Horses & Kids: Friends with Benefits

Much like adults, children carry physical and emotional damage.  Sometimes it's difficult for them to explain exactly what's wrong or how a grown-up can make it better.  Horses, and many other animals, offer something special--an opportunity to learn new and effective ways to cope with problems as well as interactions that may extend beyond the barn or stable.

It's All About Body Language

Horses communicate through body language.  Teaching your child to "read the signs"  helps him or her to understand how their choices, temperament and demeanor impact another living creature.  The kids can learn what behaviors are effective and which need to be modified to become both leaders and partners.  A relationship with a horse is a powerfully motivating incentive for children to want to change. It's perfect for helping your child learn responsibility, accountability, and strength of character.

Other Lives Matter

We all want our children to have more; more opportunity, more education, more "things."  Sometimes the result is It's all about me.   A relationship with another living thing requires a child to think about another's needs, wants and desires; emphasizing the horse's point of view creates empathy for others.   Recognizing the horse's point of view just might turn a "me" moment into a "we" moment.

Little Leaders

Adults understand what it takes to be a good leader--firmness, consistency, a sense of fair play and kindness.   A child who can move a half-ton animal with effective communication skills is empowered for life.  Balancing the skills is critical to coping and problem solving.

Why the Horse

Kids are drawn to these majestic animals who provide, no strings attached,  acceptance and love.  Horses, as herd animals, are naturally sensitive, insightful and social.

• Friendship with a horse is based on the same qualities as friendship with another human.
• Developing a relationship with a horse is the same as developing a friendship with a peer. It requires trust, common respect, and interactive communication.
• Like people, horses have unique identities.  Children learn how to appreciate individual personalities and, consequently, modify their own behaviors.
• Horses always tell the truth. Children learn to recognize the value of the behavior as well as how their own emotions and energy impact animals and humans, alike.
• Observing horse society teaches the body language, boundaries and how another views their surroundings.
• Grooming teaches trust, empathy, and responsibility.

Who knew that horses could teach us so many things?

Kidney Disease Diagnosing The Danger In Cats

Cats (and dogs) of all ages can be at risk for chronic kidney disease.  Essential organs, an animal’s kidneys help manage blood pressure, remove waste from their blood and make red blood cells and hormones. Kidneys can begin to fail as your pet ages. Left untreated, kidney disease can lead to a number of health issues. If the disease is determined to be chronic, there is no cure. But with early diagnosis, the condition can be effectively managed.

Did you know? 75% of your pet’s kidney function is permanently gone before you see signs of serious illness. 1 in 3 cats will get kidney disease. More than half of all cats over age 15 are afflicted.

Chronic kidney disease is very common in cats, especially those that are older than age 5. Renal (kidney) insufficiency or renal failure occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to do their job--to remove waste products from the blood. Renal failure is not the same as not being able to produce urine; in fact cats with renal failure make more urine than normal in an attempt to remove waste products.   When the kidneys are failing, they lose their ability to maintain their normal hydration levels. Because of this increase in the amount of urine being excreted, cats become dehydrated very quickly and in turn, start to drink more water. This leads to a continuous cycle of increased urinations and increased drinking – two of the key signs of kidney disease.

Chronic Renal Failure in Cats

Failure of the kidneys, can take place so slowly, that by the time the symptoms have become obvious, it may be more difficult to treat the condition.   While chronic renal failure cannot be reversed or cured, treatment and management aimed at reducing the contributing factors and symptoms can slow its progression.

Symptoms and Types

Symptoms often occur gradually over an extended period.  Symptoms vary and may include some or all of those listed below:

• Anorexia
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Depression
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Acute blindness
• Seizures and comas
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• An increase in frequency and amount of urination

Causes

Causes of kidney failure can include kidney disease, urinary blockage (obstruction of the urinary tract or of the ureters), ingestion of certain human prescription medications (such as NSAIDS, for example, Advil and Aleve), infection, lymphoma, diabetes mellitus, and genetic (hereditary) factors.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Pet parents need to watch for subtle signs; early diagnosis is the key. Cats tend to hide their symptoms for as long as possible, until their bodies can no longer compensate.  Veterinary science has worked to find solutions for spotting and managing chronic kidney disease earlier and with more efficiency. With early diagnosis and thorough, ongoing care, veterinarians can create quality of life and add to the pet’s lifespan.

The answer is in what is called “SDMA Testing” and is a real breakthrough in veterinary medicine.  Research shows that with SDMA testing, chronic kidney disease can be found an average of 9 months earlier in dogs and 17 months earlier in cats creating the maximum opportunity for early treatment and management.

Until now, chronic kidney disease has routinely been diagnosed by measuring blood creatinine. However, creatinine does not detect a problem until a cat or dog has lost up to 75% of their kidney function, which can be too late to manage the disease simply. Pets experiencing chronic kidney disease may require lifelong management, including regular veterinary visits, special diets, medications administered daily and even, potentially, subcutaneous injections. For these reasons and, probably most importantly, the overall health and well-being of your beloved pal, spotting kidney disease in its earliest stages can save you money, time and effort while ensuring your pet a better, longer life.

There’s much more to learn about chronic kidney disease if you want to protect your cat, and having this knowledge is the first step in the fight against a disease that claims too many lives. Ask your veterinarian what you can be doing to keep your cat healthier, happier and in your life for longer.

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Five Steps to Help Fallout Pigs Flourish

In the nursery, consistency is critical. Pigs that fall behind the rest of the group can lag through future phases and may require additional days to finishing.

Becky Bierlein, a swine specialist for Purina Animal Nutrition, says fallout rates are a top performance indicator in a wean-to-finish facility.

“Many factors – including nutrition, feed budget, environment and even the pigs themselves – can impact fallout rates. To achieve the 0.5 percent or fewer standard, actively engage with pigs from day one.”

1. Feed small pigs in a different way from the start: No matter the environment, some pigs will be smaller than the rest of the group at weaning. Bierlein encourages separating the bottom 10% and starting them off a bit differently from the main group.

“They need more attention when it comes to feed and environment,” Bierlein says.

2. Watch for additional fallouts: After dividing the group by size, nursery management can help identify potential problems. Check each pig at least daily to ensure they are active, eating and drinking.

“It’s not enough to glance through your barn,” Bierlein says. “Look at each pig from snout to tail and spine to hoof each day. If a problem is noticed, a fast intervention can help remedy the problem. We need to make sure intervention is fast in order to successfully keep fallout rates below 0.5 percent.”

3. Determine the cause: If high fallout rates are recorded, a facility evaluation may help determine an underlying issue.

“Foremost, make sure pigs have enough feed and water space,” Bierlein says. She recommends supplying at least one waterer for every 10 pigs and 1 inch of feeder space per pig for animals ranging from 40 to 50 pounds.

“Next, look at the environment to make sure what is happening in the pen is not negatively impacting the pig’s growth and development,” Bierlein advises. “Sometimes it’s just pen dynamics and all we need to do is allow that pig the opportunity to be in another pen.”

4. Manage fallouts critically: Fallout pigs – whether separated at weaning or during the production process – should be given focused nutrition, hydration and care. Bierlein says this care should be similar to other nursery pigs but with greater vigilance.

“We recommend giving pigs gel, electrolytes and highly palatable starter feed during times of stress,” she says. “Mat-feeding gel, especially, provides both hydration and nutritional components, allowing for an easier transition back onto dry feed.”

5. Re-introduce pigs to the general population: Once recovered, fallout pigs can begin the transition back to the general population.

“I like to see fallout pigs transitioned into a recovery pen before rejoining the rest of the pigs,” Bierlein says. “This allows the caretaker to observe the pigs and make sure they are transitioning okay away from the hospital pen.”

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Horse Jokes

And for all you Neigh Sayers...

To the veterinarians, ranchers, breeders, stable workers.  For all of you who spend countless hours caring for our equestrian friends...horse jokes from around the internet.... What would we do without the word "stable"?  You decide:  Groan or Grin?

Q: Why did the horse cross the road?

A: Because somebody shouted hay!

Q: What do you call a horse that can't lose a race?

A: Sherbet.

Q: How did the cowboy ride into town on Friday, stay for three days, and ride out on Friday?

A: His horse's name was Friday!

Q: Did you hear about the horse with the negative attitude?

A: She always said neigh.

 Q: What is the best type of story to tell a runaway horse?

 A: A tale of WHOA!

Q: What street do horses live on?

A: Mane St.

Q: When do vampires like horse racing?

A: When it's neck and neck.

 Q: What did the momma say to the foal?

 A: Its pasture your bedtime.

Q: What do race horses eat?

A: Fast Food.

Q: What did the waiter say to the horse?

A: I can't take your order. That's not my stable.

Q: What did one horse say to the other horse?

A: The pace is familiar but I can't remember the mane.

 Q: How do you make a small fortune in the horse industry?

 A: Start with a large fortune.

Q: What do you get if you cross a horse with a bee?

A: Neigh buzz.

Q: Where do horses get their hair done?

A: Maine.

Q: What do you call a well balanced horse?

A: Stable.

Q: What do you call a noisy horse?

A: A herd animal.

Q: How do you get a horse drunk?

A: Drink him under the stable.

Q: Why are most horses in shape?

A: Because they are on a stable diet.

 Q: What did the horse say when it fell?

 A: "I've fallen and I can't giddyup!"

Q: What did the teacher say when the horse walked into her class?

A: "Why the long face?"

Q: What is a young colt's favorite sport?

A: Stable Tennis.

Q: What did the mare tell her filly after dinner?

A: Clear the Stable.

 Q: Where do horses shop?

 A: Old Neigh-vy!

Q: Why did the anorexic start eating hay?

A: The doctor told her she needed to eat like a horse.

Q: How does a cowboy get a stallion to do odd jobs around the farm?

A: Pay him under the stable.

 Q: What kind of bread does a horse eat?

 A: Thoroughbred.

Q: How do you get a wild horse to accept a halter?

A: You turn the stables on him.

Q: A cowboy rode into town on Monday, spent six days and left on Friday.   How is this possible?

A:  Friday was the name of his horse.

There was this young filly whose owners decided to have her "fixed." The stallion next door was heartbroken, as he'd always wanted to mate with her. He pined for her constantly.

Moral of the Story?

"A pony spayed is a pony yearned."

A man in a movie theater notices what looks like a horse sitting next to him.

"Are you a horse?" asked the man, surprised.

"Yes."

"What are you doing at the movies?"

The horse replied, "Well, I liked the book."

A policeman in the big city stops a man in a car with a miniature horse in the front seat.

"What are you doing with that horse?" He exclaimed, "You should take it to the farm."

The following week, the same policeman sees the same man with the horse again in the front seat, with both of them wearing sunglasses. The policeman pulls him over.

"I thought you were going to take that horse to the farm!"

The man replied, "I did. We had such a good time...we are going to the beach this weekend!"

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Is Your Dog Stressed?

As a rule, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out your dog's emotions.   From the "I didn't mean to do it" look that suggests trouble to the "dance of delight" when you come home from work; your dog lets you know how it's feeling.  But can you read the signs of your dog's anxiety? 

Just like humans, different breeds exhibit in different ways.  A more aggressive breed may take out their troubles on you or your home.  Shy breeds may turn their stress inward,  and make themselves sick.  We did some research and came up with a few ways your pooch pal might demonstrate their stress--and how you can help.

Accidents

These are one of the most easy-to-recognize signs of a problem.  Dogs who experience separation anxiety, but have otherwise been house-trained, may backslide in their training. A safe and secure area: crate, small room, etc., may help your dog feel more secure.

Pinned-back ears

Different dogs, different types of ears.  Whether they stand up, drop down or combine the two, dogs will pull their ears back and low when stressed.  Pinned-back ears--something's not right.

Panting

With no way to sweat, dogs generally pant to cool themselves down. If your dog is panting for no apparent reason, possibly with pinned-back ears, she may be stressing.   Be careful if the dog suddenly stops panting and closes his mouth; she may be so anxious she's read to bite.

Shedding

Almost every dog sheds a bit.  But if you notice hair everywhere or bald spots appearing on your pet, it may be a sign of stress.  FYI--vets report a high level of shedding in their exam rooms.  Just like humans, dogs can find a visit to the doctor a daunting experience. 

Yawning

Again, just like we yawn when nervous, so does your dog.  Generally, it's a way to take in additional oxygen that the body craves during anxious situations.  The stress yawn is usually in conjunction with other behaviors such as avoidance or pinned ears.

Avoidance

New surroundings, strangers, an additional animal in the home--there are a host of reasons for your dog to demonstrate avoidance. A tucked tail, turning away, heading out of the room are all signs of discomfort.   Respect the fact that he'd rather leave the room than escalate to aggression, but try to determine the cause of his concern. 

Destructive behaviors

Dogs may try to ease tension by chewing or biting furniture, you or themselves!   This commonly occurs when your pal is left alone or when threatened in the presence of other dogs.

 Illness

Is your dog's illness actually a result of stress?  Loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, skin problems or allergies can all be signs of stress. If you and your vet can find no obvious cause, anxiety may be the problem. 

 Barking

All that noise driving you nuts?   Inside or out, excessive barking can be a sign of tension. Is it separation anxiety?  A stranger at the door? 

How to help your dog

Just like our children, our dogs appreciate routine.   Regular feeding times, walking the same route, and a safe corner to call their own will provide a less stressful environment. 

Develop rules:  Dogs experience less stress when they know what you want. Set your house rules and be firm, yet gentle about them.  Be consistent--your dog wants to please you, but cannot possibly succeed if the rules keep changing.

Avoid stressful situations: If you know, for example, that your dog doesn't like mail delivery, place him in a different part of the house when the postman comes by.  If your dog doesn't like to be left on his own, crate confinement may provide some comfort.   

Exercise frequently: It's a great tension-reliever for your dog.  Keep it fun and mix it up--repetitive games such as fetch can actually cause stress in some dogs.

Togetherness: Folding laundry?  Washing the car?  Bring your furry friend with you. She wants your company.   

Set clear boundaries.  Recognize the signs of your furry friend's stress.  You and your dog will enjoy the benefits of a less tense life.

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

October is Adopt-A-Dog Month

There are a million reasons to adopt a dog during the American Humane Association’s yearly “Adopt-a-Dog Month®” this month.  3-4 million is a more accurate number–that’s how many sheltered animals are euthanized yearly because they never find someone to provide a safe and happy home.

If you’re thinking about making a dog a part of your family, consider adopting from your local shelter or rescue organization.   Dogs are amazing creatures who can make a huge difference in your world–a best friend, your therapy partner, an exercise pal, even an ear to listen to your worries (though you shouldn’t expect much advice!).   Adoption will save a dog’s life and more than likely improve your life.

Your local rescue organization or shelter offers dogs to meet your particular needs.  You can search by type, age, special needs and personality.  Better still, visit a local shelter and you just might be surprised by the animal that you connect with.  If you prefer a particular breed that isn’t available at a shelter, go online to find a genuine breed-specific rescue group in need of adopters like you.

Find out what a shelter or rescue dog can bring to your life this October during Adopt-A-Dog Month. Here are some resources to get you started:

• Shelters & Rescue Groups–check local organizations and stores that offer adoption days. Here are some of the national ones:

-ASPCA

-American Humane Association

-Petfinder.com

-Petco & Petsmart

Here are a few ways the AHA suggests you celebrate Adopt-A-Dog Month:

• Adopt from a shelter or rescue group

Talk with shelter staff to find the perfect dog for you, your family  and your lifestyle. Remember… older dogs make excellent pets, too.

• Spay or neuter your dog

Prevent the possibility of unexpected, and potentially unwanted, puppies. Spayed and neutered animals have been shown to lead longer, healthier lives and have fewer behavioral problems than animals who have not been spayed or neutered.  Many organizations offer reduced rate or free services for rescued dogs.

• ID your pet

A tag, a microchip or both, will reduce the possibility of your pal becoming one of the presumably “homeless” dogs that end up at your local shelter. Here’s a sad statistic–only 15-20 percent of dogs who enter a shelter are reunited with their owners. Make sure your dog is one of the fortunate few.

• Support your local shelter

Donate time, money or supplies like pet food, leashes, beds and toys. Call the shelter to see what’s needed.   One toy or a clean towel can make a difference.

“If you haven’t yet experienced that remarkable power of the human-animal bond, American Humane Association encourages you to consider adopting a dog and finding out just how life-changing it can be,” says Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Association. “With so many dogs in shelters all across our country available for adoption — and many of them never finding a safe, loving, forever home — adopting a dog will make you a hero, too.”

Source:  American Humane Association

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Why do cats eat grass?

The reason why cats sometimes eat grass (and other plants) is not completely understood. There are several probable theories as to why they do:  

For the nutrients

Cats are carnivorous,  they need to consume meat to live. When cats hunt, they consume almost all parts of their prey including the stomach and its contents. This may include small amounts of plant matter and their nutrients. Your pet cat probably doesn't hunt and therefore won't get to ingest those small amounts of plant material obtained from prey.  They may try to obtain these vitamins/minerals by eating grass if there is a nutritional imbalance in the diet.

To help them vomit

We all know what happens after our cats consume grass, they come back inside and vomit all over our favorite bed or rug.  Spiteful?  Maybe.  It is believed that grass acts as an irritant to the stomach, and cats don't have the ability to digest grass in the way herbivores do. This makes sense from an evolutionary point of view because when hunting, cats eat their entire prey.  Vomiting helps rid the digestive tract of unwanted feathers, bones, etc.

To bring up hairballs

Adding to the vomiting theory, it is speculated that another reason cats consume grass is to assist with the passage of hairballs. When cats groom themselves, they inevitably ingest fur which can build up in the stomach. Eating grass can help with the passage of hairballs either from regurgitating or as a laxative.

Because they can

They may simply enjoy the taste of grass. Cat-loving friends tell us that their own feline friends enjoy a variety of greenery--cucumber and broccoli are just two.  Now if we could just get them to eat their spinach!

What kind of grass

If you want to grow a tub of grass inside for your cat to nibble on, common types include:

·         Wheatgrass

·         Barley

·         Common oat

Is there a difference between cat grass and catnip?

Yes, catnip is a member of the mint family. They are completely unrelated. Catnip can also induce a "buzz" in some cats; cat grass doesn't have this effect on cats.

Cat grass and catnip are perfectly safe for your cat to eat.  However, mind there are a large number of plants that are toxic to cats. It is recommended you don't have indoor house plants that are poisonous as they can in some cases lead to death.   The ASPCA includes the following plants on their toxicity list:

·         Aloe Vera

·         Asian Lily

·         Asparagus Fern

·         Begonia

·         Baby's Breath

·         Calla Lily

·         Corn Plant

·         Cycads (Sago Palm, Fern Palm

·         Daffodil

·         Geranium

·         Jade Plant

·         Pencil Cactus

·         Ribbon Plant (Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Dracaena, Dragon Tree)

·         Tulip

Safety precautions

Note that grass grown outdoors may have been sprayed with chemicals such as weed killers or fertilizers that can be toxic to cats.  If you have an outdoor cat, take care if your cat has a tendency to nibble on the greenery.

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Zoo Vets: Doing It All

Today, you might treat a tiny frog.  Tomorrow it might be a herd of rhinoceros.  Zoo veterinarians are the epitome of medical jacks-of-all-trades.  Mammal, fish, reptile or bird, they do it all.

These providers of comprehensive animal care must know how to recognize different digestive, vascular, and reproductive systems; infectious and chronic illnesses; pharmacological needs; and animal behaviors in order to develop courses of care.

MEDICATIONS: Administering drugs isn’t simple as picking up a prescription at the local drugstore. Zoo vets have to cobble together drug dosages, because pharmaceutical companies don’t publish formulations for every species. A published dosage for a dog would probably work for a wolf;  or that antibiotics effective on lizards might work for snakes. But what about a d Gila monster?

SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT: Zoo veterinarians excel in creativity, accommodate everything from pygmy marmosets to California condors. They’ve turned urinary catheters into endotracheal tubes. Anesthesia masks have been made from pop bottles and construction cones.

ANESTHESIA: As with humans, sedating animals and performing surgery are last resorts. That’s why zookeepers train animals to demonstrate behaviors that make it easier to draw blood, administer shots, and conduct exams.

BIRTH DAYS: It’s exciting when babies are born – or hatched. Newborn antelopes and other herd animals are often checked and tagged 48 hours after birth. Although recognizing newborns may seem simple, herd animals often deliver at the same time of year, and the babies look strikingly similar. Vets check the mother’s lactation and the baby’s suckle response and hydration. During difficult labors, vets may manually assist with breech births or perform C-sections.

Vets monitor hormone levels or perform ultrasounds for some expectant mothers. Often, animals are trained to allow vets or a veterinary ultrasonographer to apply a jelly-like substance to their bellies for the test to check the fetus’s health and estimate due dates

Using methods similar to humans, Zoo populations often are managed to limit or facilitate pregnancies. Many animals are on birth control so the population doesn’t get out of control or inbreeding doesn’t occur. In cases where there is a need to increase the population or genetic diversity of a species vets may use assisted reproduction.

ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS: Zoo vet teams routinely test blood or tissue samples, taking advantage of more than a dozen pathology labs, each one specializing in a certain species or test. When an animal passes away; vets perform necropsies to determine the cause of death so that information can contribute to the body of knowledge among scientists and zoo professionals. When possible, tissue and bones are donated for educational purposes.

In the wild, many animals don’t exhibit obvious signs of illness because other members of its group may perceive it as weakness or because the animal may become easy prey. Diagnosing challenging cases may require the services of onsite or offsite computed-tomography (CT) or magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI) facilities.

Outside medical specialists allow the hospital team to extend their resources. Many zoos routinely works with specialists on cases requiring ophthalmic or dental surgery, CT or MRI scans, pathology results, and hoof trims. The depth of knowledge of a zoo's veterinary team, combined with the expertise of several specialists, will help provide even better care.

So the next time you visit your local zoo and the giraffe sneezes, you can trust that the zoo veterinarian team knows what to do!

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

September 23: National Dogs in Politics Day

Think about it…what qualities would you like to see in your politicians?  Honesty?  Plays well with others?  Dedication?  Lots of energy? Don’t we wish that our politicians displayed the best traits of our dogs?   Dog don’t lie (well, maybe about that accident on the rug).  You know right away if they like you.   They generally are polite to other dogs and people (Congress would do well to mimic); and when they work, they work hard.

Perhaps the two things dogs have in common with politicians are greed and a tendency to sit and yip about nothing.  Dogs are ethical–you don’t bite the person who feeds you, you don’t tear up the house (puppies aside), you don’t let the “bad guys” in; not even for a treat.   They do make positive contributions to political situations, however. President Truman once said that if you wanted a friend in Washington you should get a dog.

So what do you think?  Let’s allow politics to “go to the dogs” on September 23.  We might be surprised at how well they do!!

Fun Facts About First Dogs

Presidential dogs have often endeared themselves to the electorate.  In honor of Dogs in Politics Day, here are a few facts about first dogs:

George Washington’s Foxhounds

The first President had 36 dogs.  George Washington’s favorite breeds were hounds used extensively for fox hunting.  The Father of Our Country is also considered the Father of the American Foxhound.  Washington bred his hounds with the French variety, creating a new breed that survives into today.

James Buchanan’s Newfoundland

Ever wonder why  our 15th president remained a bachelor?  Perhaps it was because of Lara the Newfy, who weighed in at close to 170 pounds.  Lara is reported to be the heaviest dog to occupy the White House.

FDR’s Scotty

Who hasn’t heard about the Scottish Terrier who set the standard for First Dog?  A famously funny story: Franklin Roosevelt’s presidency was being criticized heavily; and the criticism spread to the family.  No response from FDR until Fala was attacked.  To quote The Fala Speech…

“I am accustomed to hearing malicious falsehoods about myself – such as that old, worm-eaten chestnut that I have represented myself as indispensable. But I think I have a right to resent, to object to libelous statements about my dog.”

The only dog to have a statue in a national monument is Fala, FDR’s Scottish Terrier. The statue of Fala is a fixture in the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.

George W. Bush  & the Internet Stars

Barney and Miss Beazley, First dogs of George W. Bush, were the first presidential dogs to have their own website.

The First Fido–Thank You Mr. Lincoln

We all know at least one dog named Fido. Why is it so common?   Fido has a Latin base meaning “I trust” or faithful one.  The president who came up with that name for his dog was none other than Abraham Lincoln. If it was good enough for Lincoln, it’s good enough for us.

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS)has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.

Vitamin E and Your Horse

Veterinarians will often suggest vitamin E supplements for horses with no access to pasture.  There are many forms on the market; we'd like to provide some guidance to choosing the right one.

Like A, D and K, vitamin E falls into the category of fat-soluble vitamins. These four vitamins require fat for them to be absorbed from the digestive tract, and are stored in the liver and fatty tissues.

Similar to vitamin A, the body does not make any vitamin E; all of it has to come from the diet. Vitamin E is expressed in terms of "activity,” and the NRC or National Research Council recommends 1 International Unit (IU) of vitamin E per kilogram of horse bodyweight. So a 450 kg horse (1000 pounds) would need at least 450 IUs/day of vitamin E. The upper safe diet is considered to be 1,000 IU/kg dry matter (that’s 9100 IU/day for a 1000 lb horse).  Thankfully, vitamin E does not appear to be toxic to horses even at relatively high consumption.

How Much Vitamin E Does a Horse Need?  

Every horse needs vitamin E.  It works closely with selenium to protect cells from excess free radicals or oxidative stress.  According to holistichorse.com:

The amount depends on several factors. The more the horse is exercised, the more vitamin E is needed due to more free radicals being produced; hence more vitamin E is used up to protect cell membranes. 

 To survive: 1000-2000 units (IU) a day 

 Engaging in regular exercise: 5000 units a day 

 Neurological problems like EPM, EDM, and EMND, PSSM: 10,000 units a day 

 Broodmares: 5000 units a day 

 Older (20+) or Cushing’s horses: 5000 units a day

Found in high amounts in fresh pasture, levels of vitamin E begin to deteriorate the moment forage is cut for hay. Therefore, horses that do not have access to grass or a full serving of fortified grain should receive vitamin E supplementation.

Beyond the Basics

Natural or Synthetic?  Which is best?  When purchasing, 

 natural vitamin E appears as d-alpha tocopherol,

 synthetic vitamin E appears as dl-alpha tocopherol. 

Although synthetic vitamin E is absorbed by the horse, natural vitamin E has been shown to be more biologically active. It takes a smaller amount of d-alpha tocopherol (natural) to achieve the same activity in the body as dl-alpha tocopherol (synthetic). It's your choice: smaller amounts of the more expensive natural version or larger amounts of the less expensive synthetic version.

You might want to ask your veterinarian to draw a baseline blood sample before you start your horse on a vitamin E supplement and then measure serum alpha tocopherol again about two weeks later, Alpha tocopherol is a fairly fragile compound; your vet will take special care to protect the samples for the lab's analysis.   Things like the wrong type of tube, exposing the sample to light, letting it get too warm, or repeated freeze/thaw cycles can all damage vitamin E in blood samples.

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This blog is brought to you by Diagnostic Imaging Systems.  Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. (DIS) has been providing Quality Imaging products since 1983. The company combines industry knowledge with an understanding of the veterinary practice. For more information, go to Diagnostic Imaging Systems, Inc. website at: www.vetxray.com

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at any time and without notice.