Milk fever in dogs

by Albert | Sep 7, 2020 | Care Guides

Milk fever (eclampsia/hypocalcemia) occurs when a dog is nursing and doesn’t have enough calcium reserves for her system to keep up with the demand, which then results in her calcium levels falling dangerously low. It is usually seen 1-3 weeks after giving birth, but can also occur in the last weeks of gestation or pregnancy.

It can affect any size and breed of dog but seems to affect small breed mothers with large litters the most. Breeds such as Chihuahuas, English Settlers, Miniature Poodles, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Miniature Pinscher, Shih Tzu, and other small breeds are at an increased risk, as well as dogs who have previously had milk fever and are daughters from mothers who had the condition.

A calcium deficiency can occur because of:

• A depletion of calcium, when the body cannot replace the calcium lost during the process of foetal bones formation during gestation and when milk production is high during lactation
• An insufficient diet/nutrition (during pregnancy and after) that lacks in calcium
• If excessive calcium supplements/foods were given prior to birth and the mother is now unable to access the calcium stores in her own body
• A hormonal problem with the parathyroid gland causing a disruption in normal calcium levels

Symptoms of milk fever in dogs

The signs are very subtle in the beginning. The female may be restless, panting heavily, drooling, moving stiffly, vomiting and/or have a reduced appetite. Eventually, she will be unable to stand or walk. She will then soon have muscle tremors which could lead to seizures and fever. The “fever” is usually a result of the uncontrollable muscle spasms, which increases the body temperature.

Once the signs of milk fever appear, the condition can turn fatal within 30 to 60 minutes if left untreated.

This is a life-threatening condition that progresses quickly and needs urgent medical attention. Contact us immediately if you think the mother is in trouble.

Separate the puppies from the mother and seek veterinary attention immediately as clinical signs can progress fast. If possible, transport the puppies to the veterinarian in a separate, secure carrier. Stress can worsen the condition, so it may help if the mother can see her litter during transport.

Other signs include:

• Itchy face, rubbing face on the ground
• Aggressive
• Restless
• Increased heart rate
• Pace excessively
• Increased vocalisation/whining
• Weakness

How is milk fever in dogs treated?

If milk fever is treated early, the chances of recovery are high.

Provide us with a full history including dates of whelping (birth), the number of offspring born and the diet provided.

• We will confirm milk fever with a blood test.
• A solution of calcium gluconate will be slowly administered intravenously, while the heart rate is being monitored carefully (overdose or rapid administration can cause severe heart rhythm disturbances / cardiac arrhythmia).
• Intravenous fluids to treat shock and dehydration might be given
• If the fever is worrisome, the dog might be placed in a cool bath
• Oral calcium supplements may also be required.
• Recovery is usually very quick (within hours) and will not require more than 12 hours in the hospital

We may require weekly check-ups to monitor the levels of calcium in the blood. The mother should be fed a balanced and high energy diet, like puppy food to help with calcium deficiency. The puppies must be hand-reared using a milk replacer/puppy milk since there is a real risk of relapse if they continue to feed from their mom.

Can milk fever be prevented?

Ensure the mother is fed a high-quality puppy food during pregnancy and breastfeeding – these contain adequate levels of calcium, are nutritionally complete and balanced and provide the correct nutrients in the correct proportions. She must have access to food all the time and can eat as often/much as she wants.

Avoid feeding calcium supplements and extra calcium foods (like milk/cheese) during pregnancy as it stops the body from recognising the blood calcium levels are low and inhibits the body from regulating normal blood calcium levels. Only give medications that are recommended by us.

If you are concerned the size of your dog’s litter may put her at risk of developing milk fever, or you have any other concerns, speak to us to work out a plan to prevent the condition from occurring.

Tattooing your pets

by Albert | Aug 24, 2020 | Care Guides

Apply sunscreen, stay out of the sun… these are easy solutions to prevent sun damage in humans. But in pets it is not that easy, and preventing sun damage if you have a pet with no melanin pigment in their eyelids, is even more crucial.

Pets with normal pigmented eyelids have melanin-containing cells which helps in filtering UV rays of the sun, and they have a naturally lower risk of skin damage and skin cancers brought on by the sun.

However, the sun’s UV rays can can cause intense damage to pets with no or reduced melanin pigment in their eyelids, putting them at at an increased risk for skin cancers, skin inflammation/sunburn and skin infections and irritations.

A few examples of pets at higher risk are:

• Jack Russels
• Dalmations
• Bull terriers
• Staffodshire Bull Terriers
• Border Collies
• Boxers
• Crested dogs

Studies have shown that tattooing around the eye with black ink could assist in reducing the chance of skin cancer in those areas. Van Wijk Street Vet and professional tatoo artist Serah Cue have partenered to offer this groundbreaking procedure to our local pale skinned pets in Nelspruit.

Sarah uses a very low PAH (low-polycyclic aromatic hydocarbon) carbon based pigment and uses state-of-the-art equipment that is soundless and portable to prevent unnecessary wires when performing the procedure alongside the vet.

Animal tattooing is done at our animal hospital and the dog is put under anesthesia for the duration of the procedure. We provide the pup with an aftercare beeswax ointment – free of chemicals – to prevent the skin from drying out and to keep the skin soft, healthy and clean. We will also prescribe an anti-inflammatory. The dog is fitted with a buster collar and will not be allowed to swim or be washed for a few days afterwards. A check-up appointment will be made if deemed necessary.

Please note: This procedure cannot be performed if there are already cancer lesions on the eyelids. Thus, tattooing should be done sooner rather than later, and we suggest that the pet undergoes tattooing with his planned castration/sterilization.

Older (geriatric) dog healthcare

by Albert | Jun 18, 2020 | Care Guides

Senior dogs have different care requirements than those of younger dogs. Taking care of their specific needs will ensure that your senior pooch stays healthy, happy, and with you for many years to come.

At what age is my dog considered a senior dog or geriatric?

It mainly depends on the breed and the dog’s unique traits. Small breeds are considered old when they are 10 or 11 years of age. Medium sized breeds, like Golden Retriever, come seniors at the age of 8-10, and giant breeds are considered old by the age of 5 or 6.

• Small sized breeds, under 9kg: 9 – 13 years old
• Medium sized breed, 9 – 22kg: 9 – 11 years old
• Large/Giant sized breed, over 22kg: 6 – 9 years old

Here is some expert advice on keeping your aging dog healthy, happy and comfortable during their golden years

Thermoregulation

Since they cannot regulate their own body temperatures that well anymore, it’s important to keep them warm and cosy when it’s cold, and also not keep them outside in the sun when it’s really hot.

Appropriate diet

Ensure their diet is best suited for them, especially if you suspect they are overweight. We can help with an assessment and prescription food if necessary.

Weight

Keep your dog at a healthy weight, because excess weight can place unnecessary stress on their joints.

Exercise

Regular exercise has many benefits, but speak to us about a recommended and appropriate exercise program for your pooch.

Checkups

Regular vet checkups are one of the most important things when it comes to caring for older dog. We recommend bringing in older dogs once every 6 months.

Dental care

Keep your older dog’s teeth healthy either by washing it daily or giving him dental treats. Also, an annual dental visit to the vet is a very good idea!

Vaccinations

Deworming and parasite treatments should continue as normal, but vaccinations do not need to be administered as often as with younger dogs. Check with us regarding your dog’s individual needs.

Grooming

Brush your dog regularly, and use special shampoos if his skin is dry or irritated.

Mobility

Help them move around the house, like providing an easy accessible bed, carpets and rugs for traction and if necessary, restricting access to difficult areas like staircases.

Memories

Spend lots of time with your aging dog, walking, playing, giving them treats and cherishing the memories and every day spent with them.

Kitten rescue, what to do and know

by Albert | Apr 9, 2020 | Care Guides