01/08/2009

August Newsletter

Infectious tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough)

Infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as 'Kennel cough' is a social disease that can be spread anywhere that dogs meet: in parks, at the beach, not just at kennels. It is more common in the summer months when people are out and about more with their dogs. It is a distressing disease for both dogs and owners. It usually causes a harsh 'hacking' cough that can persist for several weeks. Those with poorer immune systems are more at risk, such as the young, the elderly and those suffering from other diseases. There are numerous infectious agents that cause the cough but the most severe and contagious is a bacteria called Bordetella Bronchiseptica. Dogs are not protected against 'Kennel Cough' by their standard yearly booster, but must have a special intra-nasal vaccine. For more information please contact the practice.

Dogs die in hot cars!

Although everyone is aware that dogs must not be left in cars on hot days, many dogs still needlessly die each year. Dogs can not sweat like humans, instead they use panting to control their temperature. At high temperatures and humidities, panting is less effective and a dog's body temperature can quickly rise. Even on an average warm, cloudy day a car can heat very quickly. Certain types of dogs are more at risk, such as long haired, short nosed breeds. Leaving a window open, or water on offer is not enough. Check out the RSPCA website for more info. It is always better to be on the cautious side.

Grass seeds

Each year at Summerhill we see lots of animals who have grass seed related injuries. These pesky seeds are designed by nature to stick to anything and everthing, so they can be moved on to a new place to grow. Their unidirectional barbs mean once they are attached to your pet's coat they work their way in towards the skin, if left they will penetrate the skin and cause an abscess. They often migrate under the skin and burst out in another area. The commonest site of entry is inbetween the paws. It is worth checking your dog's feet and coat after walks through long grass, and also checking cats daily, who have access to long grassy areas. The earlier they are found the easier they are to remove. Grass seeds in ears, eyes or up the nose are extremely painful and need immediate attention from a vet.

Fleas

Fleas will be loving this warm, wet weather we've been having. At optimum conditions such as we've had, the flea life cycle is speeded up, and so flea numbers can escalate quickly. There is such a confusing number of products on the market to treat fleas; powders, collars, spots-ons etc. For the best advice on what will suit your pet, your household and your pocket, book in for a free 'Bug Buster' clinic with one of our qualified nurses.

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