studies have started on younger dogs in order to fully understand the effect of aging on the canine brain. Similar studies in young and older cats are also ongoing.

While researchers are still not able to identify any genetic cause of why certain animals develop cognitive dysfunction, there are drugs and specific diets available that can help manage cognitive dysfunction in dogs. 

If you think your pet is becoming senile, discuss it with your veterinarian.

Q: What are the common signs of disease in an older pet?

The signs you might see will vary with the disease or problem affecting your pet, and some signs can be seen with more than one problem. As the pet’s owner, you can provide your veterinarian with valuable information that can help them determine what is going on with your pet.

Common Warning Signs of Disease in Older Pets

• Kidney disease 
• Urinary tract disease 
• Heart disease 
• Decreased appetite 
• Increased urination/spotting or “accidents” in the house 
• Coughing 
• Increased thirst 
• Straining to urinate 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Increased urination 
• Blood in urine 
• Decreased tolerance of exercise 
• Decreased or no urination 
• Weakness 
• Poor hair coat 
• Decreased appetite 
• Vomiting 
• Sore mouth

Q: How common is cancer in older pets?

In pets the rate of cancer increases with age. 

Cancer is responsible for approximately half the deaths of pets over 10 years of age. 

Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans, while cats tend to have lower rates of cancer. 

Some cancers, such as breast or testicular cancer, are largely preventable by spaying and neutering. 

A diagnosis of cancer may be based on x-rays, blood tests, physical appearance of tumors, and other physical signs. The ultimate test for cancer is through confirmation via a biopsy.

      Contents                                                  (Page 2) >

• Top 10 Common Signs of Cancer in Pets
• Signs of Arthritis in Pets
• Pet Owners Are Giving This to Their Pets To Feel Better
• When Should We Euthanize A Pet? How will we know it’s the right time?
• Quality of Life Chart     

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Pet Food Safety – Tips On How To Protect Your Pet

While it’s nearly impossible to ensure that your pet will ever come in contact with tainted pet food or treats, you can reduce your pet’s risk. Part of your responsibility as a pet parent is to help protect your pet from potentially harmful products.

Follow these commonsense tips, and the new FDA rules to protect your pets, by taking these four important steps:

1. Follow these tips for protecting your pet from harmful food

• Start by practicing good hygiene with your pets’ food and water bowls.

• Check our list of recalled foods and treats for information about items that have been recalled.

• If your pet’s food or treats are recalled, immediately stop feeding the product to your pet. You can return recalled products to the store where you purchased them for a full refund or dispose of them in a secure area not accessible to animals. If you have questions about recalled food or treats, contact the manufacturer.

• If your pet may have consumed a recalled product, consult your veterinarian, even if your pet isn’t showing any symptoms.

2. File a complaint with the FDA if your pet has been poisoned

If your pet has become ill or died because of a tainted food or treats, please report it to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in your state.

3. Help the FDA protect your pet
The FDA has recently proposed more stringent regulations to help ensure the safety of pet foods and treats. It is up to us to do what we can to protect our furry family members by following some common-sense tips here, that will help keep them safe. 

• Read The HSUS’s response to the proposed rules »
• Read Wayne’s Blog on why the proposed rules are necessary »
• Watch the FDA’s presentation on the rules »

4. Be aware of cross-contamination. 

Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food and be sure to keep your pet’s food and water dishes clean. These should be washed and dried every time they eat. The same goes for the area around their food bowls – they aren’t always the neatest eaters.

Recall of Select Chicken Pet Foods

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Bravo Pet Foods is recalling select lots of Bravo Chicken pet foods for dogs and cats due to concerns of the possible presence of Salmonella.

The recall was initiated after routine testing by the New York State Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Salmonella spp. Poly A contamination.

All products tested negative by a third party independent laboratory prior to release for distribution to consumers.

No additional products are affected by this recall. The company has received no reports to date of illness in either people or animals associated with these products.

Salmonella can cause serious illness or fatal infection in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short term symptoms such as:

• high fever
• severe headache
• stiffness
• nausea
• abdominal cramping
• diarrhea

Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers. Always use proper caution when handling raw foods.

The following product is being voluntarily recalled because of the presence of Salmonella:

Product	Item #	Size	Best Used by	UPC
Bravo Blend Chicken diet for dogs & cats – Chub	21 – 102	2 lb (32 oz.) chub	12-05-16	829546211028

105 cases of this product were sold to distributors, retail stores, internet retailers and directly to consumers in the US.

The following products DID NOT test positive for Salmonella, but are also being voluntarily recalled out of an abundance of caution because they were manufactured in the same manufacturing facility on the same day as the product 

that tested positive.

Product	Item #	Size	Best Used by	UPC
Bravo Balance Chicken Dinner for dogs – Patties	21 – 401	3 lb (48 oz.) bag	12-05-16	829546214012
Bravo Balance Chicken Dinner for dogs – Chub	21 – 402	2 lb (32 oz.) chub	12-05-16	829546214029
Bravo Blend Chicken diet for dogs & cats – Patties	21 – 508	5 lb (80 oz.) bag	12-05-16	829546215088

These products were sold to distributors, retail stores, internet retailers and directly to consumers in the US.

The recalled product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners who have the affected product at home should dispose of this product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle).

To submit a claim, pet owners should return to the store where they bought the product.

To get a refund at the store where you bought the product: 

Customers should return to the store where they purchased the product and submit the Bravo Recall Claim Form available on the Bravo website http://www.bravopetfoods.com/consumerrecall.html for a full refund or store credit. See Bravo Product Claim Form for details.

For more information on the Bravo recall call toll free (866) 922-9222 Monday through Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (EST).

List of Toxic Plants for Cats

More than 700 plants have been identified as producing physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals.

Poisonous plants produce a variety of toxic substances and cause reactions ranging from mild nausea to death.

Certain animal species may have a peculiar vulnerability to a potentially poisonous plant.

Below is a list of some of the common plants which may produce a toxic reaction in animals. This list is intended only as a guide to plants which are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction.

Flowers and plants that cause rashes 

POTHOS

• Cactus
• Chrysanthemums
• Ficus
• Poison Ivy
• Poison Oak
• Pothos and Ivy (in small amounts)
• Primerose 
• Schefflers
• Sumac

Flowers and plants that cause organ damage

(Kidney, liver, stomach, heart, etc.)

AZALEA

• Azalea (in small amounts) Crocus
• Foxglove
• Juniper
• Lily
• Amaryllis

Flowers and Plants That Cause Upset Stomachs

(Vomiting, diarrhea and gas)

CALA LILY

• Aster
• Baby’s Breath
• Boxwood 
• Cala Lily
• Carnation
• Chrysanthemums
• Clematis
• Cyclamen
• Daffodil
• English Ivy 
• Freesia 
• Gladiolas 
• Holly 
• Hyacinth 
• Hydrangea 
• Kalanchoe
• Peony

Flowers and Plants that Cause Death

GROUND IVY

• Oleander
• Morning Glory
• Poinsettia
• Pothos
• Ivy
• Scheifflera 

Because contact with some flowers and plants can cause reactions varying from an itch to death, it is best to teach your cat not to eat plants and flowers. Just as we baby proof our home for a new child, we must also cat proof our home for our four legged children.

Note this is a partial list of the most common plants and flowers. For a complete list of all poisonous plants for cats and dogs click here

CAT SAFE HERBS

The majority of herbs are safe for cats, including:

• Basil 
• Bee balm 
• Cat Thyme 
• Chamomile 
• Chervil 
• Coriander (Cilantro) 
• Cress 
• Dill 
• Echinacea Purpurea (Coneflower) 
• Gloxinia 
• Hyssop 
• Lavender 
• Lemon Balm 
• Lemon Verbena 
• Lovage 
• Mint 
• Oregano 
• Parsley 
• Peppermint 
• Rosemary 
• Sage 
• Spearmint 
• Tarragon 
• Thyme

If you suspect your cat has eaten a plant or flower, please note the amount ingested and call your local poison control office, ASPCA or a veterinarian. They can answer any questions and advise in actions needed to counteract poisons.

Related Topics:

Poison Hotlines – Emergency contact numbers and how to help your pet.
ASPCA Toxic Plants (reference)
List of Foods To Avoid Giving Your Pet
Is Your House Safe?

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Shocking Expose’ – Veterinarians

“Why I’m ashamed to be a vet” – a shocking exposé of the profession that puts pets through ‘painful and unnecessary treatments to fleece their trusting owners.

For eight years Matthew Watkinson worked as a vet. But are vets really the saints they are made out to be? Here, Matthew, 32, now an author, exposes the uncuddly truth about vets that every animal lover should read…

He found himself so disgusted at the moneymaking practices that he left the profession altogether.

Dog with Bone Cancer

The greyhound’s soulful eyes seemed to plead with me to help him. His thin tail tucked between his legs, he stood still with fear on the examination table as the posse of fellow veterinary students listened to the chief lecturer.

Aged 12, he had bone cancer in a hind leg and it was advanced, we were told. Looking at the dog, I imagined he’d had a good life. Obviously, from the condition of his brushed coat, and his muscled body, he had an owner who knew how to care for him.

As a student vet who in a year was to graduate to work in my own practice, I knew what I would recommend if I were this dog’s owner – and that was a loving and peaceful death.

But putting the greyhound to sleep and out of his misery was not the correct answer, the lecturer told me quite sternly.

A humane death would not be the course of treatment offered to its owner. Well, at any rate, not yet. After all, didn’t I realize the advances that had been made in veterinary medicine? There were ‘options’ that could extend this old dog’s life.

No, instead, its leg was going to be amputated and then a course of chemotherapy would be tried to ensure that ‘all was done to save the dog’s life’ – at a cost of $1,000 to $2,000, or even more.

I have no idea what the owner thought of this. But, as the majority of pet owners want to do the best by their beloved dog, I can only imagine he or she took this ‘chief’ vet’s expensive advice to try to ‘save’ the pet.

Meanwhile, I remember pushing down the revulsion I felt about putting the dog through what we all knew would be punishing treatment that in all likelihood would not work.

And even if it did give that greyhound an extra year or so of life, how could anyone explain to it that the suffering was for a reason? That lying in a small cage, surgically maimed, and hooked up to a drip for weeks, perhaps months, would be ‘worth it’.

Today I look back on that lecture and realize that already I had begun to question the role of vets in animal ‘welfare’.

The point is yes, we could treat this dog’s cancer, but was it in the best interests of that dog? Morally, should we have even considered further treatment or was it all about making money?

On Becoming a Veterinarian

Of course, back then I avoided becoming embroiled in ethics. I was just thrilled to be one of the lucky few to have made it into the most prestigious vet school in the country – London’s Royal Veterinary College.

Back then, I had no concept that far from the saviors of animals they purport to be, the blame for much animal suffering in the UK and USA can be laid so firmly at the door of vets.

I had no idea that I would ultimately be driven to confess that I am ashamed to be a vet and that, eight years after qualifying, I would find myself so disgusted at the moneymaking practices that I would leave the profession altogether.

Of course, not all vets deliberately set out to make as much money as they can out of treating animals. But money $$$ – not the welfare of the animal – is often at the forefront of the vet’s mind.

Of course there are outright cowboys in any field and the veterinary profession is sadly no exception.

Today you will notice more and more practices have sprung up throughout the country – especially in those affluent areas where the middle-class residents treat their pets as part of their family.

One might imagine that because there are so many more vets that animals need more medical help than ever. But the truth is far simpler. A whole industry has arisen out of squeezing the most money out of treating family pets.

During the ‘health check’ that goes with a visit, it is amazing how many problems the vet might find.

It is not unheard of for vets to Google a pet owner’s home to see which area the family live in. Big house in a posh road – well, you can offer more treatment to that pet owner, of course. 

I never witnessed this in my practice, but I heard of it happening. Charge more for your services so a vaccination that costs a few pennies becomes a $50 ‘consultation’. And that isn’t all.

While the owner might believe he or she is only taking their cat for a vaccination (and I have no problem with sensible preventative healthcare) for the vet, this visit can be a way to make even more money out of a perfectly healthy animal.

Unnecessary Tests

So your vet discovers your cat has a seemingly innocuous chipped tooth?

I have known of cat owners told that despite the fact their cat is perfectly fine – and frankly animals in the wild break their teeth all the time and do not need expensive dentistry work – that to remove the tooth is justified ‘just in case’ it later causes a problem.

Having a tooth removed, especially a canine tooth, is major surgery – costing upwards of $100 – and should only be done if the cat is suffering because of it.

But more often than not, a loving owner will trust their vet and sadly go along with surgery that is not only unnecessary but plain risky for a pet who does not need it.

Similarly, I have known vets suggest doing an ‘exploratory’ operation on a cat just because it had been sick. But like humans, cats and dogs get sick from time to time. The best response is to wait and see, not offer a battery of blood tests and invasive operations.

Having allowed their pet to have such an operation, the owner when the pet recovers will put this down to the operation being a success.

It is not! If nothing was found, your pet would have begun feeling better anyway. Possibly sooner.

Small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits should be put to sleep if they present with an illness that can’t be easily rectified with a dose of antibiotics. Their lives should not be prolonged at all cost.

Above All – Do No Harm

Nor should cats that are run over and experience a complex injury or bladder problems – sadly an all-too-common feature of road accidents as the car catches the back of the cat as it tries to escape – endure lots of operations in the hope that the problems can be cured.

Even if they can be – eventually – I believe putting any animal through this is BARBARIC!

Which brings me to another issue that helps vets to carry out these expensive and totally unnecessary procedures – pet insurance.

These days, pet insurance is pushed as a ‘necessity’. Sit in any vet’s surgery and you are left in no doubt as you survey the dozens of adverts for it that ‘good’ owners have it while ‘bad’ owners do not.

Read More >>

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Chihuahuas – The Truth You Should Know

Whether you currently own a Chihuahua or are thinking of owning one, here’s a few things you should know about the smallest dog in the world.

Just because a Chihuahua is in a shelter does not mean he has behavior problems. The fact is that many really nice dogs end up at the pound through no fault of their own. 

Chihuahuas have one of the largest breed representations in animal shelters across the United States. When Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes are surrendered, they have a pretty dim future with very high euthanasia rates. For such a popular animal, why are the kill rates so high?

One of the biggest reasons is that these cute little dogs have a serious overpopulation problem in the United States and there are simply more pups than there are homes.
Purchasing a Chihuahua from a breeder or pet store does not guarantee you a great dog. 

Unfortunately, most pet stores get their Chi’s from puppy mills where the breeding dogs are not only subjected to terrible abuse and neglect, but are overbred and inbred. This means that the darling doggy in the window could have a multitude of health issues.

When you adopt a Chihuahua, you are actually saving two lives! 

When you rescue one, you are making room for another to be able to stay at the shelter longer, upping his chances of getting adopted, too.

There will be an adjustment period. Your newly adopted Chihuahua will be more grateful to you for rescuing him than you can imagine, he just might not show it! 

There may be some anxiety, some sleepless nights, and even some unwanted behavior but, given enough time and attention, your little pup will soon feel like he has always been a part of your family.

About Chihuahua’s

Inside each little Chihuahua is a miniature king or queen ready to rule their realms, so they need to be taught what is acceptable in human kingdoms. They are intelligent and enthusiastic, so they usually don’t need extensive training.

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs that come in many different colors, types and markings, and can have either long or short coats, but they all have large, alert ears, big moist eyes, and huge personalities.

Chihuahuas are the ideal lovable, loyal and long-term pal. When you’re alone in the house with a Chihuahua, you’re never alone — they sleep on your lap, sit by your side, or follow you from room to room while you do chores.

When you’re not home, they protect it like their personal domain, barking at the sign of any approaching stranger (making them surprisingly effective watchdogs). 

This endearing love and devotion, however, can sometimes evolve into a fierce protectiveness, making them a force to reckon with when they try to compete with other pets or family members for your attention. 

Nevertheless, this big-time attitude packed inside a pint-sized frame has a remarkable way of being endearing rather than annoying. Whether in an apartment, a house or a palace, a Chihuahua is perfectly accommodated. 

And they’re fairly easy to care for, needing minimal exercise and food. 

But don’t skimp on the attention: Chihuahuas crave affection and companionship to the point where they may resort to attention-getting tricks. 

And watch out – They are so quick-witted and cunning and sweet, you might find yourself doing an overtime shift of petting, scratching and cuddling.

Chihuahuas have a long life expectancy – as much as 17 years – but they have a tendency to develop health problems like hypoglycemia, joint ailments, eye infections and bronchitis. 

Also, the tops of their skulls never fully develop, leaving soft spots (“moleras”) that should be protected. 

Though Chihuahuas don’t need as much exercise as larger dogs, they need daily walks. And they also like to be warm, so you might consider a little sweater for winter walks. Though picky eaters, they can easily be overfed. 

An obese Chihuahua is more susceptible to diabetes and a shorter lifespan. Bear in mind: The world’s smallest dog could also be the world’s cockiest. And Chihuahua owners will note — during their very first walk in the park — that this breed is fearless when it comes to confronting larger dogs. 

Don’t be so sure that your Chihuahua will know when it has met its match; i.e., always remove them from conflict. 

Some people believe that Chihuahuas are one-person dogs and therefore not suitable for families. In truth, they may not be suitable for a small child –– since they would not tolerate teasing or random play — but with proper training and gentle, positive reinforcement, they can adapt to any home.

A Chihuahua’s Environment

The Chihuahua is not an outdoor dog, it is an INDOOR dog. 

A Chihuahua can face all kinds of perils being outside, first of all there are birds of prey, even in the cities and a Chihuahua looks to be the right size meal to a hungry hawk. 

Good fencing has been knocked down by an antagonized big dog walking by your yard. My dogs bark at anything that walks by, human, animal, unusual sounds. They do not seem to understand that one bite from a big dog would be the end.

All dogs are more territorial in their own yard, and bark even louder, and with more intensity. This is enough to make the most mellow of big dogs grow aggravated.

They are so small they can get through the smallest of spaces. 

Check your fencing often for escape holes. I once had a Chihuahua get stuck half way through a chain link fence gate…the opening between the fence and gate is perfect for a chi’s head to fit through… if I had not been there, she may have died from exhaustion, suffocated or been attacked by another dog! 

If you have low fencing, a bigger dog could jump over it, or a passerby could reach over and grab your precious baby.

Chihuahua History

The Chihuahua – named for the Mexican state that borders Texas and New Mexico – is the oldest breed on the American continent. 

Historians believe they evolved from a wild dog called the Techichi that was domesticated by the Toltecs in 9th-century Mexico. Some even claim the modern Chihuahua originated from a cross between the Techichi and a hairless dog that came to North America from China via the Bering Strait. 

Chihuahuas were discovered around 1850 in Mexico, where merchants were selling them to tourists. They quickly became popular in the United States and were registered with the AKC in 1904.

PICTURES OF DOGS RESEMBLING THE MODERN CHIHUAHUA APPEAR IN ANCIENT PAINTINGS IN MEXICO.

Quick Facts

• Weight: 2-8 pounds
• Height: 6-10 inches
• Life Expectancy: 16-18 years 

Ideal Human Companions for… 

• The elderly
• The housebound
• Singles
• Apartment dwellers

Trademark Traits

• Small, stocky size
• Apple-shaped head
• Round, dark eyes
• Short, pointed muzzle
• Lively and loyal
• Cocky and energetic
• Strong-willed and outspoken
• Nimble and quick
• Portable

DID YOU KNOW?

Continued > 

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Previous RECALL of Dog Treats Has Been Significantly Expanded!

I and Love and You of Boulder, Colorado, has announced it is voluntarily recalling 1,299 cases of Cow-Boom! Strips Beef Gullet because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

What’s Being Recalled?

The I and Love and You dog treats recall originally announced by the company on July 10, 2015, has been significantly expanded.

As of July 14, 2015, affected products now include the following identifying information:

Cow-Boom! Strips Beef Gullet Dog Treats
2.0 ounce bags
Lot numbers ending in 4T1 or 5T1
Best-By years of 2016 or 2017
UPC number 8 18336 01134 4

The Company has notified its distributors and retailers and is taking this voluntary action as a precautionary measure.

No other products of the company are affected by this recall.

There have been no reported pet or human illnesses associated with this recall.

What Caused the Recall?

Routine sampling by an inspector for the Colorado Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Salmonella, which prompted this voluntary recall.

The product is sourced from a U.S. supplier.

About Salmonella

Salmonella can affect animals eating the product. And there is risk to humans who handle the product, especially if the handler does not thoroughly wash his or her hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to the product.

Healthy people handling the product contaminated by Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: 

• nausea, 
• vomiting,
• diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, 
• abdominal cramping,  
• fever.

Although rare, Salmonella may result in more serious ailments, including:

• arterial infections 
• endocarditis 
• arthritis 
• muscle pain 
• eye irritation 
• urinary tract symptoms

Pets with Salmonella infections may be:

• lethargic 
• diarrhea or bloody diarrhea 
• fever  
• vomiting 
• decreased appetite  
• abdominal pain

Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the product and has exhibited these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.

What to Do?

Consumers should look at the lot numbers and best-by-dates printed on the bag to determine if it is subject to this recall.

People who have purchased these products are instructed to dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact the company at 855-459-5683 Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM MT. Or via email at service@ilypet.com.

Members of the media are invited to contact 817-329-3257 24 hours a day.

U.S. citizens can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in your area.

Or go to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

Canadians can report any health or safety incidents related to the use of this product by filling out the Consumer Product Incident Report Form.

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Dog Flu Now In 40 States And Continues To Spread – What You Need to Know NOW

Based on recently compiled data, Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) infection has been documented in at least 40 states in the US. Keep in mind that these statistics are based on samples sent in voluntarily, and in no way reflect the scope of dogs affected in each state.

The first confirmed outbreak of CIV infection occurred in Florida at a Greyhound racing facility. Since that time, the incidence of CIV infection has increased, and outbreaks have been reported in dog-racing facilities, shelters, kennels, veterinary offices, and pet stores. 

Canine influenza is a relatively new disease, and most dogs are susceptible.

What began as an isolated episode of respiratory disease in 1 state has now become a nationwide health concern for all dogs. 

This is not surprising, given that:

• CIV is a new virus, and dogs have no natural immunity to it 
• Dogs are mobile and move from or through affected states-especially rescue dogs and dogs that travel with their owners 
• Many dogs are boarded or go to daycare or grooming facilities where close contact to other dogs puts them at high risk 

Wherever dogs congregate, CIV is easily spread by:

• Direct contact, such as when dogs kiss, lick, or nuzzle each other 
• Droplets in the air from a cough or sneeze 
• Contaminated objects, such as doggie bowls, doorknobs, or clothing 
• The hands of pet owners, veterinary clinic staff, and shelter workers 

Canine influenza is very contagious!

 Meaning that it is easily spread from dogs that are currently infected to healthy dogs. CIV can pass from dog to dog through virus particles in the air (eg, through coughing or sneezing) or by coming into physical contact with other dogs (touching noses). 

It can also be picked up if a dog touches or plays with objects that were touched by infected dogs (for example, food bowls, toys). Humans can even transfer the virus between dogs. For example, they may spread the virus if they touch an infected dog, or even touch a toy or doorknob that the dog has contacted, and then touch another dog before washing their hands.

Because of the increased risk of exposure, dog flu is more likely to be transmitted between dogs in locations where dogs are in groups, such as dog parks, kennels, and shelters. 

Reputable businesses that provide care for dogs should already be taking all precautions to prevent spread of infectious diseases such as canine influenza. 

FIGURE: Voluntary samples which does not reflect the scope of dogs affected in each state.

The map above of the United States highlights the states in which canine influenza has been documented. 

If your dog has any of the signs of CIV infection, you should consider the following: 

• Keep him or her home and avoid activities where other dogs can be exposed while the dog is coughing or exhibiting other signs of respiratory disease, usually for about 2 weeks.
• Keeping your dog’s toys and food and water bowls clean with soap and water can also help prevent spread of the disease. You should disinfect your hands (with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer) and wash clothing after exposure to dogs that have signs of respiratory disease to avoid transmitting infection to other dogs.

Knowledge and common sense are your best defenses against canine influenza, so be aware of any information about outbreaks of canine influenza in your area, and take appropriate precautions.

Signs of Canine Influenza Infection

Be alert for the following signs, which are common in dogs with canine influenza:

• Mild, low-grade fever (103°F) 
• Lethargy (tiredness) 
• Loss of appetite 
• Cough, which may be dry or may bring up sputum 
• Runny nose with clear secretions at first, but may later change to a thick and yellow and/or pink-tinged color 

If your dog shows any of these signs, contact your veterinarian and avoid taking the dog anywhere that other dogs may be exposed (other than the veterinarian’s office, if so instructed) until it has made a full recovery.

Disease Course

Of those dogs exposed, the following statistics regarding the general course of illness have been reported:

• Between 80 to 90% will develop clinical infection 
• About 10 to 20% will become infected but will not show any signs; however, these dogs can still pass the virus to other dogs 
• Most dogs will have a mild disease course 
• Up to 20% of dogs may develop a more severe form, with a high fever (104-106°F) and pneumonia; these dogs must usually be admitted to the veterinary clinic for treatment 
• Up to 8% of dogs may die from complications of CIV infection 

“In general, any dog that is in a closed room with other dogs for at least 6 hours or more can be considered at risk.”

Ronald Schultz, PhD
Department of Pathobiological Sciences
School of Veterinary Medicine
University of Wisconsin-Madison

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FDA RECALL: Dog Treats

Lots of the Carnivore Vital Essentials pet food treats have been recalled due to listeria monocytogene contamination. Carnivore Meat Company, LLC of Green Bay, Wisconsin has issued the recall for the
following products, distributed in Washington, California, Texas, Georgia, Illinois, Colorado, New Mexico, Florida, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Ohio and Vermont.

Vital Essentials Frozen Beef Tripe Patties
UPC 33211 00809
Lot # 10930
Best by date 2016/02/10

Vital Essentials Frozen Beef Tripe Nibblets
UPC 33211 00904
Lot # 10719
Best by date 12/02/2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Carnivore Meat Company, LLC is recalling select products and lots of Carnivore Vital Essentials pet foods because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

Healthy cats and dogs rarely become sick from Listeria monocytogenes.

In HUMANS, however, Listeria is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. 

Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as:

• high fever 
• severe headache 
• stiffness 
• nausea
• abdominal pain and diarrhea 
• Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

If an animal becomes ill with Listeria, it will display symptoms similar to the ones listed above for humans. People with concerns about whether their pet has Listeria should contact their veterinarian.

If you are a consumer and have purchased a bag we ask that you please call 920-370-6542 Monday-Friday 9:00AM-4:00PM CST and someone will assist you in obtaining replacement or a full refund from your local retailer for your original purchase.

If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle.

This voluntary recall has been issued because the FDA has reported an independent lab detected the bacteria in samples during a recent review. The company has received no reports of human illness as a result of these products.

Consumer Questions
Representatives are available from Monday – Friday 9:00AM – 4:00PM CST at 920-370-6542.

    ———————————————————————————————

Dog Treat Recall: Carnivore Vital Essentials
Carnivore Meat Company, LLC voluntarily recalls batches of their raw pet treats due to possible listeria contamination.

Recall — Firm Press Release

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

Dog Treat Recall: Carnivore Vital Essentials
Carnivore Meat Company, LLC
Voluntarily Issues a Recall
Two Batches of Raw Pet Treats

Contact:
Consumer  (920) 370-6542

Source: FDA Government Safety Recalls

9 Short Stories of Amazing Animals Rescuing Their Owners

Read harrowing tales of how people escaped death with the help of their pets. There’s no doubt a family pet enriches the lives of its owners, but we wouldn’t be giving Fido and Fluffy enough credit if we stopped there.

Against great obstacles, animals have shown their dedication through unbelievable acts of heroism.

Whether they saved their owners from an animal attack, alerted them to a fire or led the way for emergency responders, here are 9 amazing stories of animals who came to the rescue.

1. Cat Saves Owner from Dog Attack

In June 2010, two dogs attacked Cherry Woods while she was walking in her neighborhood near Houston, Texas.

When her husband couldn’t get the dogs off her, the couple’s cat, Lima, came to her rescue. Hissing and clawing, Lima directed the canines’ attention toward herself long enough for Woods’s husband to drag her to safety. Although Woods was injured, she and Lima survived.

2. Dog Leads Police to Burning Home

When Ben Heinrichs’s workshop caught fire in April 2010, he turned to his German shepherd, Buddy, and said: “We need to get help!” Heinrichs was exclaiming out loud, not commanding his pooch, so when Buddy ran off, the last thing he expected was that Buddy would return with just that.

A state trooper’s dashboard camera actually caught Buddy on tape as he ran out to the road, signaled for attention and led the trooper back to the fire. The trooper then directed the fire department to the scene, where they were able to put out the blaze before it spread to the family’s home.

Buddy was given an award and a silver-plated bowl from the Alaska State Troopers for his heroism.

3. Cat Saves Sleeping Owner from Gas Leak

Schnautzie the cat wasn’t looking for affection that day in April 2010 when she sat on her owner Trudy Guy’s chest and started tapping her nose. Schnautzie was saving Guy’s life.

When Guy was awoken by her feline friend, she heard the roaring of a gas pipe, which had broken outside her bathroom. She was able to escape and call for help, but firefighters told her the house could have blown up with her inside if Schnautzie hadn’t alerted her to the danger.

For her valor, the cat received the Purple Paw award from the Animal Foundation of Great Falls, Montana.

4. Dog Fights Pirates

Two years into their around-the-world sailing trip in the summer of 2008, British couple Peter Lee, 61, and his wife Betty, 57, were boating off the coast of Venezuela when they were attacked by pirates. After the five men boarded the yacht and tied the couple up, their 2-year-old hunting dog, Kankuntu, ferociously attacked the men until they shot and stabbed him.

Fortunately, the pirates left after pillaging the boat and the Lees were able dress Kankuntu’s wounds until they could get him medical attention.

5. Dog Saves Owner from Fire…TWICE

When Candace Jennings of Idaho City, Idaho, rescued Anna, a blue heeler from an animal shelter, she had no idea how the dog would repay the favor.

In the wee hours of Thanksgiving morning 2007, Anna began howling and nudging her owner until Jennings woke up only to find her trailer on fire.

Both escaped, but when Jennings re-entered the home to get something, she was overcome by smoke and became disoriented, unable to find her way back out. Luckily, Anna—who had followed Jennings inside—helped her get out again.

6. Dog Fights Deadly Snake

In October 2007, as 17-month-old Charlotte Svillicic was playing in the backyard of her family’s Australian home, the family’s Doberman pinscher, Khan, began to snarl.

A king brown snake (the third most venomous kind in the world) was under the house. Khan tried to nudge the toddler away, but when she didn’t budge, the dog lifted the toddler by her diaper and tossed her several feet behind him, just as the snake lunged and bit his paw—instead of her.

After receiving antivenim, the dog made a full recovery and was hailed “Khan the Wonder Dog” by his owners.

7. Dog Performs Heimlich Maneuver

 While eating an apple at home in March 2007, Debbie Parkhurst began choking. After she unsuccessfully tried to perform the Heimlich maneuver on herself, her 2-year-old golden retriever, Toby, went into action.

Standing up on his hind legs and pushing her to the ground, the pooch began jumping up and down on her chest until the apple became dislodged, after which he licked her face to keep her conscious.

8. Dog Saves Elderly Couple from Freezing in The Woods

On a brisk fall night in October 2006, Eve and Norman Fertig, both 81 years old, went outside to tend to injured animals in their forested sanctuary in upstate New York.

But as they were working, a massive storm hit, toppling trees and trapping the couple outdoors. Lucky for them, their dog, Shana, a wolf and German shepherd mix, was with them. As the temperature dropped, Shana started to dig a path underneath the fallen trees with her mouth and paws.

After hours of work, she was able to burrow to the other side.
The intrepid canine threw Mrs. Fertig over her back, and with Mr. Fertig holding on to her legs, pulled them both through to the other side to safety.

9. Dog Saves World Trade Center Survivor

Read more about Traker here.

Trakr the German shepherd may be a trained police dog, but his act of heroism went above and beyond the call of duty. Trakr and his master, Canadian police officer James Symington, were working on a search-and-rescue team in the wake of the September 11th attacks when the dog picked up the scent of a human.

Rescuers then dug 30 feet under unstable debris to save the 32-year-old woman, who was the last survivor recovered from the World Trade Center site.

*I was so impressed by these courageous and beautiful animals, that I had to share their stories with you. 

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