Vet Tech Tips

Skilled Professional?  Newbie?  Read on to discover some thoughts on what makes for a great Vet Tech. 

Be Creative

It is easy to look at a supplied list and use it as a treatment outline.  A talented  Tech goes beyond the checklist! 

• Meds--Why has the medication been prescribed? Think about what you are administering and what the patient has previously been prescribed.   Is there a possibility of an interaction?  Any side effects?  Can you group meds or must they be given separately and/or at specific intervals?  What should be expected from the treatment? 
• Quality of care--A hospital visit or stay is scary; you can help your patient cope with the stress. Is their treatment area clean and soothing?  Is their bedding fresh and dry?  Don't rely on your vision alone.  Let your fingers do the walking through the towels, padding, etc.  Is there water available?  Have they been fed?  Are they allowed either? A gentle word or loving scratch under the chin will go a long way to your patient's comfort.

Checklists are OK, but don't stop there.  Think, Tech, Think...and provide the expert care that your patient deserves.

Predict, Plan, Prepare  

Show your vet and the entire practice team your value by anticipating both the needs of the patient and the needs of the team.    A wise Vet Tech thinks critically, analyzes all the data and, just maybe, listens at the examination room door.  Always consider the practice's rules, both the vet's and client's needs,  and the goal to provide the very best care. 

Think proactive not reactive, and you'll be the "Tech guru" at your practice.

Speak, Vet Tech, Speak

Yes, you're skilled in understanding animals...that's why you became a Vet Tech!  It's up to you to be their voice. Monitor their pain and discuss best choices.  Be sure that all of the critical facts have been conveyed to the vet prior to any procedure.  Sometimes it's as simple as watching over the foods they eat or the time they eat. Would an extra fleece pad in their cage help their arthritis?   Listen to the patient, Communicate their needs. 

Never Stop Learning

The world of veterinary medicine is ever-changing and you have to commit yourself to ever-education.  How to do it?  Read Journals like Clinician’s Brief, Veterinary Team Brief, or scientific journals like the Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care or the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.  Explore continuing education courses.  Your vet will be thrilled to help you in your question for knowledge and your goal to be the Vet Tech who sets the bar of excellence. 

Those who can...Teach!

Make it your goal to share your knowledge and skills.  Not only will you earn the respect and undying faith of the newest member of the team, you'll  revitalize your own career.    

Do you have a tip or trick that will help the Vet Tech community?  Contact Diagnostic Imaging Systems and let us know.

Meow + Roar = Hybrid Cats

Beautiful, strong and mysterious – just some of the traits driving up the demand for hybrid cat breeds.

It's the closest you’ll get to sharing your home with a lion or tiger; hybrids were developed by crossing a domestic cat breed with a wild cat breed.

They are often categorized as F1, F2, F3, F4 and F6, which indicates how many generations they are removed from the original wild individual.  This means that, unlike the domestic house cat (felis catus), which has had over 9000 years of close contact with humans, and has been selectively bred over centuries for adaption to such a lifestyle, hybrid cat breeds have lived only a few generations with people.  These different hybrids generally look and act quite different from each other, depending on how great a percentage of their bloodline is wild.

Hybrid Health Alert

Hybrids whether early generation or domestic often have the following common health issues which can be expensive:

• Painful irritable bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic diarrhea
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Tri-Trichamonas Foetus
• Luxating patella
• Often high corona titers and the only known test for FIP – Feline Infectious Peritonitis (but not always reliable)
• Gingivitis and mouth lesions (most common in Chausies)

Common hybrid cats

BENGAL

The beautiful Bengal is a cross between a domestic cat and an Asian Leopard Cat.  High energy, extremely athletic and cat-astrophically clever, the Bengal can be a lot to handle.  All his characteristics make the Bengal tons of fun and capable of learning to walk on a leash.  going for a leash walk. Break out your bikini...Bengals swim!

CHAUSIE

The Chausie is an outstanding hybrid, crossed between the Egyptian Jungle Cat (Felix chaus) and either the domestic shorthair or the Abyssinian. This feline is fearless, fast and frisky, famous for its jumping skills.  The Chausie cat is smart, smart, smart, and knows all your homes special secret places.  Hide the valuables...owners report this cat burglar has been known to swipe pieces of jewelry!

SAVANNAH

Cross a 30-pound African Serval with a 8-pound Siamese Sealpoint and do you get?  The Savannah.   The breed has been out-crossed with Domestic and Oriental Shorthairs, Ocicats and Egyptian Maus to develop the modern Savannah cat breed we know and love today – beautiful, athletic, and smart. This cat can be taught to walk on a leash, and has the ability to jump 8 feet straight into the air.   The Savannah may be the ideal cat for dog lovers--it can be trained to "Stay" and "Sit."

Get the Facts

The specific qualities of each hybrid wild cat breed depends on how many generations they are removed from their wild ancestors as well as the traits inherited from their specific parentage. Hybrids, particularly of the F1 variety, can be a handful, and some jurisdictions consider them to be wild animals and do not allow them to be kept in private residences.  Please check your local and state laws before proceeding.

Think this over carefully, and find a rescue organization or breeder you trust before taking the plunge.

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.

***

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.”

***

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!"

***

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.

***

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.