Questions & Answers

Main Source-information gathered from various world wide web sites.

What is Parvo?
How is Parvovirus infection treated?
How can I disinfect an area contaminated by a dog infected with Parvovirus?
How can I protect my dog from becoming infected?
I heard that some breeds of dogs are more susceptible, is this true?
The life and life cycle of the flea...
Flea control on your pet...
Shampoos and dips for flea control
Flea Collars, Flea Powders & Sprays...
My pet has bad breath. Are bad teeth and gums the cause?
What actually causes the bad breath when tooth/gum disease is present?
What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
What can happen if my pet's teeth aren't cleaned?
Why is my dog always so itchy?
Is neutering or spaying a pet a major surgery & why should I have it done?
Why does my vet want to do pre-surgery blood work on my pet?
My vet said that my pet is cryptorchid. What is that, and will the surgery be different from a "normal" neuter?
Is there really a pet overpopulation problem?

What is Parvo?

Parvo is a common and potentially serious viral disease in dogs. The virus is officially known Parvovirus. The disease caused by this virus is commonly referred to as "Parvo". The virus first appeared clinically in 1978, and there was a widespread epidemic in dogs of all ages. Since no dogs had been exposed or vaccinated (the vaccine didn't exist at the time), dogs of all ages died from the infection. The virus can "adapt" over time, and other strains of the virus have appeared since then, but properly administered vaccinations are the best protection. Canine Parvovirus is thought to be a mutation from the feline Parvovirus, also known as Feline Distemper virus. The most common signs are: Lethargy, Vomiting, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea - usually bloody, and very foul-smelling (a characteristic odor, particular to Parvovirus infection)and Fever.

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How is Parvovirus infection treated?

There is no treatment specifically for the Parvovirus at this time. Treatment is supportive care, which includes any or all of the following: • Oral electrolyte fluids - if the case is mild and the animal isn't vomiting • Subcutaneous (SQ) or intravenous (IV) fluids to maintain hydration in the face of the extreme fluid losses from vomiting and diarrhea that are so typical with this disease • Anti-vomiting/nausea medications - to prevent further damage from vomiting and to keep the patient comfortable as possible. • Antibiotics - because the virus has potential to slough the intestinal tract, antibiotics help protect against secondary infection. • In very extreme situations Blood or Plasma transfusions may be necessary - to replace protein loss, provide antibodies, help with anemia. Many puppies infected with Parvovirus need to be hospitalized for supportive care. Hospitalization is typically about 5 days, sometimes longer. Surviving the first three days is usually a good sign for long term survival. Remember that proper vaccination is the key to preventing this deadly virus.

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How can I disinfect an area contaminated by a dog infected with Parvovirus?

There are many Parvovirus disinfectants on the market. Bleach is still roughly 95% effective against Parvovirus. The dilution ratio is one part bleach to 30 parts water. Caution is advised for dyed or colored fabrics or objects. This should go without saying, but to be complete, DO NOT use a bleach preparation on the animal at any time!!! The commercial Parvovirus disinfectants have the advantage of better smelling preparations. Check the label for color fast warnings. See your veterinarian for the various disinfectants available. Be sure to keep any bodily fluids (feces and vomitus) picked up in the yard and kennel area as well.

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How can I protect my dog from becoming infected?

Vaccination is the key to prevent this disease and protect your dog. Breeding females should be vaccinated prior to becoming pregnant to ensure that the pups receive the best start at immunity once whelped. Vaccinations should begin at 6 weeks of age, and be boostered at 9, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Call us about what vaccination protocol is the best for your pet.

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I heard that some breeds of dogs are more susceptible, is this true?

Yes, it appears that some breeds, most notably the Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, and Labrador Retrievers are at an increased risk for this virus. Conversely, Toy Poodles and Cockers appear to be at a reduced risk for contracting this virus. It is important to remember, however, that any breed can get Parvovirus. Be sure to keep your dog's vaccinations up to date.

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The life and life cycle of the flea...

There are many hundreds of species of fleas. Collectively, all of the species of fleas are categorized under the Order name of Siphonaptera. The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felix, is the most commonly found flea in the US and infests cats, dogs, humans, and other mammalian and avian hosts. Fleas thrive in cool, dark, moist, shady environments and climates. The main flea food is blood from the host animal. Host animals are many species - cats, dogs, humans, etc. Fleas primarily utilize mammalian hosts (about 95%). Fleas can also infest avian species (about 5%). Fleas spend their entire life on one host, preferrable a "haired" host. Once on their host, they will not jump from one host to another. If a flea is seen off of an animal, it MUST be a juvenile flea who has not found its final host yet. Flea saliva, like other biting skin parasites, contains an ingredient that softens, or "digests" the host's skin for easier penetration and feeding. The saliva of fleas is irritating and allergenic -- the cause of all the itching, scratching, and other signs seen with Flea Allergy Dermatitis, or FAD. Fleas have four main stages in their life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The total flea life cycle can range from a couple weeks to several months, depending on environmental conditions. The flea egg can lay dormant up to several months until conditions are correct for it to hatch. The entire life cycle is quite variable, as evidenced by the variability in each life stage progression. As mentioned above, the cycle can be as short as two weeks or as long as two years. That is why it is so important to remain vigilant, even when a flea problem is thought to be under control!

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Flea control on your pet...

The first thing to understand about flea controls and preventatives is that they are NOT repellants. They will not repell the fleas but either sterilize or kill the fleas once they have bitten or chewed on the animal. This is where most pet owners focus first - getting those fleas off of the beloved pet. The constant scratching, biting, and licking are bothersome on their own, and it is not healthy for the animal's skin, either. Flea Allergy Dermatitis, or FAD, is a common reason for veterinary visits all year-round in some areas. A mistake seen all too often is the "more is better" approach that some people take. More is NOT better when it comes to chemicals or medications! Following package directions is essential when using over the counter products and medications. Only buy products that are labeled for use on the species you will be using them on (dog, cat, etc.). Cats in particular are very sensitive to drugs and chemicals - be sure to read all labels carefully. Even when labels are read and instructions are followed, adverse reactions to flea product can happen. Call your vet immediately.

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Shampoos and dips for flea control

A shampoo, or "flea bath" is a good first attack on fleas for the pet that has large numbers of fleas visible on its body. 90% of all fleas in an animal's environment are on the animal. Cats can be difficult to bathe. It is important to know how to properly use the medicated shampoo to effectively rid your pet of fleas. It is also important to realize that a flea shampoo is not intended for lasting control. Many people are surprised when they see fleas and it was "only a week ago" that the pet had a flea bath. Shampoos are only effective for a day or less. They leave little residual chemical on the animal when properly used. That is why a proper flea control is necessary to start using once a flea bath has been applied. Flea dips are strong chemical rinses to rid animals not only of fleas, but mites and ticks as well. Dips last approximately 1-2 weeks.

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Flea Collars, Flea Powders & Sprays...

Flea collars----- We do not recommend Flea collars because they simply do not work. In order for a flea collar to be effective it must touch the animal's skin. For the collar to touch the skin on a haired animal the hair must be clipped away and be tight enough around the animal's neck to work. And then it is only effective for the head and neck region of the body. Flea powders----- Flea powders offer short term (2-3 day) protection from fleas, and with some products, ticks and mites too. Powders have fallen out of favor recently with the newer spot-on treatments that are available. Most flea powders are only effective for adult fleas, some offer additional flea protection by inhibiting flea egg and larval development (contain an IGR or Insect Growth Regulator). Flea Sprays----- Sprays are effective for both killing the fleas on teh animal and repelling fleas for about 24 hours. They are safe enough to be applied daily but are not a substitute for monthly flea control and preventatives. Consult your veterinarian for their advise on helping you solve you flea problems.

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My pet has bad breath. Are bad teeth and gums the cause?

Most likely, YES. However, it is very important to schedule a visit to the veterinarian. In rare cases, some diseases or situations can cause bad breath in the absence of, or in addition to, tooth/gum disease. Conditions such as kidney failure, diabetes, nasal or facial skin infections, cancers, or situations where the animal is ingesting feces or other materials, can cause bad breath with or without periodontal disease.

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What actually causes the bad breath when tooth/gum disease is present?

Bad breath, medically known as "halitosis", results from the bacterial infection of the gums (gingiva) and supporting tissues seen with periodontal disease (periodontal = occurring around a tooth). It is necessary for routine dental check-ups especially in older patients and maintain routine dental prophylaxis (cleanings) to prevent dental disease and tooth loss. Geriatric patients can also avoid other problems such as intestinal upset and infections if routine dentals are performed.

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What is the difference between plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a colony of bacteria, mixed with saliva, blood cell, and other bacterial components. Plaque often leads to tooth and gum disease. Dental tartar, or calculus, occurs when plaque becomes mineralized (hard) and firmly adheres to the tooth enamel then erodes the gingival tissue.

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What can happen if my pet's teeth aren't cleaned?

Both plaque and tartar damage the teeth and gums. Disease starts with the gums (gingiva). They become inflamed - red, swollen, and sore. The gums finally separate from the teeth, creating pockets where more bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up. This in turn causes more damage, and finally tooth and bone loss. This affects the whole body, too. Bacteria from these inflamed oral areas can enter the bloodstream and affect major body organs. The liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs are most commonly affected. Antibiotics are used prior to and after a dental cleaning to prevent bacterial spread through the blood stream. Routine dental checks are important to avoid any of the above situations.

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Why is my dog always so itchy?

Fleas can make pets and people itchy and uncomfortable, but don't always assume that your pet's itchiness is the result of fleas. Fleas bite, and their saliva is very allergenic to susceptible animals. This causes skin redness, itching, biting, scratching, chewing, crusts in the skin, and even a greasy feel and malodor for some pets. In non-allergic pets, fleas don't bother the animal in these classic ways. Fleas love humidity and warmth. They are a year-round problem in many climates, virtually nonexistent in other climates (arid, cold). If not fleas, what could it be? Your veterinarian is the only one that can answer these questions for your pet, but here are a few of the things that vets look for when a pet is itchy: Other allergies not related to fleas -- inhalant (grasses, pollens, etc.), contact (allergic to a shampoo, food dish) or systemic (food allergy). Other parasites -- mites. Fungal Skin infections -- moist skin infections secondary to licking, scratching, even swimming. Skin infections (i.e. hot spots) are also very itchy and bothersome on their own and are often secondary to problems with allergies and parasites. Note of caution: make sure that your pet does indeed have a flea-induced skin problem prior to using any type of flea shampoo or treatment. Flea killers can be dangerous if used improperly, and items such as shampoos can be very drying to the skin, exacerbating an itchy skin problem.

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Is neutering or spaying a pet a major surgery & why should I have it done?

Orchidectomies (neutering) do not enter the abdominal or other body cavities which makes it a less invasive type surgery. Ovariohysterectomies-OHEs (spaying) requires entering the abdominal cavity making it a more invasive type of procedure. A general anesthetic is required, however, and there are risks, as with any surgery and anesthesia procedure. Dogs and cats generally recover a bit quicker from neutering than spaying since it is not as invasive as a spay. Non-neutered males have an increased risk of cancer (testicular, perianal, and possibly prostate) over their lifetime. Non-spayed females are at a much greater risk of mammary cancer when their reproductive organs are left intact. Your pet will be sedated and anesthetized so he won't feel any pain or be aware of what is happening. Their breathing and heart rate will be closely monitored by the veterinary staff. Pet overpopulation is a HUGE problem in the United States and many countries around the world -- don't contribute to the problem of unwanted puppies and kittens simply due to lack time, interest, etc.

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Why does my vet want to do pre-surgery blood work on my pet?

Many veterinarians offer/require pre-anesthesia screening to their patients, and may have you sign a waiver if you decline these blood tests. So, why is this important? It provides a way to assess kidney and liver function prior to undergoing anesthesia among other things. The liver and kidneys are the primary routes that the anesthetics are broken down and removed from the body. If they aren't working well, then anesthesia may be more of a risk. There are many anesthetic agents available, and your veterinarian may also use the blood screening information to determine the best anesthetic protocol for your pet.

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My vet said that my pet is cryptorchid. What is that, and will the surgery be different from a "normal" neuter?

Cryptorchidism is a medical term meaning literally "hidden testes" (crypt = hidden, orchid refers to the testicle, or testes). This is considered a birth defect - where the testicle doesn't "migrate" out of the body cavity and into the scrotum like normal during fetal development. Some pets can be "late bloomers" and a testicle not present at birth can descend later, but by 4-6 months of age, if it isn't there, it won't likely be. It is a heritable trait, so any pets in a breeding program with this condition should be neutered to not pass on this trait. Where is the testicle? The surgery procedure can be different in that the testicle can be deep inside the abdomen, similar to where the ovary would be found - by the kidney. It may be anywhere from the kidney area to the bladder. It could also be in the inguinal canal, the passageway from the abdomen to the scrotum. Testicles in the abdomen are not likely to be palpated, but the vet has a good chance of palpating a testicle in the inguinal canal. Hidden testicles are much smaller than normal, even when in the inguinal canal. Cryptorchid dogs should NOT be bred, and must be neutered - since the risk of testicular cancer in an abdominally cryptorchid dog is high and that the cryporchid gene is hereditary.

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Is there really a pet overpopulation problem?

So your neighbor's dog has an unplanned litter of puppies. They were going to get her 'fixed', but didn't make the appointment at the vet's office soon enough. It's only 8 puppies, and 5 already have homes. What's the big deal? This is a common scenario. Sadly, it IS a big deal. The number of healthy dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies that are euthanized (killed) each day in the United States is almost too big for the average person to comprehend. The estimates range from source to source, but mid-ranges are roughly between 6 to 8 million pets euthanized each year. This translates to 16,438 to 21,917 pets euthanized each DAY. Some annual estimates are as high as 12 million. I don't even want to do the math for that one. (Figures are from various sources, including, but not limited to: Cornell University, PetSmart Charities, and the Humane Society of the United States.) I have heard everything from "I want my kids to experience the miracle of birth" to "I don't want my dog's personality to change", to "my dog will get fat". Some people just don't realize how very easy it is for a male dog to 'find' a female in heat ( where there is a will, there is a way, and there IS a will!) or when a female will come into heat*. Then there are those who think that they can make a quick buck by breeding and selling puppies (or kittens). People assume that each offspring is worth X amount of dollars, and wow - multiply that by X number of offspring, and we'll be rich! This is rarely the case. Responsible breeders know that proper selection and veterinary care (pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy and birth, and neonatal care and vaccination) all incur cost. Sure, there are those that sell their kittens and puppies to the local pet store, but that brings us back to the original problem. Too many "pet store puppies" and kittens are seen each day with congenital problems and infectious diseases, such as Parvo, Kennel Cough, and parasites.

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