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

Food to keep away from your dog

by Albert | Dec 23, 2019 | Care Guides

Here’s a comprehensive list of food that you should never feed your dog! If your dog has consumed any of these, please consult a vet to ensure the dog is monitored correctly.

Alcohol – I’m sure you’ve heard of the birthday parties where the dog accidentally gets into some of the spilled keg beer, and then gets all silly to the amusement of the crowd. While it may be funny to you, it’s not funny to your dog. Alcohol can cause not only intoxication, lack of coordination, poor breathing, and abnormal acidity, but potentially even coma and/or death.

Baby Food – Baby food by itself isn’t terrible, just make sure it doesn’t contain any onion powder. Baby food also doesn’t contain all the nutrients a dog relies on for a healthy, well-maintained diet.

Cooked Bones – When it comes to bones, the danger is that cooked bones can easily splinter when chewed by your dog. Raw (uncooked) bones, however, are appropriate and good for both your dog’s nutritional and teeth.

Candy and Chewing Gum – Not only does candy contain sugar, but it often contains Xylitol, which can lead to the over-release of insulin, kidney failure, and worse.

Cat Food – Not that they would want this anyway, but cat food contains proteins and fats that are targeted at the diet of a cat, not a dog. The protein and fat levels in cat food are too high for your dog, and not healthy.

Chocolate – You’ve probably heard this before, but chocolate is a definite no no for your pup. And it’s not just about caffeine, which is enough to harm your dog by itself, but theobromine and theophylline, which can be toxic, cause panting, vomiting, and diarrhea, and damage your dog’s heart and nervous systems.

Citrus Oil Extracts – Can cause vomiting.

Coffee – Not sure why you would give your dog coffee, but pretty much the same applies here as to chocolate. This is essentially poison for your dog if ingested.

Corn on the Cob – This is a sure way to get your dog’s intestine blocked. The corn is digested, but the cob gets lodged in the small intestine, and if it’s not removed surgically, can prove fatal to your dog. Additionally, too much corn kernels can upset the digestive tract as well so be cautious to not feed too much.

Fat Trimmings – Can cause pancreatitis.

Fish – The primary fish that you need to be careful about are salmon and trout. Raw salmon can be fatal to dogs if the fish is infected with a certain parasite, Nanophyetus salmincola. The parasite itself isn’t dangerous to dogs, but is often infected with a bacteria called Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which in many cases is fatal to dogs if not treated properly. If diagnosis occurs early on, the dog has a great chance of recovering. Cooked salmon is fine as it kills the parasite.

Garlic – While garlic can be okay for dogs in very small amounts (and even beneficial for flea treatment), larger amounts can be risky. Garlic is related to onions which is toxic for dogs so it may be best to just avoid it.

Grapes and Raisins – This is one that lots of dog owners are unaware of. Grapes contain a toxin that can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. We’ve heard stories of dogs dying from only a handful of grapes so do not feed your pup this toxic food.

Hops – An ingredient in beer that can be toxic to your dog. The consumption of hops by your dog can cause panting, an increased heart rate, fever, seizures, and even death.

Human Vitamins – Some human vitamins are okay to use, but the key is comparing the ingredients (all of them – active and inactive) to the vitamins your vet subscribes for your dog (often you can get the human equivalent for much less money). Make sure there’s no iron – iron can damage the digestive system lining, and prove poisonous for the liver and kidneys.

Liver – In small amounts, liver is great but avoid feeding too much liver to your dog. Liver contains quite a bit of Vitamin A, which can adversely affect your pup’s muscles and bones.

Macadamia Nuts – These contain a toxin that can inhibit locomotory activities, resulting in weakness, panting, swollen limbs, and tremors as well as possible damage to your dog’s digestive, nervous, and muscle systems.

Marijuana – Not that you would pass the bong to your dog, but if you do, you should know that marijuana can adversely affect your pup’s nervous system and heart rate, and induce vomiting. Read more about Dogs and Marijuana.

Milk and Dairy Products – While small doses aren’t going to kill your dog, you could get some smelly farts and some nasty cases of diarrhea. Why? Dogs are lactose intolerant (as are an increasing number of humans today), and don’t have enough of the lactase enzyme to properly digest dairy foods. If you really need to give them dairy, look into lactose-free dairy products.

Mushrooms – Just as the wrong mushroom can be fatal to humans, the same applies to dogs. Don’t mess with them.

Onions and Chives – No matter what form they’re in (dry, raw, cooked, powder, within other foods), onions are some of the absolute worst foods you could possibly give your pup (it’s poisonous for dogs, and its even worse for cats). They contain disulfides and sulfoxides (thiosulphate), both of which can cause anemia and damage red blood cells.

Persimmons, Peaches and Plums – Peach pits are not only a choke hazard they contain amygdalin, a cyanide and sugar compound that degrades into hydrogen cyanide (HCN) when metabolized. Pear seeds also contain trace amount of arsenic and are dangerous. So if you live in an area that is home to persimmon, peach, or plum trees, look out. Persimmon seeds and peach and plum pits can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis. You’ll want to make sure there aren’t any wild persimmon or other fruit trees that produce seeds growing in your backyard. If you notice your dog pooping all over the place, and see a bunch of seeds or pits in their waste, you’ll need to break out the saw and chop down some trees.

Rhubarb and Tomato Leaves – These contain oxalates, which can adversely affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems.

Raw Fish – Another vitamin B (Thiamine) deficiency can result from the regular consumption of raw fish. Loss of appetite will be common, followed by seizures, and in rare instances, death.

Salt – Just like salt isn’t the healthiest thing for humans, it’s even less healthy for dogs. Too much of it can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, dehydration and potentially diarrhea.

Spices containing Capsaicin – Capsaicin, found in chili powder, paprika, and just about any other pepper (bell, chili, etc.), is an irritant for mammals of all shape and size.

String – While not a food itself, foods can often contain or be similar to string (ie. meat you’ve wrapped for the oven). If your dog were to eat a string, it could get stuck in their digestive tract and cause complications.

Sugar – This applies to any food containing sugar. Make sure you check the ingredient label for human foods – corn syrup (which is a less expensive form of sugar or glucose) is found in just about everything these days. Too much sugar for your pup can lead to dental issues, obesity, and even diabetes.

Tobacco – A major toxic hazard for dogs (and humans). The effects nicotine has on dogs are far worse than on humans. Nicotine can damage your pup’s digestive and nervous systems, increase their heart rate, make them pass out, and ultimately result in death.

Xylitol – A sugar alcohol found in gum, candies, baked goods, and other sugar-substituted items, Xylitol, while causing no apparent harm to humans, is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, even death for your pup.

Yeast (on its own or in dough) – Just like yeast rises in bread, it will also expand and rise within your pup’s tummy. Make sure they don’t get any. While mild cases will cause gas, lots of farting, and discomfort – too much of it could rupture their stomach and intestines.