The Importance of Puppy Socialization from the AVMA

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The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is as concerned about dog behavior as we are. Our veterinarians have to deal with our canine companions and would prefer the dogs be happy and well-adjusted, not only as members of our households as well as members of society, but a well-adjusted, well-socialized, confident dog is easier for the veterinarian to examine.  Socialization starts with the breeder and the puppies' mother and littermates. Even if it's a mixed breed puppy, the owner of the mother is just as responsible for the puppies as are ethical breeders. The problem is that most of them don't know and don't care. Backyard breeders, puppy mills and commercial breeders get puppies off to such a poor start and those are the dogs who usually end up in shelters.

Here is the AVMA's message about Puppy Socialization that should open a few eyes.  

Periodontal Health - Important for Your Pets

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Photo Courtesy of Lisette Brodey

February is National Pet Dental Health Month. There's good reason for highlighting dental health for your pets: it impacts their health in so many ways. Dirt leaching down from your dog or cat's teeth can cause many health problems which means that you should be brushing your pet's teeth. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to do it. Obviously, it's easier if you start with a puppy or kitten but you can start later. Be gentle and go slowly. Use special toothpaste made for pets. It doesn't foam and is flavored to appeal to your pets.

Photo Courtesy of Nancy Ross

Brushing isn't quite enough. You should also have your pet's teeth cleaned professionally every year. 

It's hard to find anyone better than the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) to spread the word about the importance of your pet's health and how to keep your pet healthy.  Here's a video they made that explains the importance of Periodontal Health for Your Pets. Humans aren't the only ones who can have periodontal problems. Let's let Dr. Cindy Charlier explain it:

Top Tips to Help Your Pet in An Emergency

Photo Courtesy of AVMA

Did you know that April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month? I usually write my own posts but the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) has released a list of the Top Tips to Help Your Pet in An Emergency. Who could give us better advice than the organization to which our Veterinarians belong? Here is their advice:

Accidents happen – sometimes pets get injured, eat the wrong foods, get bitten, cut, or even have seizures.  But, there are ways you can help on the way to the vet. As Dr. Doug Aspros, Former President of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says, “You can't be over-prepared. Do your thinking and planning when you're calm - you'll make better decisions when the emergency happens."

Photo Courtesy of Gordon Brice

So here are a few life-saving tips from the AVMA to help stabilize your pet:

• If you think your pet has a broken bone, gently lay him or her on a flat surface, or use a blanket as a sling to gently transport your pet on the way to the veterinarian.
• With cuts, press a clean, thick gauze pad over the wound and press on it until the bleeding stops. If bleeding is severe and on the legs, apply a tourniquet (using a rubber band and gauze) between the wound and the body to slow down the blood flow and get your animal to the vet ASAP.
• For burns, flush immediately with lots of water. If the burn is more severe quickly apply an ice compress.
• If your pet has been exposed to a toxin, check the label for immediate instructions such as washing its skin with soap and water, or flushing eyes with water.
• If your pet is having seizures, keep them away from any objects, blanket your pet to keep them warm and call your vet or an emergency vet clinic.
• For choking, if your pet can still breathe, get them to the vet immediately. Look in their mouth with a flashlight and quickly try to get the object out with a tweezer. If that doesn’t work, place both hands on the side of his or her ribcage and strike the rib cage firmly with the palm of your hand 3 to 4 times while getting to the vet.

Photo Courtesy of Nancy Ross

What your Pet First Aid Kit should include for home or travel:

• VetWrap (or a similar bandaging product that clings to itself and molds nicely)
• A nylon leash, muzzle, pet carrier (depending on animal size) and a pillow case for a cat that might need to be restrained; a small flashlight can also be quite useful

For more life-saving tips from the American Veterinarian Medical Association, log onto www.avma.org/

National Dog Bite Prevention Week