Whole Dog Journal discusses Canine Allergies

5 minutes to improve your understanding of allergies in dogs. Allergies are another common reason dogs are career changes from service dog work.

News: Register Today for National Service Dog Oral Health Exam

National Service Dog Oral Health Exam

The AVDC Service Dog Oral Health Exam program is a philanthropic event provided to the Service Dog public by board certified veterinary dentists of the American Veterinary Dental College. If your Service Dog qualifies, it would receive a complimentary oral health screening exam in August 2012 to help identify any problems that may affect the dog's oral comfort and health.

Our veterinary dentists understand the tremendous daily contribution Service Dogs make to the lives of individuals and to all of us as a society. In return, we want assist in these efforts, by assuring that the Service Dogs can have pain free and healthy mouths.

Event Goals

1. To promote oral health awareness in Service Dogs by providing oral exams during August.
2. To identify painful oral disease and provide treatment options to alleviate pain, and
3. To benefit those who rely on Service Dogs by teaching preventative oral care in order to provide their dogs pain, free, healthy mouths.
4. To enhance referral relationships with primary care veterinarians.

The mission of the AVDC Service Dog Oral Health Exam is to promote oral health awareness in service dogs in order to prevent and relieve pain, which will benefit, not only the service dog, but all the people they serve every day.

Eligibility

The AVDC Service Dog Oral Health program will provide free oral health screening to Service Dog groups including seeing eye dogs, hearing dogs, handicapped assistance dogs, detection dogs, search and rescue dogs and for certified therapy dogs (through the Delta Society or similar). Dogs must be active working dogs that are certified by an organization or are currently enrolled in a formal training program. The certifying agency must be regional or local. Essentially, the dogs need to have some form of certification and/or training paperwork from an agency to qualify for this program.

While we would like to offer complimentary oral exams to all dogs performing assistance to their owners/handlers, this program is limited to the groups listed above. There are limited appointments available to examine these animals therefore a specific group has been defined.

How will this work?

Owners/handlers of the dog will register the animal via an online registration form. Once registered, the owner/handler will be given a confirmation and list of participating dentists in their area. The owners/handlers call a participating office to schedule an appointment and provide the registration number to the clinic which will be given on the confirmation form. This process is included on the registration form.

Appointment Dates and Time

Appointment dates and times will vary based on the availability of exams offered by each clinic. The clinic sets the schedule for exams for certain set days, select times on specific days, or during times of their choice during the month of August. Identify yourself as participating in the AVDC Service Dog Oral Health Exam and provide the registration number given on your confirmation form. The appointment will be set by the clinic at that time. Some clinics may request that you present certification of the Service Dog's formal training. Be sure to ask if this is needed at the time of appointment scheduling.

Once the owner/handler has registered the Service Dog, they are asked to respect the dentist's time and show up for the appointment. Arriving on time is essential in allowing as many Service Dog's to receive exams as scheduled.

What should I expect during the appointment?

The complimentary oral health exam is of a screening nature. No sedation or anesthesia will be given. Factors that limit our ability to detect every dental or oral problem in your dog may include:

1. Lack of patient cooperation can impair proper visualization, especially of the back of the mouth
2. Many periodontal problems can be detected only by probing under the gum with a dental instrument with the dog under anesthesia,
3. Dental tartar can hide underlying cavities or fractures.

If any problems are found at the time of the exam or if additional tests are needed (e.g. dental x-rays, periodontal exam under anesthesia, etc.), the dental specialist will present options to best treat your Service Dog.

A copy of the exam form will be given to you to give to your primary care veterinarian. Data collected on each dog will remain private and be utilized for research purposes only.

How do I participate?

Step 1: Registration.
If your Service Dog qualifies, register on-line. If you do not register, you cannot participate in the program.

» Register here

Step 2: Locating a clinic.
Once you have registered, the confirmation page will provide you with a link to a page that will provide a list of participating clinics. (Clinics may not be available in every state.)

» Find a participating dentist

Step 3: Scheduling
After locating the clinic you would like to visit, call the office directly, identify yourself as participating in the Service Dog Oral Health Exam program and make an appointment. Dates and times will vary from clinic to clinic throughout August. We suggest you register in early July to ensure a better chance of securing an appointment at your Service Dog. Slots are limited, and those that wait to register may find it difficult to find a clinic that has filled all appointments for this program. There are no "rain checks".

Step 4: Visit
Visit the dentist at the appointed time. Please call ahead if you will be late or have to cancel your appointment.

Step 5: After the Exam
After your Service Dog's oral exam is complete, your veterinary dentist will give you a copy of the examination form and information. Please take this back to your primary care veterinarian to complete your Service Dog's medical care to schedule any diagnostics or treatment that may be needed. Your primary care veterinarian is an important part of the team in providing your Service Dog with the best oral health care. The dental specialist will make a recommendation for treatment for your service dog instead of present options.

Most important: You MUST pre-register prior to calling to make your appointment with veterinary dental specialist.

 

Caring for an Elderly Dog - Age is Often Mistaken as a Symptom of a Treatable Illness - Whole Dog Journal Article

Aaron Epstein’s 14-year-old Australian Shepherd-mix, Sam, was losing weight and his appetite wasn’t the same. “I just thought he was getting old because in addition to not eating with the same vigor, he was slowing down a bit, wasn’t able to walk as far, and sleeping a little too much,” Epstein recalls. The once 45-pound dog had shed close to 15 pounds -30 percent of his body weight -before concerned friends could convince a reluctant Epstein to get Sam to the veterinarian for an exam and blood work, both long overdue.
Caring for an Elderly Dog - Age is Often Mistaken as a Symptom of a Treatable Illness - Whole Dog Journal Article

A Messy Job: Poop Scooping with a Disability

There are many responsibilities that come with a a service dog. Without a doubt one of the most gross, but paramount for being viewed as a responsible handler is poop scooping. This can be a challenging job for those of us whose disabilities and the equipment we use prevent use from easily reaching the ground.

 Long Handled/ Low Dexterity Pooper Scoopers

• http://www.scoopergenie.com/
• http://www.betterpooperscooper.com/
• http://www.poopgun.com/PoopGun-Pooper-Scooper/dp/B0050VFRM0
• http://www.scoopandsackit.com/how-it-works/
• http://www.dinodirect.com/dog-pooper-scoopers-long-handled-pet.html
• http://www.fourpaws.com/products/kwik-pik-scooper.htm
• http://www.smarthome.com/61011/Swoop-Pooper-Scooper-for-Large-Dogs/p.aspx

Then there are those of use who can bend but don't want to touch it or who can bend but have hand dexterity problems that prevent them from performing grabbing motions.

No Touch Pocket Size 

• http://dispoz-a-scoop.com/ 

Pet Obesity: Health Implications, Recognition, and Weight Management | petMD

Service dogs like their human partners gain weight for a variety of reasons; however, because we spend so much with our canine partners and we love them to pieces we may not recognize when they have put on a few extra pounds.
Top Reasons Our Service Dogs Pack on the Pounds 
1. Simply being over fed. Remember, all treats and chews need to be counted in your service dog's over all calorie count.
2. Being under exercised. Many things affect how much exercise a dog gets and while a service dog may be out working everyday, if the brunt of their workday involves long down stays chances are pretty good your service isn't getting enough exercise.
3. People are feeding your service dog unauthorized treats or your dog lies in the lurch under the high chair.Hey, these things happen, but it might be time to refresh the rules about your service dog. Also you might want to keep your service dog out of the area or on leash when the children are eating!
4. You or your service dog are have recently recovered from an illness or injury that affect one or both of your abilities to exercise.
5.Aging. It is not uncommon for dogs as they age to have different nutritional needs that can affect their weight.
For more on Pet Obesity Read:Pet Obesity: Health Implications, Recognition, and Weight Management | petMD
Finally, as we approach the new year consider setting some health related resolutions for the health and happiness of your beloved service dog!

Tails of Seattle | Veterinary Q&A: A killer called 'bloat ' | Seattle Times Newspaper

I stumbled across this great article on bloat complete with video detailed diagrams and explanations. Many of the  common breeds for service dogs can be deep chested and as such prone to bloat. Knowing the signs couls save your partner's life!
Tails of Seattle | Veterinary Q&A: A killer called 'bloat ' | Seattle Times Newspaper

Healthy Dogs don't Stink

 Bad odor is just as important to pay attention to as any other symptom.

The number one rule when faced with a smelly dog is to look for and deal directly with the underlying problem, not to find a product that will mask the odor or to relegate your dog to the back yard. Dawg Business: It's Your Dog's Health!: Symptoms To Watch For In Your Dog: Bad Odor

Shilo at her worst smells like a dusty rug. Good Food, regular grooming, and regular vet visits are key in avoiding stinky dogs syndrome.

News: FDA Recalls Pig Ears Dog Treats

Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. Recalls Pig Ears for Pet Treats Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Contact:
Company
217-465-4001

Media Contact
Dan Curry
312-970-1016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 3, 2011 - Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. of Paris, IL is recalling Pig Ears for Pet Treats because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
Pig Ears for Pet Treats was distributed via truck to distributors in the following states: Pennsylvania, Virginia, Missouri, Iowa, Ohio, Illinois, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Texas and Minnesota.
The product was distributed in 100 count cases packed in cardboard boxes shipped between Sept. 27-Oct. 6, 2010; Nov. 1-Nov. 29, 2010; and Jan. 3-Jan. 25, 2011.
One illness to a dog in Missouri has been reported to date.
The recall is a result of a reported illness by a dog in Missouri. Subsequently, the company has been working with the FDA to identify any products that might contain the bacteria and the company and the FDA is continuing the investigation to determine what caused the problem.
Consumers who have purchased Pig Ears for Pet Treats are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-217-465-4001.

Pet First Aid Month April

April is Pet First Aid Month! This year's there is Pets & People Staying Healthy Together.  As service dog partners we ask our canine partners to accompany us nearly everywhere and in do so they may come across situations where we as handlers need to either be able to administer first aid or instruct someone in the proper dog first aid approach called for in the situation. In 14 years of working and living with a service dog there have been a number of situations with my dogs where I was relieved to have the basic knowledge of Basic Dog First Aid and what situations are always considered an emergency and require the attention of a veterinarian ASAP.

Finding Pet First Aid Classes Near You:
Red Cross Pet First Aid Classes

There's an App for that!
Once you have taken a class you can Download  an App to help your remember what to do in a specific situation when it really counts.

• PetTech PetSaver App

• PetCPR.com App

 Tools and Things

Now that you have the knowledge and the App make sure you have the tools you need.

• AMVA Pet first aid supplies checklist 
• Article: How do you build a first aid kit for your pet?
• Pet First Aid Complete Kits: Shop and Compare 
• Fist Aid Store.com Pet First Aid