the bow & wow times - issue#8

8/6/2019 The Bow & Wow Times - Issue#8

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3/28Issue No.8 www.bowandwow.com.ph

As pet parents, we want nothing but the very bestfor our furry baby. But apart from all the toys, clothes,accessories, grooming sessions, or playtime and attention,the best gift we can really give our pets is to provide themthe nest nutrition there is every day, every meal to

ensure that that they live a long, healthy, and happy life.

When Hitler was a puppy, I made a common mistakemost rst-time pet owners do. I started feeding himfood recommended by the breeder, without botheringto read labels or do proper research. As he eventually

grew tired of his puppy food brand, I made another even more horrible mistake: Ipicked out grocery store dog food, one of those commercial brands with million-dollaradvertising budgets and photos of cute dogs on the packaging. I also bought those cheapbut colourfully packaged treats without bothering to understand what were in them.Because I didnt know any better back then, I thought that was already good enough. Icringe now when I remember those days!

In subsequent years, as Hitler transitioned into adulthood and I transitioned from beinga pet owner to a pet parent, I slowly but surely learned the importance of nutrition. I

learned what I should and shouldnt feed my baby. I embarked on a quest to nd healthy,all-natural, premium dog food and treats made from whole food ingredients. And Ivenever looked back since.

Right now, I feed Hitler dry kibble from Taste of the Wildand Natural Balance, thoughI switch brands from time to time to keep his menu interesting. To enhance his palate,I add in someMerrick5-star gourmet entrees canned food orNatural Balance foodrolls he absolutely loves them! All his treats are also all-natural. We get everythingfrom Bow & Wow, of course. My husband sometimes jokes that Hitler eats morehealthily than we do but I can see that its totally worth it. He is very energetic andhis health couldnt be better, as we hardly take ailment-related tr ips to the vet anymore,unlike before. He eats much less and poops much less so its apparent that thosecommercial grocery store brands really do contain nothing but bulk-llers with zeronutritional value. He has relatively less tear stain problems, and has developed better-smelling breath and great skin condition. Hes even smarter, too (though he is alreadysmart to begin with!). I bought him a Nina Ottosson interactive dog toy recently, and

it took him less than a minute to gure out how to work the puzzle!

I truly hope this Nutrition Special issue of the Bow & Wow Times wil l help all you petparents whether rst-time or veteran gure out the best way to nourish your baby.Should you need help, dont hesitate to write me an e-mail , or drop by any of our storesto get a full nutritional consultation from our in-house vets and pet consultants. At theend of the day, apart from your pets eagerly wagging tail as he feeds on his all-naturalgoodies, what will make you happiest is knowing that you are being a great pet parent.

Happy Pet Parenting!

Pam So-Suarez

[email protected]

P.S. All of us in Bow & Wow would like to congratulate pet parentJannette Cuarto and her

babyFUDGE the Shih Tzu, for winning our recently concluded Bow & Wow Baby Portraits

contest with The Picture Company and being the cover baby of this issue of our magazine.

Stay tuned as we unveil more contests in the near future - your baby might just be the

next cover of our magazine! And oh, dont forget to check out the pet parent proles of

celebrityHeart Evangelista and stylistAlyanna Martinez (page 14 & 17), as they tell us

all about the joys of pet parenting.

We digest it for pet parents... The Bow & Wow Times tracks all relevant

pet information from key websites, magazines, journals, animal research

and studies, and other credible sources. Then we summarize what is

essential for you to know in order to raise healthy and happy pets, and

become the best pet parents you can be. The Bow & Wow Times is in no

way intended to replace the knowledge and/or diagnoses of veterinary

professionals. Always consult with your veterinarian whenever a health

problem arises which requires expert care.

The Bow & Wow Times is a quarterly publication o the Healthy Options Group o Companies with

corporate ofces located at #3 Economia Street corner Calle Industria, Barangay Bagumbayan,

Libis, Quezon City, 1110 and trunk line o (632)637-8888. For subscription inquiries, visit any o our

stores listed above. Bow & Wow is a trademark registered at the Philippine Patent Ofce. ENTERED

AS THIRD CLASS (PM) POSTAGE PAID AT QUEZON CITY CPO Under Permit No. NCR-05-07-20 1 valid

until December 31, 2011. Subject or Postal Inspection.

Nourishing my Baby

editorial staff

Christian Tanpresident

Romy Siapublisher

Pam So-Suarezeditor-in-chief

Joy Ann Cardeo

circulation manager

Tennie Hungencoder

Wilzen Wobby Tianglayout & design

Sky Printingprinter

directoryLevel 5, Shangri-La Plazal Mall, EDSA Mandaluyong City

(632) 638-3372

Lower Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City(632) 501-3680

our visionto transform pet owners into pet parents

We believe dogs and cats must have the best nutri tion

and health care available.

We believe dogs and cats are not toys for our

amusement; they have feelings, they are very loyal

and they need our tender loving care.

We believe the best way to acquire new pets is through

pet adoption from the animal shelters.

We are against selling dogs and cats in pet shops

which involves prolonged confnement in small cages.

We are against all forms of animal cruelty including

chaining and caging dogs.

We support the good work of organizations like

Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion

& Responsibilities for Animals (CARA), and People for

the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

our values

editorspage


4/28

Pet Nutrition 101: Are you giving your pets the

As pet parents, we want to give our pets the best nutrition

there is to keep them healthy and happy. However, most pet

foods available commercially are loaded with llers, additives,

preservatives, and nasty ingredients you simply dont want to

put into your pets body. Knowing whats common and whats

crucial when it comes to nutrition will help ensure that weregiving our pets the very best.

8 Common Pet Food Ingredients: Whatthey really are

1. By-products include beaks, heads, necks, bones, feet,

innards, and feathers of poultry. This is meat not t for human

consumption. Poultry meal is the better choice .

2. Meat and bone combination only contain very little meat.

The bone youll be feeding is from an unknown source whichcan change at any time without notication to consumers.

3. Animal Fat is usually the cheapest and lowest quality fat, also

from an unknown source and is inconsistent.

4. Soybean is a common ingredient in many pet foods that causes

gas in most animals that are carnivorous.

5. Bulk-Fillers are commonly corn and wheat, which enable the

pet food manufacturers to produce cheaper pet foods which

are not so lling so the pets have to consume more. Carnivorous

animals are not meant to chow down on either of these grains

Other common llers are gluten, cereals, and peanut hulls.

6. BHA and BHT are chemical preservatives abundant in pet food

These toxins accumulate in the pets system and wreak havoc onhealth when eaten on a daily basis.

7.ArtifcialColors such as FD&C Red#40, Red#3, Yellow#5, and

Sodium Nitrate are carcinogenic and very harmful to your pets

health and well-being.

8.ArtifcialSweeteners like sucrose, corn syrup, beet pulp suga

have no nutritional value and cause hyperactive and depressive

pet behavior. These sugars may put stress on the pancreas and

adrenals or interfere with digestion, later on resulting in diabetes

or interfering with the pets ability to absorb important nutrients.

10 Crucial Pet Food Nutrients: Why yourpets need them

Nutrients are the parts of food used by the body to perform

vital functions. Food that is not nutritionally sound can result in

health problems for the dog or cat. Ensuring that pets get the right

nutrients in the correct quantity and an appropriate amount of

water contributes to their overall health, well being, and longevity

Pet Nutrition 101:Are you giving your pets the best?

pet nutrition


5/28Issue No.8 www.bowandwow.com.phPet Nutrition 101: Are you giving your pets the best?

pet nutr

1. Proteins

Proteins are the major component of a pets hair, muscles,

and cell membranes. Protein provides a pet with the amino

acids to build cells and tissue. Protein is an energy source, and

proteins are important in the makeup of antibodies, hormones,

and blood. Unlike dogs, which obtain most of their energy from

carbohydrates and fats, cats meet most of their energy needs

by consuming protein and cannot subsist on a vegetarian diet.

2. Fats

Dietary fat is a good source of energy for dogs and cats,

helping them absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fat

also makes pet food taste better and provides essential fatty

acids. Inadequate fat in a pets diet can result in poor growth,

poor performance, scaly skin, greasy or aky hair coat, weight

loss, increased susceptibility to infection, and impaired healing of

wounds. Pet food that is complete and balanced has the required

amount of fats and fatty acids.

3. Carbohydrates

Along with protein and fat, carbohydrates are one of thethree nutrients in the diet that supply energy to a pets body.

This nutrient group is made up of sugars and starches, which

are used for energy production, and cellulose (ber) that adds

important bulk to animal diets. Complex carbohydrates are

broken down in the digestive tract into simple sugars, such as

glucose, that are easily digested and used by the body for energy.

In addition to supplying energy, carbohydrate content can add

ber to a pets diet, which aids in digestion.

4. Vitamins

Both cats and dogs need vitamins to sustain good health.

Vitamins help control physiological functions and regulate

chemical reactions in the body. Vitamins that are stored by the

body in fatty tissue and the liver are called fat-soluble vitamins

(A, D, E, and K). Vitamins that are used up by the body daily, with

any excess excreted, are the water-soluble vitamins (B and C).

Water-soluble vitamins can be destroyed by heat, light, oxidation,

moisture, or rancidity and should be replenished daily by feeding

fresh port ions in a balanced diet. Processed food or food which

has been stored too long will lose its vitamin effectiveness.

5. Minerals

Minerals are found in commercial and natural diets, andthey help maintain a pets electrolyte and uid balance, tissue

structure, formation of teeth and cells, and growth of bones.

Mineral requirements are interrelated so that an excessive

amount of one may adversely affect the other. Calcium, for

example, works with phosphorous, so that too much of one

may result in too little of the other.

6. Omega-3s and DHABack in the days when pets ran wild, they were able to obtain

their own Omega-3s and thus DHA from the foods they ate

and were meant to eat naturally. They would eat reptiles, orga

meats, bone mar row, and sh and get their needed supply. Toda

with processed pet food, this doesnt happen. Thus, pet parent

should consider the best ways to give their pets a regular dose o

Omega-3s, which are found to be very important for pets skin

hair, retina suppor t, arthr itis, learning, and behavior.

7. ProbioticsJust like humans, pets need to have the good bacteria outweig

the bad or the body will suffer. Probiotics are the best way to

increase the good bacteria in the body while decreasing the ba

bacteria. This is particularly important if your pet has been on

medications, especially antibiotics. Probiotic supplements can hel

pets overcome diarrhea, digestion problems, skin problems, foo

intolerances, and chronic health problems.

8. WaterAlthough not technically a nutrient, water is essential for life

Dogs and cats may be able to sur vive for days without food, but no

without water. How much water a pet needs var ies with the petactivity, the type of food the pet eats, environmental temperature

and the pets health. Not consuming adequate water can result i

low blood pressure, heat stroke, damage to hear t or pancreas, rena

failure, or even death. Animals eating dry food need more wate

than those eating canned food do. Water must be replaced dail

and the bowl rinsed to eliminate sediment that may make a pe

less likely to drink.

9. AntioxidantsAntioxidants help to prevent oxidation, a process which form

free radicals in the body. Free radica ls are rogue oxygen molecule

that can dangerously react with other molecules, leading to healt

problems. As a result, some pet food now contains antioxidants lik

Vitamin E and beta-carotene. These antioxidants have been show

to improve immune function in dogs and cats.

10. L-carnitineL-carnitine is a naturally occurring vitamin-like compound tha

plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat. L-carnitine helps dog

and cats gain a desired body composition by promoting the los

of weight and fat while maintaining lean body tissue.

The nal enhancements are natural, high-quality ingredientSometimes whats not included in pet food is just as important a

what is on the ingredients list. Its vital to remember that when

comes to your pets, they need to have certa in nutrients in order to

live long, vibrant lives just like humans. Given the nutritional an

medical benets of the above ingredients in pet foods, providin

them with natural food and supplementing what they need is on

of the best ways to love your pet.

Source : draxe.com, mylocalpetsitter.com, allaboutdogsandcats.com


6/28Choosing the Best Feeding Method for your Dog o

Nurturing a dog or cat is not as easy as it looks from the

outside. Suddenly, you nd yourself in the pet aisle fretting over

different brands of pet food. Once you have nally picked the

right food you have to decide which method of feeding you are

going to use . There are two main methods, both of which have

their own benets and drawbacks.

Free Feeding

Free feeding is when you ll a bowl and leave it out for your

pet, allowing her to eat as much as she chooses when she

chooses to. This method works best with dry food, since they do

not spoil as quickly as wet food. One of the obvious advantages

of free choice feeding is that you do not have to worry aboutmaking it home in time for meals, a challenge for people with very

busy schedules or who are conned to the vagar ies of commuter

trafc. Also, if pets were given the option, it seems apparent

that they would choose to have food available whenever they

wanted it. It could also serve multiple pets needs, since they

would be able to eat from the same bowl throughout the day.

Of course, there are disadvantages to this method of

feeding, one being that in multiple pet homes, one pet might

be excessively dominant and hoard and bully over the bowl,

not allowing the other s to have a turn. There is also the r isk of

the animal becoming overweight from eating too much. Somebreeds of cats and dogs are particularly known for eating well

beyond the feeling of fullness.

Scheduled, Portion-Controlled Feeding

If you have a predictable enough schedule that you can depend

on being home at meal time, the scheduled feeding method

works well and is the healthier method, since it limits the amount

of food your pet is taking in at each meal. There are variat ions

on this method. You might ll the bowl with food and take it

away after a reasonable time has passed, allowing your pet to

eat his ll. Ten to twenty minutes is generally enough time . Or,

you may choose to measure out a portion of food at each meal

time and then leave it for your dog or cat to eat at his own pace.

It almost goes without saying that pets that have been

placed on a prescription or weight control diet need to be fed

controlled portions. This method also works well for dogs and

cats that need to be given medications mixed with their foods.

For other considerations, such as conditions that might make

feeding time a struggle, weight loss that needs to be regained,

or illness, measured and scheduled feeding times can allow you the

opportunity to monitor your pet, making sure that he is eating al

of his food. With scheduled meal times, you can use this time of

day to bond with your pet.

A major disadvantage to scheduled feeding is that you will need

to feed your pet multiple times during the day. This can be especially

challenging when caring for puppies or kittens, which even under

normal circumstances need to eat smaller and more frequent meals

than adult dogs or cats.

Weigh Your Options

If you cannot decide which method will work best for you andyour pet, talk to your veterinarian for suggestions. There may be age

and breed considerations, or you may want to think about arranging

for someone to come into your home to help with the scheduled

feedings. There are also mechanical food bowls that can be set to

feed pet small portions at specic times throughout the day.

In the end, remember that your decision should be based primar ily

on your pets long term health, not solely on your convenience.

Choosing the Best Feeding Methodfor your Dog or Cat

Source: petmd.com

pet nutrition



Wet Food

ProsNot all pets drink as much water as they should. Wet food can be

a good source of hydration if your pet is the type that is reluctant

to drink adequate amounts of water. And then there are healthconsiderations that can make wet food a practical choice. Olde

animals that have lost some of their olfactor y senses may be more

inclined to eat food that has a richer scent and avor, such as wet

food often are. This is also a good alternative for when a pet is il

and cannot smell as well, or is lacking in appetite. This will assure

that they are getting the proteins, vitamins, and minerals they need

to maintain their health. Wet food is a good option as well for pets

with missing teeth, poorly aligned jaws, or smaller mouths.

ConsThere are several drawbacks for wet food. Some pets will make

a mess while eating wet food, and those with a predisposition to

developing dental problems will need more attentive dental care

Wet food, once it has been opened, has lost any shelf life it had

It needs to be covered and refrigerated and used quickly before

it can spoil. In some cases, wet food is not as economical as dry

food. Depending on the quality of the food (and you will want to

choose the best quality food within your price range), wet food may

be more expensive than dry food, and must be bought in smalle

amounts at a time.

The Final Decision

Basically, either of these choices should satisfy your pets nutritiona

requirements as long as they are well-balanced and are made with

quality ingredients. Its just a matter of which one will be best for

your pet over the long term and which ts your lifestyle. Anothe

option is to choose both wet and dr y; mixing them together in the

same bowl, or giving the wet food as an occasional treat. Talk

to your veterinarian if you have any concerns, since there may be

particular considerations for your pets breed or age.

pet nutr

ry vs. Wet Food: Which is the Better Option?

You need to decide on a pet food, but which do you choose?

The tuna or the turkey? The lamb or the beef? The wet or the

dry? It can feel confusing, but it is not as complicated as it looks.

Some people decide which food to feed to their pets based on

previous experience with pets, some base their decision on what

friends feed to their pets, some stick to what the breeder has

recommended, and some go by what their veterinarian advises .

And then there is the inuence of hundreds of television and

magazine advertisements, all of which claim to be the highest

quality. So, which do you choose? Lets get down to some of

the brass tacks so that you can make an informed decision in

the pet food aisle.

Dry Food

ProsThe most convenient type of food, for storage and for feeding,

is dry kibble. The food can be left out for the pet to eat at its

own pace without fear of spoilage. Dry food is absolutely a

convenience for many pet owners. Food can be left out for

hours, if not days, and not spoil.

Dry food is easier to store - a large plastic bin with a tight lid

is usually enough to keep the food fresh and safe from insects

and rodents (and from pets) - and is more economically cost-

effective when feeding multiple pets. Dry kibble can also be usedas an effective training treat and as a dental health supplement.

Some dry food are specially formulated and shaped to clean

the teeth as the animal chews it.

ConsOf course, dry food do not provide as much moisture as wet

food do, something that becomes more impor tant as an animal

ages, when an animal is ill, and in dr y, hot climates. In those cases,

a wet food diet can be more practical.

Dry vs. Wet Food:Which is the Better Option?

Source: petmd.com

Halo petcare products are made with the fnest natural ingredients available to

keep your baby healthy and happy - inside and out.


8/28

In order for your new kitten to stay healthy and active, it will

need to eat a diet rich in meats and vegetables. Luckily, good

nutrition is as close as your local veterinary ofce in the form of

canned and dry cat food.

What should I feed my kitten?

Canned food is the perfect choice for most kittens. It is always

ready to use and contains all the vitamins and minerals needed

to keep your new kitten in perfect health.

Dry cat food is also an excellent choice and comes in a var iety

of avors that most cats will enjoy. The main difference between

dry and canned food is the moisture content. So if you choose

to feed your new kitten dry food, you will need to keep fresh

water available at all times . Dry food is an excellent choice for the

older kitten because it is more concentrated than canned food,

therefore your kitten does not need to eat as much to cover its

nutritional needs and keep its energy level up.

Should I give my kitten milk?

Although there is nothing wrong with giving your kitten milk

as an occasional treat, the best drink for cats of all ages is fresh

water. The water should be replaced as often as needed. Even

though there are many kittens that can drink milk more often

than the occasional treat with no problems, others may suffer

from diarrhea because of the lactose and the effect it has on their

delicate systems.

When should I feed my kitten?

Most people choose to feed their kittens by simply putting out

a bowl containing a days supply of food, because most cats are

grazers and prefer to nibble on their food throughout the day. If

at the end of the day you see there is food still left in the bowl

just feed your kitten a little less the next day. If they have gobbled

down every last morsel, offer a little more food the next day.

Other Practical Feeding Tips

Never feed your kitten dog food. It does not contain enough

protein and minerals to keep your growing kitten healthy, and in

rare cases can be highly toxic for very young kittens.

Do not make the mistake of overfeeding your kitten by giving

them an over abundance of treats or table scraps. If you do choose

to give your kitten treats as a reward, be sure they have some

nutritional value. Mixing a little cottage cheese, chicken, or tuna

with your kittens dry food is an excellent choice. If you give you

kitten table scraps, make sure they are free of spices.

Never feed your kitten food straight from the refrigerator

Always allow the food to reach room temperature before giving

it to your kitten to keep from shocking its system and therefore

causing diarrhea.

Never feed your kitten alcohol or chocolate. They are both

highly toxic and when ingested, in even small amounts, can be

lethal to your cat.

Most importantly, always check with your veterinarian about

the proper foods for your cat or kittens age, health, and activity

level.

at nutrition

Nourishing Your New Kitten

Nourishing Your New K

Source: associatedcontent.com


10/28



Whether this is your rst puppy or you are an experienced

pet parent, obtaining a new puppy is a signicant under taking that

necessitates considerable effort on your part to assure that your

new puppy grows and develops optimally in body, mind, and spirit.

In essence, puppies have the same needs as our children do in

order to grow and develop into healthy, happy adult dogs. In every

sense, you are a parent to your dog or cat. Pet-wise parenting

begins with the right nutrition.

Every pet should have a natural healthy diet comprised of

quality ingredients such as proteins from quality meat meals, grains,

fats, and carbohydrates. A puppys balanced diet must contain

optimum levels of vitamins and minerals for the puppy to growand develop properly. Not just adequate, but optimum, natural, and

holistic nutrition that addresses the specic needs of the puppy

is essential.

In addition to a basic diet, functional food ingredients such

as Omega-3 and DHA provide added benets to support your

puppys brain development.

Becoming a pet parent of a small or large breed? There are

specic nutritional considerations for large and small breed puppies

to aid in proper development:

Small and Mini Breeds

Many of the smaller breeds of dogs are very active, energetic

pups that require lots more calories per pound than the giant

breed puppies. They also require adequate levels of ber to help

regulate absorption of glucose (sugars) from the digestive tract.

The smaller breed puppies are known to be more vulnerable

to a condition known as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Proper

levels of ber in the diet ensure a slow and steady absorption of

Nourishing Your New Puppy

dog nutr

Nourishing Your New Puppy

Source: holisticselect.com

glucose rather than all at once. The risk may increase if a puppy

does not eat frequently dur ing the day.

A smaller kibble size makes it easier for the puppy to eat and

encourages easy ingestion of adequate amounts of food with les

effort.

Large and Giant Breeds

Pet parents of large and giant breed puppies must always keep

in mind that some of these breeds have a potential growth o

100 times their bir th weight. For this reason, their rate of growt

must be carefully controlled.

If they grow too rapidly, large and giant breed puppies are prone

to developmental bone issues. For the rst 10-12 months of life

these special puppies need to be fed a diet that allows for growth

but also maintains a slightly lean body condition. This ensure

that the developing bones are not forced to carry excess weight

which can cause stress and possibly lead to painful developmenta

problems. Optimum levels and proper ratios of minerals such a

calcium and phosphorus are also essential to proper developmen

Proper brain development is essent ial for all puppies, whethe

small or large breed, so adequate amounts of the essential Omeg3 fatty acid Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are needed in the diet

It is imperative that large and giant breed puppies receive the

proper training necessary for you to maintain control of them

once they become ver y strong adult dogs. Without optimum brai

development, the task of training a larger dog becomes much more

difcult. Adequate levels of DHA have been shown to enhance

brain development and assure optimum potential for training.


12/280 Dogs and Chocolate: Get the

dog nutrition

If your canine companion is more family member than pet, you

may be in the habit of sharing the foods your family loves with

him. Although some people foods are ne in moderation, this

is denitely not the case with chocolate. Chocolate can sicken

and even kill dogs, and it is one of the most common causes of

canine poisoning. No amount of chocolate is OK for your dog to

consume.

What Makes Chocolate Poisonous to Dogs?

Chocolate contains caffeine and a chemical compound called

theobromine, which is the real danger. Dogs metabolize theobromine

much more slowly than humans, according to veterinarian Kevin

Fitzgerald, PhD. After 17 hours, half of the theobromine a dog

has ingested is still in the system. he says. Even small amounts

of chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Truly toxic

amounts can induce hyperactivity, tremors, high blood pressure,

a rapid heart rate, seizures, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest.

How Much Chocolate is Too Much?

The more theobromine a cocoa product contains, the morepoisonous it is to your dog. Unsweetened bakers chocolate

contains about 390 milligrams of theobromine per ounce - about

10 times more than milk chocolate and more than twice as much

as semi-sweet chocolate. White chocolate contains very little

theobromine. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, one

ounce of milk chocolate per pound of body weight is potentially

lethal.

Dogs and Chocolate: Get the Facts

Source: medicinenet.com

But the real danger lies with dark chocolate. Merck warns tha

deaths have been reported with theobromine doses as low as 115

milligrams per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. Serious toxic

reactions can occur with ingestion of about 100 to 150 milligram

of theobromine per k ilogram of body weight. That means:

A 9-pound dog could be expected to show symptoms o

chocolate toxicity after eating 1 ounce of baking chocolate, 3

ounces of semi-sweet chocolate, or 9 ounces of milk chocolate

A 27-pound dog might have such symptoms after eating 3

ounces of baking chocolate, 9 ounces of semi-sweet chocolateand 27 ounces of milk chocolate.

A 63-pound dog might exhibit symptoms after eating 7 ounce

of baking chocolate, 21 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate, or 63

ounces of milk chocolate.

In 27 years of practice, Ive seen two dogs die from eating

chocolate, says Fitzgerald, Both were under 20 pounds, elder ly

and both ate baking chocolate in very large amounts. Although

most people would not eat a 4-ounce bar of bitter-tasting baking

chocolate, this is not true of dogs, he says. Dogs experience the

world through tasting it, and they are gorgers, he says. Bakingchocolate tastes good to them.

Your Dog Ate Chocolate: Now What?

The severity of the reaction would depend on how much and

what kind of chocolate the dog has eaten and the dogs weight

After eating a potentially toxic dose of chocolate, dogs typically

develop diarrhea and start vomiting. If the dog isnt vomiting on

its own, the vet may advise inducing vomiting immediately to keep

as much theobromine as possible from entering the system.

Some veterinarians recommend syrup of ipecac, which induce

vomiting. When a dog shows signs of hyperactivity and agitation o

is having seizures, the faster you get it to the vet, the better. Fluid

are typically given along with intravenous drugs to limit seizures and

protect the heart. Symptoms of theobromine poisoning generally

occur within 4 to 24 hours after chocolate is consumed.

By Salynn Boyles


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16/284



A Look Back

In Karlsruhe, Germany, Captain Max von Stephanitz and

other dedicated breeders produced a responsive, obedient,

and handsome German Shepherd breed using long-haired,

short-haired, and wire-haired local herding and farm dogs from

Wurtemberg, Thurginia, and Bavaria. In April 1899, von Stephanitz

registered a dog named Horan as the rst Deutsche Schferhunde,

which means German Shepherd Dog in English. Until 1915, both

long-haired and wire-haired varieties were shown. Today, in most

countries, only the short coat is recognized for show purposes.

The rst German Shepherd Dog was shown in America in 1907

and the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1908.

Breed StandardsThe German Shepherd Dog is well proportioned and very

strong. It has a sturdy, muscular, slight ly elongated body with a light,

solid bone structure. The head should be in propor tion to its body,

and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black,

however blue or liver still do sometimes occur but is considered

a fault and cannot be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors

bite. The dark eyes are almond-shaped, and never protruding. The

ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright, and turned forward.

The ears of puppies under six months may droop slightly. The

bushy tail reaches almost to its hocks and hangs down when the

dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and thethighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles.

There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: rough-coated,

long rough-coated, and long-haired. The coat most often comes

in black with tan, sable, or all black, but can also come in blue, liver,

and white, but those colors are considered a fault according to

most standards. White is not an acceptable color for the German

Shepherd, however they are now being recognized as a separate

breed, called the American White Shepherd.

Temperament and Behavior

Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are courageous

keen, alert, fearless, cheerful, obedient, and eager to learn. They

are also tranquil, condent, serious, and clever. German ShepherdDogs are extremely faithful and brave. They will not think twice

about giving their lives for their human pack. German Shepherd

love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers

This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for

long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary

Also used as police dogs, the German Shepherd has a very

strong protective instinct, and are extremely loyal to their handle

They should be rmly trained and socialized from an early age

This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative ove

the dog in a calm, but rm, condent and consistent way. German

Shepherds will not listen if they sense that they are stronge

minded than their owner, however they also do not respond we

to harsh discipline. German Shepherds are one of the smartes

and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog

comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent

pack leader to show them guidance. The breed is so intelligen

and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard

dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue

service, and in the military. His ne nose can sniff out drugs and

intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground

mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried

15 feet underground.

The German Shepherd is also a popular show and family

companion. Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond o

children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pe

and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families.

Exercise and Grooming

German Shepherd dogs love strenuous activity, preferably

combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very

intelligent and crave a good challenge. Whether it is ball chasing

frisbee-catching, obedience training, participation in a canineplaygroup, or just taking long walks or jogs, they must always ge

daily, constructive exercise. If under-exercised and/or mentally

challenged, this breed can become restless and destructive. German

Shepherds shed bits of hair constantly and is a seasonally heavy

shedder. They should be brushed daily, with ears checked and

claws trimmed regularly. Bathe only when necessary, as over bathing

can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. With proper care and

nutrition, life expectancy of this breed is around 13 years.

Breed Spotlight: The German Shepherd

breed spot

Breed Spotlight: The German Shepherd

Source: dogbreedino.com


18/286 Ask th

Q: When is it safe to bathe my kitties?

A: It is advisable that you train to bathe your kittens earlyon in their life. Since bathing may be stressful for somekittens, a negative bathing experience may cause them

to scratch the people who tr y to bathe them. To prevent this from

happening, remember to prepare all the tools that you would

need for bathing: towel, shampoo or soap, rubber matting (for

their foot hold), gloves (for your protection), mineral oil (for their

eyes), cotton balls (to prevent their ears from getting wet). And

also, it is advisable to use warm water during bathing as the trauma

of cold water on their skin might

scare them from repeating the

bathing process. When bathing is

too dif f icult for you both to

accomplish, you may try to use less

stressful ways of cleaning your

kitten by the use of wipes, dry

shampoos, or the waterless bath

sprays.

Q: My 4-month old Mini Pinscher starts

nipping at his poop. I dont want this to

become Coprophagia. Am I giving him too

much or too little kibble?

A: Most often than not, this signals that there anutrients lacking in your Mini Pinschers diet. Thdoesnt mean that you are giving too little or to

much kibble, it only means that the nutrients present in the foo

that you provide does not fulll the requirement of your d

Thus he/she craves for the nutrient lacking in the body and ten

to eat his or her own poop, instinctively knowing that the nutrie

is still in the poop that has been voided. It is better to obser

the dog and report this to your vet so that additio

supplementation can be given to your pet. Changing to a hi

quality pet food will also lessen the urge of the pet to eat the

own poop.

Q: My Dog has hyperthyroidism and h

sometimes bites his skin until he gets bleedin

wounds. How can I manage his itching?

A:Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that causoverproduction of the hormone thyroxin. Excessi

amounts of this hormone affects the pets enti

system, causing many problems and can only be managed w

proper diet and medication. Ask your pet health care provid

for the medication that would work for your pet.

For the skin problems that your dog experiences, you mig

want to either put a muzzle on your dog, or use bitter lime/bitt

apple spray near the affected area for them to stop licking an

further injuring themselves. Hotspot sprays can also be effecti

in order to soothe the discomfort they experience (itchines

For extreme cases, your veterinarian might suggest using steroiddrugs to minimize the itch they do experience (maybe from aller

or parasite). Providing skin a

coat supplements that conta

essential fatty acids such

Omega 6 and 3 could also

helpful so that your baby c

heal from within.

Ask the

By : Ma. Mylene L. Maranan, DVM

et

Bow & Wow resident veterinarian

ask th

For the skin problems that your dog experiences,

you might want to either put a muzzle on your

dog, or use bitter l ime/bitter apple spray near the

affected area for them to stop licking and further

injuring themselves.

sk the vet


20/288



Many pet parents become concerned that their fussy-eater will

go hungry or will not receive the proper nutrition necessary to

be healthy. There are many reasons why pets turn their nose at

the food bowl, and knowing how you can encourage your fussy

eater to dine more enthusiastically will make a positive impact onhis overall health and well-being.

Some Tips for Feeding a Fussy Eater :

Stay with your pet when food is offered.

Petting, in conjunction with vocal reassurance, may be all that

is necessary to induce eating.

Mix a highly palatable canned food with their usual food to

increase palatability and induce eating. (Editors Pick: Merrick 5-star

gourmet entrees)

Warm the food to body temperature in order to enhance the

aroma of the food and also directly improve palatability. Warming

dry food for a few minutes on low heat (75c) in an oven or

warming wet food in a microwave (6-10secs) will help. Do not

overheat the food though as you can zap away the essential

nutrients!

Oregano, basil, or parsley can be mixed in with dog food to

improve palatability.

Clean the pets nose to improve its ability to smell the food.

This may be particularly helpful for cats.

Trying different foods may also help. Some cats prefer a dry

food or a canned premium food.

A pet that will not eat from a bowl may take food from your

hand, and once they begin eating, they will usually continue

voluntarily.

Place the food in a happy environment that is in a quiet,

trafc-free area of the house or yard. Dont place the food bowlin front of a noisy area.

Feed your fussy eater at regular times and provide smaller meals

more often (3-4 times daily).

Pets learn to become fussy eaters from the rst day you bring

them home. Thus, offer a nutritionally balanced and complete pet

food from day one.

Avoid using table scraps, and particularly avoid feeding single

food items such as meat only.

Feeding Aged Cats and Dogs

The objective in care and feeding of aged pets is to extend and

improve their quality of life. Adequate physical activity is importan

for the older pet to maintain muscle tone and lean body mass

to enhance circulation, and to improve waste elimination. Aged

pets experience numerous body changes that result in altered

utilization of certain nutrients, as well as decreased tolerance

to nutrient excesses or deciencies and abrupt dietary changes

Because they are less active, older pets require fewer calories

Because of changes in smell, taste, the oral cavity, and digestive

system, the food should be highly palatable and digestible.

Some older dogs and cats have a decreased appetite and

decreased digestive-absorptive ability, resulting in a loss of body

weight. These pets should be fed at frequent intervals with a

palatable high-calorie diet intended for senior pets. Food intake

may also be reduced because of decreased salivary secretion. I

the pets mouth is dr y, add moisture to the food to help prevent

them from choking.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important in ensuring adequate

food intake and utilization. Brushing the teeth with a toothbrush

or even wiping the teeth daily with a gauze swab is helpful.

When to See a Vet

A fussy eater that maintains a healthy weight, is alert and perky

and has a shiny coat is much less worrisome than one who ha

dropped a few pounds and has a less lustrous coat. If you have

a pet who is a regular eater that suddenly stops, that can be a

sign something is wrong. Because fussy eating may be a symptom

of illness, it is strongly recommended that you seek immediate

veterinary attention when this happens.

Feeding a Fussy Eater

pet

Feeding a Fussy Eater

Sources: vetwest.com.au, pets.webmd.com


22/280

pet care

Protect Your Pets This Rainy Se

Rainy season is again upon us, and usually this time of year the

most frequent complaints animal shelters get involve dogs or cats

that are left in the rain, tied up, or unattended to by owners. Many

animal owners simply arent aware of the basic living conditions their

pets need, as well as the steps owners should take to prevent their

animals from becoming victims during the rainy season. You may

want to follow these tips to keep your pet safe this season:

A Comfortable and Safe Shelter

Every animal has the right to a clean, dry, and comfortable shelter.If your pet spends his time outdoors dur ing the rainy season, make

sure your pets shelter has a reliable roof without leaks. Water should

not be able to splash inside and the shelter should stay dry and free

from moisture. The walls of your pets shelter are also impor tant, as

they help protect against wind and cold weather. Place a mat or old

blanket on the ground of the shelter to protect from the cold.

In choosing a location, watch out for areas that are exposed

to lightning strikes, prone to ooding, or near rivers, ditches, and

steep drop-offs. Place the shelter in an area where water does not

accumulate. Keep your pet high and dry at all times.

Freedom of Movement

Walks, games, and other exercise are important for your pet

year-round, as they help reduce stress on your animal. Continuous

rain often reduces the frequency of these important walks. To

compensate, play with your pet more indoors. Chasing a ball or

other toy is often a good way to exercise your pet.

Freedom of movement is also important. Dont let your pet loose

in the streets without super vision, but also make sure your pet isnt

tied up all the time. If you do tie your pet up, make sure the leash

permits the animal to move about. Pets should always have access

to adequate shelter and under no circumstance should you leave

your pet tied up in the rain.

Keep Your Pet Warm and Dry

Whenever you bring your pets outside during the rainy season,

always bring a rain coat for them. It is important to keep your pets drysince by nature, pets will produce a certain kind of smell whenever

they happen to be wet due to the rain outside. Their skin produces

natural oils due to the repeated body shaking for them to get rid of

the excess water off from their bodies, emanating a scent somehow

not pleasant to humans. One way to avoid this is to provide your

pet adequate protection from rain, which ensures them to be dr y.

Another important aspect to consider for bringing an extra

raincoat is to keep your pet from getting cold. Whenever they

become wet from rain, their wet hair causes them to feel the chill,

and this will make your pet prone to sickness. Most dogs and cats

have a sensitive body temperature and must be fully monitored andchecked. So whenever you will be out with your pet, do not forget

to bring along a pet raincoat for your convenience and for your pets

protection.

Final Note: During emergencies, any escape or evacuation plan should

always include your pets. Prepare a rst-aid kit for your pets too,

in case they become wounded. Most importantly, never abandon

them during a disaster.

Protect Your Pets This Rainy Season

Sources: ticotimes.net, ezinearticles.com


23/28Issue No.8 www.bowandwow.com.phCalm Your Pets During Storms

pet

Your cat or dog is going nuts! You dont know what is wrong until

suddenly you notice the blue sky has suddenly grown dark. A storm

is coming from nowhere. Somehow your pet had a clue before you

did.

Your pet is not alone. Sadly, animal shelters see an uptick in strays

after thunderstorms. Pets that arent properly conned may run

off in frantic fear of the deafening noise; other pets are abandoned

when their owners decide they can no longer handle their erratic

behavior.

What kind of crazy reactions to thunderstorms are we talking

about here? Well, some pets go nuts. Many pet owners will tell you

their dogs and cats can do some pretty strange things when theyre

stressed by severe weather. A lot of them can hurt themselves,

Dr. Shannon South, a veterinarian at the Briarcliff Animal Clinic said.Ive seen dogs jump through windows. Ive seen them going missing

for a couple of weeks at a time. Dogs have hurtled themselves

through plate glass windows; cats have hidden behind freezers only

to be burned by the coils in the back. Dogs are more commonly

scared of loud noises than cats. Severe reactions also can include

destroying furniture, soiling carpets, not wanting to go outside for

hours after the storm, and developing an all-out fear of other loud

noise.

So what do you do to calm your pet duringa thunderstorm?

Find a comfortable place - a plush dog bed, a rug, a dog crate

space under a bed, even in the bathtub - that the pet thinks of as

a safe haven.

Offer a few reassuring words. And perhaps remind your dog that

a cherished toy is still here, just waiting to be played with.

However, dont overly cuddle or appear too anxious as your scared

pet will pick up on that and will remain fearful. In fact, a couple of

vets told us not to say anything to the pet at all, or even look them

in the eyes, to avoid giving cues that something is wrong.

Music can soothe phobic pets, though it may be difcult to nd

something that masks the ferocious thunder outside. Play the music

for your dog as needed, not continuously; otherwise your pet can

become de-sensitized to the music.

Melatonin, an over-the-counter hormone, has been shown to

relieve stress and anxiety in pets. They remain alert, not sleepy, but

thunder just doesnt bother them any more. Dr. South recommends

consulting your vet rst about which prescription medication you can

give your pet because there are some underlying conditions where

they might not be able to take a certain medicine.

Other holistic remedies or calming supplements and chews for

pets are available as well.

Calm Your Pets during Storms

Sources: petsadviser.com, 11alive.com


24/282 Five Common Cat Illnesses and Their Symp

Five Common Cat Illnesses and Their Symptoms

Spotting symptoms early will lead to early treatment and lessstress for your pet. Below is a shor t list of common illnesses, the

symptoms, and how your veterinarian may treat the problem.

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Signs of urinary tract infection in cats will vary. Many cats will

whine or yelp when using the litter box and you may nd blood

in their ur ine. They may also have accidents even if they use the

litter box without trouble otherwise. You may notice your cat

makes frequent trips to the box but they seem to have trouble

getting any urine to pass. UTI will vary in severity. If you see anysymptoms, make an appointment as soon as possible . Antibiotics

are the common rst step in treating UTI and will most likely clear

up the problem if it is diagnosed early. In some cases, the infection

may spread to the kidney and complicate the situation.

2. Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)

This is a contagious illness for felines. If your cats stay inside

and dont come into contact with other cats, you may not have to

worry about this one. Cats that go outside however may come into

contact with a var iety of cats, any of which may pass along germs.

A cat with a respiratory infection will sneeze, cough, have a runnynose, or even develop a fever. You may also notice watery eyes

and a raspy meow. If you notice your cat is not eating or drinking

and seem lethargic, they may be very sick and need to go to the

vet as soon as possible. Antibiotics are generally administered not

to treat the virus but to hold off any secondar y bacterial problems

that can occur while your cat is sick. Your veterinarian may also

give your cat medications to help break up mucus so your cat can

breathe easier. In severe cases, your cat may become dehydrated

and will require a uid drip.

3. Feline Panleukopenia

Most commonly known as feline distemper, kittens are at the

most risk with this disease. Distemper is a contagious infection that

is spread through litter boxes and contaminated food and watesources. Symptoms include lethargy, severe diarrhea, vomiting, and

they may refuse to eat or drink. Their skin will become dry due

to dehydration and their fur may fall out .

If you suspect distemper, get to your vet as quickly as you can. I

can be diagnosed through symptoms and a white blood cell count

Your cat will need to be treated for dehydration immediately and

an antibiotic will be administered to ght off secondary infections

Distemper is hard to ght off and many cats die from the infection

very quickly. All cats should be vaccinated against distemper while

they are kittens as a part of routine veterinarian care.

4. Chronic Kidney Failure

Kidney failure is most common in senior cats and happens as a

result of the aging process. The kidneys begin to deteriorate and

lose their ability to properly remove waste from the blood stream

Symptoms of renal failure include constipation, lack of appetite

lethargy, and possibly nausea or vomiting. Eventual ly, the cat

cannot drink enough water for the kidney to process the toxins

and the toxins begin to affect their entire body. Your veterinarian

will most likely do blood and urine tests on your cat to conrm

kidney failure. Common treatments include an IV drip or even a

dialysis machine to help prolong your cats life. This special machine

can help your pet lter the toxins but this can also be ver y costly

5. Diabetes

Diabetes in cats is similar to that in humans; the body does no

produce enough insulin to properly maintain blood sugar levels

If diabetes is not properly diagnosed, it can severely shorten the

life of your cat. Early symptoms of feline diabetes may include

increased appetite with no weight gain. Your cat may also be

drinking and urinating excessively. As the disease progresses, you

may notice your cat becomes less active and the coat loses itsluster.

In some cats, ketoacidosis will occur, in the form of weakness

fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle weakness. Breathing wil

become labored and signs of dehydration will be noticeable. Many

cats will require insulin shots once or twice a day along with a

special diet. A ver y sick cat will need to be treated for dehydration

and other issues before insulin and diet will help. Your veterinarian

will work out a treatment for your pet as needed.

et health

By Amy Mullen

Source : associatedcontent.com


25/28Issue No.8 www.bowandwow.com.phMy Dog Has A Cold

Your dog has developed a cough, runny eyes and nose, and

is even sneezing. Sure sounds like the common cold, doesnt it?

However, dogs dont get colds in quite the same sense as humansdo. Most doggy colds can be attributed to a variety of respirator y

infections caused by canine-specic viruses and bacteria. Some

infections simply have to run their course until your dog is well

again. Others can develop into serious illnesses if allowed to

progress unchecked. Here are some common illnesses that often

present themselves as dog colds:

Parainuenza

Parainuenza is one of the most common and most contagious

purveyors of cold-type illnesses in dogs. Thats why combination

vaccines include an inoculation against it. The infection ischaracterized by a chronic cough.

Adenovirus Type-2

A major cause of common kennel cough, it produces symptoms

that are often mistaken as signs of a run-of-the-mill dog cold. It

is not possible to completely protect a dog from contracting the

illness. However, an inoculation will go a long way in lessening the

severity of the virus if your pet happens to contract it.

Kennel CoughKennel cough is caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.

Symptoms include a rasping cough that often brings up phlegm.

Secondary symptoms include discharge from the nasal passages

and eyes. Kennel cough may resolve itself on its own as a dogs

immune system overcomes the invading bacteria. However, if the

animals immune system isnt strong enough to overcome the

infection, it can progress into pneumonia .

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious and often fatal disease.

The virus is easily spread through an infected dogs exhalation.

The virus can remain viable in the environment for up to one year.

Once a dog contracts this vir us, the organism begins to chip away

at white cells, leaving that dog open to other infections stated

above. Dogs with distemper exhibit cold-like symptoms from the

virus itse lf as well as secondary infections, including fever, loss of

appetite, coughing, vomiting, thick yellow to green nasal discharge ,

and eye discharge.

pet h

My Dog Has A Cold

How Do I Treat My Dogs Cold?

Once youve determined that your dog may have a cold, yo

must decide whether or not its worth a trip to the vet. Th

general rule of thumb is that puppies and senior dogs shoul

both be examined by a vet any time they have cold-like symptom

because their immune systems are usually weaker than those o

healthy adult pets. In many cases, a vet will prescribe an antibiotic to

treat the illness. The antibiotics can destroy invading, opportunistic

bacteria that make a dog even sicker while its immune system i

ghting off the original virus.

Supportive Home Care

You can provide supportive measures to make your dog fee

more comfortable during the duration of his cold:

Keep your dog warm and dr y.

Provide extra nutrition like boiled chicken and brown rice t

coax your dog to eat. This will keep his or her strength up an

provide immune system support.

Run a cool mist vaporizer near your dogs sleeping area to hel

keep the bronchial tubes moistened.

You can administer childrens cold medicine as long as the typ

and dosage are approved by your veterinarian. This wont cur

your dogs cold, but it will help ease the symptoms and make him

or her more comfortable.

Conclusion

The next time you think to yourself, My dog has a cold

remember that a cold is seldom as simple as it seems. Take the

condition seriously and provide your pet with veterinary care

you believe its warranted. Doing so can keep your dogs col

symptoms from developing into a life threatening respirator

infection.

Source: dogs.lovetoknow.com


26/284 Can My Pet Make Me

By Kristina Duda, R.N.

Can My Pet Make Me Sick?

scabies is highly contagious to humans. It is caused by mites and

symptoms include severe itching, skin irritation and hair loss in dogs

as well as humans, and should be treated as soon as possible to

prevent secondary infections.

Toxoplasmosis - Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite and it

has been found in virtually all warm-blooded animals. Cats make

the perfect host for the parasite that causes the most seriou

infections. It is a threat to pregnant women because it can cause

severe harm to the fetus, as well as people with compromised

immune systems. Pregnant women and those with compromised

immune systems should not change cat litter, avoid eating any

undercooked or raw meat, and wash hands and cooking utensil

thoroughly after handling raw meat.

Salmonella -Salmonella can be found in the feces of some pets

especially those with diarrhea. It is also commonly found on reptiles

that are kept as pets. Reptiles, even tur tles, should not be kept as

pets in a household with children under 5 years old because this

age group is most susceptible to complications from salmonella

infection and the most likely to put things in their mouths.

Rabies - This is the most severe and serious infection that can

be passed from animals to humans. It is extremely important to

have your pets vaccinated against it . If you or your pet is bitten by

another animal, seek medical attention immediately. You should also

try to nd out the immunization status of the other animal if it is

someone elses pet, or capture it if it is wild so that it can be tested

The Bottom Line

Pets are an excellent source of companionship, but it is important

to keep them healthy. Make sure their shots are up to date and they

are well cared for. You will keep them and your family healthier

that way. If you have any fear that your pet may have something

more serious that could be passed on to you or your family, contact

your veterinarian and healthcare provider immediately.

you and your pet

It is a well known fact that people who have pets are typically

happier and live longer than those who dont. Pets can even make

us feel better when we are sick. But sometime pets get sick, too. This

often leaves us wondering if we might be able to catch whatever

it is that is making our pets sick.

What You Wont Catch From Your Pet

The viruses that give animals things like coughs, colds, and the

u are different from the ones that cause these illnesses in people

and they dont spread back and forth between humans and animals.

Some illnesses that affect pets that do not affect humans include:

Common colds and upper respiratory illnesses - Several

viruses that can cause upper respirator y diseases in cats and dogs

are not transmitted to humans, but can be very contagious to

other dogs or cats.

Canine Parvovirus - This virus causes vomiting and diarrhea in

dogs, among other symptoms and can be ver y serious or even fatal.

Canine Bordetellosis (Kennel Cough) - This chronic and often

severe cough can cause serious respiratory complications for

your dog and is highly contagious among dogs, but will not cause

infection in humans.

Heartworms - Left untreated, heartworms are fata l to your dog

or cat but not transmittable to humans.

What You Could Catch From Your Pet

There are several serious illnesses that you can catch from your

pet. Some of these illnesses will make your pet sick as well, but

some will not. These are known as zoonotic diseases and include:

Lyme Disease - Animals get Lyme disease from ticks, just like

humans do. You will not get Lyme disease just because your pet

has it, but the same tick that infected your pet could have infected

you as well. Ticks may also carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever,

which is a very serious illness for humans. If you have pets, youshould check them daily for ticks and also check yourself and your

children if you have been outside.

Lice - Lice can be a very serious threat to animals, but they are

typically just an itchy nuisance to humans.

Mange or Scabies -Well fed and well kept cats rarely get mange

or scabies, but it is much more common in dogs. Red mange is

not a concern for humans, but the mange that is also known asSource : about.com


28/28

the bow & wow times - issue#8

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