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Thursday, November 24, 2011

Let's Talk Turkey: ASPCA Holiday Tips

What Every Pet Parent Should Know about Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving is all about spending time with loved ones—human and animal alike. So it makes sense that we’re tempted to fix Fido a plate of all the scrumptious holiday food we’re eating, right? But wait! Put down the serving spoon. Are you sure that’s safe for your pet?

Ten Thanksgiving dangers. Some foods are totally off-limits to our furry pals (and there’s a full list of them at ASPCA.org). Ten of them are especially common around the holidays. Just say no to:

sage

chocolate
candy with xylitol
bread dough
batter with raw eggs
onions and garlic
macadamia nuts
raisins and grapes
rich or spicy foods
alcohol

Let’s talk turkey.
Good news for Fido! ASPCA experts say a little bite of plain turkey is usually safe for pets. If you decide to share, remember: Only boneless, well-cooked turkey is OK.

The feeding of raw turkey or other uncooked meat could potentially cause problems for dogs, Calleen, especially if the meat is contaminated with harmful parasites or bacteria, such as certain strains of E. coli or Salmonella. If you would like to add additional meat or other protein to your dog's diet, we suggest talking with your regular veterinarian in order to determine the most appropriate nutritional program for your pet.

Giving your pet for chewing is not OK.

Don’t overdo it. Lots of us overindulge at the Thanksgiving table, but when our pets do, it can be a real problem. It’s best to keep pets on their normal diets during the holidays, but if you do decide to share your holiday spread, make it just a taste. Eating too much can give your dog diarrhea, upset stomach, or even pancreatitis.

Play it safe. If your dog or cat consumes any potentially harmful foods or products, please consult your veterinarian, or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or www.aspca.org/apcc.

For more tips, visit the ASPCA Thanksgiving safety page.

Happy Thanksgiving from austindogandcat.com

Thursday, November 3, 2011

An outbreak of Canine Influenza in South Texas has Vets in Austin speaking out

from: An outbreak of Canine Influenza in South Texas has Vet's in Austin speaking out - WeAreAustin.com

Since September, there have been 30 confirmed cases of Canine influenza A also known as H3N8 in San Antonio and another 70 cases are suspected. Veterinarians here in Austin say it's a critical reminder of the importance of vaccination.

According the Center for Disease Control, the canine influenza virus can be spread by direct contact with infected dogs and by contact with contaminated objects.

Canines with an increase risk are those who frequent doggy daycares, parks and boarding facilities.
Susan Waggie who has been a veterinarian for almost 20 years says H3N8 is an airborne upper respiratory infection. Waggie says parks, doggy daycares and boarding facilities can expose your pet to dogs that have the infection.