Thursday, June 20, 2013

TICKS 101


Don't be left in the dark about vector borne disease.

While Lyme disease is well known, it certainly isn't the only disease that dogs or people can contract from ticks.

In addition to Lyme disease, ticks also carry ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and others.  There's simply no way for pet owners to tell if a tick is carrying disease or not and it only takes one tick bite to infect your dog.  Also, some ticks are known to carry more than one of these diseases, which can lead to multiple infections, or co infection.  What's common among all vector borne disease, however, is that symptoms can be vague and difficult to recognize.  Often many pet owners don't know their dog is suffering from a debilitating tick disease until it's too late.
Humans and other non canine family members can also become infected with the same tick borne diseases as dogs.  These cross species diseases are known as zoonotic.  So, if you live in an area with tics or if you've ever found a tick on your dog, you should also be sure to check yourself and your family.


Picnic Safety

Nothing says summer like an old fashioned barbecue.  BUT with them comes a chance of illness or injury  for your pet.

FOOD - barbecue chicken, ribs, and steaks contain bones which can splinter and lodge somewhere in the esophagus or intestines.  Corncobs and peach pits can cause problems as well.

BEES or WASPS - Their sting can be minor or send your dog or cat into shock.

CHILDREN - more children are bitten by dogs, (usually a family or known dog) during the summer months.  This is due to more activity so keep an eye out for aggressive triggers.

BARBECUES - some dogs will try to steal food from the barbecue and can suffer burns on their paws from the hot surface, or swallowing very hot food.

HEATSTROKE - the signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, dark or brights red tongue and gums, staggering, stupor, seizure, or vomiting.  If you suspect heat stroke get your dog to your veterinary hospital or an emergency hospital right away.  Dots with short noeses such as bulldogs or pugs, and heavy coated dogs are more subject to heatstroke.